"Free" is the most commonly used marketing term and captures the interest of consumers worldwide. In most cases, however, the buyer needs to beware. In the world of home security, spending a little extra in the beginning may offer a huge payback in the event that your home is burglarized. One Buffalo home security systems company estimates that homeowners can save 20 percent or more their homeowners insurance with an alarm system certificate of installation.
The trend toward home security systems is growing. Nationally, nearly one out of three private homes is equipped with a home alarm system. Definitely effective in deterring burglaries, homes with alarm systems are far less likely to be burglarized than homes without security systems.
The term "burglary" means "the unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or a theft." Most (2 out of 3) burglars use force to gain entry but some homeowners make it easy by leaving a door or window unlatched. A person can be convicted of a burglary even if nothing is taken.
Security systems deter more than just burglary and home invasions. Fire and smoke detection systems are increasingly popular (and affordable) add-ons. Professionally installed home alarm systems can also be equipped to handle medical emergency notifications, carbon monoxide threats and even alert parents when children arrive home from school. The possibilities are virtually endless. More sophisticated systems automate lights and thermostats, thereby reducing home energy costs.
Security systems come in all shapes and sizes. A simple "DIY" security system can be installed in less than an hour. Many homeowners opt for more traditional, professionally installed systems that are designed mostly for property protection. A typical home security system costs between $400 and $1200, depending on the system design.
Vacation homes and rental properties may utilize a "space protection" system. While it features a quick installation and lower cost, this type of system generally can't be utilized while the structure is occupied because the motion detectors will be tripped with movement. Unfortunately, the system only detects a burglar after he has already gained entry.
"Perimeter protection" security systems are a better choice for active families with kids and pets. Because they can be fully utilized when at home, these systems offer added peace of mind, protecting people as well as property. Burglars are deterred from even entering the premises because all accessible points of entry are armed. When unwelcomed entry is detected, the loud siren and sound of law enforcement approaching sends burglars running for cover.
Summer marks the high season for burglaries because families often travel during June, July and August, leaving their homes empty for longer periods of time. This season also delivers college kids selling "free" alarm systems door to door for out of state alarm companies who then sell your personal information to a central monitoring service. Homeowners need to beware of these scams and are better off dealing with a local alarm company who has a true and vested interest in maintaining an upstanding reputation by offering better service than the national companies. Consumers should not have to pay more than $25/ month for basic security system monitoring, either. Those "free" systems that are so popular these days can, in the end, cost thousands of dollars if the consumer isn't wise and forgets to read the fine print.
It's always best to trust a local security company. Your family's safety is too precious to leave to an out-of-town company that treats you like a number. Before signing any contract, read the fine print. Don't be fooled by the word "free." Remember, you always get what you pay for.
The trend toward home security systems is growing. Nationally, nearly one out of three private homes is equipped with a home alarm system. Definitely effective in deterring burglaries, homes with alarm systems are far less likely to be burglarized than homes without security systems.
The term "burglary" means "the unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or a theft." Most (2 out of 3) burglars use force to gain entry but some homeowners make it easy by leaving a door or window unlatched. A person can be convicted of a burglary even if nothing is taken.
Security systems deter more than just burglary and home invasions. Fire and smoke detection systems are increasingly popular (and affordable) add-ons. Professionally installed home alarm systems can also be equipped to handle medical emergency notifications, carbon monoxide threats and even alert parents when children arrive home from school. The possibilities are virtually endless. More sophisticated systems automate lights and thermostats, thereby reducing home energy costs.
Security systems come in all shapes and sizes. A simple "DIY" security system can be installed in less than an hour. Many homeowners opt for more traditional, professionally installed systems that are designed mostly for property protection. A typical home security system costs between $400 and $1200, depending on the system design.
Vacation homes and rental properties may utilize a "space protection" system. While it features a quick installation and lower cost, this type of system generally can't be utilized while the structure is occupied because the motion detectors will be tripped with movement. Unfortunately, the system only detects a burglar after he has already gained entry.
"Perimeter protection" security systems are a better choice for active families with kids and pets. Because they can be fully utilized when at home, these systems offer added peace of mind, protecting people as well as property. Burglars are deterred from even entering the premises because all accessible points of entry are armed. When unwelcomed entry is detected, the loud siren and sound of law enforcement approaching sends burglars running for cover.
Summer marks the high season for burglaries because families often travel during June, July and August, leaving their homes empty for longer periods of time. This season also delivers college kids selling "free" alarm systems door to door for out of state alarm companies who then sell your personal information to a central monitoring service. Homeowners need to beware of these scams and are better off dealing with a local alarm company who has a true and vested interest in maintaining an upstanding reputation by offering better service than the national companies. Consumers should not have to pay more than $25/ month for basic security system monitoring, either. Those "free" systems that are so popular these days can, in the end, cost thousands of dollars if the consumer isn't wise and forgets to read the fine print.
It's always best to trust a local security company. Your family's safety is too precious to leave to an out-of-town company that treats you like a number. Before signing any contract, read the fine print. Don't be fooled by the word "free." Remember, you always get what you pay for.
About the Author:
Ken Jezioro is the founder of Shield Security Systems, Buffalo's oldest locally owned alarm company.
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