Every day I read articles on how this community is finding it too expensive to continue keeping a full time gate security guard on duty and have been receiving calls regarding communities losing their sense of security as the age of gated communities is falling prey to a falling economy.
This can be a real source of concern for those residents who moved into the community for that very reason that the community had additional security benefits.
There are answers that are economically feasible to those who feel that lack of security as the "age of the gated community" dwindles.
One option is to purchase and set up one's own security or surveillance camera system.
This can be done fairly economically and in the end may save the owner who is paying a monthly fee for the manned security gate some money.
There are a variety of security and surveillance cameras to choose from and can vary anywhere from one camera to a 16 camera setup depending on your needs and desires in a system and coverage area.
I would suggest that before you purchase any system that you talk to a security expert to get the best information as to the type of camera and number of cameras you need for your situation and which camera will give you the clearest picture factoring in weather conditions, lighting,etc.
Another option is one I have mentioned in a previous blog and that is to set up a neighborhood watch using security and surveillance cameras.
The community as a whole can meet and see who resides where and what view they are best able to watch and set up a schedule for those interested in keeping an "eye" on the community and notifying neighbors of any foul play or anything suspicious so their neighbor can check it out or call law enforcement before a crime is committed or trouble occurs.
If a number of neighbors are interested, this system can be worked out quite efficiently and make everyone more at ease knowing that security is still in place with a watchful eye! The last option is would be to take turns driving through the community and keeping a watchful eye out.
Now the trouble with this system is that no one can be everywhere at once and to me this could become boring very quickly and people might loose interest and then we are back to the beginning again.
Now there may be those who disagree with me and that is fine, but I have found that most people prefer the sanctity of their own home.
With camera surveillance and security one can stay at home and still keep that watchful eye out for both themselves as well as their neighbors.
If your community is one of those who is losing it's claim to fame as a "gated" community then this article is for you.
Talk with a security specialist and get the help you need to find the security or surveillance system that best meets your needs.
If your gate is coming down, there are answers to maintain the security you desire for your home and community.