1: Let’s start with the basics. Alarms. These come in all shapes and sizes and form the backbone of all home security systems. Fire alarms, smoke alarms, burglar alarms – they are your basic three, but what about poisonous gas alarms, flood alarms (true – you can now get alarm systems that inform you when a flood is occurring) and personal alarms? Rape alarms are as much a part of a home defense system as they are a personal item.
2: Pressure pads and sensors. Usually hidden under rugs or carpet, pressure pads activate when someone steps on them. When you are your alarm system, all the pads in the house become active. Normally pressure pads are placed where feet are likely to strike in the event of a burglary – so on the floor below a painting, say, or in front of a safe. Also commonly placed at the foot and head of the stairs. Be aware that a pet can set off a pressure alarm.
3: Monitors. Home security systems with monitors let you see what the system is seeing – making sure that you know what you are dealing with before you decide what to do. Essential personal safety.
4: Communication devices. Home security systems that let you talk to the outside world – whether they are gate buzzers, or hot lines through to a central monitoring location – allow you to verify identities or get help quickly.
5: The emergency services. An integral part of many high end home security systems, the relationship between alarm and emergency service attendance is split into two categories – immediate attendance, caused by your system having a direct link to the police and fire service; or secondary attendance, which is where a private company monitors your alarm and alerts the required emergency service if necessary.
6: The keypad. Your keypad controls everything your alarm system does. Use it to set zones, turn them on and off and arm or disarm the whole system. You can have a fixed keypad or a portable one, depending on the kind of system you use.
7: The installer. Not technically part of your home security system, but an invaluable link in the chain between not being secure and being protected. A professional, qualified installer will make sure that all of your system works properly once he or she has put everything in – and will usually train you too.
8: Chimes. Chimes are the bits of home security systems that make noises when a system is disarmed. These can be used to monitor set zones without turning the alarm noise on: ideal for keeping the kids out of the garden or road.
9: A remote control or key fob. Ideal for extra security – and also for quickly overriding your system if it has been set off by the cat. One touch or swipe can reset everything. Keep it safe!
10: You. You are a vital link in your home security system. If you don’t monitor your neighbourhood. And let your neighbours know if there’s anything unusual going on, then you are almost as responsible as a burglar for a breach of security. Don’t leave it all to the sensors – keep your eyes and ears pen, and communicate.
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One of the best security tools there is to defend your home. This baby’s could even stop and elephant.