If you want to have confidence that your home and belongings are safe and secure at all times, a security camera system is an excellent way to enhance security for your home or business. However, with so many security camera systems on the market to choose from, it can be hard to spot a good security camera system when you see one.
To make it a little easier, here are a few things you need to know to help you choose a good security camera system.
The problem with off-the-shelf security cameras
Camera systems have become dime-a-dozen, and these days, it’s not uncommon to find very affordable camera systems solid in retail and hardware stores—but while they may come with an attractive price tag, they also come with certain limitations.
In many cases, these off-the-shelf cameras are little more than a webcam. While they can be good to show you what happened at your property, they’re rarely able to deliver the level of image quality and clarity that’s required to identify a perpetrator or to use for prosecution.
Another key issue with these types of camera systems is that unlike professionally monitored security systems, they don’t actually provide any security benefit. If something was to occur at your property, there’s no one watching on the other end to initiate an immediate response to manage the issue. While they can provide greater visibility of your property, should an incident occur, it will still ultimately be up to you to handle the situation on your own.
If you’re not convinced, simply look at the type of security cameras being used by these camera retailers—chances are they’re not using the same products they’re selling, but instead have opted for something more sophisticated and reliable.
Criminals also know how to spot the difference between a simple consumer-level product which was installed by a do-it-yourselfer, compared to a professionally installed camera system that produces high-quality video which can not be easily defeated.
Here are a few examples of off-the-shelf cameras which are very easy for an intruder to get around:
Features to look for in a security camera system
There are a few features that set good security camera systems apart from the not-so-good systems.
Here are the key features you want to look for when choosing a security camera system:
- High-definition picture resolution for good image quality.
- Night vision for 24-hour coverage in all conditions.
- Live motion detection to alert you to any movement at your property.
- Remote monitoring and control functionality which allows you to access and control your cameras from any location.
- Adequate storage space to save recordings.
- 24-7 live monitoring and response management from a professional security company like Calamity.Â
Ultimately, you want to choose a security camera system which goes beyond the basics to provide a far more detailed record when something does occur. Things like facial recognition or number plate identification are only possible when you opt for a camera that can produce a superior quality image in any type of light.
Security cameras are also most effective when combined with a more comprehensive security system which includes other valuable features like intrusion detection alarms and smoke or fire alarms.
Request a personal security assessment from Calamity
Rather than trying to work out which type of security cameras will be best for your home or business, we’d be happy to guide you through the options.Â
Simply request a personal security assessment with Calamity and we’ll recommend the most suitable security camera system to suit your individual requirements and budget.
