Cover the Points of Entry
Your first step in choosing the best placement areas for your cameras will involve completing a full security assessment of your home. Look at your property, and try to see it from the perspective of a burglar. Where would be the easiest places for someone to break in? Typically, the front door, back door, and first-floor windows are the most common criminal entryways. According to studies, around 81% of burglars access a home through the first floor. Ideally, you'll want to start by placing cameras in spaces where they can watch any large windows and doorways. If you can't cover both windows and doors, then keep in mind that back doors and front doors are the preferred entry points for any home. Place your camera above the window or door frame, pointing downwards so that it covers the opening, and the space around the door, too. You could also place your camera inside of your home on a window seal, so that it has a full view of the front yard and driveway. Often, it's better to keep cameras indoors when possible, as this reduces your risk of a criminal simply stealing or breaking the device.When Placing Security Cameras Outdoors
If you do decide to set up your security cameras outside, it's best to choose a camera that's waterproof and equipped with night-vision capabilities. Remember that while a visible outdoor security camera is a great deterrent, it can also give potential burglars a hint on which areas they should avoid if they want to stay hidden. Ideally, you'll want to situate your camera so it's high enough to be out of reach, yet low enough to capture the criminal's face. When choosing locations for your outdoor security cameras, you should consider choosing areas that will allow you to get a good view of any entrances or large windows around your home. Additionally, it's helpful to have a camera that covers any sheds or garages. Criminals often target these places because they offer easy access to expensive items without risking setting off a home alarm. When choosing the right angle, try to find a spot that provides coverage for as many areas as possible. Remember that where you place your camera will depend on what kind of system you have. Wide-angle lenses will record wider areas, but objects in that area can appear smaller.Installing Indoor Security Cameras
Security cameras inside your home don't just have to focus on the main entrance points. If you have places within your home that are brimming with expensive items, then you'll want to protect those spaces. Inside your home, try to position your cameras so that they're mostly hidden from view, and about nine feet up from the floor if possible, so that criminals can't grab or destroy them easily. Avoid pointing cameras at an angle that indicates where valuables are located, but make sure that the systems can capture enough details to give you the information you need about a theft. Indoors, the best places for a security camera will include:- Garages, on shelves and storage spaces that are high up the wall
- In thoroughfares within the home that lead to bedrooms
- In the master bedroom, where you can identify stolen items and capture details of the intruder's face