Home security is an important factor for many homeowners, and there are many security measures a homeowner can take. From trimming bushes back to installing deadbolt locks and motion sensing lights, there are numerous things homeowners can do to protect their home from would-be intruders. One of the most secure measures a homeowner can take is to install a burglar alarm system.
There are two basic types of burglar alarm systems you can purchase for installation. All burglar alarm systems are designed to achieve the same purpose – to thwart a break-in attempt. Some burglar alarm systems are wired to all potential entries into the home, including doors and windows. Others only detect entry from primary doors. The level of security you prefer for your home is a matter of choice, but the basic decision to make is whether or not you want the burglar alarm to be monitored by an outside source.
You can install a burglar alarm that only sets off an alarm inside the home when unauthorized entry is detected, or you can have an alarm system that is also connected to a monitoring service. In many cases, a loud audible alarm is enough to deter a potential criminal. However, services that monitor home security systems automatically dispatch police, fire and rescue upon detection of a security breach. Depending on the system, an alarm monitored by a security company may be either silent or audible.
When choosing a burglar alarm, consider what you hope to achieve. If you live in an area with high crime rates or in a rural area with few or no neighbors, or if you travel frequently, you may want to consider a monitoring service. If you live in an apartment building or a suburban neighborhood where a neighborhood watch is effective, you may feel secure with an audible home-wired system.
Before you decide which type of burglar alarm is right for your home, consult with a security company to discuss your options. Make sure to consider what the system monitors, how easy it is for those living with you to work the system, and how much it will cost. Monitored alarm systems are usually on par with other burglar alarm systems as far as installation cost is concerned, but there is also a monthly monitoring fee involved. Also, check with your homeowner’s insurance policy to see which discounts might apply to which systems.