If you’re like most Canadians, after you moved into your home, someone (such as your real estate agent or a parent or sibling) suggested you secure your home and all your valuables with a security system. Unfortunately, if you’re like most people, you just never got around to it. Maybe it seems like too much effort for something you hope you’ll never need. Maybe you’re afraid of the costs involved? Or maybe you’ve been asking yourself how effective are home security systems anyway?
Other reasons people hesitate to move forward with extra security measures like alarm systems include:
- I’ve never been robbed before
- I live in a safe area or town
- I’m capable of protecting myself and my family.
Property Crimes: A Growing Concern?
First, the good news: In many parts of the country (as well as the country as a whole), burglaries have been going down. Yes, despite what you may have been led to believe, while property crime is the most commonly recorded type of crime, crime rates, including burglaries, have actually been declining for the last 20+ years.
One big reason? Because more and more people are finding easier, more affordable, and more convenient ways to monitor their homes with security systems, burglar alarms, and CCTV cameras. All of which have been found to deter criminals.
You can, of course, have qualified technicians come in and help you set up the whole system and provide complete coverage. In addition, new DIY-friendly products that allow you to set up a more affordable system yourself are also becoming more readily available. So, it’s easier than ever before to protect your home and property with a security system.
The High Costs of Burglaries
Even if your risks of a break-in seem relatively low, the high costs to victims make security systems cost-effective. (They can even help you save on homeowners insurance.) On average, the cost per incident is around $6,000. But for many, the financial impacts pale in comparison to the emotional distress, including fear, anxiety, and feeling violated.
After being robbed, your home may no longer feel safe and secure. Your life will also be disrupted as you take off time to file police reports and work with your insurance company to replace lost or damaged property.
Thieves typically go for high-ticket items like cash, jewelry, and electronics. But they may also take sentimental items that are priceless to you, such as family heirlooms, photographs, and special mementos.
Depending on family dynamics, this can also negatively impact your relationships due to feelings of guilt or blame.
How Effective Are Home Security Systems?
Research from the United States sought to discover how effective home security systems actually are. Interestingly, they got the answer by interviewing burglars who had been incarcerated. In this study, they asked them if security systems had an effect on which properties they targeted. In response, 83% of the incarcerated burglars said they would take time to discover if security systems were in place before attempting a break-in. And a majority—60%—said they would move on to select another target if an alarm was detected. Only 13% would always keep going after seeing an alarm. So simply having an alarm system can help deter would-be burglars.
Statistically, residences that don’t have security services are 300% more likely to be broken into. One expert from the University of Texas, Arlington, explained that even one home in the neighborhood with a security alarm could help lower the risk of burglary in that area.
The preferred illegal entry into a residence was via an open window or unlocked door. But it’s not enough to just lock your doors. To provide even greater protection:
- Make sure you have a solid-core door with a properly installed deadbolt—when you move in, it’s a good idea to have the locks changed to ensure you know everyone who has a key.
- Install a smart lock and a doorbell camera that can alert you and take pictures whenever someone approaches the door.
- Include window and door sensors on the first floor or easily accessible entrances, so you’ll be alerted by an alarm or a notification if a window has been opened or broken. Better yet, set up a security service that provides 24/7 monitoring to ensure emergency services can respond immediately when needed.
- Add a garage door monitor as garage doors are often unlocked, so they’re an easy target for burglars. This can be especially risky if the door from the garage to the home is left unlocked. With the right system, you can be alerted if the garage was accidentally left open as well as if it’s opened without your permission.
Are Security Systems Effective Takeaway
Just as you would suspect, one clear-cut, simple, and cost-effective way to decrease property crimes is to install a home security system. Pros include enhanced safety, simplicity of systems, home insurance discounts, and preventing other types of crime in your community. The cons are minimal: variable upfront costs, determining the best system for your home, and the occasional false alarm. Fortunately, our team of experts is here to help you walk through the process and minimize or eliminate any drawbacks.
An ADT (now Telus) monitored alarm system from Alarm Guard will keep you feeling secure and protect your assets and could even help you save on homeowner’s insurance! Check out our packages and call now for a free quote at <b><a href=“tel:18555184458” title=“Call Now” class=“btn” style=“margin-left:15px;“>1-855-518-4458</a></b> and talk with an expert about which security system is most effective for your home.