You've probably seen the stats: "Installing a security camera cuts your burglary risk by 67%." But when you dig deeper, the reality is more nuanced—and more interesting. Let's break down the real numbers, understand what actually works, and most importantly, figure out how to protect your home in a way that makes sense for Manchester in 2025.
The Hard Numbers: What the Data Actually Shows
According to recent data from Greater Manchester Police and national crime statistics, homes with visible security systems do see a measurable reduction in burglary attempts. But the effect varies dramatically based on how the system is set up.
The Three Tiers of Deterrence
Tier 1: Visible Deterrents That Look Real (50-60% Reduction)
A clearly visible camera in a well-lit position, paired with proper signage, creates what security experts call "target hardening." The burglar sees the camera, knows there's a risk, and simply moves on. Most opportunistic burglaries in Manchester happen because the home looked easy. Adding visible deterrents immediately changes that calculation.
Tier 2: Working Systems That Actually Record (70-75% Reduction)
A functioning camera that stores footage locally or in the cloud takes deterrence further. Even if a burglar isn't spotted immediately, they know the footage exists and could be used by police. This is where systems like Eufy, Reolink, or PoE setups shine—they're reliable, visible, and genuinely functional.
Tier 3: Integrated Smart Home Systems (80-85% Reduction)
When cameras are part of a broader setup—motion-sensor lights, alarm integration, automated notifications—the deterrent effect multiplies. The home looks protected, monitored, and actively managed. This is the gold standard, but it's not always necessary for every property.
What Burglars Actually Look For (Straight from the Data)
Greater Manchester Police analyzed hundreds of burglary cases and interviewed offenders. The patterns are clear:
- Easy access points: Unlocked doors, ground-floor windows, poorly lit side passages
- No visible security: No cameras, no alarm box, no signage
- Clear sightlines: Overgrown hedges, hidden entrances, places to work unseen
- Predictable routines: Empty homes during work hours, bins left out for days, lights never on
The good news? Every single one of these is fixable.
The Right Way to Install Cameras (Positioning Matters More Than You Think)
Where to Position Cameras for Maximum Deterrence
Front Door (Essential): This is your first line of defense. A visible camera here stops casual opportunists before they even consider approaching. Mount it high enough to avoid tampering but low enough to capture clear facial detail.
Side Passages and Gates (Critical): Most burglars enter through side or rear access points. A camera covering these areas dramatically reduces your risk. Solar-powered options work brilliantly here since they're easy to install and don't need mains power.
Rear Garden or Patio (If Accessible): If your back garden is accessible from an alley or neighboring property, cover it. This is where intruders feel safest working unseen.
Driveway or Garage (Vehicle Security): Vehicle theft and catalytic converter theft are rising in Manchester. A well-positioned camera here protects both your car and acts as another layer of overall deterrence.
The Mistakes That Reduce Effectiveness
- Cameras pointing at the sky or ground: Poor installation means no useful footage and zero deterrent value.
- Cameras hidden or disguised: If the burglar can't see it, it's not deterring them. Visibility is the point.
- No signage: Even with cameras installed, a simple "CCTV in operation" sign reinforces the message. It's a small detail that matters.
- Dead or fake cameras: Experienced burglars can spot these. If you're going to install a camera, make it real and functional.
Solar vs Wired: Which Works Better for Deterrence?
Both solar and wired systems can be highly effective, but they suit different scenarios.
Solar Cameras (Best for Flexibility and Quick Deterrence)
Solar cameras are ideal when you need visible deterrents quickly without the cost and disruption of running cables. They're perfect for:
- Front doors and porches
- Side gates and passages
- Sheds, garages, or outbuildings
- Rental properties or temporary installations
Modern solar cameras from brands like Reolink and Eufy perform reliably even through Manchester's cloudy winters. For 1-3 cameras, they're an excellent, cost-effective choice.
PoE Wired Cameras (Best for Long-Term Reliability)
If you're installing 4+ cameras, want 24/7 recording, or have WiFi reliability issues, PoE (Power over Ethernet) systems offer the strongest foundation. They're hardwired, always powered, and integrate seamlessly with local NVR storage—giving you complete control with no cloud dependency or monthly fees.
Beyond Cameras: The Full Security Stack That Actually Works
Cameras are powerful, but they're most effective as part of a layered approach:
- Motion-sensor lighting: Burglars hate being lit up. Automating lights to trigger on movement adds another layer of deterrence.
- Alarm systems: An audible alarm is immediate and unmissable. Combined with cameras, it's a formidable combination.
- Smart door locks and sensors: Know when doors or windows are opened. Get instant alerts if something's wrong.
- Visible deterrents: Alarm boxes, camera housings, signage—make it obvious your home is protected.
Professional installation ensures everything works together seamlessly. It's not just about buying the right hardware; it's about positioning, configuration, and integration.
Cloud vs Local Storage: Which is Safer?
This is a common question, and the answer depends on your priorities:
Cloud Storage (Ring, Nest, Arlo): Convenient but comes with recurring monthly fees, reliance on external servers, and potential privacy concerns. If the service changes or shuts down, you're stuck.
Local Storage (NVR, SD Cards): No monthly fees, complete control over your footage, and no dependency on third-party services. For serious home security, this is the stronger option.
Professional setups often use local NVR systems for PoE cameras or high-capacity SD cards for wireless units. Your data stays in your home, under your control.
Real-World Example: How a £600 System Stopped Three Attempted Break-Ins
A client in Trafford installed three solar cameras covering the front door, side gate, and rear patio. Within six months, the cameras captured three separate individuals testing the side gate at night. Each time, the person spotted the camera, hesitated, and left. The footage was shared with Greater Manchester Police, and patrols in the area increased.
Total cost: £600 for cameras and professional installation. Total monthly fees: £0. Result: A demonstrably safer home and peace of mind.
What About Fake Cameras?
Fake cameras can provide some deterrent effect, but they're a gamble. Experienced burglars can spot them, and if they do, your deterrent becomes an invitation. For the cost of a fake camera, you can often get a functional one—so why take the risk?
The Bottom Line: Do Security Cameras Work?
Yes—but only when installed properly, positioned visibly, and paired with other deterrents. A well-designed system can reduce your burglary risk by 70% or more. The key is choosing equipment you control, avoiding subscription traps, and getting professional installation to ensure everything works as intended.
Manchester homeowners have more options than ever before. Solar cameras offer flexibility and cost-effectiveness for smaller setups. PoE systems provide long-term reliability for comprehensive coverage. And when combined with motion lighting, alarms, and smart sensors, the deterrent effect becomes genuinely powerful.
The right security setup isn't about buying the most expensive system. It's about choosing what fits your home, your budget, and your actual security needs—then installing it properly. That's what keeps burglars away.
