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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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[ How to creatively conceal a hidden camera with motion detector cameras ]

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