4 Types of Basic Home Security Systems

The right Altador Calgary home security system will vary depending on where a person lives and what they're hoping to protect. There is no way to eliminate every possible disaster, but researching the different types of systems can make it easier to determine which one will benefit you and your family the most.

The DIY Approach

Some homeowners choose not to invest in any type of formal security system. Instead, they'll take basic precautions that amount to a DIY system. Here are just a few tactics homeowners can try:

• Putting lights on timers: This simple solution is both easy to do and inexpensive. It can cast doubt on whether or not a homeowner is actually in the house, making it more difficult for criminals to target the property.
• Updating home software: If the garage door uses a passcode, it may be easier to hack than homeowners realize. Homeowners can make a habit of either updating their software or frequently changing their password to keep crime at bay.
• Additional precautions: Placing motion detectors in the shadows can scare criminals off who were counting on total darkness. Homeowners can also set up their doorbell to trigger the sound of a dog barking as an easy to deter a thief.

All of these methods are simple and affordable to do. And while they may seem primitive, consider the fact that most criminals are looking for an easy way to get in and out of the home. These little tricks can be enough to convince them to move on.

Local Alarms

A homeowner can place local alarms on all the doors and windows and where the alarm will sound if there's a break-in. The term 'local' means that the alarms aren't actually connected to any kind of law enforcement or security personnel. The idea is that when the alarm is tripped, the neighbors will either call the police or come outside to see what's going on. This is a great option for people who trust their community and who don't want to spend the additional money on a wired alarm.

Wired Alarms

A monitored security system from a trusted provider that will be connected to both the homeowner and the police. Homeowners will need to drill into the home in order to install everything from motion detectors to cameras to control panels. A wired alarm will catch anyone in the home who shouldn't be there and can provide more all-around protection than a local alarm or the DIY systems a homeowner may devise.

Combination Alarms

Home security has seen a lot of changes based on the technology of today. Homeowners now have the option to mix certain features of local and wired alarms to create a customized solution. For example, the alarm may trigger a visit from the police, but it won't require a certified technician to install. Homeowners can pick and choose what they want based on their particular home needs. So if a homeowner only wants a water leak sensor in the basement and a camera at the back door, they can buy these features piecemeal so they're only paying for what they want.

From the simple to the complex, there's a wide range of options for a homeowner to choose from. Ultimately, it's up to the homeowner to decide just how far they want to go. Again, no system can prevent every disaster, but they can all go a long way to reduce the total damage.