In a previous article we talked about ways to protect your home. One layer of protection mentioned was to have a monitored security system. There are many reasons for having one, and we will mention just a few in this article.
One is what is known as Life Safety. We all know the basic uses of a security system are to monitor for burglary and fire. While these two items are important, we don’t want to limit their effectiveness to protection of property. “Things” can be replaced. However, with burglary protection, you are discouraging home invasion, which could put your family in danger. With fire protection, you will hopefully have enough warning to get your family to safety in case of a fire. There are other features that security systems offer, and even if these features cost a little more, they are worth it. You can get sensors that monitor for CO2 and heat. If you want to go big, you can have “nanny cams” placed throughout the house to look in on your family while you are at work. With technology continually increasing, the possibilities are limited only to your imagination.
On the same thought, a service not widely discussed is emergency medical response. Most monitored security systems are equipped to call for emergency medical responders with the simple touch of a panic button on the key pad, or on a pendant which is worn. This is especially beneficial for the sick and/or elderly that may be home alone. Depending on the specific features of the system, there may be two way communications between the person having the problem and the monitoring system’s dispatch center. This will help prevent the “Help! I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” moment from being a tragedy.
One aspect that is rarely mentioned is the deterrent factor of a monitored security system. Much like having Security Officers on site deter criminal activity, placing the security sign in your yard and on your doors and windows will deter a would-be criminal from entering your home. But please do not try and just go buy signs and stickers. It’s a neat trick, but you are playing with the lives of your loved ones. It’s not worth it. Just get the system.
There is one other consideration regarding having a monitored security system, if you are worried about the cost. Depending on your insurance company and policy, you can receive a discount on your Home Owners policy of 10 – 15% or more. Again, don’t be cheap; don’t get a system and not get the monitoring. Without the monitoring part, all you have is just a loud noise maker. Monitoring is the key to these discounts.
Let me state at this point, NO security system is infallible. It is only a tool. It is a very useful tool, but none the less, it is only a tool. It is up to you to use it as such.
I hope this helps. Look for the next part in this series on Protecting Your Home.
By: Brian Black of Madison Security Group
