It wasn’t long ago when residential security cameras were a pricey commodity that few could afford. But advances in technology and reduction in cost have made owning a reliable home security system a possibility for the majority of homeowners. Not only does the mere presence of security cameras deter criminals from breaking in, but you can also take comfort in knowing you can always check on any member of the family at home alone, young and old. You’ll have an extra pair of eyes that watch over your property, both outdoors and indoors.
On average, a home invasion costs around $2,000 in stolen goods and property damage. Therefore, an investment in a home security system will save you money down the road. Furthermore, if you choose to sell your house, your home security system can raise your home’s value by a significant amount. You’ll be able to rest easy with the knowledge that everything you’ve worked for is protected. Here are five benefits to owning security cameras.
Deterring Criminals
If you can easily spot an outdoor camera as you approach your home, that means a potential burglar can too. The simple presence of a camera will discourage most from breaking into your home. However, a false camera is easily detectable by seasoned burglars, so it’s better to invest in the real thing. In case a burglary occurs, your camera will have recorded important information, such as the criminal’s physical description, the time of entry, and potentially the identity of stolen goods. Some motion sensor cameras pair with apps that alert homeowners when movement is detected, turning on lights that provide a clear picture of who’s at your front door. This means you could alert the authorities to arrive before the criminal has finished the job.
Assisting the Police
If you are the victim of a crime, the good news is that your camera has captured the event in high-definition, which will serve as helpful evidence to the police in catching the culprit and returning your stolen possessions. Furthermore, this can help prevent future crimes. Some cameras pair with systems that alert the authorities through live video streams and send notifications to neighbors as well. You’ll help keep your community safe, as burglars are less likely to invade a neighborhood full of homes armed with security cameras. If your neighbor experiences a robbery, then perhaps your security camera caught some important footage that could also be useful to the police. Over time, crime will drop to be almost nonexistent in your area, keeping your and your neighbors safe and sound.
Keeping an Eye on Family
The best perk of security cameras is having peace of mind. No matter where you are, you can keep an eye on your property through your smartphone or computer. Many families with a pair of working parents have trouble knowing what to do when their children come home from school in the afternoon. Whether they let themselves into the home or have a babysitter or nanny looking after them, you’ll always be able to see how they’re doing through remote viewing on a camera security system. Security cameras with facial recognition can notify you when your children appear on the front door camera, so you know they’ve arrived home safe. On the other side of the age spectrum, if you have elderly parents staying with you, then you’ll also be able to check on them and avoid a sudden health scare. If an emergency occurs, you’ll be able to contact first responders, or whoever is home will be able to call the authorities at the touch of a button. Indoor cameras can be equipped with two-way audio like an intercom, so you can communicate with whichever family members are at home too.
Checking on Furry Friends
When you have security cameras installed across your property, you can check on the animal members of the family as well. When away from home, it can be stressful and expensive to put them in a kennel or trust someone else to look after them. But your professionally installed security system can always give you updates on your pets, especially if they’re a bit older or recovering from an injury. Pets are always doing something funny anyway, and you can show your friends the amusing footage. Alternatively, your camera can capture any wild animals sneaking around your backyard. It’s a fun surprise when you see squirrels up mischief, or finally find out which animal has been raiding your garden.
Saving Big on Insurance
There’s a big financial benefit that comes with owning security cameras around the home: you’ll receive a discount of up to 20% on your homeowners’ insurance. When you add a security system, it reduces the chance of filing insurance claims caused by a break-in or vandalism. When one does occur, your security camera’s footage can document the evidence, validating your insurance claim.
Overall, your security cameras will operate best when they are part of a home security system. They’ll begin recording at the slightest movement or trigger of a glass-break or contact sensor. Not only will you be able to protect your property, but you’ll also be able to keep your loved ones safe. If you’re ready to equip your home with security cameras, contact Xssentials today to get started!
