Home security systems aren’t just for people with fancy jewels, luxurious furs and expensive art collections. If you live alone, reside in an isolated area, are away from home frequently, or simply don’t feel safe, a security alarm system may be a good idea.
The purpose of any security system is to alert you – or someone you choose – to possible danger. The system’s sensing device detects an intruder and sets off a signaling device to alert the occupant, the central security office or the police department. There are several types of intruder detector devices. These include:
- Magnetic contacts. These are magnetically operated switches on doors or windows that trigger the alarm device when opened. They send signals either by wire or radio frequency and protect entrance points only.
- Ultrasonic devices. These are triggered when an intruder’s motion disturbs high-pitched, inaudible sound waves. These are used only where air currents can’t set off the device.
- Infrared detectors. These sense an intruder’s body heat.
- Wireless alarms. These send signals by radio frequency. They are portable and need no wiring.
- Photoelectric eye. This device sends a beam across the protected area and is triggered when an intruder interrupts the beam.
- Microwave detectors. They transmit high-frequency radio waves. Intruders change the wave pattern and trigger the device. They cover a larger area than ultrasonic devices and are not affected by air currents.
- Proximity detectors. These create a field around metal objects. An intruder approaching the object affects the field and triggers the device. These are used for safes, vaults and metal cabinets.
- Closed-circuit TV cameras. They watch action in a large area and transmit the picture to a TV monitor. The protected area must be well lighted and the monitors must be watched by guards or a signaling device.
To choose a home security system it’s important to evaluate your home needs. Consider the following:
- Valuables. Decide which articles need special protection. Insurance costs are usually lower if you have a security system.
- Convenience. Choose a system you can understand and operate and one that suits your schedule. Consider all family members.
- Placement. The most attractive system is sometimes the most effective. Out-of-sight devices are hard to tamper with or damage.
- Where you live. How long will it take to get help? Are neighbors near enough to respond? Authorities should be informed of your alarm setup.
- Secured areas. Which areas of your house do you want to protect? Think of where an intruder is most likely to enter.
- Costs. The cost of a home security system will usually include initial installation and a monthly service charge. Terms of the contract should be clear.
No matter what kind of home security system you choose, it’s important that you shop carefully. A few “musts” of any good system are:
- Good installation. A suitable location for the devices helps prevent false alarms and ensures proper functioning.
- Warning of a malfunction in the system. If your system isn’t working properly, you should be alerted so that you can have it repaired immediately. Have your system checked regularly or check/test it yourself from time to time.
- Proper certification. Have local building officials examine installation.
- Protection against tampering. Some systems have built-in signals against tampering.
- Know your system. The person installing your system should be happy to go over its complete operation and all equipment with you and your family. Make sure you get written instructions for using and testing.
- Service warranty. Insist on a contract for continuing maintenance and service when buying or leasing a system.
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