The Benefits Of Outdoor Security Cameras And Things To Consider

October 20th, 2021



When installing security cameras, it’s critical that you evaluate areas of vulnerability both inside and outside your Chico, CA home or business. Unfortunately, property owners tend to neglect outdoor cameras. Outdoor cameras are a vital part of a comprehensive security plan. Below, we’ve provided a breakdown of some of the primary benefits of outdoor security cameras and some things to consider during the installation process.

What Are The Benefits Of Outdoor Cameras?

The most significant benefit of outdoor cameras is that they often deter intruders from targeting your building. Researchers from the University of North Carolina surveyed convicted thieves and burglars. Statistics showed that roughly 60 percent of these individuals said they would avoid a home or business if they noticed security cameras. So, having security cameras outside could be enough to give a criminal second thought about breaking into your building.

However, if someone were to break into your Chico home or business, having outdoor security cameras could prove critical in catching the culprit. Where this tends to be most beneficial is when dealing with package theft. As ecommerce continues to grow, so too do “porch pirates” or package thieves.

The company “August” routinely provides reports about theft. One of their recent reports concluded that in 2017, more than 11 million homeowners had at least one package stolen from their home. The footage that an outdoor security camera captures could prove beneficial when dealing with:

  • The shipper or company from who you ordered the product
  • Your insurance company
  • The Chico authorities

What Are Some Things To Consider When Dealing With Outdoor Security Cameras?

If you’re looking to add outdoor cameras to your security package, there are a few things that you’ll want to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that the cameras are weather-resistant. Even cameras that are undercover, such as a camera on your front porch, could still be susceptible to moisture and wind. The cameras that you use inside likely will not work outside.

You’ll also want to consider whether you would like wired or wireless cameras. It could be much more challenging to install wired cameras than it is wireless cameras. However, you’ll need to make sure that you have a stable WiFi connection if using a wireless camera. Similarly, you’ll also need to think about how you’ll supply power to the cameras. You’ll need to replace batteries every few months, but they will work during a power outage.

Where Should You Place Outdoor Security Cameras?

The first place that you should place your outdoor cameras is near your points of entry. Doing so should allow you to obtain an uninterrupted view of anyone entering or exiting your home or office. Don’t forget about less obvious entrances, like a basement door.

You should also elevate your cameras when installing them. This will not only increase your field of vision, but it will reduce the likelihood that a criminal can tamper with the camera. You should need to use a ladder when installing the cameras to make sure they are high enough that an intruder cannot reach them.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
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