Your security cameras are only effective when properly positioned. The placement of your cameras determines whether you can monitor all points of entry and areas of concern.
So, where should you put your cameras? Here are five of the best places to install your security cameras for increased coverage.
-
Entrances
Positioning cameras to monitor entrances increases your chances of capturing criminal acts. Ground floor entrances and windows are the most common entry points for burglars. Over 80% of burglars enter through the first floor.
CCTV equipment suppliers often recommend placing a camera at the front door. A front door camera allows you to see visitors before answering the door, which increases your safety. However, most homes and commercial properties have multiple entrances. You may also want to install a security camera by your back door, as burglars may attempt to enter through the rear of the property to avoid detection.
-
Driveway or Parking Lot
Keep a camera pointed on your driveway to monitor anyone approaching your property. Depending on the layout of your property, anyone arriving at your home may need to walk across the driveway. You may also be able to position a camera to get a view of the driveway and front entrance.
Business owners should consider placing at least one camera facing the parking lot to increase safety for guests.
-
Main Hallway or Stairs
Along with monitoring the exterior of your property, you may want to install cameras inside. The first place to install an indoor security camera is the main hallway or entranceway. Anyone searching your home is likely to cross the main hallway when going from one room to the next.
Instead of a hallway, your property may have a stairwell that connects areas of the home. Cameras aimed at stairwells should be placed near the top of the stairs when possible. Gaining a higher perspective provides a clearer view of faces as people climb the stairs.
-
Common Areas
Install one to a few cameras in common areas. If a burglar enters your property during the night, they may try to avoid the bedrooms and focus on the living room, dining area, and kitchen. These rooms are also more likely to contain your most prized electronics and appliances.
-
Sheds and Garages
You may also want to keep an eye on your shed or garage. Detached structures are common targets for burglars, as there is less of a risk of alerting the property owner. You may not easily hear noise from sheds, garages, and other structures, especially at night.
Sheds and garages may also provide easier access. Instead of sturdy exterior doors with deadbolts, a garage or shed may include a simple padlock. You may store valuable items in a shed or garage, such as gardening supplies and equipment.
What Is the Best Height for Security Cameras?
Most security experts recommend installing CCTV cameras between 2.4 meters and 2.6 meters high. Placing the camera too high keeps you from viewing people’s faces. If the camera is too low, you may not view as much of a room or property.
If you plan on installing multiple cameras outside, consider adding one at a taller height. You can gain a wider view of your yard or the street from the taller camera and see faces from the lower camera.
What Is the Ideal Field of View for CCTV Cameras?
The field of view of the typical CCTV camera ranges from 60 degrees to 180 degrees. Wide-angle lenses often provide a field of view of 110 degrees or 180 degrees. A 180-degree lens creates a fisheye effect that distorts the image, as with looking through a typical peephole.
A narrower angle is recommended for hallways and tight spaces, as you do not need to cover a wide area. A 60-degree lens offers increased clarity, allowing you to make out more details.
Where Should You Avoid Placing Cameras?
You should avoid placing cameras in bedrooms and bathrooms to maintain privacy. Burglars are unlikely to search your bathroom for valuables and may not enter your bedroom unless you are away. Keeping cameras out of these rooms is also necessary if you have guests.
Along with your privacy, you need to respect your neighbours’ privacy. Do not place cameras at an angle that allows you to look at nearby homes or backyards.
Install Security Cameras Today
Security cameras help you keep an eye on your home or business, but they only work when they can see intruders or vandals. The best spots for security cameras include exterior doors, driveways, main hallways, common areas, and sheds or garages. However, everyone has different security needs.
Try to place cameras in areas that allow you to monitor entrance points and rooms containing valuable items. If you need assistance installing and positioning security cameras, consider working with a local security system supplier. Professional installation can help ensure that you cover the most important areas of your property.