Home Security System Tips and Guide

When you're building a home, you're undoubtedly overwhelmed with excitement and ever-changing plans and decisions, making it easy to overlook some of the smaller details. But this is not a time to compromise your family's safety. By determining your family's safety needs early on, you can better equip your new home and ensure you and your family are safe for many years to come.

On the most basic level, a home electronic security system can provide you with protection from break-ins with four important levels of deterrence: yard signs, warning decals, loud sirens and 24-hour monitoring. The right home electronic security system can also save your family from fire, a necessary benefit considering that a home fire occurs every 86 seconds and 8 people die in house fires every 24 hours. Add to this the fact that many electronic home security systems can also detect carbon monoxide and it becomes clear that security systems are something you should strongly consider when planning your new home.

Thanks to advances in technology, homebuilders have a wide variety of systems to choose from. There's the more standard electronic system that includes an alarm and 24-hour monitoring which requires homebuilders to purchase the inexpensive equipment, pay an installation fee, and pay monthly (usually less than $40) for the monitoring. This traditional system is tried and true and remains the backbone of home security systems today because of its ease of use and affordability.

Also on the market is automated home security, which resembles something seen previously only in James Bond movies. Using automated systems, homeowners have the luxury of using voice recognition and even seeing inside their home while away via their laptops. Despite their futuristic qualities, adding home automation to an existing home is surprisingly affordable and simple, with many of the products costing less than $40 and requiring no new wires! (www.Smarthome.com).

Regardless of which system you prefer, you must consider your own needs before deciding which system is best for you and your family, including:

The style and number of doors and windows in your home
How many floors your home will have

Your children's ages and their bedroom locations

The number and type of pets you have

Your home's location

Does your home have a detached garage?

Are there any gas-fired appliances in the home? (For carbon monoxide detection)

Does the home have a hot tub or gas logs? (For carbon monoxide detection)

Do you have elderly people living in the home (Critical condition monitoring solutions such as medical assistance)

You can save money on security monitoring services or even monitor for non-traditional security events like water in the laundry room or basement. Additionally, Smarthome products include devices that will allow you to unlock the front door to let friends in or close the garage door from your office via the Web. Remote control thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature from bed at night or even from a cell phone while on your way home (or to your 2nd home!). They can even trigger a notice to you if the temperature gets too low (freezing pipes) or too high (pets, plants, etc.).

Go over your wants and needs for your home security system with your builder. And, it is wise to ask friends and neighbors about their security systems. Find out what kind of system they have, what company they chose and why, and find out if they are pleased with their system. You may also want to ask about their system's ease-of-use, reliability and even costs. Once you have narrowed down the list of companies you want to work with, give them a call and discuss your specific needs. Then, go over your findings with your builder to ensure the system gets installed and is up and running long before you and your family spend your first night in your new home. And last but not least, don't forget to make a quick call to your insurance agent. Your home's new alarm system should save you money on your homeowner's insurance premiums.

The discounts that an insurance company provides can range from five percent to as much as twenty-five percent off. Once your home security system is installed, you simply show your insurance company the certificate that indicates that a home security system exists.

Any homeowner who is seeking a professional home security system does themselves a disservice if they fail to go with the best home security system company. Therefore, that should be the first goal - to look for a home security company that is rated tops by industry professionals.

In addition, check out the home security company with the Better Business Bureau, your state licensing agencies and your local police department. Once you have secured a top home security company that checks out with all the agencies, you can move forward to protecting your home.

A top security company will offer basic protection that is highly useful. For example, it can include a master control panel, a keychain remote, window and door sensors, a motion detector, a built-in siren, and window and yard signs. All of these components should be part of any basic home security system. For example, when a homeowner places a yard sign in the front of their house, it lets a potential burglar know that the home is protected.

Another very important aspect of a top home security company is the 24 hour a day protection they offer that occurs seven days a week and 365 days a year. In addition, the company should have more than one command center and these centers should be placed across the United States. For the homeowner, they should have access to two way communications, anywhere within the home.

The importance of a command center cannot be stressed enough. These are the centers that watch your home continuously, so that you can leave it and still feel safe that your home will be safe. If your home alarm system is triggered, a command center will notify the police or other authorities. The result is that assistance will arrive at your home within minutes.

Command centers have contacts to police, fire and medical personnel. A top home security company will provide coverage not only for burglaries and break-ins, but also fire and medical emergencies.

Another important feature of a top home security system is the existence of wireless features. Wireless sensory devices will pick up movement both from outside your home and inside your home. It is important to note that these sensors know the difference between human movement and pet movement. Therefore, there is no reason for you to worry about your pet triggering the alarm. Basic wireless sensors work for standard sized pets. Often there is an upgrade for pets that are larger.

What if there is a power failure in your neighborhood? A top security system will have battery-backup.

Finally, it is not advised to try and install a home security system yourself. It simply does not compare to a professional installed home security system.

In the state of affairs the world is in, it's no wonder that more and more people are installing home security system and there are many that one can choose from that includes the usual numeric pad security system or camera security systems. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should install a home security system:

1. Effectiveness: Home security system currently marketed are a highly effective crime deterrent. When a potential intrude attempts entry into the home an alarm, incredibly piercing and loud, will sound. This is an attempt to scare the would-be thief away. The security system despite frightening the intruder is also meant to get the attention of your neighbors in the hope that will call the police to respond. Many home security systems today come with built-in home monitoring which automatically alerts your police department. Utilizing a camera security system with monitoring allows you to gather irrefutable evidence against the intruder.

2. Home Break-Ins: Surveillance Systems often give you nearly 100% safety when a home break-in would occur. The criminal will usually skip your home when seeing the sign or window logo of the home security or camera security system you have. If they still are bold enough to enter then the police will quickly come.

3. Ease to Use: The home security system of today are incredibly simple to use. You merely have to enter a rather short numerical code that you can use to activate or deactivate your security system. This simple addition relieves the stress you may have of accidentally setting the security system off when leaving or entering the areas to which your home security system is set up to monitor.

4. Rapid Response: when you purchase a home security system, be it a camera security system or not, if it has monitoring then information is instantly transmitted to the police and fire department (depending on which home security system package you purchased) If your home security system comes with monitoring, information is transmitted to the police and even fire department and rescue squad within seconds of the incident. Because everything works via high-powered computer system, the transfer of information is immediate.
5. Customer Service: The companies that provide security system options are highly trained and very professional. They can assist you in every aspect of operating your security system. Most of the time a solutions specialist will come directly to your home to install the home security system for you and then instruct you on its proper use and function.

6. Affordability: With the myriad of benefits that a home security system offers one would think it to be quite expensive. You can have an effective security system installed at a reasonable price, usually for as little as $99 with a small monthly fee to maintain the home security service.
7. Choice: There are an incredible (and still growing) amount of providers for home security systems. Brinks as well as ADT are two of the biggest names in the industry. As far as security systems go they offer tops in quality and service.

8. Insurance: When purchasing a home security system your insurance provider often gives a discount on your insurance premiums. Camera security systems can decrease your premiums even further.

9. Peace of Mind: Nothing else can match the peace of mind you'll feel when you have a home security system helping you to protect your family.

10. Safety: Your family will feel more secure and safe in your home when you have a security system.

No matter the reason why you seek out a home security system it's an important step in securing your family from harm.

The Garza family of Houston, Texas thought their home was secure. They locked their doors. They lived in a good neighborhood. What more home security should they need? But one Friday afternoon they came home to a broken window and a ransacked house. Their TV, other electronics, even the kid's bikes, were gone. "How could this happen in broad daylight?" Asks Ed Garza. "The criminals are getting braver."

Clever Criminals

They aren't only getting braver, they're getting smarter. Criminals watch families closely to learn their habits, when they're home, when they're not. 40% of break-ins occur in the middle of the day while the family is at work or school. Burglars know that during the day there are likely to be fewer people around to keep an eye on the neighborhood, and they can treat homes like candy shops. Night is no longer the common criminal's only time on the job. They prowl at all hours, so your home security system must be ready and in place 24 hours a day.

Security is moving beyond strong locks and a guard dog and requires more vigilant standards. With burglars coming out into the day time and carefully planning their not-so-random attacks, safeguarding your home with a complex system requires you to put as much thought into it as the burglars do.

The basics: strong locks, trimmed back bushes, and nosy neighbors, are a good start, and you should make those the foundation for your home security system. But these days, a home security system requires a comprehensive network of components working together to protect your family from burglaries, fires, and other emergencies.

How a Wired or Wireless Home Security System Works

Wired or wireless, an alarm system does two things: when triggered, it not only lets out a shrill noise to draw attention to your home and scare away the intruder; it also alerts security personnel to the security breach and sends help right away.

There are many kinds of alarm systems. You can choose an alarm home security system that detects motion or an alarm system that detects window breakage or door entry.

Motion Sensor Home Security System

A motion sensor home security system detects unauthorized movement in or around your home. It senses infrared energy given off by a person in a secured area. On many motion sensor home security systems, an alarm is signaled only when the sensor is armed and the viewed energy has the correct temperature, motion, and timing associated with a burglar, thus safeguarding against false alarms. This sophisticated type of system is pet-proof, so Fido or Fluffy won't set off a false alarm, while Bruno the Burglar will be caught in the act.

A Window Break Home Security System

The other kind of alarm home security system is the window break system. Burglars love to break into windows, which, compared to doors, are much less secure. But a window break system detects when the glass is broken or the window is open without authorization, preventing burglars from simply smashing in a window and coming inside. If the Garza family had this sort of alarm system, chances are the burglar would have run away before stealing anything.

This type of home security system reduces the incidence of false alarms and break-ins. Simply affix the sensor to your window and it will safeguard your home.

Benefits of Any Home Security System

When you install a home security system in your home, you will enjoy decreased home insurance rates because insurance companies like knowing you have taken active steps to prevent damage and property loss in your home. Some home security system software also monitors your home and family for protection from fire and health emergencies as well.

A home security system can be a direct line to 911 -- the police, fire department, or ambulance. In the event of a break-in or other sudden emergency while you are home, you can hit the panic button and help will be on the way, thanks to your system.

The benefits of installing a home security system include:

o Permanent, 24-hour surveillance

o "Pet-immune" motion sensor systems available

o Security fits any size home

o Coded security power on/off puts you in control

o Preventive security as well as useful surveillance security

A Wireless Security Camera Home Security System

You have alarms, now how about some extra watchful eyes to guard you? A wireless camera home security system monitors you home with video surveillance that can capture any unsavory activity that can be used in court or used to protect your family from activities that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Benefits of a Wireless Security Camera Home Security System

o Easy to set up

o Cost efficient personal surveillance system

o Transportable, can move from room to room or house to house

o Send signals through walls and floors

A wireless security camera makes video surveillance easy, portable, and cost effective. Have your eyes peeled all the time with a wireless security camera.

Check out all we have in wireless security camera technology.

We also have wired security cameras for more permanent home security system surveillance.

Fire Alarm Home Security System

A system should include security from fires as well as from foe. Fires are a real threat to your home and family. Consider these statistics:

o There were 1,584,500 fires in the United States in 2003

o Fires resulted in 3,925 deaths, 18,125 injuries, and $12.3 billion in damages

o Residential fires represented 25.4% of all fires and 77.4% of structural fires

Fire alarms are a key part of your system. A fire alarm system alerts your family to danger and gets them safely out of the house. The early alert of a fire alarm system can also prevent a fire from actually destroying the structure of your home, protecting not only your loved ones but your house and what's inside. Home fire alarms should be a standard feature of your system.

Home fire alarms belong in every bedroom, plus the hallway, kitchen and den.
At a very low cost, home fire alarms save thousands of lives a year. There's simply no reason for home fire alarms not to be in every security system in America.

Explore our amazing collection of powerful lifesaving fire alarms.

The Power of a Comprehensive Home Security System

This combination of fire alarm, video surveillance, and 24-hour security monitoring will ensure that your home is under the utmost protection of a complex, sophisticated home security system. The Garzas learned their lesson the hard way. Don't wait until it's too late to start fending off burglars- outwit them at their own game by preventing all of their usual tricks. A little thought goes a long way in building a successful system.

Most homes have opted to install security systems now. The increased demand for security systems among house owners of today are because of the multiple benefits they offer. The technology used in home security system is improving each year such that the equipments manage to remain user friendly, but more efficient. All the user has to do is manipulate a few buttons and enter a security password to activate or deactivate the system. When you activate the system using this easy technique, your property comes under guard of a 24x7 security center that supervises over all aspects of the security system. When an alarm is triggered, a team of security people is sent from the center nearest to your locality to assist you. You could also program your security system to alert the local police station or other authorities in case of emergencies.

The advantages of these systems are obvious. When you have an alarm system in place that sounds a warning when there's a break-in, you're sure to have peace of mind regarding the security aspect of your house. These home security system have various advanced devices that help in exposing infringements. Think of this as a watchdog that keeps vigil long after the inmates have retired to bed or when the house is unoccupied. These wonder devices are not just a great help during burglaries; they also ward off would be thieves who usually avoid getting into properties that have the protective shield of a security system.

It's not just your property that's protected with the help of home security systems. Advancements in technology used for home security have enabled protection from fire hazards, detection of smoke and a vigil on various other dangers. Just like in a burglary where the security system alerts the police, in case of a fire, the system sends a message to the fire department and sends them to your place.

In the past and even now, some people have relied on firearms for home security if they knew how to handle them. However, there are many problems with using firearms and other traditional systems; these are overcome by modern security devices. You're sure to get better deals from home insurance companies and get a better resale value for your property when you use these home security devices. So if you belong to the class of people who consider the home their castle, you should think of ways to bolster your security using latest security systems.e that sounds a warning when there's a break-in, you're sure to have peace of mind regarding the security aspect of your house. These home security systems have various advanced devices that help in exposing infringements. Think of this as a watchdog that keeps vigil long after the inmates have retired to bed or when the house is unoccupied. These wonder devices are not just a great help during burglaries; they also ward off would be thieves who usually avoid getting into properties that have the protective shield of a security system.

It's not just your property that's protected with the help of home security system. Advancements in technology used for home security have enabled protection from fire hazards, detection of smoke and a vigil on various other dangers. Just like in a burglary where the security system alerts the police, in case of a fire, the system sends a message to the fire department and sends them to your place.

In the past and even now, some people have relied on firearms for home security if they knew how to handle them. However, there are many problems with using firearms and other traditional systems; these are overcome by modern security devices. You're sure to get better deals from home insurance companies and get a better resale value for your property when you use these home security devices. So if you belong to the class of people who consider the home their castle, you should think of ways to bolster your security using latest security systems.

What is the best home security system for you? This should be the first question on your mind whether you are building or buying a new house for you and your family. You will need only the best home security system to protect your loved ones as well as your valuables. But there are so many options out there that it can leave you rather confused about picking out the best home security system. To make it easier for you to pick out the best home security system, narrow it down to looking at the features of a hard-wired system and a wireless system.

The Hard-Wired System

This may be the best home security system for you if whatever is described here will suit your lifestyle and your needs. A hard-wired setup will usually be best installed while you are building your house so that you can install all the needed cables ahead of time. This will save you the time and energy of drilling holes into your walls and ceiling later on just to install the best home security system. Many of the components for use with this type of system are also much cheaper, which perhaps makes it the best home security system for you and for your pocket. But the problem is that you may be spending more on maintenance costs later along the line. This is probably the only reason why this will not be the best home security system for you. The great thing about hard-wired components is that no matter how far you need to place any cameras or microphones, you won't have to worry about any transceiver signals getting weak since they run through the wires. Wireless components must be placed depending on signal strength between the mother console and the cameras themselves. This makes the hard-wired system the best home security system for this aspect alone.

The Wireless System

Your other option for the best home security system is to go wireless. A wireless system has a lot to offer and one of the reasons it is the best home security system is that it can be installed whether or not you are building a house or moving into an older one. This means that you do not have too many chores to do when it comes to drilling holes and running cables through your house since there are none. The other reason it could be the best home security system for you is that it may be an expensive investment but overall maintenance costs down the line are very cheap. In fact, you will only probably have to worry about maintaining the power sources for any cameras, microphones, or motion detection devices that you will set up in your house. The one feature that really sets this apart as the best home security system is that since it is wireless, you can set up this system to work on a WIFI network. This means that you will be able to monitor your house from any location as long as you are on the Internet.

By narrowing your choices down to wireless or hard-cabled systems, you can now choose the best home security system for you and your house. After all, you only deserve the best home security system to protect the things that you value the most.

For the Homebody

For the people who spend a lot of their time at home and don't travel much, there are a few options to consider for the best home security system. This includes an alarm, which can either be silent or not. The silent option is more suitable to get the police to your home before the burglar realizes an alarm was triggered. Another item to include in the best home security system is an electronic door lock that allows only those who know the combination to activate or deactivate the alarm. This is especially helpful when installed in entrances. Those who do not know the combination will more than likely be intruders. If there are wireless cameras installed in this type of best home security system, there is the option of installing monitors as well. These monitors can be set up in a den or bedroom and will show live feeds of what the cameras are "looking at". For the homebody this is perfect for round the clock observation of the house and family.

For the Traveler

There are also some best home security options for people who travel a lot throughout the year. Of course, their houses must be protected or there must be some kind of security system to help in the capture of any intruders in the house. Motion detection devices hooked up to silent alarms are very essential in this type of situation. This best home security system will set off an alarm that can be used to alert the police (with the right technical adjustment and permissions from authorities) but it will not let the robber know that it has been triggered.

You can also set it up so you can let a trusted neighbor or friend know that something is going on in the house. This will alert your friend that there is someone other than you inside the house and he or she can call the police. Nothing is more essential than to have a camera recording all the events in your house. Since wireless camera power sources are not reliable, you might want to consider cabled cameras that can get their power off of the local electricity in the house. This is the best home security system and you can have the camera record all the activities in the house while you are away. It is best to hook it up to a computer system that has a large storage capacity. The other option is to have the camera record activities at certain times of the day or night.

Know what kind of person you are and how much time you spend at home. This will help you to determine the best home security system that can protect you, your loved ones and the valuable items that you have in your house.

Choosing the right home security system can be overwhelming task, especially if you not acquainted with the basics. However, you'll need to first check that the general security of your home is taken care of, and then consider the situation of your house and the crime statistics in your local area. A burglar alarm can either be a necessity or provide an additional safeguard and peace of mind, knowing that you have done your best to ensure the protection of your home and family.

How Much Security do I Need?

Security systems should be designed to give you a combination of parameter and interior protection which can include door and window sensors, glass break coverage, motion detectors, and fire protection. Based on the features of the property being protected, add-on protection can be installed to meet specific property needs.

If you are an inexperienced security system user, it may be valuable to consider your need for a security camera system.

Types of Systems

Hard Wire - Nowadays, security systems have become more important than ever before. Protecting assets and ensuring privacy has become of paramount importance for homeowners. Today's technology offers a lot of flexibility when it comes to alarm systems, allowing everyone access to this basic form of protection.

Wireless - Wireless home security systems are gaining popularity, as people want to do away with complicated and confusing wiring operations. In these wireless systems, battery operated control panels use existing radio wave frequencies to allow for easier operation and maintenance of the alarm system. Moreover, these days, intruder alarms are being adapted to accommodate apartments as well as private homes.

Detection

Most alarm systems have at least two types of detection devices. The most commonly used ones are:-

Magnetic Contacts - Magnetic contacts consist of a magnet fitted to the opening part of a door or window and a switch fitted to the frame. When the two parts are separated (the door or window is opened), the alarm is activated.

Passive Infra-red Receivers - Commonly referred to as PIRs, Passive Infra-red Receivers are generally fitted into the corner of a room and look for changes in temperature, such as an intruder's body heat.

Monitored Home Security Systems

Actual components and services usually vary in different companies, but here is an overview of the components and services you can expect to get from a home security system.

Command Stations: Various service providers refer to the command station by different names, e.g. Great Alarms calls it a "command station", ADT refers to it as a "touchpad", and Brinks calls it a "keypad". From this command point, the system can be armed or disarmed, help can be summoned, and warnings can be given to others in the house by means of a device such as a whistle, horn, chime or similar item. You can also get more than one station or keypad installed, such as one in the living area and one in the bedroom.

Door & Window Sensors: In terms of functionality and ease of use, door and window sensors are simple devices, but when you purchase them one at a time, their cost can add up to a significant amount. Home security companies and other vendors earn their money by providing monthly monitoring services; these companies purchase items like these in bulk, and at wholesale prices that are much lower than the price offered to the general population. As such, it is often more sensible to purchase a package installation, as opposed to buying individual components, one at a time.

Motion Detectors: Motion detectors can be used to sense an intruder's presence and activate alarms or summon help.

Remote Controls: In addition to the command station, keypad, or touchpad, many systems include a remote device which you may carry with you. These range from small units suitable to be carried on a keychain to larger units intended to be carried within your house.

Sensors: There are sensors available to detect fire, heat, moisture, carbon monoxide, breaking glass and flex.

Alarms & Other Warning Devices: The old familiar "alarm" has almost become a passé. You can get chimes, sirens, and even strobe lights to warn you of break-ins or other emergencies.

Security Cameras: Security cameras are not a standard inclusion in domestic security systems that belong to the average-price segment. They are, however, available as an add-on security option.

Alarm Company Vetting and Alarms Administration

There are some unscrupulous alarm companies, which may tell you they are police approved or that the police will respond automatically when the alarm is activated. Beware of such stories, and always check with your local police station and obtain at least three competitive quotations before investing in a home security system. If contacted by telephone, never disclose details of your security arrangements. Ensure that the installed alarm is fitted and maintained to British Standard specifications. The standards you should look for are: BS4737 for wired alarms and BS6799 for wireless alarms. Companies should offer a 24-hour service along with a guaranteed 4 hour response to emergency call-outs.

The most common of security systems is the traditional "bells only" system. When professionally fitted, these cost around £500 plus another £65 per year for a maintenance contract.

The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) suggests that householders use a professional alarm installation company registered with a police recognised "alarm inspectorate." Ask for your security company's registration documents, and look for the following accreditation:

NSI (National Security Inspectorate)

NACOSS (National Approval Council for Security Systems)

ICON (an approval scheme run by NSI)

SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board)

The association also suggests that householders only speak to installers that offer a free survey and written quotation without obligation, and turn away companies that try to shock them with stories or statistics about burglary. Burglaries are less common than most people think and violent attacks on people in their houses are extremely rare. You should consider reporting any companies that use shock tactics to your local police or trading standards.

In a study published in the Journal of Economic and Social Measurement, Dr. Yochanan Shachmurove, Dr. Gideon Fishman and Dr. Simon Hakim studied the motivating factors behind a burglar's decision to rob one home over another. Their findings indicated that isolation and occupancy were the two major considerations.

The study indicated that while you are reclining in your lazy chair and flipping through 100 channels of Cable TV (and still finding nothing to watch) you can rest easy. Ok, the study did not read quite that way - but it does tell us that burglars rarely target homes with occupants in residence.

Homes that are more frequently targeted tend to be secluded or isolated. Keep in mind that this definition encompasses homes with an entrance that is not visible from the street, due to foliage or other visual obstructions. The ideal 'pigeon' for a thief is an expensive home that is detached with no security measures and is located less than a mile from a major highway or road.

The study also revealed that the third most important factor is highly visible security measures. Deadbolt locks can't be seen so they did not deter burglars. However, advertising the fact that your home is protected by a security system was a major deterrent. The professors found that if a house is protected by an alarm system, the chances of a burglar's choosing it are virtually zero. Those are pretty great odds!

In the study's conclusion, the professors determined that homes without security systems were 3.5 times more likely to be burglarized than those with protection. If a thief does victimize a home with a security system, they spend far less time in the house during the robbery and therefore remove fewer pieces of property.

This research and similar studies have led insurance companies, such as State Farm, to advise their clients to install home security systems. In fact, many times homeowners with alarm systems will receive an incentive in premiums. The National Crime Prevention Council in Washington, D.C. has also endorsed security systems as a deterrent to crime.

A home security system can range in cost from less than fifty dollars to upwards of tens of thousands of dollars. Sometimes you can actually get a system for free, when you sign a contract with a monitoring company. You can also opt for a wireless system, which is quite easy to install. In fact, these systems typically fall under the "do it yourself" category. But before you decide to tackle that particular project, you need to be armed with a working knowledge of all your security system options. No pun intended!

First, there are two basic types of systems. One option sounds an alarm and turns on various lights throughout the home. The other offers those features, but is also connected to a monitoring company twenty-four hours a day. With this system, an employee at the monitoring company automatically calls the police for you, when the alarm is tripped. These systems not only protect against intruders, but can also be hooked up to fire alarms and carbon monoxide protectors.

You may also want to consider a system that provides you with the option to place "panic buttons" throughout your home. These are particularly valuable, for those with a medically fragile family member.

The most expensive systems have surveillance cameras placed at checkpoints throughout your property. You can actually monitor your home yourself from any location, by connecting to a closed circuit program on your laptop.

Detectors can be found not only on doors and windows, but also underneath rugs and in every room in the house. When a detector is tripped, the homeowner checks his control panel to see exactly where the disturbance is occurring.

If there is no danger, the homeowner can opt to cancel the phone call to the monitoring company, or shut down the alarm by entering a pass code on the control center. To avoid sending false alarms, family members should be taught how to use the password system. If the system is not halted, the monitoring company phones the police and they are dispatched to your home.

Now how do you translate all this information into practical applications, when it comes to actually keeping your home from being burglarized? Let's summarize:

Put a sign up in your front yard advertising your system. Decals on the windows are not as effective.

Buy a system that sounds an alarm.

Invest in a system that provides protection against fire and carbon monoxide. One smoke detector in your kitchen is not as effective as a series of smoke and heat detectors placed strategically throughout your home. If your house catches fire when you are not at home, your monitoring company alerts the police immediately.

Monitoring companies are very valuable in emergencies, but you will also need to educate family members and household guests to maximize the benefits of your system.

If your house is secluded or in the country, your best defense is a system connected to a monitoring company. A sounding alarm may not offer enough protection.

Burglars may cut the outside telephone wires before they enter a house. If you don't have a cell phone, you won't be able to call the police and your system won't be able to call the monitoring company. So consider adding a second phone line.

Cut any foliage hiding doors and windows. Burglars deliberately pick houses that they can enter without detection from the street.

Join a Neighborhood Watch group or start one yourself.

Home security systems vary depending on their features and the technology they use. They can also differ depending on which part of the house they will be installed. There are versions of home security equipment that are either wired or wireless, have motion detectors, and those that provide indoor security for outdoor perimeter protection.

To some home owners, simple and not complicated security devices work best. The effectiveness of a security system is not always dependent on how advanced it is when it comes to technology.

Several factors need to be considered: such as security conditions of the area where you live in, the size of your home, your family's daily activities and a lot more. The following systems are considered as the most preferred security solutions in the market.

Total Wireless Home Security Solution

Systems for security focus on keeping a window or a door in such a way to prevent intrusions. In these modern times, a holistic approach has been taken by a lot of security companies to ensure total home security.

Devices providing complete home security are usually wireless. Systems offering total wireless security are, not just limited to detecting intrusions but, also programmed to monitor flood and temperature.

These security systems include a security alarm kit which includes a control panel, motion sensors for the door and windows, and an emergency dialer. This makes it a convenient investment for home owners since everything is included in one purchase. They need not separately buy a window or door lock or a sensor, a security control panel and other home system device for protection. This is indeed a total solution to home security since there are varieties that offer a control panel which can detect more than 24 motion sensors.

Security Cameras for Home Use

Security cameras for the home have evolved since they were first launched. Nowadays, a home security camera can be under a wired or wireless format. The newest development on these security cameras is the internet enabled feature.

This internet capability allows you to connect your home camera to the internet so that you can view it anywhere you are in the world. These types of camera are relatively small and light and can be installed in any part of your house without being visible to intruders. By watching the camera feed on your computer you can easily spot intruders without their knowledge and immediately call the police department.

Window and Door Security System

Windows and doors are common points of entry for intruders. This has led to the development of several very effective types of window and door security systems.

The most common window and door protection ranges from dead bolts, motion detection system, wireless alarm systems and glass lamination. This is a very popular choice since it is not as expensive but can still provide basic security protection. This is best for areas where common intrusion cases are done through the windows or doors.

Home security systems are great tools for your family's protection. Investing in these systems will ensure that your property is out of the intruders list of targets.

They are also very affordable.

Here are the top 5 reasons why residential security systems should be integrated into all homes.

They..

1. Save lives.

2. Protect our homes and families.

3. Provide piece of mind.

4. Minimize damage to personal property.

5. Reduce insurance premiums.

1. They Save Lives

If in the middle of the night a fire broke out, or a room filled with smoke, or there was a carbon monoxide leak, would your family be safe?

Would they make it out of the house in time?

It's a scary thought, I know but...

Due to recent advances in technology, residential security systems now offer improved safety features.

These safety features ensure that in the event of an environmental threat, people are safe, and that they make it out of the house in time.

Today, the best home security systems offer life saving protection when it comes to home environmental needs.

They include...

* Fire detectors to safeguard against the possibility of a fire.

* Smoke detectors to warn against the threat of smoke inhalation.

* Carbon monoxide sniffers to detect the presence of a poisonous carbon monoxide gas leak.

Residential security systems can detect a threat in the home environment, initiate the siren to inform the occupants of the house, and send a priority signal to the alarm company central monitoring station.

Depending on the setup, certain systems can even dial the local authorities directly.

Now, that's a comforting thought!

2. They Protect Our Homes and Families

Is your home protected against a break-in or a burglary?

What can you do to discourage unwanted intruders?

Crimes against homes and families are ever present. Just watch the evening news or read your local newspaper and you'll see that this is true.

These crimes can range anywhere for quick break-ins, to aggressive burglaries, to violent home invasions.

FBI statistics reveal that law enforcement agencies in 2005 reported an estimated 2,154,126 burglary offenses-a 0.5-percent increase compared with 2004 data.

Good residential security systems incorporate protection for the confined area (the inside of the home).

This can range from window latches and bars, to door locks, to sensors that detect the opening of a door and window, to sensors that detect the breaking of glass.

If burglars were to enter the confined area, motion sensors would detect their movement. Advanced systems now offer sensors that can distinguish between human and animal movement for those homeowners who have pets.

To further protect our homes and families, residential security systems can include...

* Security cameras.

* CCTV (closed circuit television) cameras.

* Internet cameras.

* Remote monitoring.

The most basic way to protect your home and loved ones is to discourage break-ins before they occur.

The best way to do this is through yard security signs and window security stickers.

Surveys have shown that over 90% of seasoned burglars avoided homes that displayed security decals.

3. They Provide Piece of Mind

Do you know what's happening in your home when you're not there?

Is your mind at ease?

Thanks to the Internet, you can now monitor the activity in your home remotely.

Like say from the office or from your hotel room when you're on vacation. Computer software and cameras allow you to see exactly what going on at home regardless of where you are.

Certain setups even allow you to manipulate and command the security system through the Internet.

Nanny cams for example, allow you to see exactly what the babysitter is doing (or not doing).

4. They Minimize Damage to Personal Property

Residential security systems can even include water sensors. These sensors detect the presence of rising water in the event of a broken pipe or sewer backup.

Caught early on by the sensor, it can immediately notify both the monitoring company and the homeowner that water damage is occurring in the home.

The water can turned off sooner, thus minimizing the damage to the home.

Depending on the setup, certain systems can even dial the local authorities directly.

The same applies in the event of fire or any other environmental hazard. Caught early on, the damage to the home can be minimized.

5. They Reduce Insurance Premiums

Residential security systems that include a central monitored alarm system can actually lower your yearly insurance premiums by 10% - 20%.

Most insurance companies regard the installation of an alarm system an excellent step in home security.

The industry wide average is about a 15% reduction in insurance premiums.

Yes We Need Them

The best home security systems provide more than just security. They provide protection and safety on many levels.

They also provide us with an overall piece of mind knowing that we are well protected.

Aside from being a necessity, the 5 points mentioned above are all excellent reasons to consider getting a residential security system for your home.

In the state of affairs the world is in, it's no wonder that more and more people are installing home security systems and there are many that one can choose from that includes the usual numeric pad security system or camera security systems. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should install a home security system:

1. Effectiveness: Home security systems currently marketed are a highly effective crime deterrent. When a potential intrude attempts entry into the home an alarm, incredibly piercing and loud, will sound. This is an attempt to scare the would-be thief away. The security system despite frightening the intruder is also meant to get the attention of your neighbors in the hope that will call the police to respond. Many home security systems today come with built-in home monitoring which automatically alerts your police department. Utilizing a camera security system with monitoring allows you to gather irrefutable evidence against the intruder.

2. Home Break-Ins: Surveillance Systems often give you nearly 100% safety when a home break-in would occur. The criminal will usually skip your home when seeing the sign or window logo of the home security or camera security system you have. If they still are bold enough to enter then the police will quickly come.

3. Ease to Use: The home security systems of today are incredibly simple to use. You merely have to enter a rather short numerical code that you can use to activate or deactivate your security system. This simple addition relieves the stress you may have of accidentally setting the security system off when leaving or entering the areas to which your home security system is set up to monitor.

4. Rapid Response: when you purchase a home security system, be it a camera security system or not, if it has monitoring then information is instantly transmitted to the police and fire department (depending on which home security system package you purchased) If your home security system comes with monitoring, information is transmitted to the police and even fire department and rescue squad within seconds of the incident. Because everything works via high-powered computer system, the transfer of information is immediate.

5. Customer Service: The companies that provide security system options are highly trained and very professional. They can assist you in every aspect of operating your security system. Most of the time a solutions specialist will come directly to your home to install the home security system for you and then instruct you on its proper use and function.

6. Affordability: With the myriad of benefits that a home security system offers one would think it to be quite expensive. You can have an effective security system installed at a reasonable price, usually for as little as $99 with a small monthly fee to maintain the home security service.

7. Choice: There are an incredible (and still growing) amount of providers for home security systems. Brinks as well as ADT are two of the biggest names in the industry. As far as security systems go they offer tops in quality and service.

8. Insurance: When purchasing a home security system your insurance provider often gives a discount on your insurance premiums. Camera security systems can decrease your premiums even further.

9. Peace of Mind: Nothing else can match the peace of mind you'll feel when you have a home security system helping you to protect your family.

10. Safety: Your family will feel more secure and safe in your home when you have a security system.

No matter the reason why you seek out a home security system it's an important step in securing your family from harm.

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Wireless vs. Hardwired

This isn't only a cosmetic choice, as most people think; it can actually affect the reliability of the home security system. Hardwired home security systems are known to be more reliable than wireless home security systems and a general opinion has formed in this sense, although as of the last few years, wireless technology caught up with its hardwired counterpart in what regards safety and reliability. So if you're opting for a modern home security system, remember that their performance is very close and you should focus on other factors when making the decision between the two.

One of the most important factors that will come into play when choosing between a wireless and a hardwired home security system is price. The price will vary heavily depending on the state of your house when you decide to install the home security system. You see, hardwired home security systems are a lot harder to install in a house that is finished than in one that is under construction. Installing a hardwired home security system in a finished house will require a lot more work to get the cables throughout the house, reaching every control panel, keypad, alarm or camera. In this case, it will be cheaper and more convenient to get a wireless home security system. However, if the house is not fully finished yet and the drywall is not applied, a hardwired home security system will be a lot cheaper. Take note that the maintenance or the addition of new security zones is a lot harder and more costly for hardwired systems.

Protect the essential areas

Oftentimes, a full home security system that will cover every single window, backdoor, and zone of your household can be pretty expensive and you might not have the budget for the full treat. Instead, you can choose to protect the essential areas of your house. To figure what these parts are, try putting yourself in the burglar's shoes and see what the most vulnerable parts of your home are. Enforce the backdoors if they're weaker or protect your windows with burglar alarms and/or security cameras, just make sure that there won't be any more "vulnerable" spots in your household after you're done installing the home security system.

Obviously, the choice will be heavily influenced by other factors such as your budget, the size and structure of your household, the type of neighborhood you're living in and so forth. Still, the above mentioned tips should help you choose the right home security system, regardless of these factors.