Home Security Systems: Then and Today
Remembering if you have properly secured your house when you leave is a very real human concern that affects almost every adult. Have you taken care of the essentials, such as ensuring all the doors and windows are closed, that the keys are safely stored, and that the garage door is securely shut? Or, like the 36 million homeowners in the United States, did you make the decision early on that installing sensors, CCTV, and doorbell cameras in your home is an absolute must if you want to lead a safer home life?
Keeping our home secure is an instinct that runs deep in the human psyche. In ancient times, people used moats, drawbridges, and even mirrors to keep their abodes safe. In 1853, the first burglar alarm was developed using magnets that rang a bell to detect when a door or window was opened.
Of course, human factors are not the only ones that put homes and people at risk. Acts of nature such as fires, floods, and other environmental hazards pose risks to our homes as well.
Thanks to technology, reliable and proactive home safety equipment is within our grasp. Continuing innovation has brought us today where we can enjoy better, more accessible, and more adaptable home security protection than ever before.
Home Security Systems Worth Your Investment
A quick search of the keyword “home security” on Amazon.com will instantly yield thousands of results. Doing the same on Google will have the same end, with choices that range in all forms, sizes, and functions. If you have the money and the desire to protect your home, it can be done with a click.
Despite the accessibility of reliable home security devices, only 36 million out of 127.59 million households in the United States have home security devices and systems. If you are still wondering whether you should invest in home security devices, here are some common security devices and what they can do to protect your home, your loved ones, and your well-being.
Windows
In a study conducted by the University of California, burglars are reported to have entered homes through open doors or windows by forcibly opening them. Other studies likewise reveal that burglars say that a window is the easiest way to enter a house. However, entering a home through a window can also cause a lot of noise. A homeowner can prevent their windows from being an attractive point of entry by planting bushes beneath them, making sure that the locks are strong, and the curtains are closed to prevent burglars from assessing if the house can be a target.
Studies also mentioned that if a burglar finds your windows secured, they think that you have other security measures implemented around the house and drop your house from the list of easy targets. Window bars are also very common but can also be a hazard when it comes to environmental dangers like fire.
Doors
Similar to windows, doors are a point of protection, but they can also become vulnerable to unwanted intruders. Following are ideas for securing your doors.
Door Reinforcements
You might think a lock in a door is all you need to ensure your safety, but a proper kick can easily break that illusion. Luckily, a simple door reinforcement can double the strength of your door, and hopefully, burglars will think twice if it's worth it to put in all that effort. If you live in an apartment, it is worth considering changing your lock as most landlords will probably use cheaper, regular ones. It is also worth investing in higher-end locks you can install in your bedroom just in case a burglar successfully enters your house. This will allow you a safer space where you can be on standby to call the police for help.
Door Jams
They may look simple, but these cost-effective (under $20) reinforcements can save your life. In a worst-case scenario, a burglar may attempt to enter a home while someone is still inside. This can result in a physical altercation and might cause harm and can even put someone’s life in danger. A simple door jam can help you buy precious time to run away or even deter a burglar from forcing your door open.
Peephole and Doorbell
A peephole or doorbell can be paired with other door reinforcements and security. Some burglars will often knock on doors to check if there are people or dogs inside before they attempt to break in. A peephole can give you an advantage by allowing you to see who is knocking on your door and the situation you might face once you open it.
Advanced doorbells allow two-way communication which can be a deterrent, depending on the situation. A two-way communication doorbell can let a burglar know there is a person or people in the house and can allow you to talk them out of what they might do. Most also come with surveillance cameras that capture images of the visitor or the burglar.
Home Safe
A home safe is not just for storage. It is also burglar-proof protection for your valuables in case someone does get in. It is best to keep home safes that are attached to your house through the concrete to give burglars a hard time in detaching and opening them. Home safes are not easily opened, and forcing them would create a lot of noise. Additionally, no burglar will want to walk the streets carrying a safe as it will be an instant cause of suspicion.
Environmental Sensors
Of course, humans are not the only ones that pose risks. Environmental factors can also become serious threats. Home security devices that are under this category include heat, smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors. These sensors detect dangerous levels of fire and smoke and alert the inhabitants to evacuate the location.
House Surroundings
Just as it is important to secure the inside of your house, you should also take measures to install security features on the outside of your home.
Solar Motion Sensors
Motion sensors have become more affordable in recent years. Brightness is always a deterrent against burglars who want to avoid getting identified. Install solar motion sensors around the house, especially on the patio and other entry points to deter would-be burglars. Solar motion sensor lights are particularly convenient because they charge themselves and they are often placed outdoors where they are most needed. Additionally, they are independent of the main source of electricity, so in case a burglar decides to cut your lines, a motion detector light can still flood your surroundings with strong light and can help you identify where the unwelcome visitor might be.
Electrical Box
Your electrical box might be the last thing you think that needs protection, but it definitely does need to be secure. Some perpetrators might try to cut the lines in order to keep the house in the dark which benefits them. A motion sensor light as well as a camera could discourage someone from tampering with your wires. You may also consider putting in additional locks to add another layer of protection.
Garage
Statistics show that 34% of burglars enter through open doors, Twenty-three percent use open windows, 22% come in through the back door, and 9% come in through the garage door. Garages are favorites among perpetrators–they are often left open and contain valuable tools. Garages also serve as an access point to other main parts of the house. Keeping your garage door properly closed and secured is as important as keeping your front door closed. Keep it locked and make sure that you also secure your garage door opener; do not leave it outside.
Doorbell Cameras
The rise of online shopping also saw an increase in the frequency of porch thieves. Doorbell cameras not only allow you to see who is knocking on your door but also captures potential break-ins. Some also allow you to monitor your doorstep remotely through your computer or your phone.
Wireless Surveillance
Wireless cameras extend surveillance to other parts of your home. With this kind of device, a strategic location is necessary to maximize its range. This is necessary to capture anyone who might be trying to enter your back door, windows, garages, and other vulnerable spots.
Windows and Door Sensors
Since the majority of burglars break in through windows and doors, sensors can become your first line of defense. They function by blasting loud noises that will not only alert you but can deter perpetrators as well.
Are Home Security Systems Worth It?
Despite criticisms like privacy concerns and prices, home security systems are still very much worth it. While it's true that they cannot totally prevent crimes from happening, they can help in preventing the escalation of break-ins into more serious situations. Additionally, in the event that a crime did take place, they can help in solving them and aid the criminal justice process by providing footage and other available evidence collected through them.
Installing your very first home security device is easy, but if you are ready to upgrade your system, choose a security company that is tested, trusted, and reliable. We're a trusted service provider for both residential and commercial properties. Our cloud-based access control combines intuitive user management and seamless alarm and video integration. So, whenever you feel that it is time for you to get that upgrade to better protect your home or your business, reach out to Alarm Masters.
Conclusion
Despite the clear advantages of home security systems, many people still hesitate to have them. A simple security device can determine the line between life and death in a burglary situation. There are many different types of home security systems depending on the kind and coverage or areas you want to protect. A home security system is a network of devices that work together to give you comprehensive security. Modern devices and setups allow you to remotely monitor your house or immediately call the police. Whether you are a homeowner or a renter, it is always worth it to invest in home security.
