SMART & SAFE - The Proactive Personal Security Way!

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"Remember, intruders do not typically look for a challenge - if your home appears to be protected by a security system, it is probably too high risk for an intruder. But, you should weigh the loss risk. . . versus the risk possibility (crime stats for your area, law enforcement visibility, etc) to determine the necessary level of security for your home."

This is the second of the article series for improving At Home personal safety. " Have a security system set up for your home. Use a professional service or find a system that meets your requirements in an electronics store. If you seek to use a professional home security service, research the service companies you are considering. Get their names and check their references. Is the company bonded? Check the Better Business Bureau, the local (for the security company) Chamber of Commerce or some other reputable organization for information on the security company. Learn how long the company has been in business. Learn who performs actual installations - employees or contractors. A company may have less control over contractors. Learn how they hire employees. (Are there background checks?) Get quotes (service/system options and prices) from more than one service.

How secure is your home?

If you plan to buy and install a system yourself, do your research!

• The internet provides almost endless resources of information on what is available in the way of security systems!
• Before purchasing any system, find reliable references from current owners of the same system. If the system is quality, the manufacturer or retailer should be happy to provide you with testimonials and references.
• Determine the level of potential risk for your area so you can decide on how comprehensive your security system needs to be. Local police departments should be able to provide information and crime statistics for you.

If you cannot afford a security system, you can try to fool potential intruders by making it appear as if you have a system.

• Use your computer to create a phony security company decal that can be placed on windows and doors. These decals can claim that, "This property is protected by XYZ Security Company". Look at some real decals to see what is written on them.

About Tim Rochford

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