Home security system sales have been increasing in response to the demand from customers wanting to protect their homes and families. As these systems become ever more sophisticated, the range and variety of products available increases. As such, it can become hard to choose the best products for your needs. A good security system will include both deterrents and monitoring equipment and a camera can assist in both of these areas

Although close circuit television (CCTV) used to be too expensive for the average home security system, sales have increased as the price has come down. Low profile cameras can be used to record any possible intruder, with images being saved to CD, video or directly to a computer hard drive as required. You can also have a network of cameras connected to a control centre, although it is usual to use this in combination with an alarm system: paying for someone to watch the monitors all day and night will prove rather expensive! It is also possible to link your cameras to a web site so that you can check on your home remotely. Make sure that you include clear signs indicating that you have cameras. This ensures that they act as a deterrent as well as a monitoring system

Cameras can also be useful at the entry points to your property, especially if you do not have a clear view from your home. This is especially relevant in a block of flats with a common access door, or a house with a long drive wherein you can restrict access with gates and monitor who you admit via a camera. Using a camera in these cases is far more effective than an intercom, being able to see the visitor and view relevant identification will provide far more peace of mind than relying on voice alone. Carefully placed cameras in the garden and surrounding your home can enable you to keep an eye on the outside of your property and can cover any blind spots that can’t be seen from a window.

When you have cameras on your property and particularly if you are recording images, it is important to stay within the boundaries of the Data Protection Act (DPA). You are allowed to capture images for ‘limited household purposes’ which includes protecting your property. This does not exclude you from monitoring public spaces around your home. However in order to remain within the law (which is important in the unfortunate case that your video evidence needs to be used in court), it is a good idea to follow the DPA rules. DPA rules say that you must put up signs indicating that the cameras are in use. You must only keep the footage for as long as it is needed and you must not release it to third parties. It is of course perfectly acceptable to release images of an intruder to the police, but uploading a video of your neighbour slipping on ice outside your house onto You Tube would leave you in breach of the regulations!

When used correctly and legally, CCTV can provide peace of mind in keeping your home and your family safe. Consult home security system sales staff if you need advice as to the best camera system for your specific circumstances.

FEB

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