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As home security becomes more and more advanced, you’ll likely be inundated with options as you search for new technology. Doorbell cameras are quickly gaining traction as one of the best additions to your home security system.

Two of the most popular brands on the market are the Skybell Trim Plus and the August Doorbell Cam Pro. Of course, everyone’s needs are different. We’ve put together a quick comparison between the two so you can make the best choice for your home.

What Is A Doorbell Camera?

First thing’s first: what exactly is a video doorbell camera, and why might you choose to use one?

The doorbell is a typical feature of any home. As technology has advanced, so has the doorbell. Today, the device can be used not only to alert you to visitors, but also to allow you to view and speak to these visitors from within your home.

Although doorbell cameras are not much larger than a traditional doorbell and are mounted in the same place, they come with a wide range of additional features. Motion sensors, HD video and photo capture, two-way communication, and smartphone or tablet syncing are just a few of the available features.

Choosing a doorbell camera, therefore, means choosing something that truly improves upon convenience and safety in the home.

What To Consider When Choosing Between the Skybell Trim Plus and the August Doorbell Cam Pro

Choosing the best option for your home can be difficult. There are loads of devices to choose from, so ask yourself the following questions when making a decision:

• How often will your doorbell camera be in use?
• What devices will you use alongside your doorbell camera?
• Will you need a device that works night and day, and no matter the weather?
• Who will need access to this device?

Skybell Trim Plus

The Skybell company specializes in doorbell cameras. Many of its products’ features are patented and unique. Therefore, choosing a device from this company means you are receiving the very best in this kind of home security.

Style

The Skybell Trim Plus is around the size of a regular doorbell and has a sleek and modern design. It comes in two colors: brushed aluminum and dark, oil-rubbed bronze. These two options match all kinds of home designs, so you have the opportunity to invest in a stylish addition to your home.

Features

180-degree view

The Skybell Trim Plus has a panoramic view so you can view the entire door area through the device’s HD videos and pictures.

5X zoom

Within these videos and pictures, you can zoom in up to five times the original size. This means you will be able to view finer details such as package information.

Motion sensors

The device has a motion sensing option that picks up on any movement within the doorbell’s IR sensor range, whether the doorbell has been rung or not.

Easy installation

The Skybell Trim Plus can easily be installed at home as the instructions are clear and simple to follow.

Weather resilience and night-vision

This device can be used day and night and in any kind of weather. The 1080p HD camera boasts full-color night vision.

Cloud video storage

This doorbell camera offers free video storage on all of your devices. Your footage can be kept safe and private on the cloud.

August Doorbell Cam Pro

The August Doorbell Cam Pro is a strong competitor when it comes to choosing a device. This product has a number of impressive features that make for a great user experience.

Style

The August Doorbell Cam Pro works with existing mechanical doorbell wiring. The product comes in dark grey and silver, and its large doorbell button is easy to use for visitors. Installing your new device can however be tricky, as its square design may not fit on your door frame.

Features

120-degree view

This device has a 120-degree horizontal field of view, so its panoramic feature is limited compared to Skybell Trim Plus. Nevertheless, its 1280 x 920 HD camera is clearer than many other doorbell cameras out there.

Motion sensors

Your doorway is constantly monitored by this device’s HindSight technology. This feature allows for both motion sensing as well as capturing the moments leading up to someone approaching the door.

Easy installation

Setting up your August Doorbell Cam Pro is simple, and you can follow the step-by-step instructions on the August app.

Night-time floodlight

Instead of using infrared LED night vision, this device includes a small light in the middle of its doorbell button that can illuminate anyone standing in front of it.

Compatible with other devices

This product is compatible with a number of other devices, such as smartphones, Alexa, and August Smart Locks.

Video storage

Basic video recording of up to 24 hours is included free with this device. You can upgrade to August Video Recording Premium to view 30 days of saved video history and download and share videos.

Skybell Trim Plus and August Door Cam Pro Comparison

Because both of these devices have such great features, you may not be sure which one is best for you. Below, we compare the Skybell Trim Plus and the August Doorbell Cam Pro to help you make your decision.

Ease of Use

Both of these doorbell cameras are easy to install as well as use. Both are also compatible with a number of other devices.

While both products need pre-existing doorbell hardwiring, installation is easy for both and you will be able to install either device without the help of a professional.

Video Quality and Field of View

The Skybell Trim Plus has a notably better video quality compared to the August Doorbell Cam Pro. While the former has a 1080p HD camera, the latter has a 1280 x 920 HD camera. However, although the Skybell Trim enjoys a higher resolution, this feature lowers the frames per second to 15 FPS to cut down on data usage, so the video is clearer but not as smooth as the August’s 30 FPS.

The Skybell Trim Plus also has a wider field of view, capturing 180 degrees of the area as opposed to the August’s 120 degrees. Being able to view the entirety of your door area may be necessary, so keep this in mind.

Zoom

While Skybell’s product boasts the option for a 5X zoom, the August does not give you the option to zoom in at all. Zooming in can be extremely important when it comes to being able to view finer details. It can also be helpful when you are surveying the street area in front of your home.

Storage and Subscriptions

Each product allows for the storage of videos on the cloud. However, the August Doorbell Cam Pro has the option for an upgrade that allows you to view 30 days worth of footage. This costs $4.99 a month and can be extremely helpful in tracking your doorbell area. Without this upgrade, however, you will only be able to access footage from the last 24 hours.

With the Skybell Trim Plus, there is no option for an upgrade. You can access the last seven days of footage from your doorbell camera for free, but there is no way to extend the length of time beyond this limit. However, it is likely that this limit will be more than enough for you and your family.

Power Options

How each device is powered is an extremely important aspect to take into account.

The Skybell product’s internal battery is equipped for everyday use and provides power consistently. The smart doorbell does not have a backup battery, but the device is widely compatible with a number of different transformers.

The August product, on the other hand, does have a small battery backup. However, this only works for a few hours. This device is only compatible with 12-24 VAC transformers, so it is not as easy to ensure total security in the event of a significant power outage. Nevertheless, its backup battery does offer a fantastic short-term solution.

Weather Conditions

Both of these products are built to withstand all kinds of weather conditions. However, the Skybell Trim Plus has the edge when it comes to temperature as the Skybell device can operate within extreme temperatures.

Although the August device is also competitive in this field, it is not as hardy when it comes to extreme cold or extreme heat. That being said, both of these devices are great for most climates.

Network Compatibility and Integration

No matter which device you choose, you can be assured that it will work smoothly with your WiFi connections and other home devices. However, be aware that using a doorbell camera alongside multiple cameras on the same network may eat up your bandwidth and impact your internet speed.

The August Doorbell Cam Pro and the Skybell Trim Plus both allow for seamless integration. When it comes to smart home integration, both devices are compatible with Amazon Echo and Alexa. The August will fit in nicely with Google Home too.

Bottom Line

Whichever device you decide to purchase, the addition of any doorbell camera to your home is a smart investment. Doorbell cameras do so much more than alert you to someone at your door—they are a great addition to any home security system. Being able to view who is at your door no matter where you are allows for peace of mind.

However, asking yourself what it is you need out of your doorbell camera is important when making this decision.

Both products are competitive when it comes to integration and compatibility, although the August Doorbell Cam Pro does allow for more integration options. Each device can be accessed through a smartphone or tablet, whether you are home or away. You can also interact with your visitor through the devices’ speakers and microphones.

While both of these products have their advantages, we lean more towards the Skybell Trim Plus. The style of the Skybell product is slim and sleek and matches almost any home. Its compatibility with a number of transformers, great video quality and range, as well as the option to access seven days of footage all contribute to it coming out on top.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States behind smoking and is responsible for around 21,000 lung cancer-related deaths each year. The EPA estimates that one out of 15 homes in the U.S. has unhealthy levels of radon.

So what is radon? Radon is a radioactive gas that can be harmful to humans and animals when they’re exposed to high levels of it. Radon gas exposure is caused by a breakdown of uranium within the earth; the radon gas rises and enters through cracks and other holes in a building’s foundation.

What makes this gas so deadly is that it is undetectable by humans—it’s odorless and invisible. It doesn’t cause immediate health problems, but extended exposure to it does. That’s why you need specialized equipment to detect radon in your home or business.

How to Detect Radon Gas

There are a few different methods that you can use to detect radon within your home or business. The two main radon detection methods are active and passive tests.

The most common passive test uses a radon test kit that is sent to experts for analysis. Using radon test kits, property owners can measure radon levels for two to 90 days for short-term passive tests, or they can measure 90 days or more for long-term passive tests.

The radon kit is then sent to a laboratory, and the lab sends the property owner an analysis of the sample. These tests require no special training to conduct, so property owners can perform these tests themselves.

The other common radon detection method available for property owners is the active detection method. Active radon monitoring devices require a power source and can provide almost instantaneous results at any given time. These devices can provide both short-term and long-term results, but they’re usually more costly than passive radon detection kits.

Why You Need a Radon Detector

Exposure to radon for prolonged periods of time or in high concentrations can be deadly and lead to long-term health problems, such as lung cancer.

Using a radon gas detector or radon detection kit, you can identify radon gas levels within your home or business and prevent any unnecessary exposure to this harmful gas. If your building does test positive for radon, you can then act accordingly to prevent further exposure.

One method for eliminating radon gas exposure is sealing off any cracks or gaps in the building’s foundation. Sealing and venting areas of exposure can also help reduce radon levels. Preventing further exposure is straightforward once you know you have high levels of radon.

The 3 Best Radon Detectors on the Market

It’s important to know your building’s radon level so you can keep your family or employees healthy and safe from its dangerous long-term health effects. These active radon tests will help you do just that and provide you with both short-term and long-term results and monitoring. Here are the best radon detectors on the market today.

Radon Eye RD200

Using the latest in smart technology, the Radon Eye RD200 boasts 20 times the sensitivity compared to other radon detectors. That’s because its dual-structured pulsed ionization mechanism enables it to provide more accurate detection.

The Radon Eye RD200 provides its first reliable results within the first hour of operation, meaning you no longer need to wait extended periods of time for accurate results.

A useful feature of the Radon Eye RD200 is its ability to log and share data to your smartphone or PC, allowing you to conveniently observe and monitor radon levels within your home or business. This data can be easily exported to Excel so you can view and manipulate the data easily in a spreadsheet.

The Radon Eye RD200 displays data in a graph format to ensure you can easily understand the results and readings provided. Additionally, the device supports Bluetooth connectivity via an app so you can easily access the device using a smartphone or tablet.

What we like:

• Quickly provides accurate and reliable readings, allowing you to get immediate results
• Data can be easily accessed through Bluetooth connectivity and an accompanying app
• Much more sensitive than competing devices
• Data can be exported directly to your PC or smart device in a graph or spreadsheet format

What we don’t like:

• At over $200, the device is a little pricey

Radex MR107

The Radex MR107 is an active radon detection device that is highly sensitive and provides accurate and reliable results. This device is suitable for both home and workplace environments, and it is user-friendly.

In addition to its primary radon detection functionality, the Radex MR107 also provides additional features, such as relative humidity and temperature measurement, to provide you with more comprehensive results. This device comes with Windows software that you can download and use for free.

Using this software, you can easily transfer data gathered by the Radex MR107 to your PC and analyze and monitor the results within your home or business. Another useful feature is an adjustable alarm that is triggered when the device detects unsafe levels of radon.

The Radex MR107 also measures the surrounding radon levels relative to the surrounding temperature and humidity, ensuring more accurate and relative results. This provides you with a more complete picture and additional context so you can track dynamic changes in surrounding radon levels more reliably than with most other devices.

What we like:

• The ability to transfer results to the free Windows software is useful and helpful
• Additional features such as humidity and temperature readings provide more context when compared with relative radon levels
• User-friendly design makes the device easy to use for both home and business owners
• It retails for under $200

What we don’t like:

• Lack of a built-in interface makes results more difficult to identify
• Can only be charged via USB, and the battery lasts for up to six days

Corentium Home by Airthings

The Corentium Home is a portable lightweight radon detection device that provides accurate results within 24 hours. You can view results easily with its built-in LCD screen without the need of any external devices. This allows you to conveniently monitor radon levels in your surrounding environment.

This device is resistant to a variety of environmental and physical conditions, such as electromagnetic interference, dust, and weather. This helps ensure that its readings are accurate and reliable.

Boasting a two-year battery life, the Corentium Home can provide long-term results and monitor your surrounding radon levels with great precision. You can easily replace the three standard AAA batteries, allowing your device to last up to 10 years.

What we like:

• Its portability allows you to conveniently monitor radon levels in various locations
• High resistance to electromagnetic and environmental conditions ensures more reliable results
• Built-in LCD screen allows you to view and monitor results immediately without the need for any external devices
• Two-year battery life and replaceable AAA batteries allows for long-term use
• Its price—under $150—means you get great value for good functionality

What we don’t like:

• Unable to export and transfer data to a PC or other devices

Where to Place Your Radon Detector

Once you’ve selected the radon detector that will work best for you, make sure you follow instructions and place it properly in the building you’re testing.

Because radon gas rises up from the ground, place the radon detection device or test kit in a room that is closest to the ground for the most accurate and reliable results. For example, if you have a basement, you should place the detection unit there.

For the best and most accurate results, you should keep all windows and doors closed during the testing period prescribed by your device or test kit. In long-term tests, however, closed house tests conditions are not necessary.

Tired of scheduling your life around guests’ arrival times or getting locks rekeyed when guests misplace the keys?

Smart locks offer a simple solution to people who manage vacation rental properties. By using smart locks, you can facilitate self check-in and checkout for your guests by using passcodes that expire when your guests check out.

Plus, an electronic lock makes your Airbnb rental more secure: Some models connect to your smartphone and smart home devices, allowing you to monitor who comes in and out of your rental.

Best Smart Locks for Airbnb

With a smart lock you can save time and money from not having to physically meet someone for check-in. Plus, offering self check-in via a smart lock can make your Airbnb rental more appealing, meaning your listing will attract more bookings.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the different types of smart locks out there, so here’s a shortlist of some of our favorite smart locks for Airbnb rentals on the market right now.

August Smart Lock Pro + Connect

The August Smart Lock Pro + Connect is one of the best smart locks for Airbnb because it attaches easily to a deadbolt. This lock can be operated with your smartphone and is compatible with Amazon’s Alexa system, which lets you control your front door using your voice.

The lock is incredibly feature-rich. It comes with August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge for connectivity to a smart hub. It also has a locking mechanism that allows it to automatically lock and unlock your door and will let you know if your door is secured with DoorSense.

You can control and monitor your door from anywhere with the August Smart Lock Pro + Connect. You can keep track of people who come in and out of your door by checking your smartphone.

What we like:

• Can easily be installed in 10 minutes with a screwdriver
• Auto lock and unlocking mechanism
• Compatibility with apps (compatible with Amazon’s Alexa)

What we don’t like:

• Higher price tag than average for smart locks
• Some features require additional purchases

Nest x Yale with Nest Connect

The Nest x Yale smart lock is one of the best locks on the market, but it comes at a hefty cost. The biggest issue with the lock is that you are somewhat limited to the Nest ecosystem.The second biggest downside of the Nest x Yale smart lock is the cost. You’re mostly paying for the design and extra functions, and the build quality could be better. This is an issue considering the lock’s high price.

If you want a smart lock that blends in with the modern aesthetic of your home, then this may be the smart lock for you.

What we like:

• Seamless integration with Airbnb for easy check-ins and checkouts of your rental property
• August app can be used for door monitoring
• Easy installation
• Fail-safe connection

What we don’t like:

• Extremely sensitive to positioning on installation
• No key override

Kwikset 99130-002 SmartCode

The Kwikset SmartCode 913 is one of the most basic smart locks on our list. While it is easy to use and set up, the design and interface of the touchpad are dated, and lacking in some of the bells and whistles you might see on competing products. However, if you just need something that’s robust and functions well, this is the smart lock to get.

Not needing Wi-Fi to set up the lock is a main selling point as some Airbnb rentals do not have internet access. The lock is also fairly cheap compared to the others on this list, making it an attractive buy for Airbnb hosts.

This Kwikset smart lock is harder to install than other smart locks as the instructions aren’t as clear as they could be. If you’re not great with tech, look up user-written instruction guides on the internet for this lock. Kwikset’s tech support is pretty helpful, too.

What we like:

• Perfect for big families
• No Wi-Fi needed
• Easy to use

What we don’t like:

• Outdated design
• Despite the name, this lock isn’t all that “smart”

Schlage Z-Wave Connect Camelot

Schlage is known for its high-quality locks for hotels and office buildings. They have brought this same lock quality to their home smart lock lineup with the Z-Wave Connect Camelot.

This smart lock doesn’t draw attention to itself: The numbers on the unit remain hidden until you press the Schlage button, so in idle it won’t light up and waste battery life.

The Schlage Z-Wave smart lock also includes a built-in alarm to warn you of unwanted visitors. Along with the alarm, the lock has other functions such as auto locking and beeping on open. And even with all these features, its battery usage is efficient. Some users report that a single battery with normal use lasts up to one year.

Some users report moisture getting into the control module, so if your Airbnb is in a humid climate, then this may not be the smart lock for you.

What we like:

• Works with Alexa via SmartThings, Wink, or Iris
• Built-in alarm system
• Efficient battery usage

What we don’t like:

• Only for US and Canada
• Bulky design

Samsung SHS-3321 Digital Door Lock

Last but not least is the Samsung SHS-3321 smart lock. This sleek smart lock is perfect for Airbnbs concerned with design aesthetics.This Samsung lock has all the features you would expect from a high-end lock, such as good design, Wi-Fi connectivity, ability to add multiple codes, and automatic lock and unlock modes. The only real complaint about this lock is the installation, as you have to torque the backplate correctly.

Other than those few quibbles, the Samsung SHS-3321 is a reliable smart lock for your Airbnb rental.

What we like:

• Can use an RFID card
• Digital touchpad
• Loud built-in alarm
• Great design

What we don’t like:

• Weak motor compared to competing devices
• Installation is harder than it has to be

4 Major Factors to Consider Before Buying a Smart Lock

Let’s break down the major things to look for when choosing the perfect smart lock for your Airbnb rental.

1. How easy it is to change the code

Believe it or not, there are bad people out there who may want to access your property after they have checked out of your Airbnb. Making sure the code can be changed easily will save you lots of time, and you won’t have to worry about previous guests re-entering the rental.

2. How easy it is to adjust the lock to fit your door

If every door and lock were built to a standard dimension, it would be easy to fit a deadbolt lock to your door. But they are not. Some are not aligned correctly, and some holes in the doorframe are not deep enough to accommodate the deadbolt rod.

Make sure you are either buying the right spec for your door or that the deadbolt on your smart lock is adjustable.

3. Durability and weather-proofing

Airbnbs endure a lot of use, and your smart lock needs to be able to withstand that heavy load. Make sure your Airbnb smart lock is built of quality materials that will stand the test of time and the elements.

4. Integration with existing smart home devices

With so many different home automation kits out there these days, you need to be sure your smart lock will work with your existing home automation protocols.

When you buy a smart lock that integrates with your other smart home devices, you can see who is coming in and out of your Airbnb with cameras, see check-ins and checkouts, and even change the code. How easy is that!

FAQs About Smart Locks

We know you have lots of questions about smart locks, so let’s go over some of the most common questions we get about using smart locks for an Airbnb rental.

How do smart locks for Airbnb work?

Using a smart lock for your Airbnb rental is quite simple. Once you’ve installed the lock, all you need to do is set a code, and then tell it to your guest over the Airbnb messaging system once their stay is approved.

This makes it easy because you don’t need to physically meet the customer to let them into your rental. Plus, self check-in is something some Airbnb customers look for when choosing their rental, so you may actually attract more bookings as a result.

Do smart locks need Wi-Fi?

Some smart locks need Wi-Fi, others don’t. Most of them only require Wi-Fi for setup and not day-to-day use.

Do smart locks need power?

Most smart locks run on an internal battery inside the unit. Once this battery goes flat, you can usually use a 9-volt battery or a key to get in depending on the lock.

Which smart locks are compatible with Ring?

Many smart locks are compatible with Ring, including locks by Schlage, Kwikset, and Yale.

Is there a monthly charge for smart locks?

Nearly every smart lock brand out there is an unmonitored solution to home automation and has no monthly charge.

There may be a premium smart lock out there with a monthly charge, but if there is, we don’t recommend it over a regular smart lock. The only monthly charge you should be paying is for your security system and any camera footage you’re saving.

Can smart locks be hacked?

Like anything digital, smart locks can be hacked. In this day and age, even your car can be hacked. But should you worry about it? No. The chances of someone with the ability to hack your lock and desire to break into your Airbnb are slim to none at best.

Purchasing a Smart Lock for Your Airbnb

A smart lock is a must-have for any Airbnb rental. A smart lock with self check-in increases the value of your Airbnb property and makes it easier for guests to access your rental.

Plus, it frees you from scheduling around your guests’ arrival and departure times, making your life easier as an Airbnb host. Not to mention that smart locks give you more control over who has access to your property and makes your home or rental more secure.

We hope our picks for the best smart locks for Airbnb rentals have made your purchasing decision easier. Just make sure you keep the factors in mind before choosing your smart lock. Choosing the wrong one could be a costly decision that is easily avoidable!

Responsible gun owners understand the importance of practicing safety protocols when it comes to storing firearms properly and securely.

Common sense dictates that gun owners keep their guns from being accidentally picked up by a child, stolen or misused to harming others when not in use.

Firearm safety should be a top priority for every gun owner. The safest way to store them is to keep them in tamper-proof storage – a gun safe – to prevent any accidents, theft or damage.

Here is a short overview for evaluating your storage options to help you find the right product to ensure maximum security, ample space, and top quality.

Key factors we considered in selecting each product on the list include:

• Accessibility
• Security
• Size
• Lock mechanism

1) SENTRY SAFE QUICK ACCESS SAFE

This safe comes in a sturdy, compact model with solid steel construction and a pry-resistant door.

For accessibility, it sports a push-button with a combination lock that requires no keys to open it. However, set of keys is also provided for those who prefer it and to ensure you can open the safe should you forget your combination.

The safe opens silently with a release of compressed gas and has backlit combination keys for easy opening in dark places.

PROS

• The combination lock runs without batteries
• The keypad comes with only four buttons, making it easy to set a combination password
• The lock system is concealed, preventing it from being picked

CONS

• The keys are sensitive and need to be firmly pressed
• It is not fireproof or waterproof

2) VAULTEK VT201 BIOMETRIC PISTOL SAFE

This uses technology that allows you to open it with a smartphone. It is constructed with 16-gauge steel and polished with a powder coat finish to prevent rust and corrosion.

Offering numerous quick-access options, users can open the safe with a key, using the keypad, or with the Bluetooth option. The gun safe also has a high-resolution biometric scanner that can program up to 20 fingerprints.

Additional features include: silent access mode, an interior light, and ample storage space.

PROS

• Comes with a security cable, charger, mounting screws, and a screwdriver for installation.
• Features a smartphone app that informs the user about the status of the safe.
• Rechargeable battery included

CONS

• There have been reports of the biometric scanner becoming faulty

3) BARSKA BIOMETRIC SAFE

In addition to its sleek, streamlined appearance, it comes with a distinctive fingerprint pad for extra security and easier access and is large enough to hold other valuables.

With its biometric scanning feature, it can store up to 30 fingerprints. There are also two sets of keys provided and comes with pre-drilled holes for mounting.

PROS

• Large capacity
• Fingerprint security
• Backup keys are modeled in unique shapes so their locks can’t be picked

CONS

• Not fireproof or waterproof
• Large size makes it difficult to conceal
• Fingerprint pad is sensitive and must be kept clean

4) GUNVAULT SPEEDVAULT SV500 GUN SAFE

The Gunvault Speedvault SV500 is compact, allowing for portability. Its 18-gauge steel design is highly resilient to tampering. The drop-down drawer makes for easy access in case of emergency. It comes equipped with a digital keypad for quick entry, a ‘silent keypad’ mode, and an interior light.

PROS

• Rugged panel and can be mounted on a variety of surfaces
• Electronic, battery-operated lock and can also be opened with a key
• Noiseless access using the silent mode

CONS

• Digital keypad can be overly-sensitive
• Not fireproof or waterproof

5) SHOTLOCK HANDGUN 200 MECHANICAL SAFE

This safe has a simple, polished steel design and. does not need a battery or electricity to open. It is made from an enhanced durable steel for maximum resilience and durability and can be anchored vertically or horizontally.

It comes with a Simplex lock that opens with a PIN number. The PIN must contain a combination of 8 digits, pressed in the correct order to open the safe.

PROS

• Mechanically operated, so it is not dependent on electricity or batteries
• Clear and straightforward manual for setting your password combination
• 14-gauge steel makes it quite heavy, making it difficult to steal the safe

CONS

• Mechanical operation means it does not have memory for multiple PIN combinations
• Its weight also reduces portability

Looking for ways to protect your valuables and family? Give us a call to learn more about our home security systems and 24/7 monitoring.

In today’s world, home security is more important than ever. Gone are the days of leaving doors unlocked, windows open, and car keys in the car.

Home surveillance has now become essential for every homeowner who wants to feel that their home and family are safe and protected from intrusion. Installing outdoor home security cameras help to ensure that your family is safe and protected.

The mere presence of a camera is often enough to deter the average intruder from trying to enter your home. The cost of installing an outdoor security camera system is money well spent as it provides exceptional security to your home.

Establishing the Best Places to Mount and Outdoor Security Camera

Establishing what you would like to observe with your outdoor security camera is the first step in determining where the best place to mount the camera is. Unfortunately, it is difficult to cover the entire exterior of your home with just a few cameras, so strategic placement is vital.

A single camera cannot do and see everything at once. If you want to a clear picture of an intruder outside your home, you will need access to several camera angles to get full coverage of the intruder.

Common Security Camera Needs

• Monitor suspicious activities that may occur outside the home
• Watch garages, barns or sheds
• Determine what kinds of animals are entering your yard
• Monitor vehicles parked in the driveway
• Ability to see who is at your door to determine whether you should open it

Each home will have different needs, so it is important to consider where on your property you feel most vulnerable. Do you have a garage full of valuable tools and equipment? Has there been a string of auto break ins or thefts in your area? Are you having issues with animals eating your plants or getting into your garbage?

Considering and answering these questions will help you determine your outdoor security needs and in turn, where to place them for maximum efficiency.

Considerations

There are several things to consider before installing outdoor security cameras to your property, starting with the fact that you will likely need more than one camera to be able to effectively protect your home and property.

It is a misconception that installing your cameras up as high as possible is the best way to capture an intruder on-camera. Having your cameras up high allows for a wider range, but your image quality will suffer. That being said, you want to aim to keep the cameras out of human reach, but close to the area that you want to narrow in on.

Always choose outdoor cameras with the widest range possible to give you the best coverage. A camera that has a wide range can see intruders approaching at different angles as opposed to a limited range camera where the intruder would need to virtually walk right in front of it in order to get a clear picture of him or her.

Where is the Best Place to Mount an Outdoor Security Camera?

There is no one size fits all answer to this question. As we outlined above, camera placement is highly individual and depend on you and your home’s specific security needs.

For maximum security, consider the having coverage over the following areas:

Doors

Most intruders start with either the front or back door to try to gain entry into your home. If you’re only planning to purchase a single camera to secure your door, you should absolutely start by protecting this area. Making sure that you have security cameras covering your main entrances to your home is vital for your home’s security.

Driveway or Parking area

Having a camera installed with a clear view of your driveway or area where your vehicles are parked will help to protect them from vandals. Unsecured garages are also high-value targets for burglars. If you need visibility over a wide area and don’t want to invest in several cameras to cover all possible angles, consider a pan-tilt-zoon (PTZ) camera for the added versatility. Thanks to its ability to rotate to point the lens just about anywhere with ease, you don’t need to worry about blind spots.

Windows

Large windows, windows that don’t face the street, and hidden windows are most susceptible to break ins. For this reason, it is wise to install cameras that are directed towards these windows.

Doorbell

Another security camera option is a video doorbell that allows you see who is at your door regardless of whether you’re home or away. Many doorbell cameras even have night vision technology and a wide view that allows you to see your entire entrance.

When it comes to the safety and security of your home and loved ones, it is important that you take every precaution necessary to protect yourself.

Outdoor security cameras, used in conjunction with other home security measures like a monitored alarm system, can help to deter intruders and assist law enforcement in an investigation.