If you are on the fence about installing a security system, you may ask, "do home security systems actually prevent break-ins?"
The truth is not surprising, given the fact that burglars are naturally drawn to homes that do not have a security system in place. A home security system's presence is a huge deterrent to thieves and other would-be bad guys- so much so that homes without security systems are up to 300% more likely to be targeted by burglars. That's a significant risk increase and one that homeowners shouldn't ignore, especially given that one home is burglarized in the U.S. every 25 seconds or so.
Worried about home security? Call Ackerman's experts at 800.552.1111. We'll thoroughly assess your home's perimeter and points of entry and provide upfront prices on the best home security systems in Atlanta. Don't want to wait? Get an instant security quote online today.
Why Home Security Systems Deter Break-Ins
A UNC Charlotte study of convicted burglars provides insight into why home security systems deter break-ins.
Among this study's key findings was that around 83% of study participants reported they attempted to determine whether a home was equipped with a home security system before breaking in. Around 60% of participants reported targeting a different home if a security system was detected in the original target.
Why do thieves generally steer clear of homes equipped with security systems?
- They're being recorded. Identifying the burglar, even when attempts are made to obscure their face or other identifiable characteristics, is obviously easier and more likely with video footage of the crime.
- The neighbors may be alerted to their presence. Many security systems for the home come with burglar alarms that are sufficiently loud to alert neighbors or passersby, making identification and witness statements to the police more accurate.
- Around-the-clock monitoring means someone's always watching.
How Security Systems Can Help Retrieve Stolen Property
Strategically placed security cameras, as part of an effective home security system, can certainly aid in the identification of the thieves that remove your items from your home or property.
Tracking down the burglar can often provide police with the upper hand when finding your stolen goods. However, these same security cameras also provide video footage to help you identify and claim your stolen property. When missing valuables show up for sale online or in a pawn shop, for example, having a video showing burglars carrying the items out of your home can be very useful in proving ownership and recovering your items.
Benefits of a Security System
Whether you own or rent your home, the benefits of a security system are varied and many. From the moment it's installed, a home security system provides a shield that protects your family if a worst-case scenario occurs. Alarm systems can scare off would-be thieves and alert police to their presence or even to attempted burglaries. The most significant benefits of installing a home security system are detailed below.
Reduced Homeowners Insurance Premiums
Insurance companies tend to give lower rates or discounts to homeowners who invest in home security systems. By some accounts, homeowners stand to save from 2 percent and up to 15 percent on the cost of their homeowners' insurance policies by installing a monitored home security system. In a best-case scenario, if you pay $2,000 each year for homeowners' insurance, you should shave up to $300 off your insurance premiums with a discount of 15 percent.
Why do insurers see homes with security systems installed as less of a risk? As well as being a known deterrent to thieves, a home security system provides homeowners instant access to emergency responders and police. In addition, many home security systems also provide notifications for fire or gas problems, triggering help if a smoke alarm of a CO2 monitor is engaged. To the insurance company, these features make homes with security systems safer overall.
Peace of Mind
The peace of mind that comes with installing a home security system is perhaps its most significant benefit - one that is hard to quantify.
The different elements of a security system work together to provide a barrier that divides the people and things you love from people who would harm or steal them. For example, in the aforementioned prison-based UNC study, convicted burglars reported most often gaining entry into homes by opening or forcing doors or windows open. An effective security system features components that instantly alert homeowners or the alarm company (and authorities) to the presence of intruders in the home. For example, glass break sensors and window/door alarms provide automatic reporting when an event occurs.
Remote Access When You're Away from Home
Smart security systems are fully integrated with smartphones and tablets.
Today's security systems are more intelligent than ever and are fully integrated with smartphones and tablets. This makes it easy to check in on your home when you're not there. Cameras can be placed throughout the home in addition to exterior cameras, so you can drop in on pets or children when you're away. As a bonus, some home security systems also provide access to features such as keyless entry and thermostat controls or other home automation features from remote locations.
With around 7 million property crimes ranging from armed robbery to burglary, arson, and vehicle theft occurring in the U.S. each year, the need for effective home security surveillance cannot be overstated.
Keep Your Home Secure With Help From Ackerman Security.
Established in 1967, Ackerman is an industry leader in providing the reliable protection your family deserves. Over its 50+ years in business, Ackerman has become Atlanta's most trusted home security company, providing state-of-the-art products installed by knowledgeable security professionals. Get an instant quote online or discuss your home security needs while learning more about Ackerman's 200-percent no-theft guarantee by dialing 800.552.1111.