common and reliable use infrared
Even if a home is in a traditionally
technology to detect increases in body
low-crime area, that doesn't mean it's
immune to crime.
heat. The others use ultrasonic pulses
to measure the reflection of moving
Homes without a security system
are approximately three times as
objects, and microwaves which are
bounced off of objects, similar to a
likely to be broken into as homes
radar gun. If you opt for an infrared
with one. A simple window sticker
detector, make sure it's away from
or yard sign proclaiming your home
any heat sources. If you opt for an
security company of choice can be
ultrasonic or microwave sensor, make
an effective deterrent. In addition,
it's possible to save money on
sure to place them in high areas so that
homeowner's insurance. Most,
if not all, insurance carriers offer
discounts between 5 percent and
20 percent depending upon the
sophistication of the security system.
What Kinds Of Systems Are Available?
Basic home security protection begins
neither you nor your pets can set them
off late at night.
Place your water sensors in these
overlooked spots—next to the water
systems that go beyond alarms and
heater, under the washer, etc. When
motion detectors to keep their homes
secure. These include assistance
a water sensor detects water, it will
with medical emergencies, detection
monitors and an off-site control station.
monitoring of transportation vehicles.
These items are basic to all systems.
In addition, custom components
More advanced systems include:
• Perimeter sensors on outside
available from Home Heartbeat
include:
• Water Sensors. Water sensors help
• Home security cameras inside or
outside of the house
• Glass break sensors
companies should have no problem
plumbing could cause a problem.
conducting a free needs analysis to
understand your family's security
needs and tailor a security system to
fit those needs. This includes questions
about your specific concerns, your
home and your neighborhood. The
more knowledge they have, the better
prepared they'll be to make viable
recommendations.
monitoring center or do a combination
of the two. The monitoring system
will then attempt to contact the
homeowner to determine if the alarm
Is Your Home Secure?
Your home is your castle; unfortunately,
was tripped in error. They typically
This process takes mere minutes and
not only protects your family but also
your valuables, as robbers typically
won't risk getting caught to search for
valuables.
you can't surround it with a moat and
Photo courtesy of www.homeheartbeat.com
• Open/Closed Sensors. Open/Closed
sensors provide information on the
status of doors and windows, keep
track of comings and goings in your
home, and alert you to the expected
alligators ready to thwart any intruder
who should dare approach uninvited.
You can, however, outfit your home
with a security system. It's worth the
investment; after all, you can't put a
price on peace of mind.
and unexpected.
• Power Sensors. Did you leave the iron
on? Now you can find out without
running home to check the plug.
Motion Detectors
Power sensors allow you to monitor
There are three types of motion
the power to just about anything you
can plug in.
detectors still in use today. The most
Before you buy a system, do your
homework. Consult a security
anywhere flooding or faulty
send a warning to a 24-hour-a-day
police so that they may investigate.
Before You Buy
agency or the police department
for recommendations. Reputable
an audible warning to the trespasser,
the monitoring center will notify the
performed on schedule.
system specialist, an insurance
When the alarm system detects
or the owner cannot provide the code,
Controller to turn off the water.
• Reminders. Reminder sensors help
ensure that time-sensitive chores are
damage that results from flooding
or leaks. You can put them
unauthorized entry, it will either emit
code; if they can't contact the owner
send a signal to the Water Shut-Off
alert you to potential property
• Motion detectors in key
inside areas
ask the homeowner for a prearranged
Water leaks are often hidden at first.
Some homeowners opt for custom
of deadly carbon monoxide levels,
and GPS tracking and emergency
• Timers for interior and exterior
lights
• Water Shut Off Controllers.
The Ultimate In Home Protection
at around $30 and includes a control
panel, keypad, alarm, sensors, access
doors and windows
Photo courtesy of Brinks Home Security
expensive antiques, art and jewelry.
Home Heartbeat, by Eaton, is an "out
of the box" wireless system. This plug-
and-use home awareness product
monitors safety, security and comfort
issues in the home.
November 2012 • Floor Space Magazine I 9