For those who don't yet know, CCTV stands for closed-circuit television. This is a type of camera that doesn't broadcast over regular television channels; the term "closed circuit" means that the image being recorded is only shown on the particular monitor hooked up to the CCTV and no place else. If you're concerned about security for your home or business, you must consider using a CCTV!



For Home Security

Property crimes are on the rise in every area of the United States. It's thought by the FBI that over 3% of homes will be the victims of vandalism or break-ins; that may not seem like a lot, but 100 homes make up a moderate suburb. Think of 3 of those homes being broken into tonight, and you'll see what even such a supposedly small number is nothing to ignore. A CCTV for your home will discourage both break-ins and vandalism.

Some assume that a high-tech alarm and huge guard dogs are the only thing that will keep their home safe, and of course these elements are also helpful, but think like a thief for a moment. If you had your choice of homes along one city block to strike, and saw a CCTV system over the entrances of one, wouldn't you move on to another? The same could be said for vandals, trespassers, and the like. It's not always a matter of keeping out a thief or criminal as much as it is making them move on to a different target.

Many people find that a CCTV system is also helpful if they have certain areas of their property that they need to watch over, for example, if they have a shed or garage with expensive equipment, tools, vehicles, or other toys. Having a CCTV system over this one area of the property can give those items added protection.

You might also consider using a CCTV system if you have children that are home alone or elderly relatives at home as well, as this can give you some peace of mind that they have this added security while you are away.

For Business Security

Businesses too are often victims of break-ins, vandalism, theft, hold-ups, and the like. Using a CCTV system in your business, regardless of what type of business, can be very helpful. A camera over the entrances and one over the register (for retail establishments) can do quite a bit toward discouraging any potential thieves or vandals.

As with your home security, you may want to consider a CCTV over areas of your business where you need added protection, such as a warehouse, manufacturing facility, storage facility, and the like. You may also consider adding a camera in areas where you suspect employee theft, such as stockrooms, money changing station, and so on.

Of course you do need to be careful as employees are legally entitled to privacy in the restrooms, changing rooms, and areas such as this. If you have any questions about using a CCTV system in your business, you do well to consult an attorney beforehand.

Installing a CCTV System for Your Home or Business

A CCTV system does not need to be elaborate to be effective. For most home and businesses, one or two cameras over key areas of entry can be enough. A monitor and recording device is also necessary, but these are usually very inexpensive and often come in kits for those who are uncomfortable trying to put together their own system. Mounting the cameras and connecting the elements is typically very simply and requires nothing more than a screwdriver.

If you're concerned with your own home security or with the security of your business, you do well to consider a CCTV system. They are affordable, easy to install, and can definitely give you some added peace of mind.