Home security has become a priority for many homeowners, especially in communities like West and East Laurelwood, where residents take pride in keeping their neighborhood safe. One of the most effective ways to contribute to the collective security of the area is by installing street-facing cameras. These cameras do more than just protect your property—they can capture crucial footage of suspicious activity or individuals casing the area, helping to keep the entire neighborhood safe.
Why Street-Facing Cameras Are Important
West Laurelwood has three main entry points, while East Laurelwood has five. These limited entry points make it easier to track who is entering and exiting the neighborhood. Imagine if each home with security cameras had one specifically positioned to face the street. These cameras could capture important details like the make and model of cars, as well as images of the individuals inside. In the event of a break-in, this footage could provide valuable evidence to the police, helping them identify and track down the perpetrators.
Creating a Network of Homes
The goal isn’t just to protect individual homes but to create a network of homes working together to keep the entire community safe. When a break-in occurs, having multiple homes contribute street-facing footage can give law enforcement a much clearer picture of the suspect’s movements before and after the crime. This kind of collective effort can go a long way in assisting police investigations, especially in cases where suspects try to blend in or take familiar routes in and out of the area.
A Preventative Measure
In addition to helping solve crimes after they occur, street-facing cameras can act as a powerful deterrent. When potential burglars see that a neighborhood is equipped with visible cameras, they are far less likely to target that area. Criminals tend to avoid places where they know they could be easily identified, and a network of street-facing cameras sends a strong message: our neighborhood is watching.
Our Take as Real Estate Agents
We’ve seen firsthand how street-facing cameras can make a difference. Karen’s neighbor across the street experienced a break-in in the middle of the day, and it was the footage from Karen’s cameras that gave both the homeowners and police a clear perspective of when the break-in occurred. The homeowner’s own cameras weren’t positioned to capture this crucial information, but the street-facing footage provided a clearer timeline and helped with the investigation.
This real-world example highlights the importance of having a broader view of your property and the surrounding area. It’s not just about protecting your own home; it’s about contributing to the overall security of the neighborhood. When homeowners work together to create a network of cameras, it strengthens the sense of safety and shared responsibility within the community. As real estate agents, we know that buyers value neighborhoods where residents take an active role in keeping each other safe, and having street-facing cameras shows that commitment.
