WELCOME AND THANK YOU FOR VISITING MY INFORMATIONAL WEBSITE!
(you may want to print this page due to it is rather lengthy)
THIS DOES NOT TAKE THE PLACE OF AN IN HOME SECURITY REVIEW.
Free systems …?
First question to keep in mind …?
Is my home pre-wired for a system …?
Are all my doors protected …?
Do my windows need protection …?
What about motion or glass break protections …?
Security Screens …?
Talking devices …?
Smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide …?
Telephone Back Up Systems …?
Security Lights …?
Can I dial in to check on my system…?
Can I upgrade my system (add to my system) …?
Paging features …?
Medical alert systems …?
Panic buttons …?
Camera systems …?
Wireless systems …?
Surge protectors …?
Remote control devices …?
The myth behind Free Security Systems …?
Most security sales representatives concentrate on selling you a security system (a package system or “deal”). What you need to
know about package deals is that if you get something free then it’s usually not worth while or the company will not be around for
long. You pay for what you get. And this could mean you are getting substandard equipment. Quality or Price is what you need to
keep in mind. If you’re looking for quality then you want to stay with the recognized names in the security industry. This is not a
time to cut corners. Plus a “deal” is a way to get you into a longer term contract at a higher than normal monitoring fee using
equipment that is substandard. Those who are backed by a major company and still offering you a low monitoring fee are not using
all the major companies’ assets to secure your home (i.e. billing, administrative departments, and monitoring station).
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First question to keep in mind when designing your home security system…?
First ask yourself do I want protection for when we are away from home, while we are home, or both. (Of course this will drive
the cost of the system but you need not worry about the cost, see it as an investment in peace of mind).
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Is my home pre-wired for a security system?
Next, is my home pre-wired for a security system? If you are building your home its best to call the security company you want to
monitor your home to also do the pre-wiring, and installing of your security system. Most builders are looking at whoever is
cheapest. Which is a good but security is not something you can cut corners on, you'll end up paying more in the long run. In my
experience the wiring is often not done for features other than securing the doors and a few windows.
If your home was not pre-wired for a security system and there appears to be now way (basement is finished, limited crawl or attic
space, or you just don’t want to see any wires) to wire each door be aware your investment will be more. Wireless systems are still
a great investment. Any company that tells you otherwise more than likely doesn’t sale wireless due to it’s a higher end system.
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Are my doors protected…?
Now lets count the doors. Its best to secure all door leading to the outside even if its off a porch on the second floor. I’m not just
concerned about intrusions but your family’s safety as well. I’ve known a few kids that have crawled out onto the porches. You
might also want to consider securing your basement door, particularly if you have some little ones. Now when you secure a door
you don’t want to just put a product that will chime to let you know if someone has come in or out. You want to also make sure
doors are strong and have good locks (double cylinder). Look around the door to see if there is window access. If there is then you
might want to consider putting a Keyed dead bolt on the door (this may also be a fire hazard). Be sure if you just moved in to re-
key all your locks, hey if they are all keyed to the same key then it will also be less of a fire hazard. (see home security tips)
What kind of doors do you have? Are they hollow? Do they have glass windows? Metal? Sliding? There are many types of doors.
What you need to consider is how safe your doors are and the area around them. Is there anything blocking your view outside that
will not allow you to see who is outside? Does your door have a wide angle peephole for both adults and children to use? What kind
of locks are there on each door? Do you have single (thumb locks) or double cylinder (key for both inside and outside) locks?
Some will recommend single cylinders due to fire hazards. Others will recommend double cylinder for added safety. It comes
down to what you and your family are comfortable. If you’re practicing your fire and safe evacuation this will help you make a
more informed choice. There are many types of locks: Rim Lock, Jimmy-Proof, Cane Bolts, Hinge protectors, and Flush bolts.
Each has their own added benefits.
Do keep in mind if there are windows near your door you will want to put currents or blinds to prevent anyone peaking into the
home. This also decreases your chances for what is commonly called the “smash and grab” theft. This is when someone smashes
in a window or door then grabs whatever is on the night stand, which in most cases are your keys, pocket change, company IDs,
and maybe even your wallet all before you even know what has taken place.
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Do my windows need protection…?
This is tricky. Due to its based on where the windows are located. IF a window is on ground floor (front, side or back of the
home) I recommend securing it. Yes the front windows… you’ll be amazed at how many times a window is left unlocked and
anyone dressed like a painter will have no problems entering the home. So this also is a good time to note that your bushes should be
trimmed down and away from windows as to grant full view of the windows and if someone is crawling in. Of course also look at
how old the windows are, if they are single or double pain, storm windows, are there window blinds, and over all condition of the
windows should also be taken into consideration. (see home security tips)
Windows are tools for burglars when not adequately secured. So how do you go about securing your windows? One is placing a
device on each window to know if the windows are all secured before leaving. Another is a glass-break that listens for the sound of
breaking glass. Another is shock sensors to measure for intruders cutting glass. And yet another is a window screen. This device
allows you to leave your window open but still give you and your family protection. OR storm glazing (double and triple glazing will
also give added insulation).
Windows should be equipped with a locking device or stops. Any lock used on windows should operate from the inside so the
window can be used for emergency exit. Stops such as metal or wood block screws are an inexpensive way to secure your
windows. But I would recommend that you have both the stops and locks on the windows if not a security device. Thumbscrew
metal stops are also available for some windows, which are easier to adjust/remove than traditional wooden stops. Obviously, "stops"
limit the ability for you to use windows as a means of emergency exit, requiring you to break out the window to quickly exit a room.
Security Screens enable you to sleep with your
windows open yet still know if someone should
tamper with your windows. Now you don't
have to worry about leaving your windows
unlock with this device!
Personally I like the latches with a key lock. This would prevent an intruder from breaking the window then trying to lift open the
bottom part or to pull down the top part. In most homes there are many types of windows, fixed, roll out, sliders, casement, double
hung. Etc. If your putting a security device on the window make sure both the top and bottom part of the window will be guarded.
For example if you put a security device on the bottom part of the window, all an intruder has to do is break the window , reach in
and unlock it, then pull down the top part of the window that is not guarded. This is why it is important to ensure that both top and
bottom parts of the window will be covered.
Do keep in mind if there are windows near your door you will want to put currents or blinds to prevent anyone peaking into the
home. This also decreases your chances for what is commonly called the “smash and grab” theft. This is when someone smashes
in a window or door then grabs whatever is on the night stand, which in most cases are your keys, pocket change, company IDs,
and maybe even your wallet all before you even know what has taken place.
If you are not so keen on securing all your windows then make sure that you have a well placed motion or glass break sensor.
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Attic, basement, and crawl spaces …?
Make sure there is no point of entry into the home from the attic. If there is an attic space in your garage I recommend securing it
with a monitored security device.
Also I have noticed that attics go unmonitored for fire hazards. This is where a lot of wiring, maybe a furnace, and other items are
kept. Or simply a lighting strike may hit. Have at least one monitored heat device. Not a smoke detector if it’s an unfinished area.
And ensure the heat device is monitored for any event over 194 degrees due to attics run hotter. Heat devices are more likely to
detect smoldering fires which cause more damage. Your smoke detector in the main hall will not detect this type of fire until its way
to late (smoke rises).
In your basement, I recommend putting a dead bolt on the door but placed higher so it makes it harder for children to unlock or
someone to knock down. Basements that are unfinished should have a rate of rise heat sensor where there are utilities. This will
measure the rate the temperature is rising due to basements tend to be cooler as well as notify you and your security service there is
a fire. If the basement is finished then you will want a smoke detector.
Crawl spaces usually have wiring or a furnace. Again I would recommend putting in a rate of rise heat sensor in this area as well as
securing the door that leads under the home. If there are other crawl spaces upstairs again look at putting a lock on the doors that
will prevent children from getting into and/or getting locked into this area, especially if it is an unfinished area.
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Garage and hatches …?(see security links for recommended products).
Does your garage have a garage door opener? This is a great way to secure your garage door. But make sure it’s a really good
one. Due to if you should cut corners on quality you’ll pay more in the end.
If your garage door has windows then you will want to remove the emergency red cord. Due to if someone breaks the window all
they have to do is pull the cord to open the door. IF you should remove this cord make sure you have motion detection devices so
that the door will not close on anyone or thing in the way.
Put a monitored heat sensor in this area due to most will put an extra refrigerator in this area and other electric devices.
DO NOT PUT A STANDARD MOTION in this area due to it is an uncontrolled environment or ASK FOR A PET MOTION
SENSOR for this area due to standard motions will detect heat plus motion. If there are windows in this then you will want to
consider a glass break or monitored window contacts.
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What about motion or glass break detection…?
I recommend a motion and/or a glass break due to they act as back up systems if someone should by-pass a door or window
contact by breaking the glass. So what’s the difference in glass-breaks and motions? A LOT. Motions are only on when no
one is around but they give you more coverage. Glass-breaks are ALWAYS ON but have a limited range (need to be in the room it is
covering) thus you will need more to cover the same area in a home if it has lots of windows. Personally if my family was at home
I would want glass-breaks on the main floor and a motion in the basement so if I’m upstairs I don’t have to worry about what’s
going on down stairs. But of course if the kids play room is in the basement then I’d make sure there are glass-breaks an any room
where there is a window or glass door.
ABOUT MOTIONS: Of course if you have a pet you really want to watch the motion type you use. Most system will monitor for
up to three things being weight, heat, height, and motion. WARNING I do not recommend weight motions. If your animal is only
15 pounds and your motion is a 45 weight it sounds good. But lets point this out… your beloved animal will jump up on your
furniture when your not around so now the motion will weigh the animal and furniture and this is sure to be more than 45 pounds.
There are many types of motion senors, ask about specialized PET MOTIONS, for hardwired systems only. This special
motions senor is an active microwave and passive IR designed for those who have cats or dogs OVER 35lbs. Course the
placement of any motion is key for preventing false alarms. I still recommend to type to put motions only in environmentally
controlled areas! An example is your garage, most are not environmentally controlled such things as heat from your car or dust may
interfere with the motion, or at least cause undo wear on your devices. The thing you want to make sure is that your system
has the option to arm or disarm doors, windows, and MOTIONS individually. Look for keypads with BYPASS, AWAY, STAY,
INSTANT, or NIGHT modes. Most security companies may have these options on their keypads but have your security advisor
look at the way your system is wired. EACH DOOR, motion, glassbreak, and windows in a room should have their own wire
so that you will know where an break in has taken place, or can define a zone to be bypassed without having to bypass
other important areas of the home. (most systems will only have room for 8 zones, the systems that I offer have more
zones, room to grow, and allow for individual control.)
If it doesn’t then don’t go with that system. In the AWAY mode this will set all your devices and allows for either 30, 45 or up to
1mininute delay when entering. In the STAY or INSTANT mode this will set all your devices BUT your motion (the stay modes has
the same delay, in the instant mode there is no delay). Now with certain systems like the ones I offer you can actually program
individual zones to be off at certain times, or program the basement motion to be on while in the stay mode. Or to have certain
devices programmed without a delay. Again its up to you and your family’s life style. SO based on this type of system you can
have a motion and a beloved pet in the house at the same time.
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What is a security screen and do I need one…?
Security screens pushes your the perimeter protection future out. Most often new homes have a master bedroom on the main
floor. And if you live in Georgia you more than likely sleep with the windows open. So how do we go about making sure you and
your family are still safe? Have you ever heard of a security screen? This enables you to sleep with your windows open yet if
someone should remove, cut or punch the screen from either the inside or outside your alarm will immediately sound and call for
help! Ok so this is also a great tool to use if you have kids that like to sneak out or just to make sure no one falls out of a window.
These security screens can be added either with a wireless transmitter or via wiring (so long as its 4wire not 2wire, most builders
use 2wire conduit).
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Talking Devices, WHY…?
There are many types of talking devices from indoor sounders to keypads to remote devices. Indoor sounders can be upgraded to
talking so no longer does a system just beep but it speaks, saying “FIRE” and “INTRUDER” this way there is no guessing as to what
is taking place and what you should do. And did you know there are talking keypads! Most systems just display Zone 1, 2, 3, etc.
and you have to recall what zone was what. Did you know there now systems that actually display what is going on such as
FRONT DOOR, BACK DOOR, FIRE, etc, but also announces the location or event. You can even name your zones depending on
the system you are looking at investing in such as: BASEMENT DOOR, JENNY’S WINDOW, JASONS DOOR, etc. Allowing
everyone to know what and where an event is taking place without leaving the safety of their current location.
Now I would recommend a second key pad if you have a two story home. But place the keypad in the hallway so that everyone will
have access to it if needed. With my systems you can give your children their own pass codes that can be used only during certain
times. Or maybe you have a mother-in-law- suite (or a garage apartment) you will then need a partition system. This is a lot LESS
expensive then two systems. All the systems I have can do just that; be partitioned off so that one person can enter a apartment or
office space without having access to the entire home.
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SMOKE, FIRE, and CARBON MONIXDE detection (and safety tips)…?
QUICK FACTS ABOUT FIRE:
“Nearly 80% of all fire fatalities occur in the home. Of those approximately 80% occur
in single-family homes and duplexes” NFIRS, NFPA study
“75% of child fire deaths occur in places with non-working smoke detectors”. (FEMA)
Monitored detector doubles a person’s chance of surviving a fire.
Approximately 90% of U.S home have one smoke detector,
Nearly 50% of residential fires and 60% or residential fatalities occur in homes with NO
SMOKE detectors.
Every 24 hours 20 people die in a residential fire. (NBFAA, 2000)
1800 Deaths occur each year from carbon monoxide poisoning (NHPFA, 2000)
10,000 People are hospitalized each year from carbon monoxide poisoning. (North
Haven Professional Fighters Association, 2000)
Now lets get into FIRE, SMOKE, CARBON MONIXIDE Detection. THIS
PROTECTION IS A MUST! If a security provider isn’t talking about this feature then
more than likely they are not concerned with your safety but only in a sale.
Where do fires occur?
What are the leading causes of fire in the home?
| Kitchen |
29% |
| Bedroom |
13% |
| Living Room/Den |
8% |
| Chimney |
8% |
| Laundry Area |
4% |
| Cooking |
22% |
| Heating |
17% |
| Inccendiary/suspicious |
13% |
| Other Equipment |
10% |
| Electrical distribution |
9% |
| Appliances |
7% |
| Smoking |
6% |
| Children |
5% |
I often hear, "but we have smoke detectors on every floor". These smoke detectors are tied into your local high voltage electricity
and can not be tied into your security system and they are usually ionization smoke sensors (meaning they will only go off it there is
a lot of smoke). Some do have battery back ups but most do not. With a security smoke, heat or carbon monoxide detector it runs
on your low voltage electricity and has a lithium battery back up. In the event of an alarm these devices are able to alert everyone in
the home and call for help. Allowing valuable time to get your family to safety.
It is good to practice with your family what to do in the event of a FIRE or INTRUDER. Most people I’ve worked with when
coving this area of security have not practiced what to do in the event of an emergency. And more that 75% of the kids I’ve
questioned had no idea where to meet after they where able to get out of the home. Most stated that they would hide and wait for
their “Dad’s” to come get them.
So with that in mind I would also like to suggest an ABC Fire Extinguisher in not just the kitchen, garage, workshop, or near a fire
place, but also under the master bedroom bed. What would you rather do, run to another place to look for an extinguisher or run
with an extinguisher to either use to put a fire out or in self defense? I also recommend visiting your local fire department with some
cookies and I’ll bet they will be more than happy to show each of your family members how to put out a fire. Most people believe
you are to cover the fire… NO start at the base of the fire!!! But hey don’t ask me ask a fire fighter.
So how many smoke, heat, or carbon detectors do I need? Not as many as the standard high voltage devices that normally come
with your home. Here’s what I recommend. A security smoke detector is more accurate due to it measures for both ionization
(smoke) and photo electric (heat or smoldering fires) problems. In fact go to your local home store and pick up a smoke detector it
will say ionization on the front (lower left corner) now turn it over and read the small print on the right that states that Underwriters
Labatories recommends an ionization and photo electric smoke detector. Ok now let's look at your home. Place a smoke detector
on each floor that is finished (meaning dry wall is in place). Place a Rate of Rise (heat sensor of 134 degrees or above) in the
basement that is unfinished or in cool unfinished places like crawl spaces where there is wiring or a furnace). Place a Fixed Heat
Sensor (anything over 194 degrees) in an unfinished attic or areas that there is wiring or a furnace. Areas near a fireplace or kitchen
you will want to use a Fixed heat sensor as to not set off the alarm every time someone burns the popcorn. If you have a finished
garage and are placing anything electrical, an example is a refrigerator or other electric outlets, and then you want to also put a heat
sensor in this area as well.
As for carbon monoxide detection. This is a serious and silent killer. It’s not like gas, you don’t even know its there UNLESS you
have invested in detection devices. It doesn’t take long for this killer to hit. So look for any areas such as wood burning fire places,
workshops, any room over a garage area to protect. Often I see homes with guest rooms or playrooms over the garage space.
These rooms need a carbon monoxide detector place in the room itself. And it never hurts to put on in the main hallways of each
floor. Of course these items can be picked up at your local home store but if you want them monitored then you will need to check
with your security provider.
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Why do I need a telephone back up system…?
What about a back up system? Each of these systems come with a battery back up that in the event of your local power goes out
your home will still be protected. If the battery should run low your key pads will display this and if you are not around to respond
these systems alert the monitoring station for help.
What about a back up telephone system? Only the best security companies offer this service. Basically if your phone lines should
ever not function due to cut phone lines, bad weather, construction, etc. your monitoring station is still able to watch and respond in
the event of an emergency. If you have a medical alert system I would highly recommend this product. With these systems our
systems tell you there is a Cut Circuit but without a telephone back up system there is no way a monitoring center can respond.
Most telephone back up systems are run from either a cellular, digital, or radio transmitter. But what ever you do make sure that
your security provider has a back for your telephone back up system (meaning many towers by different parties).
Security Lights …?
Often I see homes that are dark inside and outside. Yes they have yard signs that say they have a security system which helps but a
well lit home usually means there someone home so the intruder is more likely to move on.
So about your lights? Make sure is that your home has good lighting. Not only to discourage intruders but for your gentle safety
of your family. I recommend at least a set of motion lights to brighten both the front and back side of the home, as well as where
you park your car. There are dust to dawn lights and lights on timers as well to consider. But did you know that you can also tie
your lights into your home security system (low voltage, using X-10). Ok with my systems you can but most others you can’t.
What this allows you to do is turn on/off your lights from your keypad. Have the lights come on in the event of a FIRE or BLINK in
the event of an INTRUDER. Have certain lights to turn on/off inside and outside based on your schedule. And with a remote turn
your lights on before you enter you house. What ever you decide make sure you home is lit before entering and that if you use
timers that they are set for different time to each come on and for different days.
Can I dial into my system to check its status from anywhere …?
Can you imagine your at work and you need someone to due service on your security system. What do you do? What if you are
traveling and you need to check on your system? Did you know only a few systems enable a user to dial in from any phone at any
time to access their security systems with private features?
Can I upgrade my system (add to) …?
Most systems can NOT be added to. Check your user manual. There are a few higher quality systems that will enable you to add to
your system as you need. Meaning if you want to add protection later this will safe you from costly upgrades or having to change
out a lesser system altogether. So if your thinking of adding to your home or finishing your basement make sure you invest in a
system that can add protection as your family need and wants should change.
Paging Features …?
Does your system page you to let you know when your kids get home? Most kids forget to call and let their parents know they have
arrived safely and have turned the system back on. There are a few systems in which you can have set up to page you to let you
know when each child gets home and when the system is turned off and on.
Medical Alert Features …?
Is your system able to support a medical alert system? This system is works with a wireless medical pendent that enables someone
to push its two buttons to call up to 4 people for help! These systems also can detect when someone has fallen down or has not
moved over a period of time. Basically depending on the needs of a person there is more personal freedom without the worry. (if
you purchase one of these systems be sure to have the telephone back ups system and a voice monitoring agency).
Panic Buttons …?
There are many types of panic buttons from hardwire to wireless, to hidden silent alarms, to wireless keypads. If you don’t have a
keypad in your master bed room its highly recommend that you have at least a panic button and a fully charged cell phone within
reach when you go to bed at night.
Camera systems …?
There are many types of camera systems. Keep in mind that there are high and low end system, hardwire, wireless, hidden, color,
black and white, computer, DVR, VCR, covert, and many other type of camera systems and recording devices. I can offer you
many types of systems just let me know what you are looking for or let me review your home and I can help design the right system
for you.
Wireless systems …?
Are RF Wireless systems any good? Yes, and depending on your home and where you live this might be the better option for
you. If you don’t want to see wires then the RF systems are the way to go. If you are in a lighting prone area then again RF
systems are a great investment. Did you know that few systems you can add wireless products to? Allowing for your security
system to be added to but with out the wiring!
There are few wireless systems you do need to watch out for but if you know that the products are UL approved then this is a
higher quality system.
Surge Protectors …?
Today’s’ systems are grounded but again if you are working with a larger hardwire system then you want to use a surge protector.
The large the system the more likely there will be surges which cause wear and tear on a security system. Also if you live in a
lightening prone area a surge protector is recommend.
Remote devices …?
Did you know that only a few systems can have remote control access keys? Many can but can also be easy to detect their
frequency. Make sure if you are adding remote control access keys that they are UL approved and have a panic button programmed
into the key feature.
These are just some of the many basic things to keep in mind when designing the right system for you and your family. Make sure
who ever secures your home will also be able to grow with your family needs.
With me you’ll only receive the best in home security services starting with my free evaluation based on your security wants and
needs. Security System
Hopefully this web page will explain and place value on some of the more important security devices and monitoring
charges that SHOULD NOT be over looked but often are. I’m more concerned in making sure you and your family will be
safe and secure. This means to help design a system that works with your families needs and wants and can still grow with
you as your family needs may change. Most security companies concentrate on selling you a system. Hopefully you will
see that I’m more interested in the over all well being of your family, even if you should decide to go with another
company.
