Home Security Systems
Is a Home Security System Enough These Days?
Although most reports indicate that crime is going down nationwide, it certainly doesn't seem that way based on nightly news reports that depict fairly frequent upsurges in criminal activity. Maybe the news is skewing the facts a little bit to increase ratings, but ultimately, why take any chances? This is especially true with your home. If you can't feel safe there, where can you feel safe? This is why investing in a good home security system is essential in today's helter-skelter world.
What Exactly Is a Home Security System?
Home security systems are usually companies that install various alarms around the perimeter of your home. Every time a perimeter is breached, the company allows roughly 30 seconds during which an access code "must" be entered or else the home security alarm system goes off. Once the alarm system goes off, the home security company will call the house to make sure everything is OK. Usually, they'll ask for a verbal password to verify that the speaker is indeed the homeowner. If no password is given, the home security company will immediately contact the police and send a squad car over.
Shopping for the Best Home Security System
Because a burglar can strike at any time, you want to find the best home security system that provides true 24-hour service. ADT is a fairly popular company and is used by countless homes across the nation. But ADT is not the only home security alarm system worth investigating. For a more comprehensive list, you can always contact your local police precinct and ask for recommendations. They'll be happy to provide you with a list of reputable names since doing so will actually make their own jobs much easier. If more people had proper home security systems, there would be fewer break-ins, and consequently, less police work.
Is a Home Security System Enough These Days?
Although hiring a service is a great idea, it's still important to cover all of your bases. Below is a list of extra precautions you can take:
- Make sure that all of your locks are up-to-date.
- Store valuables in a safe or at the bank if possible.
- Design emergency contingency plans for all your family members in the event of a break-in.
- Organize a neighborhood watch association. More eyes mean less crime (assuming, of course, you can trust your neighbors).
- Make sure all of your valuables are properly insured. In fact, make certain that your entire house is insured.
- Most home security services offer consultations during which the overall "integrity" of your existing security precautions is analyzed. A company like ADT should be able to tell you were your home's vulnerabilities lay. It's in their best interest to ensure that your home is as safe as possible.
Whether crime is going up or down is irrelevant. If your home is not properly protected, it becomes a likely target for burglars. Your goal is to make breaking in as difficult as possible. By following the above steps, you can substantially increase the overall security and safety of your home.
