It is debatable whether an alarm security system decreases the
chances of a burglary. In theory, if a burglar knows that a
house is equipped with such a system, he or she might move on to
another home. Even if the burglar does break in, the burglar has
a tendency to stay a shorter amount of time knowing an alarm has
gone off. This may decrease the number of items stolen or the
extent of damage inflicted. The most important aspect of any
security system is balance--it does no good to make your windows
burglar-proof when your doors can be easily opened with a pry
bar. Choosing an alarm system and an alarm company can be
confusing and the technology quite complicated.
Thats RichThe Internet has always been home to the weird and the
wonderful, but in the past few .....
Modern electronics has improved our quality of life in many
ways. For example, electronic alarm systems, once available to
only the wealthiest, have become very popular in the last
decade. The rising popularity is well earned since those systems
are now both affordable and effective. When combined with other
safety measures, they can make your home or business relatively
secure. However, if you rely exclusively on an alarm system, you
will still remain vulnerable.
Professional burglars know how to silence or incapacitate even
A Note On Microsoft SecurityI've been reading a lot of postings to various message boards,
newsgroups and talkback boards on how evil Microsoft (often .....
the most sophisticated alarm systems. Fortunately, most home and
car burglars are not really professionals and they can be
deterred by the correct use of an alarm system that has been
correctly installed and maintained.
Most alarm systems rely on a combination of contacts placed at
doors and windows and motion sensors. Motion sensors, however,
do not detect someone until they have already entered the house.
Therefore, motion sensors should NOT be used as the primary
means of detection. It is best that all exterior potential
points of entry have contacts that sense when they are open.
Glass breakage sensors are also available and high recommended
by most alarm companies.
There are two primary types of system available--monitored and
unmonitored. Monitored systems contact a monitoring company by
telephone, if the security system senses an intrusion and is not
deactivated within 45 seconds. The monitoring company receives
the message, determines the nature of the alarm and verifies
it--usually by placing a call to the home or business. If they
do not receive the proper password, or no one answers, they call
the police who respond as quickly as possible.
Unmonitored systems typically have on-site alarms and/or
flashing lights that indicate the security system has been
breached. It relies on neighbors to see and hear the alarms and
then to call the police. Neighbors or passersby should never
investigate an alarm themselves. With an unmonitored system, it
is best to have a combination of strobe lights and alarms. They
should be located on the street side of the house and in a
location that is as inaccessible as possible.
The advantage of this system is that a burglar's primary goal is
to gain entrance to the property and remove valuables without
being noticed. Many burglars will flee once the alarms and
lights have been activated. The disadvantage is the fact that
the system relies on neighbors who might not be home or might
not want to get involved.
The cost of the average system, which includes either motion
detectors inside the house or sensors around the windows and
doors, is about $1,200 plus a monthly fee for a monitored-type
system. There several levels of alarm systems on the market and
some are well-suited to the handy do-it-yourselfer, while the
most effective are probably best left to a professional alarm
company.
Whichever system you choose, remember: Security Systems, alone,
do not prevent thieves from breaking into homes. A good security
plan should include strong, secure window, door and lock
products; good security habits (always locking doors and windows
and night or when the house is vacant); and human surveillance,
such as a well-trained neighborhood watch program.
With a little planning and a few financial resources you can
provide safety for your family, your car and your business.
Final tip--sliding patio doors are one of the most vulnerable
entry points in your home. They can be secured inexpensively
with a hinged baar that holds the operating panel shut.
About the author:
Larry Denton is a retired history teacher having taught 33 years
at Hobson High in Hobson, Montana. He is currently V.P. of Elfin
Enterprises, Inc., an Internet business providing valuable
information on a variety of topics. For a garage full of advice,
resources and suggestions about security systems, visit http://www.SecuritySystem
sHere.com
