Your home is your sanctuary, your castle, your fortress. A place where you and your family are supposed to feel safest. But is it secure? In these times, home security is a paramount concern for homeowners. A robust security system can be the difference between a peaceful abode and a potential target for burglars. And a key element of this security system? Outdoor security cameras to deter crime.

In this article, let’s delve into the role outdoor cameras play in bolstering your home’s safety and effectiveness in deterring home thieves.

The Unseen Watchman: Outdoor Security Cameras

Outdoor security cameras, acting as your very own round-the-clock watchman, provide a system of vigilance that is both a protective and deterrent force.

Here are 5 reasons why:

1. A Warning Sign: A visible outdoor camera gives a clear signal to potential burglars – this home is guarded. Their presence alone can often discourage thieves from attempting a break-in, opting instead for a less protected property.
2. Evidence at the Ready: If a break-in does happen, outdoor cameras provide video evidence, helping law enforcement to identify and arrest the criminals.
3. Your Eyes, Everywhere: Many outdoor cameras offer remote monitoring. This feature lets you watch over your home from anywhere, providing reassurance and the ability to act promptly on any suspicious activities.
4. Sensing the Unseen: Most outdoor cameras come with motion detection technology, able to send alerts to your smartphone whenever any suspicious movement is detected. This immediate alert system allows for rapid response.
5. Security Synergy: Outdoor cameras can be integrated with other security measures such as alarms and smart locks, creating a comprehensive barrier against intruders.

Proof in the Pudding: Deter Crime

Studies have strongly supported the effectiveness of outdoor cameras to deter crime. UNC Charlotte found that the mere presence of outdoor cameras lowered the incidence of burglary by 60%. Similarly, the Rutgers University School of Criminal Justice found that neighborhoods with visible outdoor cameras saw a significant drop in crime rates.

Other Findings from UNC Charlotte include:

• When selecting a target, most burglars said they considered the close proximity of other people – including traffic, people in the house or business, and police officers; the lack of escape routes; and signs of increased security – including alarm signs, alarms, dogs inside, and outdoor cameras or other surveillance equipment.
• Approximately 83 percent said they would try to determine if an alarm was present before attempting a burglary, and 60 percent said they would seek an alternative target if there was an alarm on-site. This was particularly true among the subset of burglars who were more likely to spend time deliberately and carefully planning a burglary.
• Among those who discovered the presence of an alarm while attempting a burglary, half reported they would discontinue the attempt, while another 31 percent said they would sometimes retreat. Only 13 percent said they would always continue with the burglary attempt.

• Respondents indicated their top reasons for committing burglaries was related to the need to acquire drugs (51 percent) or money (37 percent), which was often used to support drug habits. Only one burglar indicated interest in stealing firearms, which is a common misperception.
• About half reported burglarizing homes primarily, while 31 percent typically committed commercial burglaries.
• Most burglars reported entering open windows or doors or forcing windows or doors open. About one in eight burglars reported picking locks or using a key that they had previously acquired to gain entry.
• About 12 percent indicated that they typically planned the burglary in advance, 41 percent suggested it was most often a “spur of the moment” event, and the other 37 percent reported that it varied.

Maximizing Your Defense Against Home Theft

To get the most out of your outdoor cameras, consider the following:

1. Visibility: Position your cameras in noticeable places, particularly near entry points or high-traffic areas.
2. Signage: Additional signs indicating surveillance can reinforce the warning to potential burglars.
3. Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain your cameras to ensure they are functioning optimally.

In Conclusion: Deter Theft in Your Home

While there’s no 100% foolproof way to deter home thieves, outdoor cameras serve as a formidable line of defense. By offering both a clear deterrent and a useful tool for post-incident investigations, outdoor cameras are a worthwhile investment for your home security. Remember – the best cure is prevention, and the best prevention is strong security! As a licensed Alarm.com provider, APS can set you up with the cameras and video monitoring your home needs. Contact us today!