It is understandable that you want to protect both your valuables and the security of your loved ones. Installing a home security system is a smart choice, but be prepared to encounter some confusion when choosing between the different types of home security systems. Rest assured, however, that whichever type you chose, you know that you’ve done the most to secure your home and family!
Security systems that protect a home have surely come a long way from locks and barred windows. Modern technology has made these devices surprisingly sophisticated. Luckily, this sophistication is not reflected too much in their price: affordable prices, in the range of a couple hundred dollars, made these devices relatively common in modern homes.
Some home security companies offer significant discounts just in order to get your business. For under hundred dollars a month, you can pay a home security company to have someone keep an eye on your home day and night. It is a very small price to pay for your peace of mind! In some cases, you can even get a free installation and free equipment when you sign up for a home monitoring service. Besides, just announcing the presence of a security company, protecting your home day and night, can act as a deterrent to a potential criminal threat!
Installing a home security system may actually save you money, because some insurance companies are willing to shave your premium if you have an electronic alarm system in place. Taking into account the average national premium, and how much an average electronic alarm system costs – the installation will pay for itself, just in insurance savings, in as little as three years.
There are two main types of security systems that protect your home: monitored alarm systems (video surveillance), and local area systems (so-called “bells only”). The latter are the more basic ones. These traditional unmonitored systems have various types of sensors placed in and around the house: for example, they can be hooked up to doors and windows. Some devices of this type will also include motion detectors. “Bells only” typically include the use of sound alarm that goes off when the device detects a perceived threat. This will alert you – or your neighbors, if you’re not at home – of any unauthorized entry, and the loud alarm will scare off the burglars. Some devices of this type will also transfer the information about location and the type of threat to the nearest police department.
Monitored home security systems are the most advanced, and therefore a pricier option. Monitored home security systems include video surveillance, where cameras are connected to a central monitoring system. They serve as video door phone, and for identification and access control, but they can also be used as crime deterrence: their presence signifies that your home will not be an easy target. Just the sight of a video camera is enough to scare away potential burglars! They know that they are more likely to be identified when breaking into a home with a video surveillance, and the video material can be used as an evidence against them. Some types of monitored systems can also sound alarms and alert the police. The company will call your house and ask for a password, and if there is no answer, or the wrong password is given over the phone, they will call the police. When used to protect apartment complexes, they include live monitoring and a trained security guard.
The most important consideration when choosing a security system to protect your home? Using it consistently, and in a manner it was meant to be used! Teach yourself, and each member of your household, how to correctly arm and disarm your home security system. Finally, display the signs that announce that your home is protected by a home security system – that alone will keep most burglars at bay! Having a home security system in place indeed means improved home security!
Make sure that you don’t become too complacent, though: a security system needs to be regularly maintained and used responsibly. Never reveal the code with deactivates your home security system to anyone. It is still a good idea to always lock your doors and windows when leaving home, and follow other basic home security measures.