How to choose the right home security system
Everyone wants to feel safe in their own home. Unfortunately break ins are a real threat with one in four Queensland home owners reporting break ins that occurred while they were at home last year. Installing a home security system is a great way to minimise the chances of becoming a target. Choosing the right home security system ensures the best chances of your home and family safety. First there are a few things you should consider.
How to determine what kind of coverage you need
Consider the home that you want to secure. Count the number of doors and windows an intruder could crawl through or force open. If you have a two story home with no external access to the windows on the second floor, you may want to only secure entry points on the ground floor.
Take a walk around the outside of your home and consider the easy access points. Try to put yourself in the mind of a burglar planning a break in. Which access point looks the weakest to you and how would you get in? It is also advised to take a walk around your home again at night to see which areas may need extra lighting.
Once you have a clear idea of the access points of your home that need securing, the next step is to decide on the type of security you need. There are many different types of security systems. Knowing the difference between these systems and what they can do is important and could save you money so do your research. A security professional can advise on what systems will be most effective and fit your budget. ANS offers free security consultations for all our clients.
Consider your family routine
If you or your family regularly get up to get a glass of water during the night when the alarm would be switched on this regular activity needs to be taken into consideration when choosing your security system. There are motion sensors available that are sophisticated enough to tell the difference between a human and a pet and if you do get up during the night consider installing additional security system controls in the bedroom to help prevent false alarms.
Another important deciding factor should be usability. A simple, easy to use system will make all the difference in an emergency.
Do a background check
Finding the right security provider is perhaps the most important step of all especially if they will be providing your monitoring service. The company should be fully licensed and registered and all employees should have passed police and background checks. Remember, these employees will be handling your personal details and have access to your home security codes so don't be ashamed to ask.
Asking around for recommendations from your family and friends is another way of finding security providers they may already be using. Ask about their experiences with these providers and listen to their feedback. Asking your insurance company for recommendations can also be helpful as they should have a list of providers they would be happy to recommend.
Before choosing an alarm company, have a chat with them and see if you feel comfortable with them and that they are trustworthy.
