Category: Security camera

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Top 7 Advantages of Incorporating Wireless Security Cameras Into Your Home Security System In Amarillo Texas

Adding security cameras to your home security system in Amarillo TX has never been easier. Wireless security cameras have made video surveillance a practical and affordable part of the world of residential security. If you have a home security system, or you are thinking about getting one, you need to consider including the advantages wireless security cameras bring to your home’s security. Here are the top 7 advantages of incorporating wireless security cameras into your home security system in Amarillo Texas.

There are no wires required when installing wireless security cameras

In the past, the only option for adding security cameras to your home security system was to pull wires through your wall. These wires connected the security cameras to the central security system and the recording equipment. Wireless security cameras do not require hard wires. This makes your Amarillo installation faster, less costly and more reliable.

You can get discounts on homeowner insurance when you incorporate wireless security cameras into your security system

Your insurance company bases the premiums you pay for your homeowner insurance on the amount of risk your home presents. If your house has a home security system, your property presents a lower amount of risk. The insurance company rewards you with lower premiums. This is an advantage many homeowners don’t know about. Adding wireless security cameras to your Amarillo home security system adds even more security and often gives you even greater discounts on your premiums.

You can get instant alerts with security cameras

A security camera system gives you immediate insight into what is happening inside and outside your Amarillo home. If something trips the alarm, the wireless security cameras give you and the security monitoring service the ability to see exactly what is happening. It can give emergency personnel a better idea of what is going on or what has happened. You can monitor your home video surveillance from anywhere.

You can take advantage of interactive monitoring with security cameras

Security cameras offer you the ability to see what is going on at home, even if the alarm never trips. Need to know when the kids get home? Want to know if your housekeeper is actually doing her job? Want to see when the dog is getting into the cabinets? Wireless security cameras allow you to keep a watchful eye on everything happening inside and outside your Amarillo home.

You get affordable installation with wireless security cameras

Because there are no wires to pull through the walls, the installation costs for wireless security cameras are much lower than traditional wired systems. This makes adding security cameras to your Amarillo home security system very affordable for just about anyone and any budget.

Wireless security cameras are easily positioned and repositioned

One major advantage offered by wireless security cameras is the ability to position the cameras exactly where you want them. If needed, your wireless security cameras can be easily repositioned to a different location in your home or on your Amarillo property. The only limitation is the range of the central receiving system. With wired cameras, you would incur significant additional cost to have a security camera repositioned.

Wireless security cameras are a great option for homeowners and renters

Wired security cameras are really only practical for homes that are under construction or undergoing a major renovation. It is pretty labor intensive and costly to do this with existing homes. Wired installations are typically an option only if you are the homeowner. Installing wired security cameras is completely out of the realm of probability for someone renting their home or apartment. Wireless security cameras are the perfect and affordable choice for any homeowner or renter in Amarillo TX.

Wireless security cameras definitely bring advantages to your home security system. When you are ready to add a security system, or upgrade your existing one, be sure to inquire about adding wireless security cameras. You will get better security coverage and greater peace of mind.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm Amarillo. We have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price. 1st Alarm Amarillo can help you with all of your security needs. Call (800) 276-5559 today. Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 3501 S. Georgia Street in Amarillo, Texas.

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Using Video Surveillance To Protect Your Home And Business In Lubbock Texas

Video surveillance was once too expensive and labor intensive for most homeowners and small business owners, but today using video surveillance to protect your home and business is easy and affordable. For homeowners and business owners in Lubbock, Texas interested in purchasing security system cameras, it is important to understand how surveillance using security cameras protects your home and property. Video surveillance offers the best form of safety and protection.

How video surveillance protects your home and business

Today, wireless security system cameras have revolutionized the world of home and business security. These devices do not require hard wiring to work, instead relying on long lasting batteries for power and wireless signals to send recordings to a central recording device. The quality of these cameras is as good as or even better than the best hardwired cameras on the market.

Wireless security system cameras are also very versatile. These devices can be placed just about anywhere within range of the central recording device’s network. Security camera recording devices usually use a multi-channel DVR, which can be placed in the center of your Lubbock property. This central location maximizes the possibilities of where surveillance cameras can be placed.

Viewing video surveillance feeds

The ability to view security camera surveillance feeds from anywhere in the world is one benefit offered by wireless security systems. These systems offer homeowners and business owners the ability to see what is happening on their property at any time. Video surveillance is perfect for monitoring the activities of children that are alone, housekeepers, nannies, delivery personnel and employees as they work or play on your property.

The ability to view security camera surveillance feeds can give homeowners and business owners eyes on both the inside and outside of their property. This type of surveillance makes it possible to see if there are people on your Lubbock property who do not have permission to be there. Video surveillance can be customized to your specific needs and is extremely versatile, allowing you to have the best protection possible for your Lubbock home or business.

If you would like to learn more about video surveillance, home security systems or commercial business security systems; contact the experts at 1st Alarm Lubbock. Call (806) 792-3510 today.  Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 7212 Joliet Ave. #3 in Lubbock Texas.

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Wireless Home Security System Cameras Protect Your Family And Property In Lubbock Texas

Installing wireless home security system in your Lubbock, Texas home protects your family and your property, and including wireless home security system cameras provides even more protection. Wireless home security system cameras continuously monitor for suspicious activity before a crime is committed and deter criminal activity. If a crime is committed, wireless home security system cameras will capture the crime in action and provide valuable video footage.

Wireless home security system cameras protect your family

Wireless home security systems help your family in many ways. When you are not able to be home with older children, you can monitor their activity using wireless security system cameras. These systems can also be helpful if there are elderly family members residing in your Lubbock home.

If you have younger children, you may have a nanny or babysitter who helps with their care. Wireless home security system cameras can help give you peace of mind knowing that your children’s caregiver is providing proper care. You can have the cameras in visible or hidden locations, providing an even greater level of protection.

Wireless home security system cameras monitor for suspicious activity

Do you suspect that someone is coming onto your property in Lubbock, Texas when you are not there? That person might be harassing your pets, vandalizing your property, or performing other criminal activities. Wireless home security system cameras provide protection by monitoring suspicious activity and recording it.

You can place wireless cameras anywhere within range of the wireless receiver. Because the devices do not need hard wired connections, they can be moved to different locations. Wireless home security system cameras provide protection and ease of use, as well as versatility.

Wireless home security system cameras deter criminal activity

Visible wireless home security cameras can have a deterrent effect, because criminals don’t want their activities captured on video for anyone to see. Criminals depend on the fact that no one is watching them. If criminals see cameras covering different angles around your Lubbock property, most will think twice before trying to commit a crime.

Wireless home security system cameras capture crime in action

Even with the deterrent effect of wireless home security cameras, there are some criminals who may take a chance by breaking into your house. These criminals may obscure their faces or try to disable the cameras, so hidden cameras should be placed in a home for optimum protection.

Wireless home security system cameras can be large or small and they can be mounted in a visible place or hidden in an item like a teddy bear. You can have a single recording device or multiple devices, making it difficult for a criminal to disable every part of your home security system. These devices can capture the activities of anyone, including criminals, inside or outside of your home.

The video captured by security cameras is recorded on a DVR or other recording device. You have the option of looking at a live video feed over the internet or looking at past recordings at a later date. Home security systems and their cameras provide you with versatile and unique protection. You can monitor what is happening inside of your Lubbock house in real time using hidden cameras and a live feed. If a crime has been committed on your property and you have recorded evidence of this, it can be used in court.

Having a wireless home security system that includes wireless home security cameras is one of the best ways you can protect what is important to you. If you would like to learn more about home security systems, contact the experts at 1st Alarm.  Call (806) 792-3510 today.  Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 7212 Joliet Ave. #3 in Lubbock Texas.

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Why Do You Need Wireless Home Security Cameras In Midland Texas

When home security systems first came on the market, wireless technology didn’t even exist yet. The original wired security systems hooked up to telephone landlines and had wires running everywhere. Upgrading the system or adding a new feature was often expensive and cumbersome. The advent of wireless technology has completely changed the home security system market in Midland Texas and Odessa Texas. New wireless home security systems and wireless home security cameras are affordable, less obtrusive, and easier to install, making them the system of choice for many homeowners.  In addition to these improvements, wireless security cameras have also evolved and now more than ever are a critical element to a complete security strategy.

You can get a wireless home security cameras up and running in a matter of minutes.

Installation of a wireless home security system requires very few tools and with the help of an experienced technician from a local home security company in Midland or Odessa, your wireless security system and security cameras can be operational in minutes rather than days. Without a costly installation process that requires both electrical and physical installation, the entire installation process is a fraction of the cost of a traditional wired system installation. Free of wires, the wireless system is compact and attractive. If you decide to switch out the system, you won’t be left with unsightly wires running all over the place or large holes in the wall.  This includes the installation and operation of your wireless security cameras which can be easily positioned to monitor your entire property.

Your wireless security system and wireless home security cameras remain connected even in the event of a power outage.

Wireless security systems and wireless security cameras are intended to function exclusively or primarily on battery power. With regular system battery reminders, you’ll never be caught with a system that runs out of juice. Battery power also ensures that the system will keep running during a power outage or if a burglar cuts your phone lines, and will keep sending alerts to the alarm company, the local police force, and anyone else on your notification list.  Your ability to monitor your property via your wireless security cameras will be ensured.

Wireless home security cameras have an impressive range.

The top of the line wireless systems are able to communicate over hundreds of feet, which is more than twice the range of a standard wired system. This capability allows homeowners and businesses in Midland and Odessa to secure an entire property, including a detached garage or other buildings that don’t sit right against the house. Do you live on a multi-acre property? Consider linking together several systems to create an overarching security net for the full premises.  With a wireless security camera you will be able to monitor those dark corners where bad people might linger or attempt to gain unauthorized access

Wireless systems are much easier to upgrade than their wired counterparts.

With a wireless security system and camera, every component of the system is wireless. As such, when you’re ready for an upgrade, the outdated component can be easily removed and swapped for an upgraded model. You also have the ability to add on new features, more sensors and even more security cameras with ease once you’ve installed the system, allowing you to keep your system updated and customized to meet your current security needs and preferences.

A wireless security system with security cameras provides access to a wide range of smart home technology.

Wireless alarm systems allow homeowners to install video monitoring and to receive activity notifications for any unusual happenings on your property from a person entering the premises to a rise in interior temperature. In addition to these key security features, you can also control a host of other home systems via your computer or mobile device including disarming and arming the security system, locking and unlocking the doors, turning on and off the lights, and lowering and raising the temperature.

As you weigh wired vs. wireless home security systems with wireless security cameras and consider different models, talk to family and friends who have home security systems in Midland TX or Odessa TX. They’ll be able to share the advantages and disadvantages of varying systems so that you can make an educated decision about your next security system purchase.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business in Midland Texas or Odessa Texas, contact 1st Alarm of Midland Texas today. They are the best security alarm professionals in the region and have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price.  They can help you with all of your security needs for your business and your home.  Call (432) 530-3535 today.  Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 8818 West Highway 80 near the airport in Midland Texas.

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Why You Should Use Security Cameras to Help Protect Your Business in Amarillo Texas

If you are like most business owners, your livelihood, including of your family and your employees, is tied to the success of your company. Protecting your business by using security cameras is one way to ensure this valuable asset is not threatened.  Why monitor your business with cameras in addition to using a security system?  The answer is simple.  Security cameras can help prevent theft; they give you eyes on every part of your business when you are not there; security cameras provide a feeling of security for you, your employees; and your clients and they provide a way of documenting events and activities on your property.

Security cameras can help prevent theft

Using security cameras as a way to help prevent theft is often referred to as loss prevention. Almost every business is vulnerable to theft, whether it is from a shoplifter, a burglar or a dishonest employee. Cameras act as a deterrent to anyone thinking about taking something that doesn’t belong to him or her. Most criminals avoid places where their less-than-honest activities might be recorded.

Security cameras give you eyes on every part of your business

The owner of a business cannot be everywhere at once. Take a retail store as an example. The owner may be in the office doing payroll or at the front register cashing out customers. That means the owner does not have eyes on the stock room or in the areas of the business obscured by displays or signage. Security cameras give the owner eyes into all parts of the business. It makes it easier to see if a customer ducks into the stock room to pick up a “free” shirt or if an employee is slacking off.

Security cameras offer a feeling of security

The presence of security cameras makes it less likely someone is going to steal something, draw a weapon, or commit some other criminal act. This act of deterrence makes the premises more secure for you, your employees, and your customers. This feeling of security makes the workplace better for everyone.

Security cameras document everything

Security cameras are benign observers. They record everything. And you might be surprised when this silent documentation actually comes in handy. If you run a bar, for example, you know you have to be careful serving drunk customers. If one of them leaves your establishment and causes an accident, you can be held liable for pouring too much alcohol. If your cameras show you refused to serve an inebriated customer and offered to call a cab instead, your chances of being held liable are much less.  Another example is slip and fall accidents. You have likely heard horror stories about customers slipping and falling, then trying to sue a business for millions of dollars. Cameras will show what happened and if the person making the claim did it deliberately or had a part in the event.

Adding security cameras to your business brings definite advantages

As mentioned above, security cameras give you eyes into areas that you were once blind to. They can help you keep your customers and employees honest. They can also help protect you from liability claims.

If you are interested in installing security cameras in your business, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm. They can help you with all of your security needs for your business and your home.  Call (800) 276-5559 or (806) 352-5000 today.  Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 3501 S. Georgia Street in Amarillo, Texas.

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The Advantages of Wireless Security Cameras for Home and Business in Amarillo Texas

Higher-end security systems usually include video cameras. These typically wireless security cameras are great for monitoring activities inside and outside the house. They provide evidence in case someone chooses to commit a crime within their view. They also act as a deterrent to potential criminals who don’t want their activities captured on camera. The benefits of having cameras are obvious, but does your home or business need wired or wireless cameras?

The wireless security camera is revolutionizing home and business security

Just a few years ago, if you had a video camera included in your security system, it was hard-wired into place. Installing a hard-wired camera involves pulling cable through the walls and ceilings to the point where the camera is mounted. The other end of the cable attaches to a video recorder where the footage is captured and stored.  Today, the wireless security camera is changing the landscape of both home and business security. Instead of needing to pull cables through walls to mount a camera, a wireless model can be mounted just about anywhere. Some wireless cameras require access to an outlet for power. Some, however, come with high-end battery capacity which makes it truly wireless.

Wireless security cameras offer flexibility

Because there is no need to tie your security camera to a fixed cable, the cameras can be positioned just about anywhere in range of the wireless receiver. This provides the utmost flexibility to meet your home or business monitoring needs.

Wireless security cameras are also easy to reposition. If you decide to move a wired camera, you would need to have the technician move the cable which can make a simple re-location more difficult and more expensive. With a wireless security camera, that is not a problem. The technician turns the camera off, puts it in its new location and then turns it back on. Easy.

Wireless security cameras are smaller and easier to conceal

Wireless security cameras are smaller than their wired counterparts. That is due to their use of digital and wireless technology. Though wired cameras are smaller than they used to be, they still need to have room for the parts which send signals through the cables to the recorder.  The small size of most wireless security cameras makes it possible to put them into out-of-the way places. Also, because there are no attached cables, it is very easy to conceal a wireless security camera. This is good if you want to monitor a babysitter or housekeeper in your home. It also works well to monitor employee activities when you are not in your business.

Wireless security cameras typically come with cost savings

As described above, wired cameras connect with the video recording device via cables pulled through walls. Installing even a single camera can be labor intensive, which drives up installation costs. Plus, wired cameras tend to be more expensive than their wireless counterparts.   Despite being wireless, the signal from wireless cameras is usually of the same or higher quality than wired cameras. The technology is digital and it keeps improving all the time.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business, contact 1st Alarm. They have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price.  They can help you with all of your security needs for your business and your home.  Call (800) 276-5559 or (806) 352-5000 today.  Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 3501 S. Georgia Street in Amarillo, Texas.

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Wireless Technology Is The Latest Trend In Home Security Systems

Advancements in wireless technologies have transformed home security systems. In the past, these systems needed wires pulled through walls to connect everything, and installation was labor intensive and expensive. Today, home security companies can install a system in your home in Lubbock, Texas more efficiently, which saves you money. Knowing the differences between security systems of the past and modern home security systems can help homeowners understand the benefits of wireless home security systems.

Home security systems of the past

In the past, having a home security system was only for the rich or upper middle class. These systems required pulling wires through the walls to each window and door. Lubbock security companies were required to connect everything to a central controller, which managed the entire system. Installation of these systems also required a dedicated landline that the system would use to alert the monitoring service or emergency services.

Home security systems of the past were labor-intensive to install, so the installation costs were high. Making future changes required pulling new wires and rewiring the central control panel, adding even more labor and cost. The costs involved made most of these systems out of reach of most Lubbock homeowners.

Modern wireless home security systems

Today, advancements in wireless technologies have transformed the way people live. Instead of using landline phones, people rely on cell phones to stay connected. Wireless routers have replaced hard-line network connections for personal and work computers.

Wireless technologies have also transformed the home security system industry. Wireless alarms and sensors communicate with the central control panel, without any wires. These systems are easy for companies to install and configure. It is possible to install sensors at every window and door at a reasonable cost. The central panel can either be tied to a hard phone line or use wireless technologies to send alerts through the nearest cell tower.

Other wireless technologies that have become available, including home security video cameras and personal alarms. Wireless video cameras make it possible to monitor activity inside and outside your Lubbock property. Wireless personal alarms make it possible for someone to trigger an alarm, without being near the central keypad.

Because wireless home security systems require very little labor to install, they are affordable for most Lubbock homeowners. Home security systems have even been developed for renters who want to take the system with them when they move.

Most Lubbock security companies offer basic monthly monitoring at a great price. Companies may also offer additional services such as real-time alerts and online monitoring of the central control panel status. If home security video cameras have been installed, the feeds may also be available for online viewing.

Today’s home security systems have been made available to more homeowners than ever before and wireless technologies have made these systems even more efficient. If you are interested in adding a wireless home security system to your property, contact the experts at 1st Alarm. You can call us at 1(800) 276-5559 or send us an email for more information about our residential services. You can also email us to get a quote. We provide services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

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How To Choose The Best Home Alarm System

When you decide to purchase a home alarm system, it may be difficult to decide on what features you need. Before you start calling alarm companies, you need to do some basic research. This preliminary work will help you determine the features you need in your new security system. After you have done some research, you can begin to decide which home alarm system is the best for your family.

Do some basic research about home alarm systems

Home security system features range from basic to elaborate. Most homeowners find that a mid-range alarm system best fits their requirements while staying within a reasonable budget. One way to conduct research about what alarm system features you need is to survey your home.

Count the number of windows and doors you will need to monitor with the security system. Include all entry doors and any windows which are particularly vulnerable to intruders. You should also determine where you want the control panel located. The panel is what controls the entire security system. This panel should be somewhere close to the middle of your home, so that it can connect easily with sensors, motion detectors, and other system features.

Decide where the keypads need to go within your home. The keypads are where you program the control panel and arm or disarm the alarm system. Most alarm systems have a keypad at the main entry door. You can also have additional pads in other areas of the home, such as near bedrooms or by the garage door.

Consider whether you would like a wired or wireless home security system. A wired alarm system used to be the only choice available. Running wire through existing walls is labor intensive and expensive. If you are building a home, you might consider adding a wired security system. Modern home security systems tend to be wireless, however. It is cheaper and more flexible to install a wireless alarm system. Wireless systems also make it easy to increase or decrease the size of the system.

When looking for the best home alarm system, consider various features of each system. Cameras are great for capturing video of people who enter your property, whether invited or not. Motion detectors can be triggered if an intruder gets past your window and door sensors. Many home security systems allow for integration of fire and carbon monoxide detectors, as well. Your sense of security will likely be enhanced with these features, although they do come with a higher price tag.

Making a choice on the best home alarm system

Once your preliminary survey is done, you can start talking to home alarm system companies. It is best to talk with at least two companies, though more is better. Talking to alarm companies allows you to get a good idea of the pricing and features available for different systems.

Let the security company do its own survey of your home. This survey allows the company to see exactly what your property looks like and how the security layout would work. Be available to answer any questions for the company representative.

Consider the interfaces the security company provides. You want a user-friendly interface that everyone in the family can use. The alarm system should not involve a complicated process or require constant use of a user’s manual to do routine tasks.

Review the security company’s recommendations, because they may offer options you did not know existed. You may find that the recommendations of one company are very different than those of another.

You should also ask questions of the alarm company, if you have any. If one company offers an extremely low or high bid, you should ask why. You can also ask why each company recommended the features that they did. This information will help you determine the best home alarm system for your needs.

Once you complete all of your research, you will have enough information to determine which security system is right for your home. If you would like more information about home alarm systems, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm. You can call us at 1(800) 276-5559 or send us an email for more information about our products and services, or to get a quote. We provide services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

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Benefits Of CCTV Video Security Systems

CCTV (closed circuit television) has been the foundation of video security systems for decades. CCTV has become the favorite of businesses who want to deter shoplifters and vandals. The popularity of this type of video surveillance system has made it a favorite with homeowners as well. CCTV offers certain benefits for commercial and residential properties in Lubbock, Texas that other security systems cannot match. These benefits include preventing theft, promoting adherence to protocols, and preventing vandalism. CCTV security systems offer convenient remote viewing, increase chances of criminal prosecution, and decrease chances of fraudulent insurance claims. CCTV security systems also offer employee surveillance, lower insurance premiums, and off peace of mind.

CCTV video security systems prevent theft

CCTV surveillance prevents shoplifting and other forms of theft. Thieves do not like their activities captured on video. In a retail store, prominent cameras can keep shoplifters away. Cameras also deter burglars who want to enter a property after dark.

CCTV video security systems promote adherence to protocol

Having a CCTV video security system promotes adherence to health and safety practices. Businesses have an obligation to keep the workplace safe for employees and customers alike. Video can help determine if employees are following proper procedures and practices for your business in Lubbock. Video footage can also serve as a training tool for what to do and what not to do in certain situations.

Vandalism can be prevented with CCTV video security systems

Using a CCTV video security system can help prevent vandalism. Outdoor surveillance cameras act as a deterrent by showing vandals that they will be recorded if they commit a crime. If a vandal sees a camera, that person is less likely to do damage and if they do commit a crime, it will be recorded.

CCTV video security systems offer remote viewing

Remote viewing is one of the wonders of the Internet age. CCTV systems can be tied into the network, allowing Lubbock property owners and the monitoring service to see what is going on in front of the cameras. Video footage is also helpful in guiding police and emergency workers to the right spot on a property during an emergency.

CCTV video security footage increases chances of criminal prosecution

CCTV surveillance increases the chances of criminal prosecution once a criminal is caught. If the cameras capture the face of a criminal in the act of a crime, the chances of a successful prosecution are higher.

CCTV security systems decrease chances of fraudulent insurance claims

Video security systems decrease the chances of fraudulent insurance claims. Today’s world is highly litigious and people often sue over just about anything. A simple bump against a display may turn into a someone claiming they have an injury that requires extensive treatment. Video surveillance footage can show exactly what occurred in situations where insurance claims are involved.

CCTV security systems offer employee surveillance

CCTV video surveillance systems make it possible to monitor activities within a business or home in Lubbock, Texas. Business owners can monitor their employees, but household employees can also be monitored with this system. Many families have a housekeeper or nanny to help with things around their home. That person is often left in the house without the homeowners being present. Hidden surveillance cameras can give the homeowner proof of the employee’s activities if they do something unethical or commit a crime.

CCTV video security systems can lower insurance premiums

The benefit of having lower insurance premiums is one that many Lubbock property owners don’t consider. A full security system, including video surveillance, can lower insurance premiums by up to 20 percent. These savings can actually help pay for the security system and save you money in the future.

CCTV video security systems offer peace of mind

Having a video surveillance system offers business owners and homeowners peace of mind. When you know that you have video protection in place, it promotes a sense of security that can’t be found with other types of security systems.

If you are interested in adding a video surveillance system to your home or business in Lubbock, Texas, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm. You can call us at 1(800) 276-5559 or send us an email with your questions and concerns. You can also email us to get a quote. We provide services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

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Selecting A Video Security System That Meets Your Needs

A good video security system will protect you and your property in Lubbock, Texas, so selecting a system that meets your needs is important. A video security system will alert you when someone tries to intrude on your property and will protect you and your home. Using video surveillance is a great way to capture evidence in case someone commits a criminal act.

There are many reasons to invest in a video security system, but you must determine what your needs are before purchasing a system. You can determine where to place cameras on your Lubbock property, consider what video quality you need, and decide where you will place the recording equipment. Finally, determine whether you need a monitored video security system.

Determine where to place video security cameras on your property

The first thought many people consider before getting a video security system is how many cameras are needed. However, it is best to determine where cameras will be placed before deciding how many are needed. Consider where criminals would most likely be entering your home in Lubbock, Texas. Doors, windows, gates, and garage doors are all likely entry points. Some of these entry points are better for criminals because they are hidden from neighbors’ site lines or the road.

Visualizing where you want security cameras is a good way to get started. Before you purchase a video security system, you should create a plan about where the cameras will go and what direction they will be facing. A sketch of your Lubbock property will help you lay this plan out and possibly help you identify areas that need coverage that you didn’t consider before. The sketch becomes your working guide in directing the system installation.

Video security cameras can be hidden or placed in visible positions around your home. Many Lubbock homeowners use both hidden and visible cameras to get the best security coverage.

Hidden cameras are great for capturing what is going on around your property, without anyone being aware of the surveillance. Hidden video cameras are good for monitoring the activities of employees such as housekeepers or nannies.

Visible cameras are great for deterring criminal activities. Burglars and other criminals depend on stealth to commit their crimes. Criminals are less likely to approach a property that has visible security cameras that are ready to capture their activities.

Consider what video quality you need from a video security system

The quality of video you get from a particular camera depends on how many frames per second (fps) it captures. You can get cameras that capture anywhere from 8 fps to 30 fps. For most residential video security systems, 15 fps will provide adequate security by capturing enough detail to identify a criminal.

Another factor in video quality is how well cameras capture details at night. Some video security cameras only work well in moderate to high light levels. If you need to capture video during the night, you may want a camera that captures infrared light. You can determine how well a camera captures footage at night by checking the lux rating. A lower lux rating will indicate that the camera is better for capturing night footage.

Decide where you will keep the video security recording equipment

You will need DVRs to capture what your security cameras are seeing. The equipment needs to be in a secure area that is hard for most people to access. In a home, this area might be in a secured room or closet. The recording equipment can also be secured in a DVR lock box.

The DVR may need to be located close to the network router. The recording equipment should also have an Uninterruptable Power Source (UPS) to protect against power outages and power surges.
Decide if you need a monitored video security system

A video security system is only one part of securing your home in Lubbock, Texas. Consider what would happen if a criminal decided to enter your home when you are not there. Video cameras will capture a person entering the home, but will not alert anyone to the activities going on.

The best solution is to install a full security system that includes video surveillance. These systems come with monitoring services. If someone tries to break into your home, an alarm will go off and an alert will go to the monitoring service. The monitoring can call the police and alert you immediately to what is going on in your home.

Adding a video security system to your home in Lubbock, Texas is a good investment into your home and family’s safety. 1st Alarm can help you select a video security system that meets your needs. Call us today at 1(800) 276-5559 for more information or send us an email with your questions and concerns. You can also get a quote for a security system. We have locations in the following Texas cities: Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.