There are many options when it comes to home security systems. The rate of home intrusions and break-ins remain high and more and more Australians are looking at installing some form of home security system.

The community in general has less people to watch the neighbourhood as most have either full or part time jobs. Many burglaries take place during regular absences from the home, such as the daily trips to take children to and from school.

To make matters worse, homes without an alarm system are almost three times more likely to be burgled. A skilled burglar only has to watch your house for about a week to know the opportune time for breaking in.

Two basic types of security systems are available – monitored alarm systems and non-monitored systems. The most highly recommended monitored alarm systems are the ones that both set off an audio alarm, alerting the neighbourhood, and automatically notify the alarm monitoring company. The alarm company will then call you and the nearest police station.

The cost of these systems varies depending on the degree of monitoring desired. Some companies install the system for free but require you a contract for two or three years of service. The higher priced services generally include video monitoring from your computer at work and may include smoke, fire and water detection along with other options.

The cost of home monitoring has reduced appreciably in recent times due to more companies providing these services. Researching online can allow you to compare the prices and services available from these companies.

Non-monitored alarm systems, without a monthly fee, range from the simple high pitched alarm that goes off when an entry is breached to lighting systems that turn on in response to motion, and even hidden cameras which record the actions of an intruder. Some of these can be installed by the homeowner, while others need the hand of a professional. As with the monitored systems, prices vary and can range from below $100 to over $1000.

Experts agree that an effective component of nearly any alarm system is simply a sign in the yard or in the window warning would-be burglars that an alarm system is present. While we are not suggesting placing a sign without the system, even a locally installed system that is not monitored can be effective if it comes with a sign.

Things to consider about electronic security alarm systems:

• Have a complete understanding of why you want an electronic security alarm system installed.
• Be clear about what you want the alarm system to do.
• Have a budget in mind. The cheapest is not always the best and remember there can be ongoing costs depending on your requirements. Get the best components for your home security system that you can afford.
• Decide if you want the alarm system monitored or if you want it to activate a siren and strobe at your premises.
• Consult reputable companies and/or security industry associations.
• Obtain several itemised quotes from different suppliers/installers.
• Ensure the system meets Australian Standards.
• In the event of alarm activation, you need to decide who will attend.
• Be aware of false alarm activations.
• Decide if you want the alarm to be audible or silent.
• Ensure the alarm system has a battery back up.
• Investigate whether the system resets itself after a fixed period to minimise annoyance to neighbours.

Home Security System companies:
Chubb Alarm Systems, ADT Security, Signature Security, RAA Security
More Information:
Protect.com has all the info you need about Home Security. Let us keep your loved ones and possessions safe.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 29th, 2008 at 1:00 am and is filed under Home security systems. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.