Crime is rising in America day by day, especially burglary. The F.B.I. reports that there are at least 86,000 burglaries each year and that a house, apartment, or condominium is burglarized every 15 seconds. Fortunately, burglary is one of the most preventable crimes. One way to fight it, and it's becoming increasingly popular, is with a security camera system. Now, not only can you help protect your home with an extra set of eyes, but you can keep track of your nanny, kids, and the elderly.

There are a couple of reasons why security camera systems are becoming more and more popular. First, the security cameras are now affordable and tangible. The cameras are not priced what they use to be five to ten years ago. New technology and increased competition have lowered prices. There's also a wider selection of cameras and camera systems with more retail and on-line stores offering a variety of products. It use to be that security camera systems were exclusive to higher end electronic stores and were more industry than consumer. Today the average Joe can buy a security camera system and he can do so on a shoe string budget. A complete camera system can start as low as $500. And go up to about $4000.

Second, there is simplicity. Security camera systems are now simpler to install, which means you can do-it-yourself and save money. There are wireless or wired camera systems and analog or digital. Wireless is the more popular option because it takes a shorter amount of time to install and can be installed almost anywhere. Wireless camera systems are made up of a camera with a transmitter fitted inside and a receiver. Other than that, it comes with a 12 volt DC power supply, an antenna, and a cable to connect the receiver to the monitoring equipment, which can be a TV, VCR, DVR, or computer.

Third, (and we've already covered some of this) there has been a rise in crime. Burglary ranks as the second most common crime in the U.S. This means home security is an important consideration for homeowners. In preventing theft, while it's a good idea to keep in mind locked doors, landscaping, and alarm systems, a security camera system completes your home security. This means continuous coverage whether you are at home or away giving you a sense of security and peace of mind that you have been looking for.

Fourth, it can save you money. The average burglary will cost a homeowner between $1500 and $2000. Do the math and it could be very worth it to get a home security camera system. Also, if you have a system you can likely save up to 20% on your homeowners insurance.

Fifth, it's cool! Hi-tech gadgets have always been fun and popular. Today security cameras are shrinking in size, producing higher quality images, and getting easier to control and monitor remotely by a computer or even a cell phone. How would you like to answer the door already knowing who's there, keep an eye over your pet while at work, or videotape something at night? Home security camera systems make it all possible!