Where You Can (and Where You Can’t) Install Home Security Cameras
Home security cameras were once a rarity for those of considerable means, but many of us may have them these days. However, there’s a difference between owning something useful and actually using something useful – and if you’re not pointing those cameras at the right places, you’re not getting the most bang for your buck. Here’s where you should (and shouldn’t) place security cameras in and around your home.
Point one to your front door
If you live in your own home, place the camera outside and point it at the front door. Burglars are not always as secretive as they are portrayed in crime dramas; in fact, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors , 34% of them go through the front door rather than through a window or side entrance. The view from the front door will also help you in case your package is stolen.
If you live in an apartment or rent it from someone, talk to your landlord about placing a security camera around the property and offer an option with a front door if they don’t have one. The only downside to this placement is that if you have alerts set up to notify you whenever someone is seen on camera, you will get a ping every time a visitor or package arrives, but that’s probably a small price to pay. for which you have to pay. safety.
Don’t lose sight of them
You might think that hiding your cameras is a good idea, as you can catch potential criminals in the act without being noticed, but studies have shown that if these would-be criminals see your cameras or alarm system at all, they may simply not take any action . bad behavior in the first place. Dealing with no crime at all is certainly preferable to seeking justice for one crime.
According to the Burglary Free Zone , you want your cameras to be visible and positioned at least seven feet high, pointing down at an angle. This will help you capture images of faces and keep cameras out of reach of most people so it’s harder for them to just tear them up.
Have them on the ground floor
The vast majority of break-ins start on the first floor, so this is where you’ll need your cameras. The most important thing to keep an eye on is the front door, but don’t forget the side entrances, the back door, and the garage. According to NACHI statistics, 22% of break-ins happen through the back door.
Don’t post them in private spaces
Do not install cameras in bathrooms or bedrooms, even if you store valuables there. Guests will be very uncomfortable with such an invasion of privacy, as well as family members. You will end up making a random sex tape. Just don’t do it.
Instead, Security.org says you should set up your cameras in the interior hallways leading to these locations. This will be enough to keep an eye on these areas without any weirdness. Consider also storing valuables outside of bedrooms and bathrooms—perhaps in an office or a locked closet in the hallway. This can help you keep cameras and potential thieves out of your bedroom.
Place cameras in public areas
Security.org also recommends installing cameras in common areas such as living rooms and kitchens. This can help you keep an eye on any intruders, as well as children, pets, or other guests.
Keep in mind that windows and mirrors can cause glare in your camera, so you should check your phone transmission at certain times of the day when you first receive it and make the necessary adjustments so that there is no period of time when the camera is useless.
Don’t point your camera at your neighbors (and don’t do anything illegal)
Here’s our guide on how not to break any laws when installing your cameras, but basically don’t point them where someone else might reasonably expect privacy: don’t point your outdoor camera in such a way that it captures your neighbor window, for example.