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Wednesday, May 23, 2012

How Effective Are Security Signs At Preventing Burglary?

I am amazed at how often clients ask about home security signs substituting for a security system. Some think that just putting a sign in their yard saying "Property Protected by _____" will stop a burglar from entering their home. In actuality, these signs can be effective but in the majority of cases, they are not. A security sign or sticker does not automatically flip a switch saying, "RUN!" These signs are so common that a burglar may still try to enter the property. They will take their chances that the system is deactivated or non-existent especially when they see things like an open window or door.

Now putting a security sign or sticker is definitely an inexpensive alternative to a security system but it all comes down to the burglar. Results will vary on a case by case basis as some burglars will think before they act. If you have a sign that says you have a security system, there is a good chance that the burglar will move on to the house next door that does not have any indication of protection. However, you never know how dedicated or ignorant a would-be thief can be. The last thing you want is to come home and find a breach of your home.

You should think of a security sign as an extra layer of protection on top of a security system. Many people also think that they are fully protected just because they have a security system. In their mind, they do not need to pay for and install the signs (which most companies will provide free of charge for advertising purposes if you use them). What they fail to realize is that they leave a huge vulnerability in their protection. Even with the system in place, a burglar may still attempt to enter the property because they do not see any indication of a security system.

My suggestion is a combination of a monitored home security company with security signs and stickers posted throughout the property. I would recommend placing them on windows, garage doors, mailboxes and fences. In addition, you should mention to friends and neighbors that you have a home security system as you never know who might attempt to burglarize your home. With this combination, you have the best chance of preventing a burglary or property theft.

Dan Miller

Monday, May 21, 2012

Stop Delaying That New Security System

I have had many people ask me if they should install a home security system over the years. The simple answer to that question is yes. Throughout my time dealing with home security, I have noticed a few main reasons to install that new security system.

The first reason revolves around the idea of peace of mind. One of the biggest concerns that clients have is that they are afraid of property theft and burglars obtaining access to their house and walking away with their prized possessions like that shiny new flat screen they have been bragging about or the cherished diamond engagement ring. After the installation of a quality home security system with monitoring, clients reported feeling more at ease about leaving their home. They know that with home monitoring, their house is protected 24/7. To increase that peace of mind further, a majority of police captains feel that a home security system helps to deter burglars before they even attempt to enter your home. In a country where a burglary occurs every 14 seconds (according to a 2006 FBI report), a little peace of mind can help you relax about going to sleep or leaving for work. Now you can stop sitting around with the shotgun waiting for someone to smash the window in.

My second reason focuses on those occasional medical emergencies. The worst thing to ever hear is that a loved one has fallen down or injured themselves in the home and they could not reach a phone to call for help. I almost had this situation with my father. Luckily, he used his necklace panic button for his security system to call for help. Who knows what could have happened if he did not have his monitoring service to help him. In these situations, there is nothing like knowing you can easily summon help at the push of a button.

My next reason concerns the safety risks of a home. If you have ever worried about having a fire tear through your home or carbon monoxide take control of air your family breathes, you are definitely a candidate for a home security system. With a security system, your detectors can send notice to your monitoring company to call for help. These systems are a great way to ensure that you and your family are safely out of the home. In addition, most states require a home to have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors within a certain range of the kitchen and each bedroom. Battery powered systems typically only alert those within the home that there is a problem and with so many people ignorant about changing the batteries, can you guarantee your detector will alert you? A hard-wired detector from your home security company can help save your family's lives by getting them out in time and calling for help.

My final reason is one that will catch a lot of eyes. The installation of a home security system can help you lower your home insurance premiums up to 20%. That new system can pay for itself just in insurance savings alone. In addition, lenders and those renting out property often require the other party to maintain an active security system to help protect their investment. Wouldn't you want to protect yourself?

Dan Miller