Plan Video Surveillance Carefully

April 30th, 2008 by Brad

Even though most video surveillance systems are utilized in business and public settings where there is a need to monitor an area for security reasons, there have been instances where they can come in handy on a personal level. One such circumstance would be in the case of an ugly divorce and custody tug-of-war. A well-placed remote video surveillance camera could give you some leverage, if your ex happens to be up to no good.

While no one wants to encourage any kind of underhandedness, it is always prudent to know exactly what you are up against, with as many facts on your side as possible. In this day and age of long, drawn-out and acrimonious custody battles, the evidence gained from video surveillance might be helpful, not only to your case but to assure the best interests of the children.

With that said, it also needs to be cautioned that employing video surveillance systems in some states is considered illegal or the evidence could be excluded from court if all parties were not made aware of the installation of the system. It is a prudent precaution to check this thoroughly with an attorney in your area.

This would also be true in the instance of using a digital video surveillance system in your home in order to catch a babysitter or a nanny who is up to no good. While you could confront them, and probably fire them, based on what was caught on the camera video surveillance system, it might not hold up in a courtroom setting. And, it might not be advisable to boast about taping them on your IP video surveillance or remote video surveillance system, unless you know exactly what the laws are in your state.

The last thing you want to deal with in this situation is having your estranged spouse or your embarrassed nanny (or both in some instances) turn the tables on you and drag you into court for putting them under the scrutiny of a security video surveillance system without their knowledge or consent. Again, in these kinds of situations, it is always best to consult with a professional who can give you solid legal advice so that you don’t end up being the one in hot water.

But, let’s say you get past those nagging legal issues. The next decision is what kind of video surveillance equipment you should consider. There are many choices in video and audio surveillance systems these days and many are very affordable for homeowners.

Even though the newer surveillance systems are becoming very affordable, thanks to the wonderful advances in technology recently, you will still want to design a system that stays in your budget. You will need to decide if you want just one camera to focus on a single location in the home, or if you want several cameras that are networked together. Also, do you want your video surveillance cameras to monitor the exterior areas of the home, and if so, will the equipment be exposed to the elements?

Once you have a clear idea of your needs, sit down with a video surveillance systems professional who can help you design a system. You can also wing it and just go to a home improvement store and buy a kit, but if you want to take your security system seriously and be assured of proper function and reliability, then it is best to use professionals who have installed many systems and can answer your questions.

Posted in Video Security, Security Tips, Recommended Reading | No Comments »

The Latest Video Security Systems make Home Video Surveillance Easier than Ever

April 26th, 2008 by Brad

Is it time to install the home safety security system that you have been thinking about for months, or maybe years? If you are anything like a lot of other people, then the answer is yes, it’s about time!

Every month, increasing numbers of families are considering hooking their home up with video surveillance systems in order to protect and secure their premises. But sometimes choosing can be daunting because of the many choices available.

Not long ago, most homeowners never even thought about including video surveillance into their overall home security plans. But today things are different. The good news is the cost of all security equipment has dropped significantly in recent years. As it has become more available, it has become more popular and vital for security functions.
This means that today an average family can find it quite affordable to install a complete home safety security system and even includes a network of remote video surveillance cameras. Barely more than decade ago, such a system would only be found in large businesses or government installations.

One of the most popular features of a home security system that integrates home security systems is the option to have the video feeds sent to the internet. This means that busy parents who are concerned about how things are going back at home can log into a password protected website and view the live feeds from the various cameras in their network.

Not only is this helpful for moms and dads who put in long hours at the office, but this IP video surveillance arrangement is also perfect for the person who travels a great deal and is concerned about their home security while away. Some of the home security systems also monitor things like temperature and moisture levels. For homeowners who have leaky basements or tropical aquariums that must maintain certain temperatures, this can provide a tremendous amount of peace of mind when they are away.

Many home security systems provide monitoring as well that keeps tabs on all the various indicators of home safety. This includes alarms that go off and notify the monitoring center in case of intrusion, fire, a “panic button” being pressed, temperature drops and changes in moisture levels. The monitoring center can then dispatch the appropriate help for the situation.

However, it should be noted that the monitoring centers do not have access to the video surveillance part of the home security system. This is only available to the homeowner and is accessible only through a secure network. A security company doesn’t eavesdrop on home activities.

Home safety security measures are increasingly important to families. In many ways the world is becoming smaller through the advancements in communication, travel and technology, but at the same time there seem to be more dangers around every corner. A quality home security surveillance system can provide a great deal of protection and also peace of mind to busy families.

Posted in IP Video Security, Video Security, Security Tips | No Comments »

Homeowners find Video Security Systems more Affordable

April 22nd, 2008 by Brad

If you asked the average person in the 1990s if they would ever consider putting a surveillance camera system in their home, then likely most would have responded that these devices were for businesses or for estates and mansions. Other than that, people were used to only seeing such systems in government or large public settings for security measures. But with technological advancements, especially in miniaturization of circuitry, burglar alarm systems are now common in small businesses and homes.

People are motivated to provide secure environments for their loved ones. A security camera can be a deterrent to crime, often stopping a criminal from intruding onto your property or into your home before they have a chance to commit a crime. The last thing a culprit wants is to be caught on tape. If you have posted the fact that you have a burglar alarm system, then no doubt the offender will move on to easier targets.

In the event that a criminal is not put off by your home surveillance camera, or can’t read the sign, at least you will have caught his intrusion on video. Of course, most security cameras are tied into burglar alarm systems which will be the second line of defense.

If an intruder is scared off by the burglar alarm, then you will be able to review the video taken by the camera so that you know exactly who has been skulking around your premises. And, of course, you will be able to share that evidence with the authorities so that they can track down the offender.

A video security camera that takes in the view of the street in front of your home can also serve as a good neighborhood deterrent to crime and mischief by errant teens who might be bored and looking for what they think might be harmless fun. There are many situations that can be avoided if the kids in the neighborhood simply are aware that their actions will be caught on tape. It can be a good way to encourage thinking before acting.

Since most people are away from their homes for a good portion of the day, a video surveillance camera can also be very helpful in taping unauthorized people who are coming to, or lingering near your home or property. If your surveillance videos show unknown, suspicious people hanging around your home or neighborhood, then you can alert your neighbors to be observant and also let the local police know so they can send a patrol car through the neighborhood.

Certainly, no member of any family wants to live under the feeling of being constantly watched, but the reality is that there are situations in home setting when a surveillance camera network can be not only useful but important. In instances where you might suspect problems with a caregiver or un-welcomed guests who might drop by when the parents are not home, these video surveillance cameras can supply potentially life-saving information. In addition, most of these systems can be accessed remotely via the internet, so that the parents can see exactly what is going on in the home even if they are far away.

Posted in Video Security, Security Tips, Recommended Reading | No Comments »

Using Security Surveillence Video Camera Systems

April 19th, 2008 by Brad

Not too many years ago, video surveillance equipment was a thing mainly seen in spy movies. Then big businesses, as well as government entities around the globe began using surveillance cameras more and more often to help monitor crucial functions, and as a back up for security personnel. Nowadays, video security cameras and the security systems they are integrated with are commonplace in all businesses, from large to small, and are even found in home settings. &

If you are looking for a home security surveillance system, then there are a number of things you will want to be aware of as you choose your system. There are a number of different kinds of video security systems options from which to choose. Having a clear understanding of the different kinds of surveillance cameras, and also of how you plan to use them, will help you determine the best choice.

What will be the main use and purpose of the security surveillance cameras you utilize? Do you want to place these cameras in such a way to serve as a deterrent to crime, or do you want to be able to catch the perpetrator red handed? If you want to use this equipment to discourage certain activities on your premises, then it would be best to select large units that are easily seen once installed.

However, if you want to be able to monitor activities without people knowing about it, then you will need to install the small to tiny cameras in a network of hidden security cameras. This would be useful if you need to catch an employee stealing, or knowing if your teenagers are sneaking out of the house in the middle of the night.

Another consideration in choosing the right security system for your situation is the type of lighting conditions available when the system is in operation. Is the space dimly lit, well lit, or changing throughout the day? Are there lights that come on after dark or is the area only lit by the environment? Do you want to be able to monitor the area even without incandescent lighting? All of these factors need to be taken into account when buying video security systems.

In order to effectively monitor an outdoor area or indoor space in darkness, you will need to choose an infrared CCTV security surveillance camera. These special units have small infrared LEDs that are placed all around the lens of the video surveillance camera. It is these LEDs that allow the camera to “see” in the dark even when there is no available light source.

Another option for security cameras for low light situations is the day/night video cameras. These day/night video security cameras utilize a highly sensitive imagining chip that allows them to capture videos in very low light conditions without the need of the infrared lighting. However, these cameras cannot work in total darkness like the infrared cameras can and there would need to be at least some ambient light from a source, such as the moon or a streetlight, in order to capture any surveillance footage.

If the security surveillance cameras are to be mounted outside where they will be exposed to the elements, then you will need to be sure to select cameras that are built specifically for this purpose. Other types of video surveillance equipment include bullet cameras which can be hidden in very small spaces, and dome cameras which are typically mounted on ceilings or walls. It is a good idea to consult with a specialist to help you to be sure that the video surveillance equipment you are investing in is right for your needs and circumstances.

Posted in Integrated physical security systems, Security Tips, Video On Demand | No Comments »

Installing Video Security Surveillance Systems is Common

April 14th, 2008 by Brad

It is probably no surprise to learn that each year there is an increase in the number of surveillance cameras that people are installing to monitor and protect their homes. This is in part due to the fact that people are spending less and less time at home but still want to feel safe when they get home at the end of a long day. At the same time, neighbors are less likely nowadays to be home either, and even less inclined to be keeping an eye on the goings-on in the neighborhood.

These situations have combined to make home security surveillance systems more desirable to people, and to cope with rising crime in many areas of the country. People feel less safe even when they are in their homes because of increasing crime trends. This is particularly true when the reported crimes start to encroach into neighborhoods that had once been thought of as very safe.

Another reason for the rise in popularity of security surveillance equipment for the home is that it has become much more affordable because of the great technological advancements that have been made. So, even average homeowners can afford to have a system that also includes such features as remote home security surveillance.

In addition, there are even portable surveillance cameras systems that have more recently come on the market for those who rent a home or an apartment, so they too can have a home security system. Most of these portable systems use wireless video surveillance cameras, so they are easy to install and also very easy to remove and reinstall at a new location as needed.

Another advantage of these wireless surveillance camera systems is that the installation costs are much lower than the traditional hard-wired security systems. In fact, many people are able to install these kinds of systems themselves, which once again helps to make them more affordable.

Home security surveillance systems are most often used to monitor the happenings around the exterior of the home. This allows the homeowner to know what is happening on their property, which is especially helpful if there has been evidence of an intrusion of some type. However, simply having an operating network of surveillance cameras can be a huge deterrent to crime in and of itself.

These surveillance camera systems can also be used to keep an eye on things going on inside the home. This can be helpful in a game room type setting where teenagers like to gather but want to be away from adult supervision. They can also be used in the case of having a babysitter in the home, as there have been many reported incidents of an abusive babysitter being caught by camera video surveillance, and many include audio surveillance.

One of the more recent innovations in security surveillance systems is the option of allowing the homeowner to view the video feeds from a remote location. It doesn’t matter if they are traveling half way across the globe or are just across town, they can see in real time what is going on at home with this surveillance software and an internet connection.

Posted in CCTV Video Security, Video Security, Security Tips | No Comments »

5 Myths about Video Security Surveillance

April 10th, 2008 by Brad

If you own, or are responsible for the management of a business, then there are probably some issues of safety and security that have you concerned from time to time. In such instances, burglar alarm systems can be an excellent investment in your overall business. They have proven over the years to be very effective in minimizing loss and preventing theft and vandalism.

As most people know, burglar alarms are designed to help you detect break-ins and intrusions into stores or warehouses. When the alarm is tripped, a monitoring company is alerted and they are able to dispatch local police to the scene to handle the problems. Most systems also have integrated fire alarm systems and a monitor for that as well. Today, even the most basic systems also include video security system and even remote video surveillance, adding an extra layer of functionality.

Now is the time to dispel some of those myths and rumors so that you can make an informed decision about security systems based on solid facts.

Myth One: They are just too expensive to install and monitor. Not so these days. Costs have come down considerably in recent years and basic systems can be purchased and installed for a few hundred dollars, depending on the facilities needs. Monitoring is generally charged on a monthly basis and usually is under $30 per month.

Myth Two: It’s an unnecessary expense and won’t boost my bottom line. While it’s true that you may never have an incident, the fact is that the cost of one break-in will more than likely pay for the security surveillance equipment many times over. Also, your insurance company will probably give you a break on your insurance premiums if your business premises are protected by a burglar alarm system.

Myth Three: They are difficult to use and I don’t have time to train my employees. Actually good security systems are quite simple to use. If you can use an ATM, then you can certainly handle a burglar alarm system. The same applies for employees and typically a demonstration and training session will take less than an hour.

Myth Four: The system will be useless is the power goes out or the phone lines are cut. The reality is that any decent video security system will have sophisticated battery backup in case of a power outage and an integrated cellular line to back up your phone system. Both of these backup systems automatically kick in if problems are detected.

Myth Five: False alarms are too common and will get us in hot water with local authorities. A monitored system will first alert the monitoring center. They will attempt to contact you, or someone on your contact list, to determine if there is a real problem. This step keeps most false alarms from ever being reported to emergency agencies. If you entered the wrong code, then you will get a warning signal and still have time to re-enter the code.

If any of these concerns have been what’s been holding you back from getting a security surveillance system installed in your business, or from having a home safety security system installed, then debunking these common misconceptions should help you to make a more informed decision.

Posted in CCTV Video Security, Video Security, Security Tips | No Comments »

Seven Ways To Use CCTV

April 6th, 2008 by Brad

CCTV used to be too expensive for anyone but big banks or corporations to use. The times have changed and CCTV security along with it.

There are many ways that CCTV security is used and here are seven of them:

CCTV video security is used by banks and ATM’s as a way to keep an eye on what is going on in the bank and outside the bank as well. These cameras can show several areas at one time. When you are withdrawing money at an ATM, your actions are probably being observed. If the bank is robbed or an individual has money taken from them at an ATM, it may be captured on tape. This allows for prosecution and the subsequent punishment of those responsible.

CCTV security can be helpful in industrial situations. Some industrial plants have processes that are dangerous to human beings or take place in remote areas of the plant. CCTV cameras are used to increase security and safety.

Airports make use of CCTV security when they use the systems to keep track of people and luggage. Many areas can be observed at once which is helpful, especially in larger airports. Homeland security has certainly become an issue that can not be taken lightly.

Many homeowners are using CCTV security to protect their homes and property. When homeowners use this type of system they are able to see what is happening in the house and also on the grounds and in other buildings on the property.

Businesses and corporations use CCTV security to keep their businesses and their employees safe. Workers can be monitored and information, supplies, materials and products can be protected.

CCTV security is employed as a way to monitor traffic. Accidents may be recorded and vehicles can be tracked in cases of robbery or missing persons.

Beware if you are a shoplifter! Many shopping malls and specialty shops have begun using CCTV security measures. Theft is a big problem for many stores and they lose millions of dollars every year to theft. This is one way to deter theft and also to prosecute the thieves.

These are just seven instances where CCTV security can be used to monitor, deter and prosecute crimes.

Posted in CCTV Video Security, Video Security, Security Tips | No Comments »