Home Security - Fire and Smoke Alarms

Fire alarms detect the presence of fire and smoke, but that's not all. They also alert occupants for evacuation purposes, notify emergency response authorities and even initiate procedures to slow or halt the spread of fire. There are a couple types...automated and manual. Automated systems will be triggered automatically upon detection whereas a manual system must be initiated by a person once the threat has been detected.


So how does one determine their fire alarm needs? There are a number of factors that will help you to determine this. Budget, building or Fire Marshal codes and even Homeowner's Association guidelines can play a role in arriving at your needs. Be mindful that insurance companies will provide discounted premiums for homeowner's who install some form of fire/smoke detection systems.


A basic system will utilize key components: power source, back-up power source, control panel, manual (pull lever) or automatic triggering device (smoke or fire alarm) and an audible/visual signaling device (this is the alarm and/or flashing lights).


Installing a smoke and fire detection system is a good start to protecting your home, it's contents and your loved ones. However, establishing a monitoring service is the critical "next step." For a monthly or annual fee, an alarm monitoring service will provide 24 hour per day support. When an alarm is activated, it will alert the monitoring service, typically via a computer interface. The alarm company will dispatch the proper emergency response teams (typically fire and police departments). In some instances, the monitoring company will also dispatch their own personnel.


There are a number of nationally recognized companies that specialize in the design, sale/lease and monitoring of fire alarms. Being a very competitive industry means that prices are generally quite reasonable. Take the time to secure a minimum of three estimates to insure you find a provider you're comfortable with. When hiring a full service alarm company, the homeowner will normally have an option to lease or purchase the equipment. Be diligent when considering which option is most practical.

How is Home Design Related to Home Security?

How is home design related to home security?

Some homeowners need more security than others. This is especially true for those who live in high-risk areas or those who live in homes that have not been security-proofed.

Every home should be constructed with security in mind. Security here means safety from possible intruders and from catastrophic events like fire and even robbery or break ins.

While there are homes that are really in need of security because of their locations, there are homes that require security because of their designs. These are homes that probably look good, made of glass which gives outsiders a good view of the goings on inside the home.

There are home designs that are aesthetically good but are the worse designs in terms of home security. A person who is having his home designed or constructed should consult a security expert before installing materials or home features that may put their lives in jeopardy.

Home security should be planned and installed as early as during the construction phase of the home. The engineers and the architects would do well to incorporate home security designs when planning the home and even when constructing it to make sure that the family can transfer and live in the home with their security already in place.

One of the home security measures that can already be incorporated in the home design is the alarm system of the whole house. The alarm system consists of wires, infrared rays which can be installed to make them look like regular fixtures of the home.

Of course, it would always be better to give all possible intruders a warning that this house is highly protected to make them think twice and perhaps change their minds before attempting to break in. However, a home security system would also be very valuable if possible intruders decide to break in and then find themselves in the middle of a loud shrill directly connected to the local police or security agents.

For people who aren't able to incorporate home security fixtures to their home design, there are security lighting fixtures that can be installed in an already completed home. These lighting fixtures serve as home security because when set, they can easily be turned on to light up when an intruder passes by a certain radius.

There are also alarms and automatic door locks that can be installed easily to secure the home from fire, intruders and unexpected guests.

Every homeowner should invest in a quality and dependable home security fixture and incorporate this in his home design to avoid the home security fixtures from sticking out like a sore thumb.

Home security systems you can watch from work

Do you know what's going on in your home when you're away at work? Do you have a reliable home security system that can relieve you of your worries and concerns when someone is breaking into your home when you're away? If you already have a home security system in place, how reliable and steadfast is it? Has anyone ever broken into your home even with your current home security system in place? Do you know that you can now install a home security system that utilizes the Internet so that the home security system can actually alert you of unusual activities at home?


That's how far the home security system technology has advanced. If you're still having one of those old home security systems that blares a siren whenever there's an intruder, then you're not doing the best you can to protect your home. How many times have you heard one of those sirens cut through the silence of the night and ignored it because the siren is turned off about a minute later? Intruders who break into homes know how to turn off the old types of home security systems and they can usually break through any of those home security systems easily.


With the advancement of technology, home security systems have developed into more than just an electronic alarm system that detects opened windows or doors. Conventional home security systems have sensors built into the home security units that detect interruption in the flow of electricity. Whenever the home security system detects the interruptions, it will either let out a deafening siren or activate strobe lights to attract attention.


But have you ever thought about this - what if others choose to ignore the sirens and lights?


What you really need is a home security system that will silently alert guards and you of the activities in the home. Combining the advancement of the technology used to create and develop home security systems together with the Internet, the home security system will silently send signals of the intrusion to a call center run by the home security company. It will also send a message to your cell phone or make a call using your telephone line to you to alert you of a possible break in. With the home security system's silent method of alerting various parties, the intruder is not alerted but YOU are. Therefore, it will give the police and the relevant authorities enough time to act and catch the intruders in action.


In fact, the latest home security systems in the market today allow you to activate and deactivate your home security system via the Internet or through your phone. This is what I call a TOTAL convenience to home security systems.


Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.at-home-source.com on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.

Tips for Choosing a Home Security Alarm System

A home security alarm system is one way to protect your home and your personal property. There are many different types of home security alarm systems available and choosing one can be overwhelming. However, the process is greatly simplified if you understand the available options in a home security alarm system and the factors to consider when choosing one for the purpose of protecting your home.


For many, the primary factor to consider when choosing a home security alarm system is the price of the system. If budget is a concern, investigating the available home security alarm systems will be the best way to choose a system that fits your budget and also includes the available features that you desire. Simply being affordable though shouldn’t be the primary factor in choosing a home security alarm system.


The primary purpose of home security alarm systems is to protect your home from burglars so the ability to meet this function is a very important factor to consider when choosing your home security alarm system. An effective home security alarm system is one that will stop a robbery in action. This is usually done through a combination of a loud siren or a breach of security message being sent to a monitoring station where the police can be contacted. In many cases the loud sirens may be enough to deter a would be burglar but if the property is in an isolated location it may be worthwhile to have a home security alarm system that is monitored to ensure your personal safety and the safety of your possessions.


When choosing a home security alarm system, you should determine which features you would like incorporated into your system. The features of a basic system usually include a control panel, a keypad, a siren, motion detectors, access contacts and a monitoring service. The control panel is the hub of the home security alarm system. It is here that the wiring ends and the system connects to phone lines. The siren is simply a loud noise that emits when the home security alarm system is breached. There may be strobes lights that accompany the siren as well. Motion detectors are usually optional and they are usually located inside the home. These detectors will detect a burglar who entered the home in a way that did not trigger the home security alarm system. Access contacts are placed on doors or windows. These sensors determine when the doors are opened while the home security alarm system is activated. There is usually a slight delay of approximately 30 seconds when a door or window is opened until the home security alarm system is tripped to allow homeowners to deactivate the home security alarm system when they return home. Finally, a monitoring service, as previously mentioned, is a 24 hour per day service that monitors your system. They can contact the local police if your alarm is tripped and you do not respond to their inquiry.


Choosing a home security alarm system may seem overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be difficult. The key to choosing the right home security alarm system for yourself is to understand the components of a home security alarm system and to determine which features you really need.

What Is The Best Home Security Systes: An Investment In Peace of Mind

Your home is your refuge, the place where you come to relax, and unwind from dealing with a stressful world. Keeping your home your refuge is a concern, and home security systems are geared to address that concern.

There are a lot of options for home security systems, ranging from burglar alarm systems (that just make a loud noise) to silent alarm and monitoring systems, such as those offered by ADT services. Even a dog is a good home security system, if he'll bark at the right people at the right time. Whichever home security system you get – from a dog to a top of the line monitored alarm system – is a matter of how much you're willing to spend and what kind of threats you expect to deal with.

The reality of home invasions is that their incidence per 100,000 people has fallen dramatically since their peak in 1992; indeed, violent crimes have been declining steadily for nearly two decades, a trend that's ascribed to everything from higher incarceration rates and "three strikes" laws to improved police procedures and increased funding mandates to put police officers on the streets, to community and neighborhood watch programs and a wider assortment of home security systems making it into the consumer market and widespread deployment.

To find What Is The Best Home Security System you are going to need monitoring, and filtering to eliminate false positives. A false positive is anything that triggers the alarm that isn't an actual problem; enough false positives, and the home alarm system ceases to be used, because it trains people that the alarm is always going to be false. Most motion detector car alarm systems are in this category.

Higher end home security systems use cameras, motion detectors and other sensors to provide an integrated approach to home security; these systems are able to tell if it's the cat walking on the kitchen counter setting off the motion detector and not go off rather than inundate you with false alarms. Lower end home security systems include motion detectors and alarm systems, designed to scare an intruder off. These systems also require a bit of extra wiring put into place – most of them will go off if a door or window is opened unexpectedly while they're armed. This has its advantages – they're simple to set up – and its drawbacks, say when a teenager is sneaking back into the home after being out past curfew, and waking the entire neighborhood.

An important concern with setting up the best home security system is whether or not you want immediate deterrence with a loud alarm and flashing lights, or a silent alarm system that reports to an offsite monitoring station; the former is usually less expensive. The latter results in more arrests for burglaries.

Whatever kind of home security system you get, think carefully about the cost of installation and the cost of any maintenance systems. Home alarm systems are a proven value add to the resale value of the home; most of them more than pay for their installation when a home is re-sold, and getting a professional off-site monitoring system is even likelier to do this. Think of your home security system not just as an investment in your peace of mind, but as an investment into your home as well.

Important Home Security Tips for Keeping Your Home Safe and Secure

Having a home security system
that is professionally installed and monitored by a centralized monitoring center is a big step in providing safety and protection for your family and home. A home security system utilizes the latest in technology and human effort to provide full coverage for your home in the event of an intrusion or home invasion.

Police can be dispatched fast to prevent a successful robbery from occurring. In addition to having a home security system, there are other recommendations for home security that will help keep your home safe and secure. Many experts agree that combining these recommendations with a professionally installed home security system will greatly reduce your chances of robbery or home intrusion.

Experts agree that having good locks on all exterior doors is a good idea. A one-inch deadbolt lock on each door is recommended. These are harder to tamper with and provide excellent protection against thieves who may try to pick the lock to enter the home or force the door down. Having good solid locks provides adequate protection when combined with a home security system. It is important to make sure all exterior doors are locked tight at night, so burglars cannot get in through an unlocked door.

One of the most common entranceways into a home for burglars is through the garage. People often leave their garage doors open which can provide a burglar easy access to your home. Even in broad daylight, burglars have been known to enter homes through open garage doors and make off with valuables very quickly. While it is sometimes overlooked, if you are not working in the garage, it is wise to keep the door closed at all times. Don’t provide burglars with an easy way to get into your home and steal your property.

While a home security system will protect your while you are away for an extended period of time, it is always a good idea to create the illusion that someone is always home. This can mean leaving lights on in rooms that are visible from the street. You can also leave a television on or a stereo so a burglar will think someone is home and may think twice about trying to break in. Exterior lighting for your property, along with strategically placed motion detectors, can also help deter crimes. It’s harder for a burglar or prowler to sneak into a house when the exterior is well lit and the area is covered by motion detectors that will trigger the home security system.

Some more tips include not advertising the merchandise that may be available in your home. Keep drapes drawn and blinds shut so burglars casing out your home cannot determine where your valuable property is. It is also a good idea to store cash and expensive jewelry in a safety deposit box or safe. Having these items lying around is just asking for a thief to come and take them. It’s also important that you don’t advertise that you are not at home. Leaving notes for friends, delivery people and service personnel are a tip off to criminals that you are not at home and your home is an easy mark for a break in. If you follow these tips, along with installing a home security system, your home stands less of a chance of being broken into and you will not become an unfortunate statistic.

Vital Home Security Tips On Purchasing An Alarm System

Many householders and just about all commercial enterprises acquire an alarm system to protect their property and their possessions. But a number of householders still do not see the need to install an alarm system. They think a burglary won't happen to them, it only happens to other people.


But the 2005 FBI crime report showed that nationally in the United States of America a burglary occurs every 15 seconds and on average the dollar loss per burglary in 2005 was $1,725.


Just about any business enterprise will have one, in some form or another. When searching for alarms, you ought to take your time to discover the correct system and the correct prices for you. If you purchase at the right time, your actual system could end up being one hundred percent free.


Many Companies such as ADT frequently run special offers to get you to purchase their alarms and services. In a few cases, they'll give you a free system provided you sign up for one of their monitoring services for an established time. Depending on the offer this could be 1, 2 or 5 years. They might in addition have offers that give you free service if you purchase an alarm from them. Either way, you can save a considerable amount of money from your income.


These businesses will often come to your abode and set up the alarm for you. They will demonstrate how to run the alarm system, and show you the best way on how to deploy the system in the best possible manor, so as not to activate an alarm mistakenly. Whilst it could take a little time to become accustomed to the slight change in your household habits (you'll have to remember to arm and disarm the alarm), you and your folks will very quickly get accustomed to the change in your abode, and you may well notice that you are actually sleeping better at night because you now feel someone is watching out for you.


It's very important to check the companies guarantee. If there's a problem with your alarm, the company should aid you in the resolving of the problem, or should replace whatever parts aren't functioning. Whilst buying your alarm system and especially when contracting a service, make a point of asking a considerable number of questions about any hidden fees. Exactly what service you'll acquire for your money, and the exact period and extent of the guarantee that they can offer. Badly installed alarm systems will not do you any good if they malfunction all the time, or give false alarms as this will just leave you still feeling vulnerable.


Remember according to the FBI report in 2005 there were more than 1.4 million home invasions and 61.4% of residential burglaries happened between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., during the day. And according to Simon Hakim, Temple University a home is 2 to 3 times more likely to be burglarized without a security system.


So what are you waiting for, act now before you become the next victim.

Making the Right Choice for a Home Security System for Your Home

Today, there are many options on the market for home security and as a consumer, you may be confused as to what is the best option for you and your home. Protecting your home and family from burglary and home invasion is your top priority and finding the best home security system that will accomplish that task is your goal. Fortunately, you have some guidance from security experts who have laid out what makes a great home security system and what you should consider for your home.


Security experts agree that superior home security systems will offer multiple layers of protection for your home using several different technologies that work together to protect your home and monitor it when the alarm system is armed. Coupled with the technology, security experts also agree that having live monitoring where a monitoring technician is watching your home security system from a centralized monitoring center can really make the difference in getting help to your location once the alarm sounds. Technology married with live human talent is a combination that is found in the superior home security systems and should be considered when you are in the market for a home security system.


The type of technology deployed can make a difference in the early detection of an intruder so your alarm sounds quickly and the monitor can spring into action to get help to your home fast. The best systems will offer multiple layers of protection that include door and window sensors and smart motion detectors which are connected to your main alarm system and will sound a high decibel alarm when your alarm system is armed and it is triggered by an intrusion. Someone trying to force a door open or breaking in a window is all that is needed to sound the alarm. If the high decibel alarm does not scare the person away, the monitor will already be on the case and the police will be on the way to investigate the alarm further.


Monitoring is what truly separates quality alarm systems from average ones. While the technical components of a home security system keep the home secure from burglars by sounding the alarm when there is a security breach, monitoring takes it one step further by alerting police to the situation at your home and dispatching help in any emergency so your family is safe and protected at all times. Monitoring is key to a superior alarm system because your home is covered by the monitoring center whether you are at home or not. This buys a lot of peace of mind, because when you are away from you home and an alarm sounds, police will be dispatched to your home and intruders can be caught in the act. You don’t have to be home for the home security system to be effective and you don’t have to rely on neighbors to hear your alarm and call for help.


Choosing a superior alarm system is an important decision and you should consider what security experts have said what makes up a good home security system for you and your family. Cutting edge technology backed by live monitoring is the best way to keep you home safe and secure whether you are at home or away. You have constant around the clock protection with a monitored home security system.

Home Security Systems: Who Can You Trust?

Finding a good home security system is of paramount importance in the dangerous day and time in which we live. You need look no further than the headlines of the latest daily newspaper, television broadcast or Internet news site to read about horrific home invasions and violent crimes that might have been forestalled by a home security system.

Not convinced? Here’s a few statistics that may convince you of the need for a home security system.

- A burglary occurs about every 15 seconds

- Homes without security systems are nearly three times more likely to be broken into than homes with security systems.

- The average loss per residential burglary stands at about $1607.

- Losses due to burglary average nearly $400 less in homes with home security systems than for residences without home security systems.

When you select a home security system, you’re putting the security of yourself and your family in the care of this system, so it’s important to make an informed decision when choosing your home’s protection.

When choosing a home security system, there are four factors you should consider: price, features, service and effectiveness.

Prices vary from home security system to home security system. A general range lies between $100 and $1,000. Some home security providers offer free installation coupled with a monthly fee while others charge a flat price. When picking a home security system, it's important to ensure the price you're paying offers a quality security package for your home.

The features your home security system offers should be the main concern you consider when selecting a system to protect your home. Home security systems are primarily divided into indoor and outdoor systems.

Indoor systems are generally used to check for motion inside the home or a security breach at the doors and windows. Outdoor systems monitor movement outside the home and activate security lights if activity is detected. More expensive security systems make use of video recording equipment.

When choosing a home security system, decide on the level of protection you want, make sure the system being offered meets your needs and don't be afraid to ask questions of your home security system provider.

A home security system is only as good as the company that stands behind it. Before purchasing a home security system, do some research, find out what the average response time is for your home security provider, how often they do equipment checks, warranty information and whether they have a relationship with local law enforcement.

Lastly, before settling on a home security system, check into its effectiveness. Find out specifics about features such as police contact, sensor sensitivity and power outage backup. Ask local law enforcement and public safety officials their opinion of various home security services and also check the Web for customer reviews.

Home Security: Do It Yourself Home Security

The Bureau of Justice reports that:


--77% of all crime was property related

--On average nearly 17 % of all crime domiciles were violated by a burglar

--In 85% of burglaries, the offender gained entry into the house or other building.


Ask any expert in the field and they will tell you that 90% of all burglaries are preventable. So if the odds are so good that it will happen to you and it is such a preventable event-what is it you have to do to stop the burglars? I am so glad you asked.

Sometimes the best home security is implemented when you are the one making the assessment and any corrective action- a do it yourself home security plan.


Here are home security tips to think about that will definitely discourage or flat out stop a potential intruder from entering your house. It is not an all inclusive list but one that if followed will certainly go a long way toward making your home more secure.


1. Take a critical look at your house from the outside. Is your house well lit? Are there hiding places near doors and windows? If you can spot a potential weakness in your home’s “look” you can bet a professional burglar can exploit it. Remember that light is a burglars’ enemy-darkness a friend.

2. What could slow down a burglar from entering your home? Simple home security devices such as locks on doors(deadbolts are best) and windows, bars, grates-items that are visible from the exterior of the house will not only act as a deterrent but slow down an intruder should he decide to try to enter. The more time it takes to break into a home, the more discouraged a burglar will become. Time is the enemy of the burglar.


3. How noisy can you make it if someone gains entry? Noise is also the enemy of the burglar. There are many home security alarms activated by doors or windows opening or by motion. The sound of a barking dog, real or recorded, are very effective and will scare most burglars away.


Lights, noise and time-they are the three biggest enemies of an intruder. If you implement these home security tips to fortify your house you may well avoid a lot of potential break-ins. But there are some other things that will help as well.


--Move valuables away from outside view. Don’t risk tempting someone. Consider putting small valuables in Diversion Safes.


--Start or join a neighborhood watch. Strangers usually stick out in a neighborhood and should be reported immediately to police.


--Make your house look occupied when you are gone. Burglars are much less likely to consider a house they feel is occupied.


--Lock your doors and windows. Even when you are gone for a short period of time. Summertime presents a huge temptation to leave doors or windows open. Don’t give in to the temptation. I have seen so many garage doors open only one or two feet to let the heat out-just enough to let a burglar in.


Many police departments as a public service will offer advice on how to make your home more secure. Call for availability in your area.


There are several simple things you can do to make your home less prone to intrusion by a burglar. Start with an assessment on how to make your home well lit, more secure, and in the event of an entry-how to make it very noisy. Light, time, and noise are the enemies of the professional burglar.

Home Security Tips Help Protect Family And Home

If you are concerned about home security you are one of the vast majority of Americans that consider this as one of the most important matters they currently face. As we all are aware crimes of burglary and theft continue to grow alarmingly. Even cities and suburbs that were once considered to be safe and crime free are now experiencing unparalleled levels of crime including theft, burglary as well as violent and armed hold-ups.

Well what can you, as a concerned homeowner, do to protect yourself, your family and property from the prospect of experiencing crime? Here are a number of quite simple and straightforward home security tips on how you can protect your home, family and assets.

While sophisticated security and alarm systems can make the homeowner feel more comfortable and secure often the cost of these systems are beyond the financial means of many people. So for people who are not able to afford the cost of installing alarm systems we have a few home security tips and suggestions that will help you in your war against petty crime.

First off you should check all doors leading into your home. Inspect the door to ensure they are not hollow because hollow doors are relatively easy and quick to break and this allows for quick undetected entry into your home. If you have any hollow doors (or doors with windows) consider replacing them with solid timber doors or better still with metal ones as this will be a serious deterrent to would-be thieves.

Where possible use loud alarms which are likely to scare away the vast majority of burglars. If you have sliding doors or windows it is recommended that as well as having a secure locking mechanism you also reinforce them by placing a wooden or steel pole in the sliding track to prevent the door or window from being forced open.

One of the best ways to assess the security of your home is to walk around the exterior perimeter and look for any weakness in your security precautions. For example it is strongly recommended not to allow trees or shrubs to grow in front of windows, especially in the rear of the home. The foliage is a perfect camouflage for any burglar while they are attempting to gain access to your home.

A further home security tip is to eliminate dark areas around the home by installing small lights near shrubbery so as to allow you to light up these areas at night or to connect the lighting with motion sensors so as to help ward off potential thieves.

View Your Home Through The Eyes Of A Burglar

It is well known that most burglars, even the most professional and proficient, will only try to enter the house that offers the least resistance. Their method of operation is almost universal in that they want to get in and get out as quickly as possible without drawing attention to themselves. As a deterrent why not put up signs warning that your home has a security system installed as this can often cause burglars to ignore your home and keep moving to the next house in the neighborhood.

Other home security tips include always keeping the curtains drawn at night and when ever the property is unoccupied always keep your valuables out of sight. It is common knowledge that many burglars target the theft of expensive, high-demand electronics which they can see sitting on tables and desks. So as a precaution ensure that these items are placed out of view.

If burglars can not observe easy accessible property from their vantage point outside then it is highly unlikely that they will try to gain access to your home on the off chance that you possess something worth their effort.

Always close and lock windows and doors at night and when you are out. Draw your curtains at night or when the house is unattended. Install external security lights, preferably those that are activated by motion sensors and ensure your valuables cannot be seen from the outside. By taking a few simple precautions with these home security tips will be well on your way to protecting your family and property.

Home Security: How To Make Your Home Burglar-Resistant

Home security is a huge concern these days, given the increasingly unsafe environment we live in. The fact is, there are a number of easy, practical steps you can take to minimize the chances of your home being burglarized.

* Prevention if usually better than cure. Before you rent or buy a home / apartment, get to know the neighborhood. Talk to residents; ask about burglaries and other crimes in the locality. Being aware of what has been happening in the area should be a priority.

* If possible, have a security expert evaluate the home. Incidentally, many police departments will do a security check of your home at no cost. You will often be alerted to problems you didn't know existed.

* Don't hide keys outside the house for fear of being locked out. Getting a locksmith to open your door is a whole lot cheaper than losing valuables because a burglar discovered your hidden keys!

Where possible, team up with a neighbor and hold one set of each other's keys. That way you have a spare set of keys available should the need arise.

* Trim bushes around your house before they grow enough to easily hide an intruder.

* Having good lighting around your home or apartment complex is an important factor in deterring intruders. If there are burnt-out bulbs or the lighting is inadequate, address the issue

* If you have windows accessible using fire escapes or directly from the ground, they should not open wide enough to let a person in. A screw built into the frame can accomplish this. There are other very effective stops also available. Of course, you should be able to escape in the event of a fire.

* There are anti-lift devices available that can prevent an entire window or sliding door being lifted out of its frame. If you do not install them, thieves may make locks irrelevant by lifting the window or door.

* Your door should have a dead bolt, not just the lock in the knob. Get one installed, if you don't have one already.

* Avoid listing your complete address in the phone book. List only your street name, at most. This will prevent someone doing reverse listings to find out your name and phone number using your address.

* It is tempting to leave notes for your kids or neighbors on mailboxes and doors. This is an open declaration that you are not home.

* Do not announce your absence from home through your answering machine. Incidentally, an answering machine can be useful for identifying suspicious patterns of missed calls.

* There are a number of excellent home security systems available. If you feel the level of risk warrants it, consider using them.

* Decals are often a good deterrent. Alarm system decals or beware of dog, neighborhood watch signs can make would-be burglars think twice.

Utilize these suggestions and you will make your home a safer place to live in.

Home Security And Personal Security Tips

One of the most feared crimes is burglary. The threat of being a victim in your own home is bad enough but to be subjected to a crime a second or third time simply increases the fear of householders in an area. The quiet enjoyment of community life is ruined.

Most householders and car owners have at some time felt the fear of crime, with the elderly and vulnerable most at risk. It makes sense to take steps to tackle crime in an effective way by reducing and preventing crime before it can happen.

Home security is the best way to reduce your chances of being burgled. A lot of burglaries are spur of the moment, as a burglar may see an open window or other easy point of entry and take their chance.

Basic tips:

Visible burglar alarms, good lighting, and carefully directed and limited security lighting can act as deterrents. But make sure that lights don't disturb your neighbours, and that alarms turn off after 20 minutes.

Fitting a 'spy hole' allows you to see who is at the door. Having a door chain means you can open the door a little way to talk to them.

Make sure that any improvements you make don't stop you from getting out of your house as quickly as possible if there is a fire.

Spending money on security measures can seem daunting, but it is a good investment, will last a long time and can add value to your property.

Contact your council or local police for help. They may be able to advise you on the best measures to protect your property, and may even have grants to help cover the cost.

Securing your property will make you safer in your home, and make your home and your belongings safer while you are out.

Older People

Older people may feel more vulnerable to some crimes, but are actually less likely to become victims. A few simple steps can also help reduce your risk of crime.

Think about getting a personal alarm to use if you trip or fall at home.

Fit door chains and spy holes, or ask the council to help you if you own your home.

Many councils have security schemes that are aimed at older or more vulnerable people. You could ask them for advice.

Phone the Age Concern information line on 0800 00 99 66 or visit the Age Concern website

Car Security

Most car thefts are carried out by opportunists and can be deterred. Car crime affects everybody living in an area and be reduced with some simple measures:

Don’t leave valuable items on display.

Do use steering wheel or hand brake locks to prevent theft of your vehicle – especially if your car is an older model and does not have an immobiliser fitted.

If possible, park in a busy well lit area.

What to Look for in an Orlando Home Security Alarm System

Basically, you need an Orlando Home Security Alarm system so that you can monitor what is happening in your home even while you are not around. But Orlando Home Security Alarm systems do not fit a one-size-fits-all purposes type of model. Rather, every system is designed to perform a certain way to provide the best protection for your home.

A centralized Orlando Home Security Alarm system will allow your home system to be connected directly to the security hub nearby. This permits your home to stay under round-the-clock surveillance even when you are not there to check on the system. If the security hub staff suspect that a fire or burglary is in progress, they will call your home then ask for the secret password. Should the password supplied be the wrong one, the security hub staff will ask the right authorities to head for your home right away.

Another type of Orlando Home Security Alarm system is the type that can detect fires. This fire alarm system can react to duct, heat or smoke sensors. If manual pull stations or sprinklers are activated, then the system will also react to that.

One highly efficient Orlando Home Security Alarm system relies on Internet access between your home and the system’s security hub. This is believed to be the most efficient way for you to look into the status of your home security system.

If you fear that your standard home landline could be disconnected or disabled by burglars and other criminals, then you may need a cellular home security system instead or as a complement to your landline. This cellular home security system relies on a cellular transmitter to deliver emergency signals to the security hub, even when your landline has been cut.
Orlando Home Security Alarm systems are no longer just a luxury that the rich and famous attach to their homes to protect lives and property. In these times when so many bad things could happen to your family, you really need an Orlando Home Security Alarm system for your home.

With Orlando Home Security Alarm systems on the job, you know you’ll get alerted when your child fails to come home at the right time, someone broke into your home while you were away, a senior citizen in your home suffered an accident and cannot access a telephone, a vandal hurled a stone through your front window while you were asleep, and any other situations that may crop up that require your immediate attention.

By using Orlando Home Security Alarm systems, it is no longer necessary to ask special favors of your neighbors to watch over your property. It is easier to respond quickly to emergencies. You can warn any potential criminals that your house is being watched with various warning signs in your property. And if burglars seem very determined to invade your home anyway, the police and other authorities can respond immediately to arrest the suspects. Now that is something no neighbor of yours can guarantee – unless he happens to be an ex-Navy Seal.

Choosing the Right Home Security System For You

Back in the good old days when everyone sat on their porches at night, theft was something so incredibly uncommon that it seemed like something out of a good story. When home security alarms were first introduced, they weren't seen as something needed by the public, and security companies had a hard time selling them. Gradually, they were accepted as a necessary fixture in almost all businesses and new homes.

There are many reasons why one would want to consider the purchase of a home security alarm for one's home. It provides a higher level of security for prized possessions such as expensive jewelry, electronics, appliances, and anything else that you wouldn't want to lose.

A home security system is perfect for those who spend extended periods of time away from the home, or who live in high risk areas. The FBI presents a study that shows that, on average, 25% of homes in the USA are burglarized at least once in a 10 year period. Why take the risk with your possessions?

But once you make the decision to go ahead with purchasing a home security alarm, the difficult part is just beginning. There are many different types of alarms on the market and it can be hard to discern which one is right for your needs. You want to make sure that your system provides the best security for your home without being more costly than what is needed.

It is best to check several different alarm companies, as well as talk to friends and neighbors who have alarm systems installed to see what differences are out there, and what will fit your needs best. A few major things to take into consideration are the different companies available, the amount of protection you feel your home warrants, and how much you can afford to spend. Remember, just because a company is cheap does not necessarily mean it is the best deal.

There is no one company that we would recommend over the others; each has its own personal set of strengths and weaknesses and it is up to you to determine what will fit your needs best.

Some tips to keep in mind:

1. Make sure the companies that you are considering have proper insurance. If something happens with the company, you could become responsible for any loss.

2. Check to make sure the company has a valid business license in your city.

3. Get the names of other customers in your area who can provide references for you.

4. When signing a contract, read it carefully! Make sure you know what you're getting into before signing any forms. Know the terms of the contract and the length of the warranty.

5. Ask about the length of time the company has been in business. Be wary of companies that have not been in business for at least three years. There is often nothing wrong with a new home security company, but it is better to stick with those that have been around for a while.

6. Check to see if the monitoring is done locally, or out of state.

7. See if the installation is done through the company, or if it is subcontracted out. It is always better to stick with companies who do their own work. It's much easier to deal with the problem if something goes wrong later.

Wireless Camera for Home Security: What it Can and Can not Do

Have you ever considered installing a wireless camera for home security? There are all sorts of ways that you can beef up security in your home using burglar alarms and motion detection equipment; but using a wireless camera for home security is probably the most practical decision to make to protect your assets and the people living in your house. In fact, using a wireless camera for home security only reflects advantages on a security level.

It’s Not An Alarm

The wireless camera for home security does not make it an alarm. And this is probably just as well. Think about all the noise that a burglar alarm might make if an intruder enters your home. There are two possibilities. Either the culprit gets to escape and you will never know who he/she was; or the alarm just might provoke the intruder into doing something violent out of sheer panic. These are two possibilities that you do not want to encounter. With a wireless camera for home security, you can record all the activities in your house and stand a good chance at catching the culprit after the burglary by showing footage to the police. Also, you can have the camera trigger silent alarms that only you and the police will have knowledge of. This increases the possibility of the police getting to your house before the burglar even knows what’s going on.

Record and Report

The best feature of a wireless camera for home security is the fact that it records images and even sound (depending on the brand and make of the unit). This information is vital for any security outfit or even the police to be able to determine the next plan of action. Think about this: You are away from home on vacation with your family and your house gets burgled. With a wireless camera for home security recording everything happening, you increase the possibility of exposing the people responsible for the crime. So when you get back home, at least you will have evidence to give to the police and they can identify and arrest the people responsible. With the wireless camera for home security recording everything while you are away, you can relax knowing that you have everything in control; even the possible capture of the person(s) who might have burgled your home.

Keeping Close Watch

Another advantage that you have with a wireless camera for home security is that you can watch everything being recorded in real time through a computer or through a television that can capture the cameras signal. This is especially helpful when you are in your study or bedroom and you would like to see what is going on around the house without having to set foot outside the door. It’s safer to have this wireless camera for home security set up in this manner so that you can be warned of any dangerous elements that have entered your home and you can prepare yourself ahead of time or call the police.

If you still rely on the old burglar alarm or floodlight to protect your property and loved ones, it’s time to make a change and increase your security measures. Install a wireless camera for home security and don’t regret not having done so in the future.

Installing your Wireless Home Security Camera

Every home needs a wireless home security camera. It’s not a sign that there are very valuable things inside the house. But to all people, the most valuable thing should be the security of their loved ones. A wireless home security camera can come in all shapes and sizes. They can be installed just about anywhere; better yet, they can be disguised just like any thing.

The Ceiling

The most typical area to place a wireless home security camera (or any camera for that matter) is on the ceiling or in the corner of one. This is because the wireless home security camera can capture a wider scope of the area that it is directed. This is especially true of cameras that are set up withy the lenses set at an angular position. However, a neat trick to fool people into thinking that there are no cameras is to install a wireless home security camera that looks like a smoke alarm. Of course, there should be a real smoke alarm in the room as well so that you don’t end up creating a hazard rather than a secure area. Another trick is to have a dummy camera out in the open and to conceal the real wireless home security camera within the ceiling itself if possible.

Around the House

A wireless home security camera can be disguised as anything and this means it can be installed anywhere. Some people have installed them in flower arrangements to conceal them, on desk lamps, and even sewn them into stuffed toys that just lie around the room. If the object is big enough for the wireless home security camera, then that object can instantly be used as a home security peripheral. Of course, the transmitter of the wireless home security camera should not be covered or else the console that receives all the recorded data may not be able to pick up on its signal.

The Issue

Installing a wireless home security camera system in the house opens up a wealth of possibilities; especially when you want to conceal the camera from everybody else. Of course, this brings about questions on invasion of privacy, so at least have people be aware that there are cameras around the house but you do not have to reveal their locations. The other option is to not install cameras in places where private activities occur such as in the toilet, bathroom or bedroom. Typical installations are found in hallways or facing doorways that give entrance to homes and some wireless home security cameras can also be found outside facing the lawn or backyard. Be sensitive about other peoples sensitivities and you may not have to be answering to arguments on invasion of privacy or other issues.

A wireless home security camera is the best gadget to have to protect all your assets and loved ones all at the same time. Also, when you are away from home and your house gets burgled, you can always play back what was recorded and increase your chances at capturing the culprits responsible. Haven’t got a wireless home security camera in your house yet? Perhaps now is the time to reconsider.

Top Recommended Home Alarm and Home Security System Features

A man's home is his castle, as the saying goes. But homes today don't normally feature ramparts, drawbridges, moats and six-foot thick stone walls to keep out unwanted visitors. Today, a home security alarm, and preferably a monitored home alarm system, is needed to ensure your home's security. Not only does installing a home burglar alarm system improve the safety of your family and possessions, but it can also decrease your home insurance costs. The Top Ten Home Alarm and House Security Devices list highlights ten devices and features of home security alarm systems that can make your house a safer place.

The Top Ten 10 Home Security Alarm Items:

1. Smoke Detectors - Add another layer of protection to your home, especially when they are integrated into the home alarm system. Not only do smoke detectors indicate a fire and give you time to escape safely, but when included in a home security package, they automatically notify the managing company and the fire department. Some systems even integrate the power supply to the smoke detectors. That means you will not have to ever replace the batteries!

2. Back-Up Power Supply - Is important in maintaining home security even during a power outage, when the risk of break-ins and looting is increased. Your home alarm should be effective even when your power is not. The easiest to maintain back-up power supplies use standard size batteries. Look for a model that uses rechargeable batteries to lower your maintenance costs.

3. Master Control Panel - Is vital to any home alarm system. The heart of the home security alarm system, the master alarm control panel is typically installed on a wall in a location with easy access. The panel receives information from all other sensors and key pads, computes it, and transmits relevant information to the monitoring company. If you choose to arm the system from the panel when you leave the house, the master control panel also receives the disarm code when you return home. Some can even be disarmed by telephone!

4.Talking Devices - Make it easy for you to comprehend the status of your home security alarm and monitoring system and also make programming your alarm system simple and quick. Some security systems feature talking master control panels, key pads or remotes.

5. Installation, Monitoring, and Repair Services - These services increase not only the level of safety but the convenience of keeping your home safe. A house alarm alone cannot notify the police or fire department in the event of an emergency. The most complete systems include buttons to notify police departments, fire departments and medical help instantly. Another advantage offered by the best monitoring companies is live customer support and full service installation and repair of the system by employees who have been background checked, licensed and drug tested to ensure your safety. Finally, some companies even offer relocation services to keep you secure even when you move.

6. Wireless Systems - Safeguard your residence without adding excessive wires which may create a tripping hazard or require professional installation of behind the wall alarm cable. In wireless home security alarm system magnetic alarm contacts, keypads and other devices transmit information to the master alarm control panel using radio signals or through available previously installed wiring in your residence. A burglar will never be able to disarm the system by snipping the alarm cable. This ensures the system is fully integrated and monitoring all parts of your home without using up your outlets or creating an obstacle course of alarm cable for you.

7. Key Pads - May not always be enough to keep burglars out. Magnetic Alarm Sensors on Windows and Doors decrease the chance of a home invader entering undetected and are a vital component of a residential security alarm system. The degree of security protection is elevated when Security Alarm Motion Detectors are installed within the residence. The most sophisticated security motion detectors include a feature to ignore pets' movement to avoid constantly setting the alarm off inadvertently.

8. Extra Key Pads - Are also important. Exterior mounted key pads can provide secure key less entry to your family. Some systems also offer remote control key pads which are lightweight and portable. A home alarm system that features a security code with a key pad increases the security of your home. A monitored system can also lock down entry after several repeated, failed attempts at entry which indicate a possible break-in attempt.

9. Yard Signs and House or Window Decals - Advertise your home's protection. The Greenwich Study of Residential Security found that homes without alarms were 2.7 to 3.5 times more likely to be burglarized, and that the most effective deterrent was the alarm monitoring company's yard sign (SIA Research Update, Security Industry Association, October 2001). Some choose to post the signs to deter possible break-ins without actually installing a home alarm system. While this effort will lower the odds of an attempted burglary, a yard sign alone cannot fully protect your home.

10. Extra Key Fobs and Remotes - Some home alarm systems include extras like Key Fobs and Remotes to control the system at a distance. Somewhat similar to a car's key fob, home security key fobs include buttons to activate and deactivate the house alarm system. Some even include a "panic" button that activates the house alarm and alerts the proper authorities in the event of an emergency. Remote controls are similar and often larger. The features of remotes vary greatly and can include a full key pad, a talking feature and a panic button as well. The talking feature may not result in great conversation, but it will help you understand your system a little better.

Of course, this list is not comprehensive, and the needs of every home and homeowner are different.

Your House Should Have a Home Security System of Some Kind

Since the world's statistics of criminals is rising, we all strive to feel safe in our home. We would all like to enjoy vacationing without worrying if our home is safe and secure. Let's face it, we work too hard to earn our material belongings-therefore, it is only common sense that the majority of us would enjoy uninterrupted security and peace of mind. According to national statistics, homes are broken EVERY SINGLE DAY, and most homes are violated while the family is on vacation, or away from their home. It only makes sense, most criminals would rather get in and get out quickly, rather than face potential risks, such as human encounters.

Since the statistics are increasing technology, designers are working hard each day to help us find the level of security we need. For this reason technology designers has invented home security systems, deadbolts, fire alarms, CO alarms (Carbon Monoxide Alarms), etc. In fact, today, you can have card operated door locks installed on your home. In other words, you use something similar to a credit card. Once you insert the card into your door lock, the system reads the digits on the card, and authorizes permission to enter the home. We see this common device at many hotels or related environments today. In fact, the United States Government uses similar alarms in various sectors.

By installing a home security system, this could significantly reduce the odds of your home being burglarized. Online you will find a wide selection of home security devices. The devices mainly offer you feature, such as push button call. In other words, you merely push a single button, which the system will kick in and call the police and/or fire department for you. If you have trouble getting around, the security system is not, a better choice. However, you may look online for remote controlled home security devices. The push buttons however do offer advantages, since a live voice will respond to the push of one button. You might check out Intercom Devices to learn more about such features.

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A home security system isn't just for citizens in high-crime areas. A security system may be a good choice for suburban homes where the whole neighborhood seems to empty during the day. A home security system equipped with a good camera can do a lot for your house. You can use it to see who is at the door before opening, you can keep an eye on driveways to watch vehicles and equipment and most importantly you can check on any trespassers. A home security system can save you money on your homeowner's insurance costs.

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Home security systems are easy to install nowadays. Since you are merely purchasing the device after which a company will send out workers to install, test, and prep you on the use of your home security system. Ultimately, you can purchase wireless kits, which you can install on your own. Be sure to read the manual carefully to make sure the device is installed properly. Don't forget to test your system regularly, dust, and replace parts as needed.

The one thing you should do when searching for a home security system is to find the RIGHT system for you. A variety of companies online offer systems that fit your lifestyle. In addition, the companies will help you choose the best system that fits your needs. Most basic home security systems include motion sensors, photocells, sound detectors, window and door alarms, wireless systems, etc. The lights are great, since motion lights will typically scare away the average criminal.

Criminals that are more dramatic however may require extensive threats, such as the interior alarms, which monitor intruders inside the home.

The alarms have panic switches, motion sensors, noise detection, light beams, etc. Many alarms today include light beams, which if someone triggers the beam, it will automatically send out a photoelectric beam. You can also add pressure mats to your doorstep, which if someone steps on the mat, it would instantly alert you. You will have the option of installing Perimeter Alarms as well. The alarms will send a warning, such as (Siren, or Bell alert) when someone steps on your doorstep. Burglars of all sorts would definitely take flight. Lastly, if you are searching for a 'complete' home security, make sure to check the internet for comparable products and services.

Vacation Rental Home Security Systems

Vacation home security is now more important than ever. With rising unemployment, vandalism due to high scrap prices for copper, metals and aluminum, and longer times between visits due to high gas prices or airline fees.

While foreclosure rates remain high, even for vacation homes or second homes, criminals will be seeking crimes of opportunity.

Some of us turn to time-share properties as a more affordable alternative. Each of these two forms of vacation home ownership present unique home security issues.

If you own your own vacation home and live there either seasonally or on a weekend basis, you're leaving your second home unoccupied for significant periods of time. You're also establishing a pattern of occupancy that any savvy intruder can soon learn and use to his advantage. If you own a time-share property, you own a percentage of a vacation home. You're sharing it with complete strangers who may or may not adhere to the same standards of security that you do. And, of course, you trust your time-share company to properly maintain and secure the property during those periods when nobody is staying there.

You may believe that merely applying the same safety practices you follow in your primary residence should be enough to protect your vacation home. But in fact, you need to go above and beyond the rituals of safety you'd observe in a home you live in on a more frequent basis. Homes that look unoccupied are easy targets. You've seen those homes with newspapers piled up outside or that appears pitch black at night when the rest of the neighborhood is lit. Consider the following guidelines for protecting your vacation home year-round:

Consider a GE Home Security System from your local Fortune Hi Tech Marketing representative. With FHTM and GE Home Security, it is now easier than ever to protect what means most to you. With customizable systems to meet your specific needs, keep your family, possessions and investments safe. GE is continually advancing new technologies that help homeowners monitor their properties, make schools safer, improve airline security, and more. Plus GE can integrate new security technologies with existing equipment and IT systems. Whether you need an entire system, or individual products, GE has the right technology to keep you safe.

Introduce yourself to your neighbors - particularly those who reside in your neighborhood year-round. Tell them what your schedule is, and ask them to keep an eye on things while you're away. That doesn't mean handing them a key, although you may wish to do so if you know and trust your neighbors well enough. And watching over your home doesn't have to be a job to which you burden your neighbors; simply ask them to remain alert to your home's appearance. Leave with your neighbors all of your contact numbers at your primary residence, so that they may contact you immediately in the event they spot suspicious activity. Give them verbal approval to contact the local police department in your absence, particularly if they spot suspicious activity and can't reach you by phone.

Consider the personal items you're leaving in your vacation home when it's unoccupied. Anything expensive - including cars, computers, televisions, DVD players and stereo equipment - should be stored under lock and key while you're away. Take photographs of all of your possessions in your second home, and store them in a safe at your primary residence for insurance purposes. Engrave your name on the back of your expensive electronic equipment.

If you own a timeshare property, find out from the management company exactly what kinds of security measures they have in place. This includes the policies to which maintenance staff are required to adhere. Find out if the management company replaces the locks on doors in the event that tenants lose a key.

For most homeowners, the acquisition of a vacation home is the culmination of years of hard work. That's why you owe it to yourself and your family to obtain for your vacation home the most stringent standards of safety within your means.

With the GE Home Security lifetime replacement of parts warranty and state of the art UL listed technology, you can rest easy. The highest quality products, competitive pricing and up to 20% off of homeowner and vacation home insurance makes GE Home Security the leader in the industry. One button arming, pager features, door chimes and a 24 hour emergency button make around the clock peace of mind a reality. Let FHTM and GE Home Security give you the power to protect your family and your home.

Here are just a few of the reasons to trust your security with a GE Wireless Home Security System:

One Button Arming: You arm your wireless home security system by pushing a single button.

The Peacekeeper® wireless home security system comes with entry/exit delays at the doors you select, and you can also put these same doors and windows on instant alert with the push of a single button.

Pager Feature: The wireless home security system has a pager feature. Should your child not return from school at the proper time and turn off the system, the system can be programmed to page you.

24-hour Emergency Button: You have access to an emergency panic button that allows you to summon help 24 hours a day.

Battery Back-up: In the event of a power failure, your Command Station will automatically convert from AC to DC.

Door Chime: The wireless home security system will, at your request, act as a door chime. Should your child try to slip out a door unattended, the system will notify you?

Your security and the security of your guests is the most important concern, if you are considering a home or vacation home monitoring system, please contact your local Fortune Hi Tech Marketing Representative, a GE authorized dealer or visit this link to find a representative near you http://fhtmus.com/monaview.

Your Travel Buddy uses and recommends GE Home Security by Fortune HI Tech Marketing. Your Travel Buddy (http://www.ytbvacationrentals.com) is a free vacation rental listing services and publishes vacation rental marketing and cost savings articles for the vacation home or vacation rental owner.

Protect Your Home With a Home Security System

So, finally you have bought your dream home and also decorated it with all the contemporary accessories. Now comes the question of implementing home security measures. Often, we tend to overlook the importance of a home security system until it’s too late. It’s better to consider applying the safety measures before hand and save ourselves from any situation. Let us take a look at the best home security practices.

Add a whole house security alarm
system. You can add separate alarm for the doors and windows of your home, deciding which doors or windows to have alarm enabled. Keep in mind that it will be more expensive if you want to install the alarms to a lot doors or windows, depending on how many you have. Ask your alarm system installer if they have any special offer that will help you in saving some money.

Add a live monitoring system service. It is definitely a good idea to invest into a home monitoring service. Home monitoring services can automatically contact police or fire when the alarms you have in your home are triggered. Conduct thorough research to find out the best service provider as quality of services may differ from company to company.

Home Security Systems and Home Security Measures

A security alarm system is not at all a complicated set up. First, you have to decide upon where you want to install the alarm control box. It can be your front door, back door, main window, anywhere. Once you have chosen the place, then you have to program a code in to the alarm. You are required to do this in order to successfully set the alarm and also to turn it off while you are at home. There may be a motion sensor included with the home alarm system. With a motion detector, your alarm will go off when it detects movement inside the house. This motion sensor acts as a back up in case someone gets into your house without tripping your alarm.

Outdoor alarm system. Outdoor home security alarm systems are programmed in such a way that they switch on the floodlights as soon as they detect some motion just outside your home. In the early years, an outdoor alarm used to go off even if there was just a cat or a stray dog strolling near your house but the modern ones are configured in such a way that they determine the weight and size of the intruder. So the chances of false alarms are almost zilch!

Use proper locks. If you have bought a second hand home, then make sure to change all the locks. You never know, the previous owner might keep a duplicate key with him. It’s better to take no chances at all and replace all the old locks with new ones. Not only should you put locks in the front doors but also install locks in the windows, if there isn’t any at the moment. This way you can ensure that nobody can enter your home through an open window.

Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Once you move into your new neighborhood, with no delay, introduce yourself and your family members to your immediate neighbors. If your neighbors know you well enough, then they can report to you or take necessary actions if they see any stranger trying to make an entry into your house.

Participate in community watch programs. If there is any thing such as community watch program in your locality, do take active part in it. This way your neighbors can keep a watch on your property in your absence and vice versa. This would definitely cut down a lot of crime.

Add video surveillance or wireless cameras. Adding CCTV or video surveillance is a very effective home security measure. You can use a wireless camera security system for video supervision, there are several transmitters and only one receiver that is linked to your TV. Some of the best security systems are those that include wireless security cameras.

Install a smoke detector. By installing smoke detectors in your home, you can have an advance warning if your house should happen to catch on fire.

Besides these aforementioned home security measures, you also have to be careful that your doors and windows are sturdy enough. Put grills in the windows if you have to. Also, see to it that there are lots of lights outside your house and that easy to get to ground floor windows have thorny bushes planted beneath them.

Thus, you see that there are a lots of home security options to take into consideration. In order to choose the security options that would suit you the best, you can go in for a risk assessment of your home. Several home security service providers offer risk assessment modules that will help in determining your individual needs, thereby letting you decide the correct type of security measure for your house.

Whichever home security system you have installed, make sure you understand how it works, so that you can enjoy your getaway without having to worry about the safety and security of your home.

How To Determine The Best Home Security Plan For You

Owning your own home, while certainly a great thing, does have a variety of different drawbacks which you should be aware of. Among these drawbacks, you will have to devote a certain amount of energy each and every week to keeping your home in complete and total working order. This includes making sure that your landscape is neat and tidy and that the interior of your home is kept clean and dust free. However, while many people do focus on the day to day tasks that are associated with owning a home, what many do not realize is how important it is to keep your home security system up to date. With so many different home security system providers, there are plenty of choices for the perfect protection plan for your home. Whether you want simple invasion protection or if you want an all encompassing plan that will help you protect your home from burglary, fire and various other types of damage, there is a home security system for you. Also, even though a home security system is designed to keep you and your family safe from the world outside, it can even provide you with much lower home insurance rates, a great deal for those who want to save a bit of extra cash each month on seemingly worthless insurance bills.

The most basic type of home security system will provide you with protection from burglars. Unless otherwise specified, this is probably the type of security system that most people will choose to install in their homes. With this basic security system, your home is wired at all of the points of entry, including all doors and windows. If any of the doors or windows in your home were to be broken or opened while your alarm was set, the alarm will sound and alert you and your neighbors of a possible break-in. Hopefully this will scare the would-be burglar away, but if not, it will give you and your family time to get out of the home and call the police.

If you are looking for the most from a home security system, then you will want a package that will provide you with the best security money can buy. These expensive home security systems give you the basic protection from burglars as well as an extra system that will detect harmful vapors such as smoke and carbon monoxide. Each year, thousands of people die from house fires, smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning, so if you want to be on the safe side, it never hurts to have detectors to protect you and your family. Also, the top of the line home security systems will be linked directly to the police or your security provider so that help can be on its way when you need it the most.

Is A Home Security System Right For You?

Everyone agrees that the safety of one's home and family are of paramount importance. However, not everyone is certain if they need a security system, and many people do not own one. Think about this: Only if you live on a deserted island are you truly free from the worry of break-ins. Needless to say, this leaves 99.9998% of the population to benefit from the use of a home security system. If you do not have a home security system, your home, belongings, and your family are all at risk from burglars who can easily pick a lock or break in. Regardless of where you live or what kind of home you live in, there are numerous justifications for having a home security system.

Regardless of your type of neighborhood, a home security system provides peace of mind. The elderly and younger people of the home are most at risk during a break in. But with a home security system they will not have to worry because the police will be notified the instant an intruder enters. The audible alarm is also highly likely to immediately scare the intruder away. Most break-ins occur at night, and the home security system protects you even then with constant monitoring. Home security systems have many other added benefits. Often, you will be able to obtain a discount on home owners insurance when you utilize a home security system.

There are different types of home security systems and different security features to consider while creating the perfect system for you and your family. There is a security system to fit every budget, and you can always add on features as your income allows. The two primary kinds of home security systems are those with wires, and those without. Families which own their home, and have floors and walls which are easy to drill through without causing damage, are best suited for wired systems. A wired system is best suited for homes with drywall. For renters, wireless alarm systems are ideal as they have no drilling requirements and can be taken along when moving. A wireless system is also excellent for families who own a home but have plaster walls or floors of concrete.

There are many different home security system features that will meet the needs of your home. By means of window stickers, cameras, motion activated lights and alarms, and multiple key pads, you can customize your system to suit your needs perfectly. It is essential that you examine all of these features, and figure out what is best for your home and family, before choosing a home security system. Think about adding multiple keypads for the convenient arming of your system if you own a large home or a home with over two exits. Key pads may be located in places that are most convenient to you. Consider your family's needs to determine if you want motion activated alarms, forced entry alarms, or perhaps both. Home security systems are a must for most families, and there are so many choices to make when determining which one is right for yours.

Festive Season Home Security Tips

With the festive season fast approaching, we are left with many decisions and preparations to make before packing our trailers and making our way to our holiday destinations. Ensuring the security of family and property is a key priority at this time.

Statistics clearly show that criminal activity increases during the holiday season and it is therefore imperative for homeowners to take the right precautions and not let their guard down.

There are several handy tips to bear in mind which can help alleviate the risk to family and property. The first and most important step to take is to ensure that your alarm is in working order. People tend to forget that an alarm system, like a car, has parts that age and wear out and therefore should be serviced at least once a year.

Spectacular thunderstorms during the summer months, can also wreak havoc on alarm systems. As a result of this, clients should regularly check their systems in case of lightning damage. Homeowners who have house insurance should also consider that in the event of a burglary, their insurance company will, in all likelihood, question whether they have properly maintained their alarm.

December is traditionally a busy period for security companies, so homeowners should try and test their alarms at least three weeks before going on holiday. Testing should be done anytime (ideally between 0800 and 2000 hours Mon-Fri) and if a fault is discovered, it can be immediately reported to the security service provider’s technical team.

Additional security tips to follow include:

• Advise your security company if you are going away and ensure that you supply all the necessary information regarding nearby emergency contacts, in case of an emergency

• Inform your neighbours of your holiday plans so that they can keep an eye on your property

• Stop all newspaper deliveries and ask a friend or neighbour to collect your post. A bulging post box is a real giveaway that you are not at home

• If hiring a house sitter, ensure that you teach them how to use your alarm correctly

• Double check that you have locked and secured all windows and doors before leaving home

• Ensure that all your outside locks are a minimum of four lever locks or double cylinder security locks

• Never leave a key in the inside of an outer door which has glass panels or glass near the door lock

• Having security gates fitted on outer doors is a highly effective security measure that gives you an extra line of defence

• Sliding doors can be secured simply by placing a piece of timber cut to size in the sliding rail. Make sure that sliding doors cannot be lifted vertically

• Full fencing and sturdy gates are a good deterrent

• Have good exterior lighting, preferably on a timer

• Do not leave ladders, spades or tools outside, as they can be used to break into your house

• Clear signage indicating that you have security also helps to discourage
Burglars

Another important security tip is to be discreet when preparing to go away. People should where possible pack their cars in their garage. Homeowners should also never leave a message on their answering machine stating that they are out of town.

The festive season should be a time of relaxation and giving but let’s ensure that we are not giving our belongings to criminals on a golden platter.

Home Security Systems: The Tension Relievers

A tension-free life is what everyone craves for. Among various things, home security is one of the major concerns for most people especially considering the fact that the crime rates across the world are on the rise. In such a case, what people look for is reliable home security systems.

The industry too has recognised the need for home security systems and that is one reason why you have so many different kinds of home security systems available today. The industry has moved from wired security systems to wireless security systems. And the sophistication of such home security systems seems to be on the rise. In fact, you even have such security systems which allow you to monitor your home remotely (through images transmitted over the internet by the security cameras).

With modern electronic devices, alarm responses are no longer human. Depending on the time, the zone triggered and the number and sequence of zones, the system can call the ambulance, can call the police, the fire department, or the property manager. That is a huge advance in home security. The biggest problem with alarms and cameras was that they always needed a human response in order to be useful, but with this new technology, house owners can be more relaxed because the system is capable of calling for help if he is not able to.

Safety sensors are more complicated and sophisticated, because they are supposed to react to a lot of different danger situations at the same time, such as: gates and valves open or closed, low oxygen concentrations, excessively high or low temperatures and excessive carbon monoxide (or other toxic gas) concentrations.

The burglar (intrusion) detectors can be of two different classes: point detectors and area detectors. With point detectors you must pick a specific point where intrusion should be indicated. Area detectors indicate intrusion of a protected area, and usually use ultrasonic technology for that.

So, it's a established fact that home security systems can bring you some peace on the home security front. However, you need to have a proper understanding of home security systems in order to decide on what home security systems are best suited for your home. You also need information about where you can get the home security systems from. If you don't want to install the home security system by yourself, you will also need to know how you can get a professional for doing that for you.

Finding the Best Home Security Cameras System

Are you searching for the very best surveillance cameras for your home? The type of home security cameras you buy will make all the difference in the world to your sense of security. Therefore, when shopping for home security cameras it is imperative that you know precisely what to look for; below are a few tips to help you in the task of finding the very best surveillance cameras for your home.

Before you shop for surveillance cameras, you should determine where you want to place the cameras and what you want to record. The act of knowing where you want to place the home security cameras and what you want to record will help you in determining what type of surveillance cameras you require. For example, you may require a particular security camera to monitor everyone who enters or leaves your home, while you might need a very different camera to survey your property. If you preplan the positioning of the cameras, you can choose security cameras that can fulfill your needs. Additionally, you will know immediately how many security cameras you actually require.

Next, you will need to determine the amount of detail that you will expect to see from the security cameras you purchase. If you are expecting to see great detail from the images the camera picks up, it will directly affect the frame rate of the camera that you need to purchase. If you are not sure what type of frame rate you are really looking for, it is a good idea to talk to a specialist about your needs; they can help you determine what frame rate will provide you with the image quality that you seek.

What home security cameras should a person use to ensure they get the best in home security? Actually, there is quite a variety of surveillance cameras to choose from, all of which depend on the consumers needs. Knowing what you want beforehand can help you in selecting the right home security cameras for your home.

If you want to have home security cameras that provide you with crystal clear images, then you will need to pay attention to the frame rate of the surveillance cameras you buy. Many of todays home security cameras function with a slow recording rate; consequently, the camera images will appear slow and, in some cases, choppy. To make sure you are getting a home security camera that gives you the very best images, you will need to invest in one that offers full motion capture functions. If you are unsure about the frame rate of the home security camera you are considering, you should speak to the vendor to make sure you get exactly what you need.

When purchasing surveillance cameras you will also want to determine what it is you plan to survey and how you plan to survey it. For example, you may want the surveillance cameras to watch one area or you might decide that you want the camera to pick up and record four different areas at the same time. The choice is ultimately up to you. Nevertheless, in knowing what you want to record, you will have an easier time getting the home security cameras that will fulfill your personal requirements.

Home Security For Your Peace Of Mind

People often worry about leaving their homes unsupervised while they are at work or on vacation. They may even be scared in their own homes for fear that some intruder may break in and harm them. People today are becoming more aware about making their homes more secure with the aid of home security systems. They appreciate the sense of security that a good home security system affords them.

It is important that you make all effort and spare no expense in protecting your home from danger and theft. It is always wise to invest into a good home security system for your house instead of leaving yourself vulnerable to crime and danger. Make no mistake; having a good home security system will do wonders for your peace of mind.

Nowadays home security systems utilize highly sophisticated technology, and employ innovative techniques to understand the psychology of burglars and criminals. Though these home security systems may not be completely foolproof, they at least help reduce the risk of crime and burglary significantly.

You may naively think that just using sturdy doors and windows with strong bolts may discourage a would-be-intruder, but that is far from the truth. Intruders and burglars are very good at locating easy access to the inside of the house. These criminals study the house well to look for the weakest points of entrance and also the best escape routes such as the doors, windows and ventilation system. They also carefully observe for any security system in use such as home security cameras and home security alarm etc. Burglars may think twice about breaking into a house outfitted with home security products, so a good home security system is a good deterrent against these crimes.

When you decide to install your home security system the first thing you need to do is to find a trusted home security company that can recommend to you the most suitable home security products to get, for example inconspicuous safes that are hidden or blend into the wall or furnishings etc.

There are certain cost factors to consider when setting up your home security system, including:

* Initial cost: You have to invest some amount for the initial set up cost, but it generally is not too expensive.

* Recurring cost: You have to pay a monthly or annual monitoring fee to the home security company for its home security products and services.

Regardless of the cost of setting up and running a home security system, it is definitely worth the investment as it affords you a sense of security and peace of mind.