Security Tips
They're Not Just For
Break-Ins Any More
When most people think about whether or not they should get a security system
for their new home they think about break-ins. However many of today's systems
can protect your home from fire, carbon monoxide and even medical emergencies.
In fact, many insurance companies know how valuable having an alarm can be
since some offer up to 20% discounts on homeowners insurance for homes with a
security system.
And for good reason. Homes with a security system are three times less likely
to be burglarized1 and nine out of ten convicted burglars agree
they'd avoid a home protected by an alarm system.2
But what if you're moving to a "safe" neighborhood? Do you really
need a security system?
The fact is, one out of every five homes will have a burglary, fire, or carbon
monoxide poisoning over the next six years.123 Fortunately today's
advanced systems can help protect you from all of these dangers plus provide
convenience features to make your life easier. So before you make a decision
about a home security system, think about who and what you want to protect.
Check out the following options now offered by some of the top security firms
in the country:
24-Hour-Monitoring
Systems that are
monitored by trained professionals not only sound an alarm, but also enable the
security company to call the police, fire department or ambulance in an
emergency – even if you're not home or can't get to the phone.
Theft Protection
Most basic monitored systems feature door and window sensors, sounders, motion
detectors and signs to deter criminals. More advanced systems feature glass
break detectors that can help add even more protection.
Cellular Back Up
For extra security, a cellular back up unit can be installed that will keep the
system connected to the monitoring center if your phone line is cut or your
service is out.
Smoke and Fire Detection
Every 24 hours, 20 people die by fire in their homes.6 Monitored
detectors can sound an alarm to alert you and your family and send a signal to
a monitoring center where a trained professional can call the fire department
if you're away or unable to get to the phone.
Carbon Monoxide Detection
Each year 1,800 people die and 10,000 people are hospitalized from exposure to
this odorless, colorless gas.4 A monitored senor can detect this
dangerous gas, sound an alarm, and send a signal to the monitoring center where
a professional can call for help if you are unconscious.
Temperature Control Monitoring
Worried about your water pipes freezing? Sensors can alert both you and the
monitoring center to low temperatures to help protect your home from damage
caused by frozen and bursting pipes.
Flood Detection
Rising water in your home will trigger sensors that can alert both you and the
monitoring center to broken water pipes or an overflowing washer.
Medical Emergency Pendant
This easy-to-use, lightweight device is ideal for seniors living alone who want
to feel safe and keep their independence. That's important for you to know when
you consider that one out of every three homes will have a medical emergency
this year.7 If something happens, a simple touch of a button alerts
the monitoring center where a trained professional can call for help.
Video Intercom
Better than a peephole, this one-button door sentry system can let you see and
hear who is at your door from anywhere in your home.
Keychain Remote Control
Don't like to punch in passcodes? A wireless remote control small enough to put
on your key ring can let you turn your system on or off or even let you turn on
the lights in your home with the touch of a single button. Some systems also
let you operate your system via touchtone phone from almost anywhere in the
world.
Lighting Control
Lamp modules can be programmed to turn on your lights when your system detects
fire or an intruder, or when activated by the keypad or a remote control.
Paging
Some systems can be programmed to page you when your kids come home or alert
you to an emergency condition in your house.
Special Access
Allows service or repair people to enter specific areas of your home while
keeping the system armed in the rest of the house.
References: