CCTV or Alarm System?

As leading providers of Commercial & Home security systems across Swindon and Wiltshire, we often get asked by homeowners and business which system is best. Do they get a CCTV system or do they stick with a simple burglar/intruder alarm.
It is worth noting that both burglar alarms and CCTVs have their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to home security, making it difficult to definitively say which is "better." The best choice for you will ultimately depend on your specific needs and priorities. This month we look at what they are and hopefully let you come to an informed decision on which is best for your home of business

Burglar alarms: Strengths:

• Immediate deterrence: A loud alarm can scare off intruders and alert neighbours, potentially preventing a break-in from happening in the first place.
• Monitored systems can summon help: Monitored alarms can automatically contact the police or a security company in the event of an alarm, leading to a quicker response.
• Relatively affordable: Basic burglar alarm systems can be quite inexpensive, especially compared to CCTV systems.

Weaknesses:

• Don't prevent entry: Burglar alarms only alert you or authorities after a break-in has already occurred. They do not physically prevent entry.
• False alarms can be annoying: False alarms can be triggered by pets, weather, or other factors, leading to unnecessary inconvenience and potentially even fines from authorities.
• Limited information: Burglar alarms don't provide any information about the intruder, making it difficult to identify or apprehend them.

CCTVs: Strengths:

• Visual evidence: CCTVs can capture footage of intruders, providing valuable evidence for police investigations and potentially helping to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
• Remote monitoring: Some CCTV systems can be monitored remotely, allowing you to keep an eye on your property from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Can deter crime: Visible CCTV cameras can deter potential criminals from targeting your property in the first place.

Weaknesses:

• Don't prevent entry: Like burglar alarms, CCTVs only record what happens after a break-in has occurred. They do not physically prevent entry.
• Can be expensive: CCTV systems can be more expensive than burglar alarms, especially if you want a high-quality system with remote monitoring.
• Privacy concerns: Some people may be concerned about the privacy implications of having CCTV cameras on their property.

So, which is better?
As you can see, there is no easy answer to this question. The best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities. Here are a few things to consider:

• Budget: Burglar alarms are generally more affordable than CCTVs.
• Security needs: If you live in a high-crime area or have valuables in your home, you may need more than just a basic burglar alarm.
• Privacy concerns: If you are concerned about privacy, you may want to avoid CCTV cameras.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which security system is right for you is to consult with a security professionals such as FSR Security ltd. We can assess your needs and recommend a system that fits your budget and your security requirements.