The Ultimate Guide to Securing your Home with an Outdoor Security System
Today it’s easier than ever to fall into a false sense of security and think that burglars will never break into your home. The truth is, thousands of homes are burgled every day and many of these incidents could have been prevented by taking some straightforward measures – for example by installing a reliable outdoor security system.
You are twice as likely to have a house break-in every 14 seconds than you were last year, and yet only 16% of households in the country use safety systems. The industry is booming with new technology for monitoring your home security starting from a super affordable rate. So why wait?
Now, setting up an outdoor security system is not the most fun task to undertake. You may find yourself struggling with it for hours and resenting your new home rather than enjoying all the joy that moving into a place of one’s own can bring. Whether you are trying to secure your new place or making an upgrade to the outdated security system, there are steps you can take to pull it off like a professional. In this guide, we have compiled the recommendations from the outdoor security experts at Echo Security Solutions. But before we get there let’s go over the reasons why you should deploy security systems for your home.
Why does your home need an outdoor security setup?
When you’re thinking about how to secure your home, are the walls and windows enough? The answer is no. Security cameras play a critical role because they can act as a deterrent against potential attackers.
While there are now different types of security solutions available, including fences, locks on doors or gates for example; surveillance cameras continue to be one of the most popular options for homeowners looking to improve their safety. But what’s so great about outdoor security cameras specifically? Well, you may have thought that the only time to install a security camera was indoors, but you would be wrong.
So we hereby list out the major reasons why homeowners install a well-rounded outdoor security system for their homes.
Outdoor security systems serve as a clear deterrent
Home security is a huge concern for many homeowners, especially with the recent rise in property crimes. It’s important to know that installing CCTV cameras outdoors can work as deterrents and some even come equipped with enhanced durability features that make them difficult to damage by intruders. With products like Eurovigil I View IP 200 that come with enhanced durability and protection for the lenses, your chances to get vandalized just got so much smaller.
In addition to acting as a deterrent against intruders, CCTV cameras can provide increased peace of mind. Installing one outside your home will make any would-be intruder think twice about entering the property because it’s easier for them to be seen and caught by police officers patrolling the area at night.
Check the visitors at the door
A CCTV camera installed at the front door of your home is one of the most common ways to keep an eye on people who try to break in. It’s also a simple way for kids and seniors, with low mobility, to decide whether they want someone knocking at their door before opening it up. The outdoor security system allows you to quickly see who has arrived at your front door.
Keep an eye on the garden
If you also have an outdoor area in your home that would make for a great place to let the kids run around, having one of these cameras is perfect.
The best thing about them? You can monitor it from anywhere! All you need is WiFi and there are many different options on the market, so no matter what your needs are or how much money you want to spend on something like this, odds are good that there’s a system out there for everyone.
24/7 monitoring for the whole property
Some people may not want CCTV cameras installed outside their homes, but it’s important that homeowners install them because burglars often strike when everyone goes to sleep at night. Cameras with night vision allow homeowners to monitor thefts from anywhere around the world on any device. If you’re interested in installing these state-of-the-art security systems, there are many models available; some come equipped with digital video recorders (DVRs) that can record CCTV footage in HD quality. With a DVR-equipped CCTV camera that has HD video quality, you will be able to identify anything suspicious or out-of-place without having someone stay up all night watching it.
Keep your vehicles safe at home
You never know when the next criminal is just around the corner, so protect your valuables with a CCTV camera. From bikes to patio furniture, there are many different types of valuable items that can be out in an open space for anyone to steal or damage at any given time. With outdoor cameras installed on homes and businesses alike, you’ll always feel safe knowing everything will be monitored from every angle as if it were inside a locked vault. It’s easy too. They are reasonably priced and are designed specifically for homeowners like you who want their property visible without sacrificing safety.
The outside world can be a scary place, but there is no need to fear with the help of these cameras. With many network cameras that offer live feeds on your phone or computer, you can see what’s happening in and around your home from anywhere at any time.
The security of your new home should be a priority. There are many options for every budget, so you can decide what’s best for you and get peace of mind.
What features should you look for while buying an outdoor security system?
A safe way to protect your home from intruders is by installing a security system that has all the features you need. But how do you know what type of advanced systems are available and which one’s right for your needs? There’s no reason to worry, we will show you the ideal features you should look for in an outdoor security system.
Crystal clear visuals –
Good quality pictures from your camera are the most important thing when it comes to security. A good picture will help you identify a culprit in case of burglary, so make sure that you buy an HD system with enough storage.
Night Vision –
A wireless CCTV camera with night vision will help monitor crimes, even when it is dark outside. If you want to protect your home from possible crime, it’s important that the security system can take pictures in low light or no light.
Remote Monitoring –
Remote monitoring is a handy feature that ensures you are always in the know about what’s happening at your house. With this feature, you can check on-camera activities from anywhere with an internet connection- like work or vacation.
Weather Resistant
Outdoor surveillance cameras need to be weather resistant and stable. They should provide footage that can withstand extreme climate conditions, like rain or snow, as well as vandalism from vandals who might try to break the camera’s glass lens in order not to have their actions recorded. Search for high-quality outdoor security camera’s which come with shield-like protection against harsh elements and sturdy materials so it won’t get damaged during an attack by vandals.
Video Storage
With the advent of wireless security cameras, it is imperative to use a system with large storage space and audio recording capability. Wireless security cameras with a DVR will capture and store, so it’s important that there is plenty of room for everything they record.
180 Degree or 360 Degree Field View
It is important to choose a security camera with an expansive field of view. Some outdoor wireless cameras offer 180-degree or 360-degree views, which leave no blind spots and allow for better coverage from the panoramic lens.
Where should you position your Outdoor Security System for best results?
The quality of your security cameras is only as good as the placement. Before you decide to install a camera, it’s important that you plan ahead and know where to position them for maximum coverage. You might have high-quality sets but if they’re not in an appropriate spot then they won’t do many tricks on their own! With so many options available nowadays with regards to what type of surveillance system we want to be installed at home or work, knowing where exactly those systems should be placed will become even more crucial than ever before – after all, there are no second chances when it comes down to protecting our property from burglars
But don’t worry, here are few tips for placing them in the right place:
Exterior: Front Door
The front door is where you should be the most vigilant. It’s not just for family members and babysitters anymore, there are package thieves out there too! A camera can keep tabs on everyone who comes in or goes out of your home through this entrance, from maintenance people to delivery men. For example, a video doorbell will come in handy as a secondary camera when monitored alongside other outdoor security devices such as an exterior yard monitor system.
Exterior: Back & Side Doors
When you leave your back door unlocked, it allows people to enter without being detected. Nearly one-fourth of all break-ins occur when someone enters through the backdoor. To make sure that you can identify everyone who comes and goes from your home, invest in a surveillance camera for more than just the front entrance to gain full knowledge of every visitor’s whereabouts at any time or place.
Exterior: Garage & Driveway
It is important to have a camera pointed towards your garage and driveway to protect all the items that are in there. Even if the garage isn’t detached, it’s still an entryway into your house so you need security cameras at both entrances of your home. If there’s a gate on top of or next to your driveway then you should also install a camera because someone could be trying to gain easy access to your valuable possessions.
Exterior: Yard
When you’re away from home for a long time, it’s reassuring to return and find that your yard is still as neat as ever. You can’t beat the peace of mind in knowing no one has been messing with what belongs to you! Keep tabs on any strangers who are ogling at your house by monitoring the outside perimeter of where they might be standing or lurking around looking suspicious. It also helps keep an eye out on kids playing near traffic, animals running free through flower beds and trespassers lurking around.
Guidelines for security camera placement
- For maximum security, install cameras 8-10 feet from the ground. This height is perfect for capturing fine details but is still high enough to be out of reach and easy to access by thieves or vandals.
- Pointing your camera directly at the sun can cause glare and makes it hard to see what’s going on. Take into account the movement of the sun, and how much of a difference direct light will have in that area.
- To create an atmosphere of safety, it is important to have a visible security camera. This will act as both a deterrent for would-be burglars and protection against theft or vandalism.
- Avoid the elements by protecting your camera. There are many great options for weatherproof cameras, but not all of them will be able to stand up against whatever climate you live in – choose one that is rated appropriately and place it under cover or on a porch if possible so rain doesn’t ruin your footage.
Outdoor security mistakes you cannot afford to make
If you’re not careful about securing your house against intruders then they might barge in at any point – whether day or night. Even worse, some homeowners are unknowingly doing things that attract burglars to their homes. So let’s look at some outdoor security-related mistakes that you can no longer afford.
Forgetting to arm your security system
When you finally install that much-needed security system, don’t rest on your laurels. There’s still a lot of work to be done. For example, 36% of robberies and burglaries are committed by someone who has illegally entered the home when it was not armed with an alarm system or other detection device! So make sure to arm your sensors every time you leave for any period of time- even if it is just running errands around town or picking up groceries.
Leaving your valuable in view
Criminals are often drawn to homes where they can see expensive items from outside. To prevent this, keep electronics and jewellery out of sight by storing them in a garage or cabinet on the first floor so that criminals cannot easily spot these assets when looking at your home’s windows from outside.
Growing bushes to block windows
Of course, the right landscaping can be pleasing to the eye, but it may also attract unwanted visitors. Think about making your home less inviting for an intruder by keeping bushes trimmed and low so they do not cover windows or give cover for someone trying to get into your house. Just remember, sturdy trimming and low plants will keep your home safe without sacrificing the beauty of nature’s bounty at hand.
Not lighting your property properly
When it comes to home security, most homeowners turn their attention to external entrances and don’t think about the potential dangers from within such as an intruder being able to break in if they knock on your door. Installing motion-sensitive lights around a property will help deter intruders by giving them a reason to leave once they are spotted, but more importantly because it can startle someone who has already entered causing them to flee before getting too far inside.
Posting stuff on social media indiscriminately
It can be tempting to share your exciting, exotic vacation with friends and family. However, keep in mind that you may come across as inviting potential burglars into your home by doing so. When it’s time for a post-vacation social media update on what you did while away from work or school this summer, consider waiting until the day after returning to your place.
Tips for protecting your security system from hacking
A new type of threat is emerging for our home security systems. Hackers are hijacking cameras to fake emergencies such as break-ins and swatting, a prank that has even caused police departments across the country to send out rescue teams on unsuspecting homeowners.
You know you’ve got a serious problem when the criminal element is using your security system to plan their next heist. But don’t worry, our tips on securing surveillance will help keep these cyber-criminals at bay.
What makes your security system vulnerable to hackers?
What’s the point of a security camera if it can be hacked and you have no idea? There are many ways hackers can exploit your cameras to gain access, from stealing credentials on other compromised sites to gaining access through your router. Make sure that all of your devices – including surveillance cameras – are secure for maximum protection against cybercriminals.
- Change your password
There’s a great deal of work to be done in the realm of cybersecurity, especially when it comes to passwords. Studies show that over 50% of internet users use the same password across multiple domains and hackers are taking advantage by stealing credentials from other data breaches.
If you’re using the same password for your personal and professional life, consider making them different. The simplest way to do this is by including lowercase letters, uppercase letters, numbers and even special characters like exclamation points in your passwords.
- Start using a password manager
Since you should never reuse the same password across different sites, using a password manager like LastPass is one way to keep your passwords safe and secure. With this program installed on all of your devices with unique login details for each account, it successfully logs in automatically when requested, ensuring that no other person can access your private information or accounts without first understanding how to get past those security measures in place.
- Create two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication might sound like a hassle, but it’s worth the extra protection. It requires you to input an additional password in order to log into your security camera and provides some peace of mind for those who are concerned about their information being stolen. While some companies offer automatic two-factor authentication by default in their security cameras, many do not have this feature at all.
The LastPass app provides a convenient way to manage multiple passwords on the go. By linking your account with any site, you can have an automated SMS code sent directly from your phone when logging in or changing accounts so that no one else will know what is going on.
- Get professionals to install your outdoor security system
With the hacking rate across the country on the rise, we need to rethink some aspects of how our internet works and what it means for us as individuals. Amazon Ring, Google Nest, and Panasonic are all vulnerable to cyberattacks. But does this cast doubt over the security cameras in general? Yes, to a certain extent.
Data security is a top priority, but in order to achieve it, you may need some assistance from an expert. That’s why we recommend consulting certified professionals when installing your security system.
Should you install outdoor security systems on your own or get professional help?
So, you want to have a home security system but don’t know how to go about it? Don’t worry because there are many outdoor camera systems that offer easy installation. You just need to be careful on what type of cameras and instructions make your head spin and whether they’re accessible for self-installation or not. Now, do you find that installing your own security system is just too much for a first-timer or do-it-yourselfer like yourself? Just relax, most outdoor surveillance systems have become more and more user friendly, with many simple installations.
Video doorbells and peephole cameras mostly rely on batteries. If you have limited power sources or want to preserve your home’s appearance, a professional with experience installing security cameras may be necessary. You can’t go wrong with hiring a professional to install your security cameras. They know how to install the best systems and they make sure everything works well before leaving you on your own.