Smart doorbell cameras, sometimes referred to as video doorbells, took the country by storm when they were first introduced a few years ago. Now that the novelty has worn off, they are no longer the hottest topic in the home security arena. But that doesn’t mean they are any less effective. They stillrepresent a good investment in home security.
If you’re not sure what we’re talking about, a smart doorbell is essentially a standard doorbell with on-board video and audio. The unit is equipped with a small video camera capable of providing real-time video feeds. On-board audio lets a homeowner communicate with a visitor via a smartphone app, eliminating the need to open the door.
Vivint Smart Home, a nationwide provider of home automation and security equipment, says that a smart doorbell camera can be installed independently or as part of an integrated home automation package. They say there are three particularly good reasons to get one.
1. Burglars Still Knock On Doors
Researchers have been studying the habits of burglars for more than a decade. They have discovered plenty of interesting things, including the fact that burglars still tend to knock on doors before entering a residence. The reasoning is simple: they do not want to get caught in the act. They knock to make sure that nobody is home.
The beauty of the smart video doorbell is that a burglar has no way of knowing whether someone is home or not. The homeowner could be just on the other side of the door. On the other hand, they could be miles away. Because communication takes place through the unit’s on-board audio system, there is no way for the burglar to know for sure.
As an added bonus, the on-board video provides evidence. Once a burglar knows their face and movements are being recorded, they are more likely to turn and walk away.
2. Thieves Still Break into Cars
Installed in the right position, a smart video doorbell with a wide-angle lens can give a clear view of the driveway. That is good when you consider that thieves still break into cars. A smart doorbell camera can provide video footage of anyone prowling around in the driveway. Thieves who happen to notice a video doorbell might be persuaded to move along. Those who either don’t see it or persist anyway are at a greater risk of getting caught.
3. Porch Pirates Still Steal Packages
The rise of porch piracy in recent years has brought the smart video doorbell to the forefront. Unfortunately, all the media attention hasn’t changed things. Porch pirates still brazenly steal packages in the middle of the day. Some are bold enough to follow delivery drivers around, picking up packages as quickly as they are being delivered.
Installing a smart video doorbell doesn’t guarantee packages will never be swiped, but it does cause porch pirates to think twice before they act. If they know they are being watched, they have all the motivation they need to leave packages alone. Homeowners can up the ante by using on-board audio to scare porch pirates away as they approach. Not only is it effective, but it is also kind of fun to do.
A smart doorbell camera will not prevent burglary, car break-ins, or porch piracy by itself. But as one weapon in a full home security arsenal, it can go a long way toward keeping criminals at bay. Consider installing one as part of a complete home automation and security package. If you don’t want to invest that much, you can install a standalone video doorbell instead.
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