Although official crime statistics do not always paint an accurate picture of the less savoury side to society, they are helpful in shaping a portrait of criminal trends. According to the Home Office, statistics indicate violent crimes and vandalism are down for the current term by 6% and 10% respectively. However, home burglaries have increased by 1% during 2008-09, which is perhaps indicative of the ongoing recession and rising unemployment. Moreover, as Christmas approaches, it is argued that burglaries will only increase in frequency.

Therefore, it is important for homeowners to ensure their domestic security measures are up to scratch. In this respect, little is of greater value than solid, heavy front and back doors comprising several strong locks and deadbolts. Furthermore, windows should be lockable and security alarms ought to be checked to make sure they are functioning correctly. Likewise, spy holes, garden gates, intercom systems, motion sensor alarms and even panic buttons can all prove useful in preventing and defending against crime. However, one type of security equipment so commonly overlooked by homeowners is the home surveillance system.

Typically, a CCTV system would be installed to record activities in the front and at the back of a house. High-end outdoor CCTV systems such as the Axis 211W provide maximal coverage but come at a price – usually just under £1,000 or so. Good quality indoor cameras are available at £100 or less, but it is advisable to invest in a high resolution wall-mountable outdoor surveillance camera. Buying the IQCCTV EVD4TX/250 networking CCTV DVR is also a sensible choice, as this product enables real-time recording from up to four cameras to a 250GB hard drive that allows for one month of continuous high resolution video and around three months of lower resolution data. Camera data can also be streamed to a secure website for remote viewing.

Related posts:

1. Internet Security through Home Improvement: Anti-wi-fi Paint There are many ways in which the home can be...
2. Home Improvement Tips to Fend off Burglars Some 75,000 burglaries are reported to the police in England...
3. Summer 2009: Garden Season With the world economy currently in tatters, the flagging housing...
4. B & Q Invest in Management Rewards Despite the home improvement industry being hard hit by...