There’s No Place Like Home
Home is where we should feel secure and comfortable.
Catherine Pulsifer
We all love the safe and secure feelings we have when we are in our own homes. The word ‘HOME” has a slightly different feel to it than “house”, doesn’t it? Home is where the heart is.
Of course, no one expects their home to be broken into and their unreplaceable valuables gone forever, but it could happen.
What steps are you taking to prevent your home from being burglarized, but could you do more?
Having said that, what can you do to ensure your safe and secure home stays that way and you have peace of mind?
Those are questions we should all be asking ourselves. Next
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I have always said a burglar would be very disappointed upon entering our house. I don’t wear jewelry and we certainly don’t have extra cash laying around.
I suppose could leave a sign on the door telling them, Our TV is old, we honestly don’t’ have any valuables, so at the risk of being really disappointed – Move on.
Maybe, I would just talk into my new camera, “Good Luck!”
Just a Few Facts
- A burglary takes place every eighteen seconds in the United States. That adds up to •nearly 200 per hour, and approximately 4,800 every day!
- Burglaries happen during the day, not the dark of night! In fact most burglars work between 10:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m.
- The highest percentage of home break-ins happen during the summer months, especially July and August.
- A whopping 34% of burglars enter through the front door!
- Homes WITHOUT security systems are 300% more likely to be broken into.
Home Security Systems
We know that eventually our home or a neighbor’s home will likely be victimized by a burglar. If and when It happens, wouldn’t it be great to have a recorded video of the person who was breaking in? Better yet, I would like to have a system with two-way communication so I could scare them while they lurk about.
Define Home Security System
Here, we’re talking about home security systems, which are networks of integrated electronic devices working together with a central control panel to protect against burglars and other potential home intruders. In a nut shell, a typical home security system includes:
- A control panel, which is the primary controller of a home’s security system
- Door and window sensors
- Motion sensors, both interior, and exterior
- Wired or wireless security cameras
- A high-decibel siren or alarm
- A yard sign and window stickers
I decided I would have to make a List of questions to ask ourselves before purchasing a system, but before long, I realized I didn’t have to buy a whole system. Interestingly, we have other options too.
7 Questions to Answer Before purchasing
1. Do we want basic protection, video monitoring or complete home automation?
This is where it can get really complicated. Consequently, this is a good time to start thinking about your budget, and not how many bells and whistles you can get. Which leads to the next question-
2. How do complete automation and video monitoring differ?
Until I started looking, I didn’t even know most of the complete automation choices existed. Be careful, because most companies offer motion sensors, security cameras, door and window sensors, smart doorbells, along with flood, smoke and freeze sensors, making it tempting to go crazy.
3. What is a non-negotiable or a Must Have ?
First, I want reliable wireless technology for sure, and am hoping my iPhone will be compatible.
Next, great customer service is a must for me. When I check reviews on ANY company, I read what others have to say. Let’s face it, poor customer satisfaction is an immediate deal breaker for most people.
4. How much am I willing to pay for security?
This is a really difficult question to answer and it is really hard not to be swayed by good salespeople. First of all, the total cost may include equipment, monthly fees, installation fees or none of the above.
As a matter of fact, a professionally installed system can cost between $2,000-$4,000! That price is definitely way too much for my pocketbook. We were able to find systems and equipment at a much more affordable price.
5. Should the system be professionally monitored or self- monitored?
Honestly, this is something I hadn’t even thought of because I just assumed we would self-monitor. I thought professionally monitored systems will likely be out of our price range. However, the price of professional monitoring seemed to range between $10-$40 per month. With this in mind, remember a professionally monitored system is 24/7, notifies you and the authorities if there is a break in. In addition, You don’t have to worry about your phone being off, dead batteries, etc.
6. Should you be willing to sign a contract?
I know some might disagree, but in my opinion, the answer is no. From what I can gather, there are very good systems that are
7. What levels of protection do you want in a security system?
- Intrusion: door, window, and glass-break sensors
- Environmental: carbon monoxide, fire, and flood sensors
- Surveillance: indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras
- Safety: life alert and panic buttons
What Do You Need to Keep Your House Secure?
What products stood out in my search?
SimpliSafe Wireless Home Security Command Bravo w/Camera
Obviously, I looked at a lot of systems and have listed most of the resources I looked at below. In the end, I used reviews, features, and price to decide on Simplisafe Wireless Home Security Command Bavo. I do plan on adding another camera.
In addition to all the awesome features, I like that I can set it up myself quickly and that professional monitoring is only $14.99 per month.
More Security Devices I Added to My List
Cameras
Important Features in to Keep in Mind When Shopping for Security Cameras
- Field of View- Can the camera scan the location, zoom in, tilt up and down, and be controlled by your smartphone or tablet?
- Sound- T
he camera should have built-in sound allowing you to speak to who is in the room or even two-way communication. - Cost- This really varies and you will have to compare features according to price.
- WiFi Capability- This is non-negotiable in my book.
- Night Vision– Also really important for me, because darkness starts at 5:00 p.m during winter months
The Arlo Pro 2 Wire-Free HC Smart Security System
The Arlo Pro 2 Wire-Free HD Smart Security System seems to be the camera that keeps coming to the top. It has all the features listed above and more.
Overall, I need a camera that can be outdoors, and has all of the above requirements. They aren’t the cheapest on the market but sure have strong reviews!
As shown above, they are cute to look at ( I know), and you can add more around the house as you need to. The Arlo Pro 2 also comes with a base station and two cameras. Clicking the link will, of course, give you more information and all the details of its features.
The Ring Spotlight Cam Battery HD Security Camera
Like the Arlo Pro 2, the Ring Spotlight Cam comes with Built-In Two Way Talk and a Siren Alarm and also works with Alexa. In fact, this Camera had lots of great reviews.
I decided to take a look at it because it includes all the required features above and a spotlight The Ring Spotlight Camera has an app to control the camera!! In addition, you can watch the video, talk to who’s there and control the siren and light from your phone!
Doorbells
Ring Wi-Fi Video Doorbell Pro with Alexa
I think this is one of the most fun security devices. The main reason is I love that when someone is at your door, rings your bell, you can talk to them on your smartphone and they don’t know you aren’t inside!
I did get to see this in real time as my brother has one on his house and when we were together he got an alert that someone was at his door. He had access to the live video immediately and began talking to the person ringing the bell.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro, Linkworks with Alexa and is compatible with IOS and Android devices. You can watch your home in 1080p HD video with two-way communication. It also has infrared night vision.
The only downside for me is that even though it operates at minus 5-degree weather, that may not be low enough for where I live. -(sad, I know)
Locks
The August Smart Lock Pro + Connect
This is crazy. I didn’t know anything like this existed. You can control and monitor your lock from anywhere, while keeping track of who comes and goes all from your phone.
I need to point out, this device has August’s DoorSense technology telling you if your door is securely closed and locked.
Does this mean we don’t have to drive back and check if we really locked the door? That is huge at our house.
In addition, it’s easy to install, connect to Wi-Fi and can be controlled remotely with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri voice commands. It’s pricey, but it really looks like the best Smart Lock available right now.
Another key point here is you should NEVER purchase a security system or security equipment from someone who comes to your door, no matter how convincing they are. This is a scam. Share that information will all family members.
Ready to Create Your Own Security System Plan?
Literally, everything in your house could be SMART, not just computers and smartphones, but everything: clocks, speakers, lights, doorbells, Security Cameras windows, window blinds, hot water heaters, appliances, cooking utensils, you name it. And what if those devices could all communicate, send you information, and take your commands? Wow!
Beyond security equipment 17 Expert Tips to Keep You Safe in Your Home, Day & Night will be very helpful.
In conclusion, I simply want to share with you the compiled information that I found for “my list” and hope you find it helpful when searching for the best security system for your family. I know I will be adding security devices to my Gift Lists for our
Remember to print a free copy of your Home Security Guide and Checklist where you can create the Home Security Plan that works best for you.
Let me know in the comments section below what you decide!
Share the post with friends! Be Safe!
Resources
https://www.reviews.org/home-security/ways-to-make-home-safer/
https://www.safewise.com/resources/how-to-choose-security-system/
Thanks for mentioning that a home security system has things like a control panel, door and window sensors, motion sensors, and a siren or alarm. My wife is thinking about getting a system for our home because she speculates that our belongings could be better protected and secure. I think it’s a good investment to hire a reputable company that has high-quality equipment to safeguard our home in the event of an emergency.
Thanks Jesse. My husband and I both agree. When you are traveling or just gone for the day, how great is it to feel secure. I think one of the stats that jumped out at me was that a home without a security system are 300% more likely to be broken in to. I also think it is important to know you have that security when you go to bed at night!