There’s nothing more embarrassing than when the neighbors start complaining about your alarm system going off too much. It gets even worse when the police issue you a warning or worse – a citation.
According to security system experts, at least 90 percent of alarms are false alarms. How do you avoid being a statistic?
First, choose your security system carefully. Don’t buy just any system. Make sure you’re getting quality components. Names like Honeywell (www.security.honeywell.com) and General Electric (www.gesecurity.com) mean solid products on which you can rely.
If you’re buying your own system, get reviews on any model you’re considering. While no one likes to hear it, the general rule with security systems is that you get what you pay for. The products will work when you need them to and not when you don’t, cost more than the basic models.
If you get a security system through a security system company – especially if they provide it for free as part of a sign-up package, be even more cautious. Your general assumption may be that if the security system company is providing they equipment, they must have chosen well and you can rest easy.
But security companies are like most any other business – the freebies and promotional products are not the high-quality stuff. And they may not mention this – because security system companies make a good portion of their money off the monthly monitoring fees, rather than the equipment sales. Sales representatives and their companies may be more interested in you getting any system than the best system.
However, the opposite situation can also be a problem. Getting every bell and whistle available can get you in as much or more trouble than the bare basics.
Devices like glass shatter audio sensors are designed to “listen” for a burglar breaking in. Unfortunately, they can also make a lot of mistakes and signal an alarm because of a falling tree branch, a noisy dog or a strong wind that rattles the windows.
Sensor mats are a great security device than can turn on you. Mats placed strategically under the floors of your entries are great for triggering your security system in case of unauthorized entry. At the same time, if they get too much foot traffic, they can wear out and start triggering alarms for no reason at all.
Again, look through reviews before you commit to any system or set of devices. Find out from your local law enforcement who they might recommend against – they know whose alarms are going off unnecessarily.
If you’re very serious, you can also hire an independent security consultant who can help you review what systems and options are appropriate for your needs. You may found out you need more, less or totally different than what you initially think.
Photo via a100tim
