alarm systems
A security alarm is a system designed to detect intrusion – unauthorized entry – into a building or other area such as a home or school. Security alarms are used in residential, commercial, industrial, and military properties for protection against burglary (theft) or damage to your property, as well as personal protection against intruders. Security alarms in residential areas show a correlation with decreased theft. Vehicle alarms likewise help protect vehicles and their contents. Security services like the Prisons also use security systems for controlling inmates.
Some alarm systems serve a single purpose of burglary protection; combination systems provide both fire and intrusion protection. Intrusion alarm systems may also be combined with (CCTV) systems to automatically record the activities of intruders, and may interface to access control systems for electrically locked doors. Systems range from small, self-contained noisemakers, to complicated, multirally systems with computer monitoring and control. It may even include two-way voice which allows communication between the panel and Monitoring station.
Alarm systems are best known for their ability to alert homeowners of the presence of burglars, to make sound which is meant to let the burglars know they have been caught, and to automatically alert authorities to the intrusion, so that help can be sent immediately without the homeowner needing to call.
TYPES OF ALARM SYSTEMS
Door and window sensor alarms
This type of alarm creates a small indicating beep or sound whenever a door or window is opened and can also be set to trigger alerts if a light is turned on. Alerts can be sent to a smart phone device and can be monitored remotely. These systems are different from alarms and may be used for a variety of other reasons than keeping out burglars. For instance, if kids tend to sneak out at night, this alarm system will alert the user to what is happening. It is another way for people to keep their families safe.
Beyond this though, there are other types of alarm systems that can be used in a home, and there are many other reasons why a person may wish to use an alarm system.
Smoke Alarms
While smoke alarms are legally required in every home and business, there are new advancements in the technology that can be taken advantage of for added safety. While most smoke alarms will only go off if the smoke specifically reaches them, some smoke alarms can be connected, so that if one in the house detects smoke, they will all sound to avoid anybody missing the alarm.
The alarm system can be hooked up so that notifications will be sent to the primary user’s smart phone device, letting them know that the alarm has been triggered.
Security alarms
In addition to keeping burglars away, security alarms actually help the homeowners to save money on their homeowners insurance. Because of the added security feature, it is less likely the person is going to take out a claim on insurance due to stolen valuables.
It has been proven that homes that simply have an alarm system installed – not even necessarily activated – are less likely to be robbed than homes that do not have any alarm system present. Further to that, homes who regularly activate their alarm system have an even lower chance of being robbed.
ADVANTAGES OF ALARM SYSTEMS
Protects valuables
This is, of course, the benefit most people immediately think of. We likely all know someone who has lost electronics, jewelry, or other high-value items due to a home invasion. The tragedy is compounded when the item is an irreplaceable family heirloom. A home security system has an alarm that scares off many would-be burglars and can notify the local authorities if someone does attempt a break-in.
Deters crime
As the number of home security systems increased in an area, the number of residential robberies decreases in that area, even for people who didn’t have their own security system. Having a security system not only protects you, but helps your neighborhood be a safer place for everyone.
Allows remote access to your home
Modern security systems now allow you to remotely monitor what’s happening in your home when you’re not there. Depending on your provider, you can monitor what happens via cameras installed throughout your home, as well as control the thermostat, door locks, lights, and other devices in your home.
Lowers homeowner’s insurance
Yes, you may be paying a monthly fee for your security system, but having the system in your home can lower your homeowner’s insurance by up to 20%. That, combined with the other benefits, makes an alarm system a pretty good deal.
Notifies you of fire or gas problems
You can opt to receive notifications if your smoke or carbon monoxide alarms go off when you’re away from home. Depending on the provider, you can even set it up so authorities are instantly notified of these emergencies.
Makes room for peace of mind
The sense of security and peace you gain with an alarm system is perhaps the greatest benefit of all. Next to being safe, the confidence of feeling safe will help you be a more productive, healthy, and focused person.
Adding a security system to your home gives you an extra layer of defense against any potential intruders. Whether you rent or own, you can enjoy the benefits that come with having a security system.