Popular myths about home security systems

Top 6 Misunderstandings About Home Security Systems

January 18, 2021 by Anas Mustafa

Security alarm systems have been around since the late 1960s, so most people are familiar with how they work to improve security. However, with rapidly changing technologies, the security components tend to change so fast that it becomes difficult to keep up with the advancements unless you’re directly involved in the industry. As a result, there is much outdated information that downplays the benefits of a security system and keeps you from securing your home, business, or property with the latest security features.

Many of the myths regarding security alarm systems revolve around challenges that have already been solved, or general misconceptions caused by wrong or distorted information from other people. So, it’s best that you educate yourself on the common misunderstandings of security alarm systems, and become proactive rather than reactive about protecting your family and assets. Here are some of the popular myths debunked:

Misconception #1: You’re Not a Target

It’s good to have a positive mindset and believe that bad things won’t happen to you and your loved ones. Unfortunately, this gives a false peace of mind that stops you from preparing for unexpected situations that may put your family, belongings, and property at the mercy of criminals. If you think that you live in a safe neighbourhood, you can easily forget to protect your home and even become a target for burglary. On the other hand, having a basic security system can help to deter opportunistic burglars or catch more determined criminals after the incident.

Misconception #2: Home Security Systems are Expensive

Even though many people believe that installing a home security system can help to enhance security and give them peace of mind, they tend to shy away from alarm system providers because they assume that they won’t be able to afford it. However, modern security systems have such a wide range of features that you’re certain to find a package that fits your budget.

In fact, a simple home security set-up for leased security equipment can cost as little as $30 per month with no initial installation costs.

You can also gradually build up your home security system by purchasing standalone devices such as smart doorbells, wireless security cameras, motion detectors, CO2 detectors, smoke alarms, driveway alarms, smart locks, and so on that you can have professionally installed or install yourself. Professional monitoring is highly recommended although without professional monitoring, you can still keep an eye on the devices through a smartphone app, and receive alerts directly on your phone when the devices are triggered.

Misconception #3: Alarms are Not Reliable

There are many heist and horror movies suggesting that the police almost always arrive late after an alarm has been triggered, or that an alarm event can be manipulated to trigger false alarms and delay the response when a real threat occurs. Some even show security systems being turned off by cutting an electrical wire or phone line, leaving you exposed. Indeed, such events have occurred in real life, causing many people to lose their confidence in alarm systems.

However, modern security systems leverage new technologies to counter these issues while providing consumers with more options to stay protected. For instance, today, many security systems rely on dedicated cellular wireless technology and have power backup, so even if the phone or power line is cut, the system will continue to function.

You can also set up some security systems to alert you on your smartphone and your monitoring stations soon as they’re triggered. This not only reduces the risk of false alarms, but also minimizes the losses even if the burglars proceed with the crime because they know that they’ll be seen and might get caught. With unmonitored security systems, you can receive alerts directly to your smartphone although most of the DIY products do not have a dedicated cellular connection and work off of your home internet which a burglar could disconnect. Getting a professionally installed and monitored alarm system from a reputable company is always the best option when looking to secure your home.

Misconception #4: You Need a Long-Term Contract

Although almost all security companies require long-term contracts for their clients to lock in the pricing with no upfront costs, there are packages that don’t require one but require an initial equipment and installation cost . Many providers have flexible packages, including those that allow you to pay monthly and even move with your home security system when relocating. These plans are particularly helpful for renters, who only need to pay a small set-up cost of about $300, and then make monthly payments of about $35 or more depending on the specific security features offered in the package. These options are mostly wireless for easy installation and removal.

Misconception #5: You Require a Landline

With advancements in technology, users now have the option of using wireless security systems that use cellular technology or Wi-Fi to connect the devices and send signals to the user’s smartphone app and to the monitoring center. Today, many systems even offer home automation so you can connect your security system to smart locks, smart lights, and other smart devices in your home and control them via an app. If you have a landline phone, you can opt for a wired security system because it costs less than a wireless one. A dedicated cellular connection is always the recommended and most secure communication method for home security systems.

Misconception #6: You Can Get Dogs Instead

A well-trained dog can be a great help in enhancing the security of your home. That said, having a loyal dog in your home or backyard is not completely effective by itself. The idea of improving your security is to employ multiple strategies at the same time to deter burglars or minimize losses if they manage to enter. Considering that dogs can be distracted or even injured by a proficient burglar, you can enjoy greater peace of mind if you pair them with a home alarm system. Modern security systems can detect your pets, so they won’t trigger smart cameras and motion sensors to cause a false alarm.

Final Note

It’s important to keep in mind that security alarm systems are meant to deter crime and minimize losses. Surveys indicate that burglars are three times more likely to attack a house without a security system, and avoid those with one. Even if they break-in, you can review the camera footage to identify loopholes in your security system and help catch the perpetrators.

Lastly, modern security systems are easy to control, especially with phone apps. You can arm and disarm the alarm, control connected smart devices, and even watch live video through a smart doorbell or other cameras when away from home. The convenience and peace of mind are worth the investment. For more information, please contact Canadian Security Professionals.

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