Archive for the ‘Home Security’ Category

Your House Should Have a Home Security System of Some Kind

Sunday, May 2nd, 2010

world’s statistics of criminals is rising, we all strive to feel safe in our home. We would all like to enjoy vacationing without worrying if our home is safe and secure. Let’s face it, we work too hard to earn our material belongings-therefore, it is only common sense that the majority of us would enjoy uninterrupted security and peace of mind. According to national statistics, homes are broken EVERY SINGLE DAY, and most homes are violated while the family is on vacation, or away from their home. It only makes sense, most criminals would rather get in and get out quickly, rather than face potential risks, such as human encounters.

Since the statistics are increasing technology, designers are working hard each day to help us find the level of security we need. For this reason technology designers has invented home security systems, deadbolts, fire alarms, CO alarms (Carbon Monoxide Alarms), etc. In fact, today, you can have card operated door locks installed on your home. In other words, you use something similar to a credit card. Once you insert the card into your door lock, the system reads the digits on the card, and authorizes permission to enter the home. We see this common device at many hotels or related environments today. In fact, the United States Government uses similar alarms in various sectors.

By installing a home security system, this could significantly reduce the odds of your home being burglarized. Online you will find a wide selection of home security devices. The devices mainly offer you feature, such as push button call. In other words, you merely push a single button, which the system will kick in and call the police and/or fire department for you. If you have trouble getting around, the security system is not, a better choice. However, you may look online for remote controlled home security devices. The push buttons however do offer advantages, since a live voice will respond to the push of one button. You might check out Intercom Devices to learn more about such features.

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A home security system isn’t just for citizens in high-crime areas. A security system may be a good choice for suburban homes where the whole neighborhood seems to empty during the day. A home security system equipped with a good camera can do a lot for your house. You can use it to see who is at the door before opening, you can keep an eye on driveways to watch vehicles and equipment and most importantly you can check on any trespassers. A home security system can save you money on your homeowner’s insurance costs.

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Home security systems are easy to install nowadays. Since you are merely purchasing the device after which a company will send out workers to install, test, and prep you on the use of your home security system. Ultimately, you can purchase wireless kits, which you can install on your own. Be sure to read the manual carefully to make sure the device is installed properly. Don’t forget to test your system regularly, dust, and replace parts as needed.

The one thing you should do when searching for a home security system is to find the RIGHT system for you. A variety of companies online offer systems that fit your lifestyle. In addition, the companies will help you choose the best system that fits your needs. Most basic home security systems include motion sensors, photocells, sound detectors, window and door alarms, wireless systems, etc. The lights are great, since motion lights will typically scare away the average criminal.

Criminals that are more dramatic however may require extensive threats, such as the interior alarms, which monitor intruders inside the home.

The alarms have panic switches, motion sensors, noise detection, light beams, etc. Many alarms today include light beams, which if someone triggers the beam, it will automatically send out a photoelectric beam. You can also add pressure mats to your doorstep, which if someone steps on the mat, it would instantly alert you. You will have the option of installing Perimeter Alarms as well. The alarms will send a warning, such as (Siren, or Bell alert) when someone steps on your doorstep. Burglars of all sorts would definitely take flight. Lastly, if you are searching for a ‘complete’ home security, make sure to check the internet for comparable products and services.

Festive Season Home Security Tips

Wednesday, November 4th, 2009

With the festive season fast approaching, we are left with many decisions and preparations to make before packing our trailers and making our way to our holiday destinations. Ensuring the security of family and property is a key priority at this time.

Statistics clearly show that criminal activity increases during the holiday season and it is therefore imperative for homeowners to take the right precautions and not let their guard down.

There are several handy tips to bear in mind which can help alleviate the risk to family and property. The first and most important step to take is to ensure that your alarm is in working order. People tend to forget that an alarm system, like a car, has parts that age and wear out and therefore should be serviced at least once a year.

Spectacular thunderstorms during the summer months, can also wreak havoc on alarm systems. As a result of this, clients should regularly check their systems in case of lightning damage. Homeowners who have house insurance should also consider that in the event of a burglary, their insurance company will, in all likelihood, question whether they have properly maintained their alarm.

December is traditionally a busy period for security companies, so homeowners should try and test their alarms at least three weeks before going on holiday. Testing should be done anytime (ideally between 0800 and 2000 hours Mon-Fri) and if a fault is discovered, it can be immediately reported to the security service provider’s technical team.

Additional security tips to follow include:

• Advise your security company if you are going away and ensure that you supply all the necessary information regarding nearby emergency contacts, in case of an emergency

• Inform your neighbours of your holiday plans so that they can keep an eye on your property

• Stop all newspaper deliveries and ask a friend or neighbour to collect your post. A bulging post box is a real giveaway that you are not at home

• If hiring a house sitter, ensure that you teach them how to use your alarm correctly

• Double check that you have locked and secured all windows and doors before leaving home

• Ensure that all your outside locks are a minimum of four lever locks or double cylinder security locks

• Never leave a key in the inside of an outer door which has glass panels or glass near the door lock

• Having security gates fitted on outer doors is a highly effective security measure that gives you an extra line of defence

• Sliding doors can be secured simply by placing a piece of timber cut to size in the sliding rail. Make sure that sliding doors cannot be lifted vertically

• Full fencing and sturdy gates are a good deterrent

• Have good exterior lighting, preferably on a timer

• Do not leave ladders, spades or tools outside, as they can be used to break into your house

• Clear signage indicating that you have security also helps to discourage

Burglars

Another important security tip is to be discreet when preparing to go away. People should where possible pack their cars in their garage. Homeowners should also never leave a message on their answering machine stating that they are out of town.

The festive season should be a time of relaxation and giving but let’s ensure that we are not giving our belongings to criminals on a golden platter.

Home Security Systems: Who Can You Trust?

Sunday, October 18th, 2009

Finding a good home security system is of paramount importance in the dangerous day and time in which we live. You need look no further than the headlines of the latest daily newspaper, television broadcast or Internet news site to read about horrific home invasions and violent crimes that might have been forestalled by a home security system.

Not convinced? Here’s a few statistics that may convince you of the need for a home security system.

- A burglary occurs about every 15 seconds

- Homes without security systems are nearly three times more likely to be broken into than homes with security systems.

- The average loss per residential burglary stands at about $1607.

- Losses due to burglary average nearly $400 less in homes with home security systems than for residences without home security systems.

When you select a home security system, you’re putting the security of yourself and your family in the care of this system, so it’s important to make an informed decision when choosing your home’s protection.

When choosing a home security system, there are four factors you should consider: price, features, service and effectiveness.

Prices vary from home security system to home security system. A general range lies between $100 and $1,000. Some home security providers offer free installation coupled with a monthly fee while others charge a flat price. When picking a home security system, it’s important to ensure the price you’re paying offers a quality security package for your home.

The features your home security system offers should be the main concern you consider when selecting a system to protect your home. Home security systems are primarily divided into indoor and outdoor systems.

Indoor systems are generally used to check for motion inside the home or a security breach at the doors and windows. Outdoor systems monitor movement outside the home and activate security lights if activity is detected. More expensive security systems make use of video recording equipment.

When choosing a home security system, decide on the level of protection you want, make sure the system being offered meets your needs and don’t be afraid to ask questions of your home security system provider.

A home security system is only as good as the company that stands behind it. Before purchasing a home security system, do some research, find out what the average response time is for your home security provider, how often they do equipment checks, warranty information and whether they have a relationship with local law enforcement.

Lastly, before settling on a home security system, check into its effectiveness. Find out specifics about features such as police contact, sensor sensitivity and power outage backup. Ask local law enforcement and public safety officials their opinion of various home security services and also check the Web for customer reviews.