Feeling Safe at Home: A Guide to Improving Home Security
Even though major crime has decreased in most Canadian communities, property theft and damage rates continue to remain stubbornly high. For their personal safety and security, many home owners have installed home security systems. There are many different ways to approach getting a home security system for your home. Cost is a factor, but only one of the many things you should consider when making this important purchase.
Some of those considerations are the type of home security system, which provider you should choose, whether you want to have them install it or do it yourself, and how the system will be monitored, once it is operational. Some of the larger home security companies will sell directly to you, while others use authorized contractors who will sell you the equipment and install it, then turn over the ongoing monitoring to the major company who looks after that service.
If you choose to purchase and install the equipment yourself, they will provide detailed instructions. There are also YouTube videos that will guide you through the process. That can save you money, but it is also work, and a bit technical. If you purchase the full installation package you might also get a good discount on the equipment itself, so it’s better to shop around and do the numbers for yourself.
Monitoring is another question that you will have to make a decision on when choosing your home security system. Some people opt for an alarm only, without monitoring, but that is only good when you are home, or if the intrusion is not a serious or violent one. You can save money, but are you willing to take those risks? A much better option is to sign on for a two or three-year contract that provides direct monitoring with links to local police for back-up. That way you and your family can sleep soundly and safely at night.
There are many different options to choose from when it comes to the particular home security equipment that you would like to have. This might include:
- Motion detectors, which can sense motion or a human presence.
- Smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide detectors
- Panic buttons that can either be mounted or hand-held.
- Closed-circuit TV cameras that can monitor the inside and outside of your home.
- Central control unit with backup battery, keypad and siren.
- Silent alarms to the monitoring station, which contacts the police.
- Magnetic door and window contacts, which sound an alarm when a door or window is opened.
Saving money on home security systems
There are many ways to save money on home security systems. The first starts with getting quotes form the different security companies in your area. There is quite a wide range of services being offered today and you could save a lot of money by taking the time to shop, and look around. If a security company is already active in your neighbourhood, they might offer a special discount since they might be doing regular patrols. That’s worth checking out, too.
Read your contract carefully and watch out for hidden costs or fees. There might be charges and fees for installation, activation, and additional services not specified in the contract. False alarms and careless use of the system might also bring additional charges. Know what it costs to get in and get out of your home security contract. Be cautious as well about anything that is being offered free of charge. Nothing is really free and you don’t want to have a nasty or expensive surprise later on.
Ensure that your contract also includes regular testing and maintenance. The last thing you need is a home security system that you are paying for, that is out of date or not being maintained. Get your money’s worth and a good night’s sleep from your home security system.