Home Security Solutions Columnist
Whether your prized possession is a signed autograph from Madonna or a state-of-art sound system, home security is important to everyone. A burglar alarm can be your best deterrent against criminals.
Types of Burglar Alarms
Burglar alarms fall into two categories, basic alarms and monitored alarms. A basic alarm, sometimes called a 'bells only' alarm, alerts neighbors and deters intruders and burglars.A monitored alarm is linked to a 24-hour monitoring center that can notify a series of pre-selected telephone numbers or the police department and a key-holder when the alarm is triggered.
Burglar Alarms: the Choice is Yours
To set the ball rolling in your quest for improved home security, here are some pointers on what to think about before installing your burglar alarm:- Call in the professionals or do it yourself? Go ahead and install an alarm system yourself, but only if you have the skills to do so. Be honest: a botched installation can be as bad if not worse than not having a burglar alarm in the first place! Look for (reputable!) alarm installation companies which offer free home security checks.
- Wired or wireless alarms? Wireless systems can be a better option as they are less obtrusive, reducing the need for redecoration.
- Can the alarm system be upgraded and is it easy to change service companies if you become dissatisfied with your service?
- Is there a good guarantee and after-sale service offered by your burglar alarm manufacturer and installer?
Finally, look out for alarm products that have been given the seal of approval from Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), the 'independent, not-for-profit product-safety testing and certification organization'. UL listing signifies companies and products which are proven to meet high standards through rigorous testing.
