Is a Home CCTV worth it in South Africa?
The short answer is "Yes!". And here's why:

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1. Help Authorities Catch Criminals​

 

This is possibly the point that sparks the biggest debate with home security in South Africa. Yes, law enforcement plays a big role in leading to the successful apprehension of criminals, which is the topic for a hot debate, however, a proper CCTV solution increases the chances of a successful arrest. In the event of a burglary, footage can be used to identify suspects, vehicle and possibly number plate, etc. Such information can be crucial to a successful arrest.

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2. Stop Crime in it's Tracks

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By taking the time to frequently review your CCTV Footage, you can identify strange people or vehicles stopping in front of your house when you aren't home. This will help you take the precaution of reporting them and informing your security company of the suspicious persons. Your security company could arrange to have someone based your area, but nonetheless, will be prepared and alert to any possible home invasions at your home. You also have the option to hire a company that monitors cameras in real-time. As soon criminals attempt a break-in, they will be aware, and on their way to the rescue, likely knowing exactly what to expect on scene.

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3. Lowered Risk of a Home Invasion

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This point brings us to the issue some might have with CCTV at their homes. Granted, it might seem that criminals aren't concerned about CCTV cameras and signs, as we constantly see video footage of criminals breaking-in homes despite there being visible CCTV. However, how many houses were overlooked by criminals because of having a CCTV system? Well, we wouldn't know, would we. It's good to remember that CCTV on it's own is not a complete security solution. Criminals look for easy targets, so if your home security has no to little weak spots, chances are with a CCTV system also present, criminals might choose to move along. This highlights the need for a professional security evaluation of your home. But we will get more into that at the end of this article.

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4. Insurance and General Safety

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As you might know, some Home Insurance companies consider whether your home has adequate security when submitting a claim of theft or damage to property before processing the cover of your loss. Whether this is true in your case or not, having footage of the incident will put you in a less stressed position knowing that there should be no going back-and-forth with the insurance company. They'll have all the evidence they need coupled with a police report/affidavit. Added to that, having a CCTV solution that allows viewing your cameras remotely from your smartphone or laptop, will give you greater peace of mind knowing you can login and check in on your children, pets or property no matter where you are in the World. This feature also adds to the general safety of your family and home, considering Points 2 and 3 of this article.

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The Conclusion of The Matter is This:

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Yes, despite the increasing crime and home invasions in South Africa, a proper CCTV system will always remain an integral part of Home Security, as much as it is in the Business Sectors. On that note, I also have to stress the importance of having a PROPER solution. As previously mentioned, CCTV is only part of a security solution. A house with the best CCTV System and no visual blind spots, but has no to little other security measures implemented will still be an easy target to criminals. On the other hand, a house with a fairly decent CCTV System and other security systems installed, will more than likely attract no criminal.

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We offer solutions catered to your specific needs, based on an evaluation by one of our expert Technicians. Feel free to get in touch with us and we will gladly assist and advise you on your next step to maximizing your Home Security.

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In the meantime, have a look at Ajax Systems. A smart Home Security system you can integrate with your CCTV system. This allows you to view your cameras right from your smartphone in real-time, receive alarm notifications and manage your alarm/intrusion system all in one place, at any time, from anywhere in the World.