Advice From The Miami Police Department
Each year, Forbes rates the country’s top ten most dangerous cities and Miami, Florida is usually on the list. This year, Miami ranked #5 (http://blogs.forbes.com/francescalevy/2010/10/12/real-estate-lifestyle-danger-housing-cities/).
But the Miami Police Department is not taking it lying down. Their crime prevention unit is working hard to help Miami residents safeguard their homes and reduce crime.
According to Miami PD (http://www.miamidade.gov/mdpd/safety_home.asp?fullsite=yes), home security systems are an important part of protecting a home against burglary, theft and violent crime. The key is to choose an effective security system and to be a smart consumer. Here are some security system shopping tips from the crime prevention experts.
Is the security system provider a local business? If so, how long have they been in business in your area?
Is the security system company a member of any local business organization?
Check with the local Consumer Affairs Office or Better Business Bureau to see is there are any problems with this company.
Check the security system background of the company’s installation personnel.
Does the company offer 24-hour service in case of false alarms?
Make sure the company works with you in getting reduced insurance premiums if you install one of their security systems.
Check for a warranty or maintenance contract for the security system.
Is the security system electrically or battery operated? If electrically operated, does it switch automatically to battery power without activating the alarm in the event of a power failure?
If the security system alarm is activated, does it turn itself off after a reasonable alert period (10 – 15 minutes)?
After the security system is activated, will it automatically reset if attacked again?
If the control switch or box is exposed, will it activate the alert if attacked?
On hardwired security systems, make sure the wires protected from attack and unnecessary wear by the elements
On local security systems (audible to the immediate area), find out if it rings loud enough to attract the attention of your neighbors.
Ask security system companies offering you products monitored by a central station, if they use a tape recording or live person? (In some municipalities, the call for assistance to the police cannot be made by a taped message.)
Find out if the security system is Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (U.L.) approved.