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Home > What are important things to consider when installing a fake security camera system in or around your home or business?
January 23, 2007
By: Lynn Bryant
Are dummy security cameras effective at deterring
criminal activity? While there is no question, an actively
monitored video surveillance system is your best bet, they
can often be too costly to implement and maintain.
If you are looking for an inexpensive way to boost the
security around your home or business, a fake security
camera system may actually be all you need. Several
companies on the market sell fake cameras that are built to
look identical to the real thing. Many are finding that
using these cameras to set up a fake surveillance camera
system is effective at deterring criminal activity.
Some people install all dummy cameras, while others
incorporate a few dummy cameras into their existing network
of real security cameras. Installing a mixture of both is a
good way to stretch your budget, yet still get the video
feedback you require. Incorporating fake cameras with the
real thing can add to the illusion of a more comprehensive
network of cameras.
If you are thinking about purchasing and installing dummy
security cameras, there are a few things to consider when
selecting your equipment. Considering these items before you
buy will help ensure you get the most out of your
investment.
- Purchase the right style camera for the job --
The most important step to implementing a dummy
surveillance system is to make sure you select the right
style of camera that is appropriate for the type of
surveillance you will be conducting. Different cameras are
appropriate for specific surveillance functions such as
motion sensing, outdoor surveillance, and nighttime
surveillance. It is important to pay attention to detail
and get the right camera for the job so that you can
project an image of authenticity. Picking the wrong camera
style for the job is a sure way to negate any benefit you
can expect to receive from a dummy security system. An
experienced criminal will see right through your façade.
- Plan for future needs -- Carefully considering
your future security surveillance plans will save you
money in the future. For example if you plan on expanding
your system in the future to incorporate real video
surveillance cameras, you might want to consider
purchasing enough of the same housing units to accommodate
your future expansion. Some companies offer dummy cameras
and real security cameras that come in identical housings.
The housings are made to accommodate a real security
camera, so whether you purchase the surveillance camera
now, or later, all of the units will match. No one will be
able to distinguish which contains a real functioning
surveillance camera and which does not. This will greatly
add to the authenticity of your security system because
all of the units will match.
- Carefully consider the number and placement of
cameras -- In order to continue the illusion of a
functioning system, the camera placement should be
carefully considered. Dummy cameras should be placed in
areas where they can be seen, but not placed too
conspicuously. Cameras should be placed in natural spots
where one would realistically assume they are really being
monitored. You also should consider an appropriate number
of cameras for the type of surveillance you will be
conducting. One camera placed outside your home may be
enough, but if you are setting up a façade for a small
office, just one camera may seem out of place.
Setting up a dummy surveillance system can provide you a
level of protection that is simply not present without a
network of security cameras in place. That being said, you
need to plan your cameras and placement carefully in order
to achieve the most effectiveness. In addition, once you
have installed your cameras you still should not let your
guard down. Any good security plan is constantly accessed to
determine its effectiveness.
About the Author Lynn Bryant is a successful freelance writer and
contributor to Video-Surveillance-Guide.com. Your
definitive guide to video surveillance equipment, CCTV
cameras and wireless security systems for home and business.
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