| If you are reading about alarm systems, that is | | | | Professionally Installed Systems: Professionally |
| generally a sign that you take your home security | | | | installed alarm systems are the best option for your |
| seriously. That is a very good thing, considering the | | | | needs. Why, you ask? There are myriad reasons to |
| rapidly rising number of home invasions (currently one | | | | choose this form of alarm. First, they are |
| every eight seconds, nationally). One large | | | | professionally installed. That means that sensors are |
| consideration that many homeowners will bump into | | | | placed exactly where they should be for optimum |
| is the question of whether to install their own | | | | signal transfer. It also means that they are installed |
| security system or purchase a system that comes | | | | correctly, the first time. If you are worried about the |
| with professional installation. This is an important | | | | installers cutting holes in your wall, damaging your |
| consideration, so let's look at each option in a little | | | | home and making a mess, you can find a wireless |
| more depth. | | | | option that works very well. These operate with a |
| Self Installed Alarm Systems: The first thing that will | | | | wired control system and wireless sensors |
| catch your interest with these systems is the fact | | | | throughout the home. |
| that they are priced less than professionally installed | | | | Professionally installed home security systems are |
| systems. That can be a huge draw, especially for | | | | also monitored, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. |
| homeowners concerned about their budget. These | | | | That means that you have a partner (an |
| systems are usually completely wireless and most | | | | experienced, knowledgeable partner, too) that will |
| frequently come with motion detectors and sirens. | | | | help with your security needs. A monitoring station |
| Some of these systems can be attached to exterior | | | | will receive notification that an alarm has been |
| lighting in order to turn them on and off, flash them | | | | triggered and contact you (to verify your situation) |
| when motion is detected and other options. While all | | | | and alert the proper authorities. This type of alarm |
| of this sounds great, there are a few draw backs to | | | | system can easily be integrated with fire, smoke and |
| this type of system. | | | | water sensors as well, for more comprehensive |
| First, they are not monitored. That should be in bold | | | | security. |
| and all capital letters to readers. This means that | | | | So, now you know the benefits behind each option. |
| while you may be alerted that there is an intrusion, | | | | Choosing the right security system will still take some |
| no one else will be. There is neither a monitoring | | | | research and will definitely depend on how much you |
| station, nor do these devices alert authorities that | | | | are willing (or able) to spend. Whether you install your |
| there has been an alarm. That means you are on | | | | own alarm system or contact a professional |
| your own. Second, these systems, while easy to | | | | company such as ADT security systems for |
| install, are frequently not at dependable as other | | | | installation options, any investment in a home security |
| options. | | | | system is better than none, though. |