The choice between CCTV and alarm systems usually boils down to one question: Do you need evidence, deterrence or immediate response?
This type of arrangement is useful for being able to look back and see what happened, as well as be a deterrent against opportunistic crime. Having those cameras and signage available for public view helps to deter intruders, and a recording of the footage can lead you directly to certain people and vehicles at particular times. For CCTV Gloucester, visit apmfireandsecurity.com/cctv-installation/cctv-installation-gloucester
CCTV works well for:
Garden, driveway, garage and side access areas
Factory floors, docks and warehousing
Watching over deliveries, staff only zones or outbuildings
Nonetheless, CCTV on its own does not always put burglars off. If you’re not live viewing no one will catch it, and then it may be too late.
What alarms are best for:
Alarms are designed to make noise and elicit a swift response. A monitored alarm can notify a keyholder or security company, and many systems offer live notifications to your smartphone.
Alarms work well for:
Houses where you need instant messages
Businesses needing out-of-hours protection
Properties with multiple entry points
The downside? Alarms can easily be set off accidentally, and they also do not give you visual confirmation (unless partnered with cameras).
So which should you choose?
Note that for most homes and small businesses, the best security choice is probably both: CCTV to let you see what’s happening as well as providing evidence in court if things go wrong (the camera never lies), plus an alarm to give rapid alerts when a break-in occurs.
If you’re only going to choose one, decide whether ongoing surveillance is more important and go for CCTV… Or if the presence of an alarm will be enough on its own.
