Best Time for
a Security System - by Carla Base
When is the best time to install a good home security
system?
The best time
to install a solid home security system is before a break-in or home invasion.
Since we do not ever know just when that could be, we can look for signs of
things to come. If you notice that others have doors or windows on the trash
heap, bent and broken, pay attention. If you see in the newspaper or hear from
a neighbor that another was vandalized or something was stolen from their yard,
tool shed or garage, beware. If you heard of a burglary, perk up your ears.
Sadly, thieves often come from our very own neighborhoods. They can come on
foot easily this way and escape back into their homes unnoticed or dissolve
into the neighborhood because they do belong. They know the complete layout of
their own home and its shortcomings. They know the materials of the homes in
the area. Some whole neighborhoods built in the 1940's had hollow
"panel" doors that are easily kicked in and then access is from that
panel by reaching up to the knob. Knowing this helps you to prepare your home
from these types of systematic thieves who can quickly sweep up an area with
the same methods that will work for them. Always have a set of doors, never any
exposed doors. Your front doors should be a storm door that has its own
deadbolt and a break proof material fot the window. Then the inner door should
also have its own deadbolt. This means the frame needs to be strong to begin
with and hardware needs to be installed to ensure it is. Springtime is a time
when many people are coming outside and enjoying sitting outdoors, doing
gardening and doors can be forgotten for just a moment long enough to invite
thieves. Carry a key with you in your pocket even if you step out a second. Pin
it into your pocket if you will be active; walking, getting out the trash can
or getting in the mail, doing the gardening or cutting the grass, talking with
neighbors etc. Have the types of doors that lock when you exit automatically by
shutting and locking. Z-wave locks are another alternative. With these, you can
use a remote control and lock or unlock a door. These are also great for
invalids or elderly who don't want to get up, walk over and open a door for a
caregiver. They can simply open it and simply lock it again, QUICKLY.Spring sees an
uptick in sales people flooding the market for security systems sales. They
know that people will be outside more to speak with, thinking of vacations
later, planning on getting their system finally and they do very well come
spring generally. But remember, waiting until then is not so good. The time to
get one is when you need one. If you do not have one and plan on one day
getting one, investigate it, then choose one. Don't wait for a
"special" because they are all fake. Avoid
"packages" and "free" anything. Fake.Stay away from
set amounts. Until you have a good check of the home, you won't truly know.
Customized systems accurately protect your home, package deals do not. You may
have a safe, a collection or a special room housing things such as jewelry,
collectibles or other items you wish to secure. These deserve special
attention. Mention it to the professional that you want this "beefed
up" and make sure to consider getting some cameras because it is the cameras
that catch the criinals by identifying them. You can let people know you have
an alarm system or not. It is up to you. Don't be lulled into thinking that
everyone needs to do the exact same thing. Ask your
professional where he or she plans on placing the panel that controls the
alarm. Remember you do not want a thief to enter a door or window and be able
to disarm a panel. Be sure they must first pass through the motion sensors as
well as glass break sensor areas before ever reaching a panel. Observe. Many
national brands don't consider these basics of security professionals at all!
You can see them right inside front and back doors! National systems often have
a bevy of people who have worked for their vast organization and can disarm
them or know what brand is used. The cheaper brands do not last long. This is
clearly to their advantage, whereas for the private company, the longer that
panel lasts, the longer their customer is totally satisfied. Spring is fine, if
that is before the thief arrives. Summer is fine too. The only reason spring or
summer could be nicer is to install cameras outside. But remember, it will cost
the same in any season. The best season is simply before a burglary. Like the Bible says, if you knew when the
thief was coming, you'd have been prepared.