Burglary Prevention
Many homeowners think that burglary prevention is properly attended to by installing a home security system. That's a good beginning, but that's all it is. Depending on your daily routine, as well as how often you travel (leaving the house empty for days at a time), you might want to consider several other things that can help with burglary prevention. Home security systems range from basic to complicated. In general, there are two ways to approach this issue - either create a secure envelop that will not allow people in, or have them trip silent alarms after they enter. Most people prefer to keep intruders out altogether.
A basic system will cost between $100 and $600 dollars depending on where you live and the size of your home. Some companies offer installation at a discounted price if you sign up for 2 or 3 years of the monitoring service. Typically, a system includes a controller, contacts at the exterior doors and windows, motion detectors, and a siren. For additional cost, you can add smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and cameras with remote viewing software that will enable you to check on things while you're away.
You can also alarm specific items such as liquor cabinets, gun cabinets, and medicine cabinets. Monthly monitoring fees range from $20 to $50 depending on the level of service options. A home security system will help offset it's own expense because you can typically save up to 20% on your homeowner's insurance if you install one. Every family uses their home differently. The burglary prevention system that is best for you will be termined by things like: Who lives in the home? Do you have elderly people living there? Do you travel often? Do you have pets? A representative from the alarm company has to visit the house, make an assessment, and recommend the best system for you. Ask questions. Find out what the precise process is when they receive an alarm. Know the procedures and safeguards against false alarms. This can save unnecessary fees if police are dispatched unnecessarily. Make sure that the company you are interviewing, and their products, are certified by a respected independent organization, such as the Underwriters' Laboratories. What kind of backup methods will be in place in the event your phone lines are cut or the power goes out. Lastly, make sure the system you're considering is one that you will use all the time. No home security system is effective if it's not regularly turned on. Beyond a home security system, there are other things you can do for burglary prevention. Here are a few tips: * HOLD THE MAIL - Having your mail pile up is a sure sign that you are away. * THINK LIKE A BURGLAR - Walk your property with someone not too familiar with your house. They might see things you will overlook. Identify the best spots for entry. * LIGHTS - Buy a timer so that lights inside your house go on automatically at night. * LEAVE A FEW DRAPES OPEN - A sealed perimeter is a sign that you are gone. Closed drapes also allow burglars to move around unseen. * ALERT THE ALARM COMPANY - Tell them your return date, and give a phone to reach you. * TELEPHONE - ringer should be lowered & DON'T leave a message saying you're away. * GET HELP - A neighbor can park a car in your driveway so your house looks occupied. Let them know how to reach you while you're away. Consider hiring a house sitter to occupy the house. * LOCK THE SHED AND THE GARAGE - This is where a burglar will find tools and a ladder that can be used to break in. * TRANSFER VALUABLES - Open a safe deposit box.
Having a large, intimidating dog around will be a big help toward burglary prevention. But you have to have someone walk and feed the dog while you're away.
Here are a few more pages: Here is a link to a system you could consider. It allows you to monitor your house while you're away. BeHome 24/7 If you have a question, contact me about burglary prevention here.
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