Home Security Frequently Asked Questions
Looking to add or upgrade a home security system but not sure what you really need or how it all works? These frequently asked questions can help you prepare. Here are some of the things you need to know to get started.
Will a Pet Trip My Alarm System?
Motion sensors can serve as a secondary measure to protect against intrusion. But can you use motion detection if you have pets in the house? Probably … almost all motion sensors these days include pet immunity up to 70 pounds. So this covers you for cats and most dogs. Having extra large dog breeds over 70 pounds may prevent you from including motion detectors in the house if the pets are indoors and roam freely in front of the devices.
Speaking of Dogs, is Having One Protection Enough?
Burglars have indicated that they would stay away from a home with a large-breed, loud dog. But smaller dogs weren’t nearly as discouraging to them. Dogs are added protection but they can’t call the police if someone breaks in! (Read more here about dogs and security).
Aren’t Burglar Alarms really only Needed at Night?
Surprisingly, no. Statistics show that most residential burglaries occur during the daytime when you are expected to be away. This is why it’s essential that you always lock your doors and set the alarm when you leave. Whether you are going to work or making a short trip to the convenience store, get into the habit of securing your home every time you leave.
How much Coverage do I really Need?
Ideally, you want full perimeter coverage. This means a sensor on all doors and windows. Start with the first floor if you are budget conscious and add upstairs windows over time. Motion sensors are an added benefit to trigger an alarm if someone does make it inside. And glass break detectors can be used for fixed windows. They send an alarm signal if the glass is broken. You also want dual communication if possible. This means the alarm sends signals over the Internet with a cellular backup. This way, you are still monitored if the Internet goes down or if you lose cellular service.
What Items Do Burglars Commonly Steal?
To answer this question bluntly: anything of value. From televisions and video game consoles to cash, jewelry and even prescription drugs, burglars will gladly steal anything they believe can be resold for cash. Guns are another hot burglary item, so they should be kept in locked cabinets with the key hidden. If you plan on storing a rainy day cash fund inside your home, place it in a hidden safe.
Is there an App for that?
Yes! Remote services are available for alarm systems, automation and security cameras. You can arm and disarm the system from your phone or tablet, unlock doors, turn on lights and watch your cameras. Whether you are in bed and don’t want to get up to set the alarm, or are out of town, you can do it all right from your device.
Can Lighting Protect Against Burglary?
Absolutely! The thief will want to get in and out unseen and having a well-lit home will make this more of a challenge for them. Hopefully they will be deterred and move along. A simple solution is to install motion-sensing floodlights around the exterior of your home. If criminals approach, the lights will be triggered, which often frightens them away. You can also give the illusion of someone being home by putting your interior lights on a schedule using the home automation capability on your alarm system.
Do I Need to Monitor my Alarm?
An audible siren alone may scare off an opportunist who didn’t have much of a plan for breaking into your home. But for more experienced criminals, they will not be too concerned by setting off the alarm. Even if a neighbor does hear the siren and call the police, the burglar knows they have several minutes to get what they want and go. And if no one notices the siren or just thinks it is a nuisance false alarm, the threat is even less. With a monitored alarm, the signal is sent right away and the dispatch center can call the police at your request.
Cultris Security Systems has been protecting homeowners and their families for more than 13 years! We can analyze your home’s security vulnerabilities and recommend the best system for you and your budget.
Contact us today at 281-506-8466 or visit us online!
