Halloween is nearly here! Are you and your family prepared for “monsters” at your door?
To stay safe and protected and ensure your family and possessions are safe and protected as well, your best defense is always a comprehensive home security system.
Want to learn more? Below, we outline both the reasons why you should consider a home security system and how to choose the best system for you and your family.
Why Purchase a Home Security System?
- Family protection and peace of mind
Ensure you can have peace of mind knowing your family is always protected. Even if you live in a relatively safe area, burglaries can happen. Many families also have vandalism and trespassing to worry about. With a tough home security system, you’ll sleep well knowing your family is safe.
- Home monitoring while you’re away
Leaving town for a few days or weeks? Even if no one is at your home, you can feel confident that it will be safe while you’re gone. Use your laptop, smartphone, or tablet device to keep track of your property.
- Deterred thieves
Thieves will take one look at your security cameras or monitoring hardware and stay away — whether they intended to rob packages left on your porch or break into your home.
If they don’t stay away, you can also have alarm bells, and lights go off in the event of a break-in. Generally, this sends thieves running. However, if you still have an active break-in on your hands, there’s also the added option of having your system alert the police immediately,
- Possible homeowners insurance discounts
Finally, consider that some insurance companies want you to have a security system for added protection and lowered risk of a break-in or vandalism. If you install a central station alarm, you may even get insurance discounts. Keep in mind this isn’t always an option — but you should ask your insurance agent about this to confirm any possible discounts.
Of course, there are numerous other reasons to have a home security system installed as well.
Choosing the Best Security System for You
Not sure which system you should buy? For starters, ask yourself these questions:
Do you have a preferred method of home monitoring?
Many homeowners prefer to keep tabs on their home themselves. With advanced technology, you can have live video feed sent to your work computer or smartphone for real-time monitoring. Watch at your convenience, or if you prefer, allow notifications to alert you when there’s suspicious movement on your property or your security lights (if you have them) have turned on.
If monitoring your home yourself is not something you’re interested in, try a professional service. Home security companies will keep track of your home, and in the event of a security breach, they’ll instantly notify you and/or the police.
How do you want your system installed?
If you’re already a DIY-er, you may prefer putting in your system yourself. Many of the newer security system options are designed for self-installation. Even cameras, alarms, and lights can be put in by a non-professional.
On the other hand, bigger and more comprehensive systems often require help from professionals. In this case, you may get a more complete security system including all windows and doors, plus a contract with the company for constant monitoring. Just be sure to negotiate the exact terms of the contract you want if you choose this option.
What other features do you want?
Other feature options include:
- 24/7 camera monitoring
- Recordings of the video feed
- Night vision recordings
- Zoom and pan video options
- High-resolution video options
- Alarms and lights
- Wirelessly connected systems
Interested in learning more about possible discounts when you have a home security system installed? Thiel Insurance Group is here to answer all your questions. Visit one of our offices, send us an email, or give us a call.