Burglar Alarm Tips

Video surveillance has been around since the 1960s, but in those days, it was too expensive for home use.  But recent advances in digital technology have made home video surveillance systems more practical and affordable.

New mothers who wanted to return to their jobs but were concerned about leaving their babies in the care of strangers were looking for a solution that would enable them to work outside the home but still have peace of mind.

Is it a teddy bear or a nanny cam?

Video surveillance cameras that would stream video from the home to any PC with an Internet connection were the solution.  Known as nanny cams, they let working mothers put in their time at the office and check up on the baby simultaneously.

Having a nanny cam can reassure nervous parents that their child is being well cared for.  And if the child isn’t receiving good care, a nanny cam can allow parents to make other arrangements before there’s a real problem.

Nanny cams aren’t just for child care.  Homeowners can also use them to make sure that housekeepers, repairmen, and other people with access to the home aren’t doing anything inappropriate.  And since there’s a visual record, if there is any wrongdoing, homeowners have proof of it.

Most responsible child care providers don’t object to being recorded, if they know about it in advance.  So parents with surveillance cameras have a decision to make.  They can tell their nannies about it up front.  Or use concealed devices and spy on them in secret.

Nanny cams are sometimes disguised as smoke detectors.

Nanny cams that are disguised as clock radios, alarm clocks, or smoke detectors are all available and relatively inexpensive.  The best blend in with their surroundings and look completely natural.

Some are wireless and have a built in DVR.  The devices are equipped with a network video camera that transmits a feed to via that can be seen anywhere there’s Internet access.

They should be placed where they’ll have an unobstructed view about six feet away from what you want to watch.

Many daycare facilities and nursing homes are using the cameras so that family members can check in on their loved ones when they can’t be there in person.

Good-quality devices are available for as little as $150.

Read more about video surveillance systems here. And about baby safety monitors here.

Is it a teddy bear or a nanny cam? Image Flickr: @sahxic < twitter
Nanny cams are sometimes disguised as smoke detectors Image Flickr: ➨ Redvers