and options available all the time.
Here are some of the more common options, and what you should consider.
| Are you building a new home? |
If so, consider selecting the security company you want before the home is finished, and have them pre-wire the home and do the system installation. |
| Has someone told you that your house can't be wired for a security system? |
This issue can come up when the house has limited crawl space, no attic space, or an already finished basement. A wireless security system may be just what you need. Don't discard the idea of a system without talking to a security system representative. New technology is being developed all the time. |
| Motion Detectors |
Motion Detectors provide back-up coverage in case an intruder manages enter the home without opening a door or window. Be careful of motion detectors with large pets and in unheated/uncooled areas (like your garage). Ask the security specialist to advise you on the best way to set up a motion detector. At minimum, be sure you can leave the motion detector zone unarmed when you are inside the house. |
| Glass Break Detectors |
Glass break detectors provide back-up coverage in case an intruder decides to avoid setting off the alarm by opening a door or window, and breaks the glass instead. Glass breaks have a limited range, so they must be in close proximity to the glass they are monitoring. |
| Medical Alert Monitoring |
A wireless medical pendant is worn around the neck, and if assistance is needed, pushing two buttons will call up to four people for help. Many times, these systems can also detect when the wearer has fallen down or has not moved over a period of time. If this kind of protection is needed, it would be a good idea to include the telephone back-up system and a voice monitoring agency. |
| Remote Control Access Keys |
These devices resemble wireless-entry key fobs for cars, and contain arm and disarm buttons for the alarm, along with a panic button. These can be useful to carry upstairs to the bedroom if the home has only one control panel on the ground floor. If lost or stolen, however, it will provide access to your home without knowledge of the alarm code. |
| Security Screen |
Puts a security barrier between the outside and inside, even with the window open. The security screen is wired into the security system, so if the screen is cut or removed, the alarm will still sound. |
| Paging System |
If your child arrives home alone, some systems will page you to advise you that the alarm has been disarmed and then rearmed successfully. This feature can provide great peace of mind for working parents! |
| Extra Control Panels |
In a multi-storied home, a second keypad in the second floor hallway will give extra access to the security system at night. |
| Talking Keypads |
Talking keypads let you know exactly which zone has a problem in plain language. It may announce "window alarm" or "master bedroom alarm", depending on what names you program in. It will also announce "Fire" or "Intruder", which can be extremely helpful if children are on a separate floor from the parents. |
| Dial-In Access |
Some systems will allow you to dial into your security system to check its status or change the status. This is a great way to allow a worker access to the house without leaving it unprotected all day. |
| Security Lights |
Some systems will allow you to connect outside security lights to the security system, using X10 technology. |
| Surge Protection |
While almost every alarm system is grounded for protection, if you live in an area with frequent power interruptions or regular electrical storms, surge protection for your system might be a good idea. |
