BeyondWork

Home

Balance

Home, Safe Home


	Archive Articles The Simple Life Work/Life Tools Family and Friends

Home, Safe Home
By Elena Anzalone

After a day of work, fighting traffic and dealing with life's everyday headaches, you look forward to returning to the comfort and security of your home. But as fall arrives with its prospects of shorter days and increased darkness, it's time to consider just how secure your house really is.

According to the FBI's most recent Uniform Crime Report, there were an estimated 2,329,950 burglaries in 1998, with break-ins occurring every 11 seconds. And while the FBI reports that burglaries are declining--in the first six months of 1999 the number dropped 14 percent from corresponding 1998 figures--the financial loss from household burglaries is still staggering. In 1998, victims lost a total of $3.1 billion, or an average of $1,350 per household.

Sections

	Know Your Local Burglar
	Being Your Own Security Guard
	Home Security Systems
	Buying a System
	System Components and Terminology
	BeyondWork Easy Extras

What's surprising, however, is that approximately one-third of these burglaries occurred without forcible entry. That suggests that homeowners are making the burglar's job too easy, says Tony DeMarco, spokesperson for the Burglary Prevention Council, "People continue to keep their doors and windows unlocked, along with forgetting to follow simple, commonsense steps to safeguard their residence. People need to know that burglaries can be prevented by paying attention to the simplest security measures combined with developing a greater alertness of their surroundings."

Know Your Local Burglar

According to Dr. Simon Hakim, a Temple University economics professor who has conducted extensive research for the alarm industry, burglars are predictable. They will spend less than a minute trying to break into a house but may take hours to choose their target. Professional burglars may spend an entire week scouting a neighborhood. They know that the key to success is good planning and good time management. According to one security expert, criminals also know that the police can take anywhere from five to 45 minutes to respond to a call; a good burglar can clean you out in less than five minutes.

Burglars want to have a quick and easy escape route, so they tend to favor neighborhoods they're familiar with. They're more likely to choose a secluded house close to a main thoroughfare, which gives them both good cover and a quick getaway. Burglars themselves report that they tend to avoid occupied homes, homes with security systems or those with barking dogs. If the risk of detection is too high, the average burglar will move on.

Contrary to popular myth, burglars usually strike during the day, between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., when most people are at work or school. Burglars tend to enter primarily through the first floor, often through an unlocked door or window. A recent study in Pennsylvania reported that 34 percent of burglars entered through the front door; 23 percent through a first-floor window; and 22 percent through the back door. Only 2 percent entered from anywhere on the second floor. Once inside the house, they head for the master bedroom because they know that's where most of us keep our valuables. A jewelry box on the dresser is considered an invitation by most thieves--one they'll gladly accept.

Being Your Own Security Guard

While there is no guaranteed way to burglar-proof your home, there are a number of low-cost, simple measures you can take to increase your security. And the more steps you take, the safer you'll be.

First and foremost, keep your doors locked at all times. This may seem obvious, but nearly a third of burglaries result from intruders entering through unlocked doors or windows.
Secure windows with heavy-duty locks or window pins. Safety experts advise limiting window openings to 4 inches.
Always lock the door to an attached garage. Don't rely on your automatic garage-door opener for security.
Use high-quality deadbolts on exterior doors, as thieves are quick to recognize weak locks that may be easily forced open. According to the Burglary Prevention Council, deadbolts should have a 1-inch throw and reinforced strike plate with 3-inch screws.
Change the locks on your new home or apartment immediately after moving in, and always guard your keys. According to one security expert, criminals often get keys from stolen purses; previous tenants; service agents, such as valets or mechanics; and obvious hiding places, such as under the doormat or in the mailbox.
Secure sliding glass doors by placing a metal rod or similar device in the track. Also adjust the vertical screws at the top and bottom of the inside of the door to prevent it from being lifted out of the track.
Install a wide-angle peephole in exterior doors. This will allow you to safely identify visitors before opening the door.
Keep the perimeter of your house well lit to avoid giving burglars and other intruders the "cover of darkness."
Give the appearance of being at home by using timers on lights, televisions and radios. Burglars will generally pass up a home they think is occupied.
Get a dog. One study of convicted criminals found that a strong deterrent is a dog that barks at strangers.
Keep bushes and trees trimmed away from walkways, entrances and windows to avoid creating hiding places for criminals.
Engrave unique markings, such as your driver's license number, on your belongings (but never use your Social Security number). Keep a record of your possessions' serial numbers. Many items are recovered by the police and never returned because there's no way to link them to the rightful owners.
Ask your police department for advice. Most police departments have crime-prevention specialists available to answer questions, and many will provide free in-home security evaluations.
Never leave clues that you're away on a trip. Ask a friend or neighbor to collect mail and newspapers while you're away so delivered items don't accumulate. Or consider using a bonded house-sitting service that will provide a regular presence in your home.
Finally, if you have a security alarm, make sure you turn it on. A study in Connecticut found that in 41 percent of alarmed homes that were burglarized, the security system was not armed.

Home Security Systems

In 1994, the International Association of Chiefs of Police passed a board resolution stating that professionally installed and monitored security systems are useful deterrents to crime. And many criminals agree. In a study conducted by Ohio-based Figgie International, 589 individuals convicted of property crimes listed a monitored security system as the No. 1 deterrent to burglary. In fact, according to Hakim, who has done extensive research on this topic, homes without security systems are three to six times more likely to be burglarized than homes with security systems. The benefits of these systems are recognized by the insurance industry, with many agencies offering discounts for homes protected by monitored security systems.

While security systems offer little in the way of physical obstacles to thieves, they do offer an important psychological one. In fact, some people even install fake security system signs in their yards. While not likely to deter a veteran thief, these signs have been known scare off amateurs. One of the greatest benefits of monitored systems is that they substantially increase the likelihood that a thief will be caught. They can also provide a potentially lifesaving warning that an intruder has entered your home. And the more warning you have, the more options you have about what to do.

Home security systems come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but all are designed to detect an intruder and raise an alarm. Detection devices can work in a number of ways, but the most common method involves opening or closing an electric circuit that activates an alarm whenever a door or window opens. Detectors can also be triggered by sound, pressure, motion, heat, or breaking a light beam. Many systems can be integrated with fire and carbon monoxide alarms, thus doing double duty in the safety department.

Broadly speaking, there are two classes of systems: those that are monitored and those that are not. When triggered, monitored systems automatically alert a third party. With professionally installed systems, the alarm alerts a monitoring center that can dispatch police or other assistance. This service, however, comes with a monthly fee. With do-it-yourself systems, numbers can be pre-programmed by the owner and may be those of friends, neighbors, or, for a fee, a monitoring center.

As with all products, the price of security systems varies with the number and complexity of features. The challenge is finding the right system for your home without going overboard.

Buying a Home Security System: Costs and Considerations

Sales of home security systems have skyrocketed in recent years, from as few as one home in 50 in the early '70s to more than one in five today. If you've decided that a home security system is for you, there are a few things to consider before making your final purchase.

Home security systems can be divided into two types: those that are monitored and those that are not. For the most part, security professionals, police, and consumers favor monitored systems. The primary reason is that, in addition to alerting the homeowner and letting the burglar know he's been detected, monitored systems ensure that police are contacted quickly, thus increasing the likelihood of catching the burglar.

Unmonitored Systems
Unmonitored systems are typically do-it-yourself installations that can be purchased from stores such as Radio Shack, Sears, and other hardware or specialty stores. These systems can range from something as unsophisticated as a manually activated alarm that imitates a dog bark to a wireless 16-sensor system that sounds an alarm and automatically dials a third party whenever a sensor is tripped.

Dog-bark devices are among the least expensive--and, arguably, least effective--home security devices, generally listing for less than $60. The greater complexity and choice of features in the more sophisticated systems is reflected in their price. Basic wireless systems, with multiple sensors that trigger a light and siren, can be found for as little as $150. Costs can mount, however, if you wish to add additional sensors (about $20 each), one or more motion detectors (starting around $50 each), or heat or smoke detectors ($30 and above). Add a monitoring service, and you're looking at an additional $20 to $30 a month.

If you eventually plan to purchase a monitoring service for a system you've installed yourself, check with the vendor to ensure you'll be able to find a service that supports your equipment. Many monitoring services will not support other vendors' equipment, even if the other vendor is another professional service.

Professionally Installed Systems
With the increased popularity of home security systems, prices for professionally installed systems have dropped dramatically in the last few years. Many national and local suppliers now offer basic wired systems for as little as $100, including installation. These systems generally include a control unit, a keypad, an inside siren or alarm, two to four door or window contacts or sensors, an inside motion detector, and a link to a 24-hour monitoring center. The cost of a monitoring service is the same as for non-professionally installed systems: Whether a nationwide service such as ADT or Brinks or locally owned independent supplier, the basic monthly fee rarely exceeds $29.99.

Of course, according to most vendors, the "basic" system is rarely enough, and they will strongly encourage you to add some of the optional features--at an additional cost. While some options may be desirable, there's no need to go overboard with such complicated features as voice synthesizers and surveillance cameras. As Todd Schwenk of Eye-On Alarm, an independently owned company in the San Francisco Bay area, points out, "Most folks need not worry about Spiderman." Nonetheless, there are likely to be some options you'll need to add, and these can often drive up the price significantly.

For example, ADT offers an Internet special for $99 installed and $26.99 for monthly monitoring. This system includes a fixed keypad, two door contacts, an interior motion detector, an interior alarm, a battery backup power supply, a control unit, a heat sensor, an ADT yard sign, and a theft-protection guarantee. Overall, not bad to start. However, based on some typical lifestyle and home-design information provided through their online questionnaire, ADT's "security experts" recommended the additional purchase of four window contacts ($280); an upgraded motion detector ($170); two smoke detectors ($198); a carbon monoxide detector ($99); an English display keypad ($160); and critical condition monitoring, which allows the monitoring center to be notified in the event of a connection failure ($3). In total, this recommended system comes to $1,006 up front and $29.99 a month. A big difference from the original special. Nonetheless, some of these options are probably advisable, particularly the window contacts and carbon monoxide detector. But even those add nearly $400 to the base price.

It's not clear from the online product descriptions whether or not you own the equipment you've installed. And, according to staff at Eye-on-Alarm, this is a very important point. In many cases, alarm companies maintain ownership of their equipment, which means that, if you move, the equipment is not yours to take or sell. If the new homeowner does not wish to have the equipment removed, leaving a hole in the wall where the keypad once was, he or she must purchase the monitoring service.

A few companies still lease their equipment, which introduces an additional monthly cost. While this no longer seems to be a common practice, it's important that you clarify the lease-ownership question with your alarm company to avoid any problems in the future.

And, as with all major purchases, shop around and compare prices. Get quotes for similar systems from at least three vendors before making your choice.

Finally, in determining costs, many homeowners fail to anticipate the potential for fines from local authorities for false alarms. For a variety of reasons--including poorly installed systems, high wind or other weather conditions, and, most often, user error--the incidence of false alarms is extremely high. Because of this, many police and fire departments levy fines, sometimes in the hundreds of dollars, for responding to false alarms. In an effort to further combat this problem, some areas are now offering "false-alarm prevention training" to customers who have been fined. Not unlike traffic school, these programs waive fines for homeowners who attend an education session on reducing false alarms.

Finding the Right Professional
The rise in popularity of security systems has created a huge industry, which can make selecting a reputable and reliable company quite difficult. If you have friends with security systems, consider asking them a few questions: How did they find this company? Were they happy with the installation? Has the service met their expectations? Were there any unexpected costs? And, finally, would they recommend them?

If you're on your own in finding a company, one of the best resources you can consult is your state licensing association. These organizations monitor practices and often provide training and information to members in order to maintain a standard of excellence within the alarm industry. This, in turn, helps ensure consumer satisfaction. The National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association is a national organization that, among other things, maintains a list of member companies and state licensing associations.

Once you've selected a licensed company, take the time to interview them and get all of your questions answered. After all, you are literally putting your life in their hands.

First, find out how long they've been in business, and contact your local Better Business Bureau to find out if there have been any complaints. Ask for an inspection of your home, a demonstration of the equipment, written descriptions of the system components and references from other customers. Find out how the company provides training in the use of their system--often a video or personal instruction--and whether there is a number to phone for additional support. Make sure you understand the monthly monitoring charges and the length and terms of the contract you'll be signing. And, of course, get a written quote.

Finally, regardless of which system you ultimately choose, there is one crucial thing to remember: Arm your system. Even the most elaborate security system is useless if it's not turned on.

System Components and Terminology

In both professionally installed and do-it-yourself systems, there is a wide variety of components and features from which to choose. Some of the more common ones are described here. Details of how these components function in your particular system, as well as information about more elaborate and proprietary features, should be obtained from the vendor.

Alarm. The audible tone, also known as a siren or sounder, that alerts the homeowner to a security breach. On some professionally installed systems, a silent alarm will notify the monitoring center without sounding in the home.

Battery Backup Power Supply. Battery-powered unit that provides up to several hours of power to the alarm system in the event of an electrical outage.

Carbon Monoxide Detector. Device for detecting the presence of dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. When integrated into the home security system, the alarm sounds when an unacceptable level of carbon monoxide is detected.

Closed-Circuit TV. Private television system that lets you monitor one or more inside or outside areas of your home. Can be linked to a monitoring center.

Contact. See magnetic contact.

Control Unit. The heart of a monitored security system, this device communicates among the system sensors, keypad, and the monitoring center.

Emergency Button. See panic button.

English Display Keypad. An upgraded keypad whose readout and instructions are displayed in simple English rather than in codes.

Glass Break Detector. Device that triggers the alarm system upon detecting the sound of breaking glass, while ignoring the sounds of thunderstorms, telephones, and other common noises.

Keypad. Device used for arming and disarming the home security system and for displaying the system status. Keypads can be installed in multiple areas of the house and may be fixed (wired) or remote. Also known as a touchpad. See also English Display Keypad.

Magnetic Contact. Type of sensor that operates by creating an electrical circuit which when broken activates an alarm. Most often used between a door and door frame or a window and sill.

Monitoring Center. A central station that is connected to the home security system. Staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, monitoring center staff respond immediately to all alarms.

Motion Detector. A device that detects the body heat and/or movement of an intruder. If installing motion detectors, make sure they can be set in such a way that they are not activated by household pets.

Panic Button. Manual device for immediately activating the alarm. A panic button can be part of the keypad as well as a separate, often wireless, device. Also called an emergency button.

Sensor. A mechanical device that detects an unauthorized attempt to enter a home, such as a window being opened or broken. Sometimes called an intrusion detector. The most common type of sensor is a magnetic contact.

Smoke Detector. Device for detecting smoke, and fire. When integrated into the home security system, the alarm sounds when smoke is detected.

Silent Alarm. See alarm.

Siren. See alarm.

Sounder. See alarm.

Theft Protection Guarantee. Provides reimbursement of some portion of homeowners' insurance deductible if a home protected by the vendor's system is burglarized. Many restrictions typically apply to these guarantees, so be certain to read the fine print.

Touchpad. See keypad.

Window Decal. A decal that notifies readers that the home is protected by a security system. Some feel the decal alone is sufficient to deter a burglar.

Wired System. Security system that uses concealed or exposed wiring to connect the system's components.

Wireless System. Security system that uses radio frequencies to connect system's components. Zone. A single area of the house protected by contacts or other detectors. For example, the front door would be one zone, a garage door would be a second zone, and a window would be a third zone. Basic systems typically include two to four zones, with additional zones available for purchase.

BeyondWork Easy Extras

All Thumbs Guide to Home Security by Robert W. Wood and Steve Hoeft (McGraw Hill Professional Publishing, 1993, $9.45). This price, equivalent to 5% off the retail price, is available only through the BeyondWork link to Barnes & Noble books. The authors provide step-by-step instructions on how to install outdoor lighting, position shrubs and plants to deter entry, secure doors and windows, wire indoor and outdoor movement sensors, install burglar and fire alarms, mount grills and protective window shutters, and more.
The Consumer's Guide to Wireless Security by Joseph Moses and Lou Sepulveda (McGraw-Hill Companies, 1996, $18.95). This price, equivalent to 5% off the retail price, is available only through the BeyondWork link to Barnes & Noble books. The authors present essential information to help consumers make the right decisions about all aspects of wireless alarm systems, including where to find reputable dealers and effective monitoring centers, how to avoid getting an obsolete system, and, for do-it-yourselfers, how to install your own system.
Security Systems Simplified: Protecting Your Home, Business, and Car with State-of-the-Art Burglar Alarms by Steven Hampton (Paladin Press, 1992, $11.97). This price, equivalent to 14% off the retail price, is available only through the BeyondWork link to Barnes & Noble books. The author offers professional analysis of the pros and cons of modern intruder alarms, including discussions of perimeter systems, infrared detectors, microwave alarms, ultrasonic devices, proximity detectors, and more.
ADT On-line. One of the leading national home security companies, ADT's Web site provides information about their products and services and offers a short questionnaire to help you determine your security needs.
Burglary Prevention Council (BPC). A national organization dedicated to the prevention of residential burglaries, BPC's Web site provides information on keeping your home safe from intruders.
Eye-on-Alarm. A San Francisco-area independent alarm company, their Web site offers information about their products and services as well as access to their newsletter.
National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA). This organization provides consumer information about burglar and fire prevention, as well as a list of member companies and state licensing associations.