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Home security camera use is booming thanks to better technology and lower costs. Cameras seem like a must have as homeowners have more to lose in the way of expensive electronics, devices, and other lucrative targets thieves are after.

Security cameras enhance your existing security system and add an extra layer of protection against breakins. Here are some best practices that ensure your cameras keep you covered.

Think Like a Burglar

Security cameras do little if they cannot capture break-ins because they're in all the wrong places. Instead, think like a burglar and place cameras at the most likely entry points. Burglars prefer to enter your house right through your own front door. Whether they force entry or simply turn the doorknob, a good percentage of burglars access your home this way, so cover this spot with a high-quality camera.

Next, aim cameras so they focus on other exterior doors like the back and side doors, the pedestrian garage door, and any walk-out basement door. Then, let cameras keep watch on areas burglars may position themselves, like the driveway and exterior gates that lead to the backyard.

Finally, consider additional vantage points that thieves might favor. Some second-floor windows are easier to reach when a handy tree, trellis, or shed is nearby that they can scale. Additionally, some yards contain valuable items a thief can't resist such as a loaded tool or storage shed, pool equipment, or outdoor kitchen.

Avoid These Common Camera Mistakes

You can increase the effectiveness of your security cameras in ways that go beyond mere strategic placement. Discover some common mistakes with regards to security cameras.

Forget to Protect Cameras

The security of your cameras is important. Don't let thieves tamper with your cameras and render them useless. Mount cameras well out of reach so vandals cannot shatter the lens, cut any wires, or remove the unit completely with a handy screwdriver. Also, consider rain or snow as you place cameras and provide some measure of protection against weather-related damage that makes cameras useless.

Fail to Provide Adequate Lighting

Most security cameras need a light source to be able to see in the dark. Night security cameras are able to capture images under low light conditions, but regular cameras are often left in the dark and become less effective. Make sure you provide a light source for all your cameras. Motion-activated lights work best because they pop on when they sense movement to provide the right light to capture intruders.

Fail to Adjust Lighting

A light source is necessary but needs adjustment to work effectively with your cameras. Don't point a light directly at the camera, which creates glares and dulls image contrast.

Instead, situate lights above cameras to keep them out of the camera's view. You can blind a camera when lights are too bright. Plan on bulbs with .05 watts for every square foot of ground you wish to illuminate. Don't forget that direct sunlight is also bright enough to render footage useless.

Believe Cameras Can Multitask

Different cameras are better suited to different tasks. Few cameras are able to multitask and capture footage of differing distances.

Consider what kind of task you want a camera to perform. You may want a camera that's great at facial detail near your front door, but don't count on a very good view of the street at the same time. Use a different camera to focus on details like license plate numbers on the driveway.

Announce Your Plans

You want your cameras to stay out of the limelight to surprise or deter burglars. Don't announce your new camera installation plans on social media. While you're on social media platforms, resist the urge to announce upcoming vacation plans, which only notifies the world the dates your home is empty.

For more help regarding home security camera placement and use, contact Coastal Burglar Alarm. We can answer home security questions and install a system for you.