Halloween’s just around the corner! Are you frightened of a spooky ghost and ghoul invasion at your home?
Small children in costumes asking for candy is actually a pleasant site to many. But thieves and intruders aren’t. Fortunately, you can keep your home and family protected with just one step: Installation of a home security system.
Read on to learn more about why a home security system will immediately boost your home’s security and how you can pick out just the right system for your protective needs.
Why You Need a Home Security System
Not all theft and intruder prevention measures will protect you as a security alarm system will. It is the absolute best way to keep you and your family safe.
With a security system in place, the first thing you’re doing is preventing burglars and would-be thieves. For example, burglars will be deterred from stealing delivered boxes and packages from your front doorstep. Moreover, they’ll be less likely to break in when they think no one’s home or steal something around your home (like a parked car or other vehicles or equipment).
When you are home, and possible intruders and other criminals are a threat, you’ll be kept safe with an alarm system that will initially scare off intruders, or they’ll be immediately caught when alarms blare, and lights flash at their entry. Some systems even contact authorities right away so the assailants can potentially be caught in the act and arrested.
Finally, use an alarm system with a monitoring app to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. You can even have an alarm system protect other properties you own. Make sure investment properties, business buildings, or second homes are safe and secure without even having to visit physically.
Alarm Types
The main difference you’ll encounter with alarm or security systems is how the system is monitored: Centrally by a professional security service or by you, the homeowner.
There are benefits to both types of systems. For example, centrally-monitored systems take care of your security for you. Leave it up to them to monitor your home 24/7 for suspicious activity and breaches in security. It’s a more comprehensive way of securing your home. The drawback is these systems tend to be more expensive.
Self-monitored systems can be beneficial because they offer you freedom and flexibility to monitor your home the way you want to do things. These are also less expensive systems for the most part.
The other main choice you’ll need to make when getting a new security system is between a DYI installed system and a professionally installed system. The latter will certainly be easier on your time and energy, but not as easy on your pocketbook. They may also be more comprehensive. On the other hand, DIY systems are better than ever before, so some of them actually beat professionally-installed systems protection-wise, and they are simple to install.
Other Considerations
Think about these features as well:
- Motion detectors
- Varied alarm sounds and light options
- Video surveillance and ensuing features (HD, zooming, panning, recording, still picture taking, etc.)
- Burglar reporting options (automatically to the authorities or manually by you)
- Wireless (WiFi) options vs. hardwired options
- Home automation features
Part of keeping your home and family safe is having adequate homeowners insurance coverage. Need help finding a plan that meets your security needs? Reis Insurance can help. Stop in to speak with one of our agents today, or give us a call at your convenience.
