It is good to invest in an alarm system because it adds security to your home and helps you sleep well at night. However, it is also important to understand the types of security alarm systems available and exactly how they will improve the safety in your home. This would help in making sure that you purchase a system that is suitable for your needs and fits your budget. There are alarm systems that are wired, and there are those that are wireless. You must also decide if you wish to install the system yourself or let a licensed installer do it for you.
Monitored and Unmonitored Systems
Monitored alarm systems are those where a private company watches your system 24 hours a day, alerting the police if something goes wrong and you cannot be reached. Unmonitored systems have on-site sirens and flashing lights that alert your neighbors if there is a break-in, which means that you will be relying on them to contact the police if you are not around. The best security comes from monitored systems, because of their constant vigilance.
Selecting an Alarm Company
It is important to do your homework if you are planning to get a security alarm system. Before contacting any alarm company, talk to the local police first. Ask how long it usually takes them to respond to a home security alarm after being alerted by the alarm company. Time is an important factor in making a purchase decision. Ask them also about fines for false alarms. It is recommended to choose an alarm company that is certified by nationally recognized testing laboratories.
Choose three different alarm companies in your area. Get quotes from these companies and compare detection coverage and features. Make sure to ask the company representatives about the criminal screening process for their employees. Ask how much the companies charge for monitoring fees, like the cost of the copies of alarm reports. Also check whether the equipment is to be leased or purchased.
Other Things to Consider
Although most modern equipments use wireless technology, many systems still require a hard telephone line to dial out. Check with your alarm company exactly how the system will contact them in case there is a security breach. If you are utilizing Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) for your phones and internet, make sure to tell the alarm monitoring company. Transmission of alarm signals over these lines is often unpredictable, and other precautionary measures should be taken to guarantee a good reception. If you are using a hard line, be aware that many thieves know how to cut a telephone line before invading a home. Nonetheless, if the phone line is not accessible and located underground, the intruders can’t tamper with the telephone line unless if they already have broken in – which would already be too late for them. Another way is to invest in a cellular alarm system, which will prevent thieves to mess around with the transmission of the alarm signal.
