Brits with Ring doorbell urged to do one thing this weekend | UK | News
Timothy Wilkinson, from Online Security Products, is encouraging people to “wipe their lenses” over the coming days to ensure their systems continue to do their jobs as the days get lighter. He said cobwebs can impact the tech, while greater insect activity and pollen associated with spring can also have an effect. Online Security Products, which has supplied security systems to homes for more than 40 years, has shared a number of top tips for security spring cleaning.
Cleaning the glass lens with a dry or slightly damp microfibre cloth — avoid using paper towels or abrasive materials that can leave ‘micro-scratches’ on the optical surface
If a camera is prone to webs, consider applying a non-conductive insect repellent to the surrounding wall (not the camera itself)
As spring foliage grows, ensure that budding trees or shrubs aren’t beginning to obstruct the camera’s line of sight
Mr Wilkinson said: “Spiders are attracted to the warmth emitted by CCTV cameras and the LEDs used for night vision. A single strand of silk drifting across a lens can trigger constant motion alerts, rendering mobile notifications useless.
“At night, infrared light reflects off cobwebs, creating a bright ‘white-out’ effect on the footage. This can mask the presence of actual intruders, leaving properties vulnerable.
“Increased insect activity and heavy spring pollen can settle on the glass, causing blurred images and ‘ghosting’ in recorded footage.”
He added: “A dirty lens or a cobweb isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a security risk. Professional-grade systems are highly sensitive. When a spider spins a web across the casing, the infrared sensors bounce light back into the lens, effectively blinding the camera at night.
“We are advising all property owners to ‘wipe their lenses’ this week to ensure their systems remain functional as we enter the lighter months.”
Online Security Products says its top-tips take just five minutes to carry out.
