Making sure that your home is safe and secure is your responsibility whether you're a homeowner or a renter. If you haven't installed a home security system yet, let this official data convince you otherwise:
- A home burglary occurs every 13 seconds in the US, according to the FBI.
- More than 2.5 million break-ins are reported across the country each year.
- 1 out of 3 residential assaults result from home burglary.
- 85% of home intrusions are perpetrated by non-professionals who are usually more desperate and dangerous
- Only 17% of homes in the US are equipped with a home security system
Installing alarms, deadbolts and surveillance cameras isn't really overkill if you want to sleep peacefully at night. You have to consider several factors such as an existing security system, the crime incidence in your neighborhood, and your needs and preference. If you're frequently out, you may consider signing up for a security monitoring service, which will enable prompt response from authorities during emergencies.
Here are some tips in choosing the best home security system for renters.
Extra protection for your door and windows
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Do you know that about 70% of break-ins are through a door or window? Installing locks is basic in keeping your home secure. But you can do better. Consider installing magnetic contacts in every door and window. These contacts trigger an alarm when a door or window is opened. Magnetic contacts include a reed switch which is composed of electrical connectors. When someone opens a window, the magnet is pulled away from the switch, breaking the circuit and setting off an alarm.
A recessed hardwired door contact is installed by drilling into the door jamb or window sill. You may need to ask your landlord's consent before drilling. You can also opt for surface mount contacts which can be installed with screws or adhesives. Check out quality magnetic contacts at the Alarm System Store.
Easy installation with a wireless security system
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More people are shifting away from using wired security system and instead using security systems that are all wireless. Wireless alarm systems are easy to install as the detection devices that are used don’t need wire to connect them back to the main control panel. Wired systems are still widely used though for those who have the time and ability to run the wire.
There is a Honeywell security system for various requirements. If you need one that's easy to install and provides comprehensive coverage, the Honeywell Lynx Plus is for you. This wireless alarm system includes a control panel, keypad, siren, dialer, two-way voice system, and speakerphone. It supports up to 25 wireless sensors, and a maximum of 15 wireless buttons or remotes. It also includes one hardwired zone input. The Lynx Plus unit is recommended to renters because it features a more streamlined installation, enabling you to easily install and uninstall it as needed.
24-hour monitoring service
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Homes are extra vulnerable to burglaries at daytime when occupants are at work or school. Keep your property well-guarded with a monitoring system. How does it work? Once your alarm system detects a threat, it sends a signal via a communicator to a central station. The station will immediately contact you to confirm the threat. If there's an actual threat, or you fail to respond within a specified time, the station notifies appropriate authorities for action. The threat may also be a fire, leakage or carbon monoxide emission.
These central stations provide 24/7 monitoring on a nationwide scale in most cases and can alert authorities in case of burglary, fire, medical emergency, or environmental disturbances. There are also ways of doing self-monitoring by using services such as Total Connect by Honeywell or by using third-party devices such as the Envisalink 4 IP communicator.
Indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras
Surveillance cameras are not only for catching home intruders. You also need it to check whether your kids have arrived safely from school or if your pets are safe alone at home. If you've signed up for a monitoring service, you'd need a reliable camera. The Honeywell IPCAM-PT is an indoor pan/tilt camera that can be used with either a wired or wireless security system by using Honeywell’s Total Connect Video service. It can be tilted towards various directions, giving a comprehensive coverage. This camera is recommended for renters because it can easily be mounted and dismounted.
If you're living in a condo or apartment complex, it's likely that your landlord is providing surveillance cameras in all common areas. If you're renting a house, you should consider installing an outdoor camera linked to a monitoring service. The Honeywell IPCAM-WO is an outdoor stationary camera that you can use as a visual verifier if your security system has the ability to send you or central station alarm signals. By using Honeywell’s Total Connect Video service you will have real time video peek-in capability that can be accessed through a smartphone app or a PC.
Consider a DIY alarm system
A home security system is non-negotiable. If you wish to attain peace of mind, you need to work for it. Install security devices in your home. You're lucky that the security system industry is booming, which means that manufacturers are competing to bring the most cost-efficient options to consumers. All you need is time to compare and contrast manufacturers and products, and a bit of patience to learn basic installation instructions. You can even watch free online videos to help you mount magnetic door contacts.
A DIY alarm system can save you a lot of money — no more labor expense and you have the liberty to choose for bargains in the hardware store. The monitoring service is also optional. You have the freedom to choose a shorter contract with a service provider of your preference.
The impact of a home intrusion is beyond the financial. It can traumatize the occupants and cause lasting emotional scars. In some cases, break-ins even lead to serious injuries and casualties. Fire, massive flooding and cyclones can bring the same trauma. Stop risking your safety and security. Install a home security system today.
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