We all have a rough idea of what a home security system does. If somebody opens a door or window when we don’t want them to, a lot of loud noise begins, right?
That might be right depending on the security system you choose. And that might be the perfect choice for you. Maybe.
Before you dive into a security system, you really first have to do some thinking. What do you want from a security system? Are you trying to prevent theft? Do you need a device to keep an eye on potential fires and floods when you’re out or away? Are you looking for something to let you keep an eye on your kids when they’re home alone? Are you looking to keep your family safe at night?
Taking inventory is the first very important step to getting a security system because you have to know what you need in order to get the right thing.
What if you’re only looking to keep your home from being burglarized? You have some very affordable options. A do-it-yourself security system can prove more than adequate to the task. If you purchase a system from a qualify manufacturer like Honeywell (www.security.honeywell.com) or General Electric (www.gesecurity.com), and you feel handy enough to do an installation of a wireless system, then you can be up and running for as little as $200.
You probably want to make sure that you have sensors for each of the major points of entry to your home, if not all of them. Most security specialists will tell you that while upper floor windows are a low risk, they certainly aren’t no risk.
Do you need a monitoring service for anti-theft system? Maybe. While they certainly add value because you have someone capable of dispatching police help, the main aspect of anti-theft is the deterrence of the system itself. Signs showing the house is armed with a security system and the attention a loud alarm can draw is really most of what keeps burglars at bay.
However, once people come into the picture, your priorities and price-points change. A simple, unmonitored security system won’t adequately protect your family. You’ll need to look at every points of entry carefully – basement entrances, storm cellars, garage doors, attics, windows – every potential entry to your home and strongly consider wiring them.
When you’re protecting family, that’s when all the bells and whistles start making sense. Motion detectors, light beams, and sensor mats can all dramatically increase your family’s safety. Security systems become much more expensive – but are far more capable. You’ll also want to choose your monitoring company carefully because instead of watching over your television set, they’ll have your children’s lives in their hands. So, shop smartly, get references, read reviews and ask questions.
Companies like Broadview Security (www.broadviewsecurity.com) have long histories of implementing sophisticated family security systems.
And then there’s actually being able to keep an eye on the kids when you’re away. That may be the one situation where a surveillance system really makes a big difference. With cameras placed discreetly in the right locations, you can check in on your family from remote by using your security system’s web or PDA interface. If making sure the kids have made it home from school or checking to make sure the babysitter is there and doing well are important to you, video surveillance can help. All major security system companies offer options with cameras.
So, as you go into your security system shopping, know what you want and why. The tools you select have everything to do with what you’re trying to achieve. Depending on the situation, you may want every bell and whistle, or just a few.
Photo via Rob!
