Hi everyone,
I hope this post fits here and you can offer some advice.
I own a piece of land that has been targeted by intruders recently. I’ve found the perimeter fence cut in several places on multiple occasions. I don’t know what their intentions were, but it’s clear someone deliberately entered the property.
I don’t live there yet because the house is still under renovation.
Here’s what I’ve done for security so far:
Three wireless cameras monitored remotely, with two recording 24/7 and one activated by motion.
A UPS connected to the modem and the main camera, providing about 20 minutes of backup power during blackouts.
Four additional wireless cameras with an NVR and 1 TB of storage.
Gate photocells connected to a relay, which notify me if the infrared beam is broken (e.g., when someone passes through).
My question: Do you think this setup is enough? What else can I add to detect intrusions and notify authorities quickly?
I’m especially interested in solutions that work during power outages. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks for reading, and sorry if this was a bit long.
Also, will they prioritize a call about a non-occupied building? No lives are at risk, and the monetary loss may not be significant to them.
I’d add an audible alarm and bright motion-activated exterior lighting. You could also make the building harder to break into: stronger locks, better screws, security film for windows, and reinforced doors.
@Casey
Back in 2013, thieves broke into our property and stole wine and equipment. They spent about 2.5 hours there, from 2 AM to 4:30 AM. Based on that, I think there’s enough time for authorities to respond.
If we get a timely alert, my father and I can block the only entry and exit (a bridge) with our cars before retreating and waiting for the police.
Cameras are good, but they mostly help after the fact unless you’re actively monitoring them. The infrared beam is a step in the right direction, but I’d recommend adding an intrusion alarm system with motion detectors and door/window contacts. It doesn’t have to be overly complex.
Alternatively, you could use motion detection on your cameras, but that often leads to false alarms outdoors.
@Amara
You’re right, the cameras give too many false alarms when the detection system is active. I’ll look into adding wireless window and door sensors. Great idea! Cameras act as a deterrent, but when we were robbed in 2010, the thieves spent hours stealing wine and equipment. I want to make the system more efficient so I can be alerted immediately and take action, like blocking the bridge, which is the only access point.
@Philip
Consider installing a gate across the bridge with sturdy posts and a heavy chain. That way, even if someone tries to ram the gate, the chain could still block them.
Jay said: @Philip
Consider installing a gate across the bridge with sturdy posts and a heavy chain. That way, even if someone tries to ram the gate, the chain could still block them.
We’ve thought about that, but the bridge is a shared road with neighbors. Until everyone agrees, we can’t install anything permanent.
@Philip
If modifying the bridge isn’t possible, you could use portable chains with reflectors. Wrap them around nearby trees to block the way temporarily.
The best security system for a power outage is a couple of well-trained rottweilers.
By the way, what kind of gate photocells are you using? I’m looking for something similar.
As for your setup, I’d suggest using both visible and hidden cameras. Visible ones act as deterrents, and hidden ones can catch anyone tampering with the visible ones. How far away do you live from the property?
@Kaitlyn
Thanks for your reply. I live about 15 minutes away without traffic, but it usually takes 45 minutes due to city congestion. The photocells are standard gate ones connected to a Shelly Plus 1 relay. I’ll look into adding hidden cameras for extra security. As for dogs, I’m not ready for that kind of commitment right now.
@Philip
If you’ve got internet there, use cameras with two-way audio. If someone trips the motion detection, you can tell them to leave and let them know the cops are on the way. That might scare them off.