Some Ins And Outs Of Outdoor Security Cameras

July 1st, 2024



Surveillance cameras play a vital role in securing the perimeter of homes, offices, schools, and more. In many instances, they are a property owner's first line of defense against thieves, vandals, and trespassers. The devices help employees, students, parents, and shoppers feel safe and secure. Not to mention, the recordings can serve as evidence to ensure that those committing crimes are brought to justice. Curious Chico citizens who are considering outdoor security cameras should read further to learn more.

Should You Choose Wired Or Wireless Models?

A lot of people are going with wireless security cameras these days. Why? Well, much of the reason has to do with cost. Wired installations are more time consuming, as workers have to dig trenches and drill holes to run cables. Plus, if the property's surveillance needs change, the cam can easily be moved from one location to another. Also, it is simple to add a device if the need arises. Regardless of which choice a person decides on, some of the security cameras that are available to them include...

  • Pan, Tilt, And Zoom Cams
  • Infrared Surveillance Cameras
  • Weatherproof And Vandal Proof Devices
  • Dome Cameras
  • Bullet Security Cams

Things To Look For In Outdoor Units

Take some time to research all of the different cams accordingly. After all, you want the devices to provide you with the best possible results. With that in mind, don't forget to check out the video resolution. The higher the better, but it is recommended that persons go with a unit of at least 3MP. This will make identifying faces, license plates, and distinguishing marks such as tattoos a cinch.

Chico residents may want to consider security cameras that are not entirely reliant on the Internet. If you choose the other route, and the WIFI goes down, the images might become distorted and blurry. That is providing that the unit records at all. So, think about going with a model that will continue to function at a high level when online service is not available.

Nightvision is equally important if the recordings are going to take place in dimly lit settings. What good are the cameras if they can't see in the dark and thieves can sneak onto the property undetected? Purchasers should make it a point to find out how far the units can reach in the darkness too. They won't be very beneficial if they can't capture video at the required distance.

The Importance Of Weatherproofing

Regardless of what security cameras Chico consumers select, they must make sure they are for outdoor use when the devices are to be installed outside. If the units do not have adequate weatherproofing, purchasing them will be just like flushing your hard earned money down the drain. Once the moisture gets to the internal components, it is highly probable that the equipment will stop working and need to be replaced. When safety, well-being, and assets are the main topics of concern, one can never be too careful. So, choose the right outdoor security cameras for your specific application.

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
    Call (530) 327-7268