If you’ve been thinking about a security system for a while, but you’re just not sure, answer these questions and see if an alarm system could be the right fit for you.
1. Do you worry about break-ins?
According to the FBI, there were more than 1.5 million burglaries in 2015, and 71% of those were residential burglaries. Even though the rates of burglary are decreasing, having a break-in occur at your home could still be a real possibility. If you work, travel, or follow another regular pattern of leaving your home (especially during the day), this leaves an open path for burglars to make their way into your home. Burglars watch for routines and typically strike during the day, when most people aren’t home.
Think your neighbors will call if something happens? That’s putting a lot of faith in someone who may not be home, may not be watching your home, or even if they see something, may not realize what is happening. Plus, if you don’t have neighbors close by or if they are out of their home regularly also, they won’t be of any help.
The average loss in a burglary is over $2300. Think about what valuables are in your house – how much would you have to pay to replace them if they were taken in a burglary? What about the sentimental items you couldn’t replace?
2. Have you had a break-in?
Burglars that break into a home once may try to do it again. If they’ve taken items that are easily replaceable, such as TVs, game systems, etc., the burglars may come back to rob the home again. After all, they will already know the home is a good target, the home’s layout, and whatever valuables may be there that they couldn’t get the first time.
If you’ve had a burglary, you know the feelings of loss, fear, and anger. According to one study, 60% of burglary victims never feel safe in their home again. Many times the emotional impact is worse than the physical losses, but installing an alarm system after a break-in can help you get back to feeling safe and secure and give you some peace of mind.
3. Do you have kids?
Security systems can help parents in many different ways:
- letting you know when a youngster wanders outside
- alerting you with a text or email notification when kids get home from school
- noting the time that your child disarms the system, letting you know if they came in past curfew
- notifying you anytime that medicine cabinets, liquor cabinets, or gun cabinets are opened
No matter what age your kids are, an alarm system can help you have peace of mind.
4. Would you like to know what’s going on at home when you’re not there?
Whether you’d like to see who’s knocking at your door or simply have the ability to check in on your system whenever you want, a smart alarm system can help. With a smart home security system, you can do the following from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop:
- View live video
- Receive alerts when activity occurs
- Control your lights, locks, garage door, and thermostats
- Arm and disarm your system remotely
5. Do you like to save money?
A smart thermostat can save you money on your energy bill. Based on your activity or a schedule, a smart thermostat changes to heat or cool the home less when you’re not there. In addition to heating and cooling, your smart home can help you save money by turning off high-energy consumption devices when you’re asleep or not home.
A security system can also help you save on your homeowner’s insurance. You can typically save anywhere between 3-12%, which can add up over time.
There are many pros and cons to owning a security system. If you’re not sure what system or options might be best for your situation, we’re here to work with you on a customized system that will best suit your needs.