Taking steps to secure your home and keep it under surveillance is one of the best investments you can make. A proper home security system acts as your first line of defense against intruders and criminal activity.
In this article, we’ll share the top 5 tips to boost home security through surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and smart practices. Follow these best practices, and you’ll deter burglars while gaining total peace of mind.
Why Home Security Matters
Before diving into the tips, let’s look at some key reasons to prioritize home security:
Prevent Break-Ins
Visible security cameras and alarm company signs alone are often enough to deter opportunistic burglars. Robbers look for the easiest targets.
Receive Instant Notifications
Get alerted immediately if a door opens, glass breaks, or an intruder approaches. This allows you to react quickly and notify the authorities.
Gain Valuable Evidence
Security cameras provide video evidence that can help identify and catch perpetrators after a crime. High-quality footage makes a difference.
Protect Loved Ones
Top-notch home security gives you confidence that your family and belongings are safe, even when you’re away. It’s an investment in peace of mind.
Potential Insurance Discounts
Some providers offer lower rates if you install a qualifying security system. The system may also reduce liability after a crime.
Now let’s get into the key tips and technologies for robust home security.
1. Install a Wireless Security Camera System
A camera security system that monitors the interior and exterior of your home is essential. Look for a wireless setup that’s easy to install and configure.
Ideally, the system will include both indoor and outdoor cameras to provide complete property coverage. Having multiple cameras gives you a wider field of view.
Key features to look for include:
- At least 1080p HD video quality
- Night vision capability
- Motion detection alerts
- Cloud storage of footage
- Compatibility with your smartphone
Top wireless camera picks:
- Arlo Pro 4 System
- Ring Alarm Camera Kit
- Lorex Home Security System
2. Add a Video Doorbell Camera
A video doorbell camera like Ring or Nest Hello lets you see and speak to visitors at your door from your phone. This added layer of security allows you to remotely screen guests.
You’ll get notifications when the doorbell detects motion or is pressed. The two-way audio allows you to communicate through the app before deciding whether to open the door.
Video doorbells also typically capture footage when motion events occur. So you’ll have evidence if a suspicious person approaches.
Key features to look for:
- Sharp HD video quality, even at night
- Motion alerts
- Two-way talk function
- Compatibility with smart locks
- Easy installation
Top Video Doorbells:
- Ring Video Doorbell 4
- Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free
- Google Nest Doorbell (battery)
3. Install Smart Door Locks
Smart locks like August or Schlage allow you to control your home’s locks remotely from your phone. You can lock or unlock from anywhere, create virtual guest keys, and view access history.
Having smart control over the entrances keeps your home more secure. Smart locks also integrate with other systems like video doorbell cameras and smart speakers for added functionality.
With features like auto-lock, tamper alerts, and keyless entry via codes, smart locks simplify access control and monitoring.
Key features to look for:
- Remote access via smartphone app
- Ability to create/delete virtual keys
- Activity and diagnostics history
- Guest codes for secure access
- Lock/unlock automation based on location
Top Smart Locks:
- August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
- Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
- Yale Assure Lock SL with Z-Wave
4. Install a Monitored Alarm System
For full perimeter protection, a monitored alarm system detects and alerts you about intrusions or environmental threats like fires and floods.
Professional monitoring means round-the-clock support from a monitoring center that can dispatch emergency responders if the alarm is triggered. This provides complete peace of mind when you’re away from home.
Key features to look for:
- Perimeter sensors like door/window contacts
- Glass break sensors and motion detectors
- Environmental sensors like smoke/CO detectors
- Professional monitoring with emergency dispatch
- Remote access via mobile app
Top Monitored Systems:
- Vivint Smart Home Monitoring
- ADT Command Smart Security System
- Blue by ADT Security System
5. Fortify Entry Points
Along with cameras and alarms, your first line of defense is strong locks and secured entry points into the home. Make it difficult for intruders to gain access in the first place.
Use high-quality deadbolt locks on exterior doors. Install longer 3 to 4-inch screws in the strike plate for more reinforcement. Secure sliding glass doors and garage entry points with dowels or pins.
Keep bushes and vegetation trimmed away from entryways where someone could hide. Install exterior lighting to eliminate dark corners and walkways around the house.
Reinforcing these basic access points goes a long way in keeping criminals at bay and preventing break-ins.
Protect What Matters Most with Smart Home Security
Taking steps to monitor and secure your home provides comfort and protection for your loved ones. Follow these home surveillance best practices for an effective security system.
The right combination of video cameras, smart locks, a monitored alarm, and entry point fortification helps deter crime and gives you evidence if a break-in does occur.
Home security technology keeps advancing with new AI capabilities and automation features. Take advantage of these innovations to stay current. Partnering with a professional home security company ensures maximum protection.
Don’t wait until after a break-in to take action. Being proactive about home surveillance is one of the best investments you can make for total peace of mind. Your family and property stay protected 24/7.
