As many residents know, increased criminal activity is taking place with regards to both homes and cars. The continual instability of the economy will probably lead to more victims reporting thefts or break-ins, but there are steps residents can take to limit their exposure. Locking windows, using deadbolt locks on doors, employing a blocking device on sliding doors, are a few well known suggestions for home security. With regards to cars, owners need to be aware that criminals are often clever, and just hiding a high priced GPS under the seat doesn’t mean a thief will not see an empty holder and know the device is hidden somewhere inside. Below are some new ideas on home protection and additional tips on car security.
For The Home
Previously a costly item, wireless IP cameras now range from $125 to $250 dollars and can provide an array of useful services for those people seeking to monitor a remote location. Many businesses and homes already have wireless routers, and these IP or network cameras connect to the router without any need for the computer to be on. The majority of these cameras also include motion detection and email features, allowing video clips to be emailed immediately when motion is detected. They are also useful devices for those concerned with children home alone, or for elderly relatives living independently. Click here to see The Journal’s IP camera live
The IP or network camera allows an authorized user to watch live via any web browser, and some reasonably priced models also include a panning feature which allows the user to scan a room. Setting up one camera can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours depending on what is expected of the device. Basically, a simple install would require accessing the existing wireless router to allow users to connect via a remote location. Adding the email feature will require users to use the email service that comes from their internet provider such as Cablevision or Verizon; most accounts such as Yahoo, AOL, and other free email services might not work, although alerts can be forwarded to them.
The cameras can be placed anywhere there is an electrical outlet, but the implementation of the email alerts for motion detection should be planned out. Considerations such as dramatic changes in light or background objects affected by wind are two that can lead to unwanted alerts being sent. The cameras can also be plugged into a timer which can have the camera go on/off according to a family’s schedule. Overall, for those seeking a fairly cheap security system that offers added-value, IP cameras might prove a viable option. Although the initial setup is slightly more involved than a traditional webcam which requires the computer to be on, IP cameras are much more versatile once installed; authorized viewers need only click on a link to begin viewing their home, business, children, grandchildren, nannies or home aids.
For additional information on implementing IP cameras, readers can email flowtechsupport@gmail.com for advice on their particular home or business situation.
Car Cautions
The rash of car break-ins being reported in the area, along with home burglaries, is expected to increase with the downturn in the economy. In just the last few days, towns in New Jersey, Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Texas, and many other states have reported increases. Mall parking lots in New Jersey are also becoming preferred targets for criminals.
Technology has brought with it a host of small devices worth hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, that people often leave in their car. Cell phones, digital cameras, iPods, Blackberries, and GPS devices are all items that a thief can sell easily. Seeing just one item openly displayed in a car is enough for a thief to target the vehicle knowing that there could be additional items for the taking once he gains entry.