How Home Alarm Systems Safeguard Your Property: A Step-by-Step Breakdown?
Have you wondered how secure you are in your own home? One does not have to worry about such questions in normal circumstances. It is in light of these questions that burglars have shown an alarming upward trend in Asia, and one finds the need for an alarm system in their house.
These fears are now deemed legitimate in light of a new alarming statistic: in the United States alone, a burglary occurs on average every 18.2 seconds.
If you haven’t installed a home alarm system yet, when do you plan to do it? Should you do it only when an intruder breaks in, or is it better to be motivated? Let me share with you a recent incident that highlights the urgency of this decision.
The subject of the current case study is two adult male cousins who committed some burglaries only 4 months ago. One of them was arrested after a failed burglary, the other was able to escape but he will likely be arrested sooner rather than later.
They are only one set of many out of hundreds who commit these crimes every day but the focus is on their case specifically because it received more media attention than usual due to the nature of the crime. One of the suspects attempted to assist his cousin during a robbery attempt; he managed to fend off two men from the property but was ultimately captured in the process.
What is the meaning of home alarm?
A home alarm system, often referred to as a burglar alarm or house alarm, is a device that alerts homeowners or building occupants to unauthorized intrusions. The idea behind an alarm is quite simple, alarms are meant to see something out of the ordinary and make the people who reside within the house aware.
The basic structure of an alarm system would be composed of sensors, central control, and alarm units such as sirens. A warning is done to protect the people from unnecessary loss of property in instances of invasion or even a fire outbreak. Alarms are very important because they offer protection, act as crime deterrents, and enable quick action in times of crisis.
Key Components of a Home Alarm System
There are specific elements that make up a home alarm system. The following components all work together to ensure security:
1. Control Panel
This is the main part of the alarm system where the various sensors send their signals. It receives these signals and performs the central function of deciding whether to sound an alarm or not.
2. Sensors
Different types of sensors play a crucial role in monitoring your home:
Door and Window Sensors: These sensors are attached to doors and windows and activate the alarm if they are opened unexpectedly.
Motion Detectors: Placed in strategic locations, these sensors detect movement within a specified area and trigger the alarm when unusual activity is detected.
Glass Break Sensors: Designed to detect the sound of breaking glass, these sensors can alert the system to potential intrusions.
3. Door and Window Sensors
These sensors are installed on doors or windows and sound the alarm when these points are opened without authorization.
4. Motion Detectors
These sensors are installed in specific places and areas and can report motion within their defined area. They also sound an alarm when some unusual activity occurs in such places.
5. Glass Break Sensors
These sensors are heard when glass is struck and breaking occurs. These sensors are also able to turn on the whole system when they detect an attempt to break into the owner’s premises.
6. Alarms and Sirens
When the control panel receives an intrusion signal, it activates loud alarms and sirens to alert the homeowner and deter the intruder.
7. Cameras
Many systems of alarm can see their property even when they are away or by using a phone. In most cases, these cameras are now installed in modern alarm systems like all-in-one or mono-camera systems.
8. Keypad or Remote
Keypads and remote controls are normally employed by homeowners to arm or disarm the said systems in their homes.
How Home Alarm Systems Work
The process of operating a home alarm system can be summarized in four steps:
1. System Arming
Residents can arm the system by either using a remote control or a keypad. This is usually done when they leave home or go to bed for the night. When the system is armed, all connected sensors- door and window sensors, glass break sensors, motion detectors– are switched on. This means, the system now has the task of safeguarding the premises and looking for anything suspicious.
2. Intrusion Monitoring
As soon as the system is armed, it does not stop tracking the security of the house. The sensors respond to changes in the state of the outside environment: the opening of doors, windows, or movements in the under surveillance vicinity. For instance, if a door sensor sees a door opened, or if someone without permission enters through a door the sensors notify the premises.
3. Alarm Activation
There is an event that happens when a sensor is triggered, the control panel is informed there has been a breach and all indicators go to red alert. So in case an intruder enters, the alarm system will trigger highly loud alarms and also alert people within the home. Similar Voice alarms have two general expected reasons; first, to inform the inhabitants of an intruder in case of prevention, and second make the invasion less smooth by scaring away the intruder making an invasion the premise simply not worth it.
4. Communication
Modern alarm systems often come equipped with advanced communication features. They can send alerts directly to homeowners‘ smartphones via dedicated apps or notifications, providing real-time updates about the security status of the home. Additionally, some systems are connected to monitoring companies that can intervene by contacting local authorities or dispatching emergency services if necessary. This ensures a rapid response to potential threats.
5. System Disarming
Once the residents return home or the situation is assessed as secure, they can disarm the system using the keypad or remote control. Disarming the system stops any alarms from sounding, allowing the homeowners to go about their daily activities without interruption. It’s important to disarm the system within a specified time frame to prevent false alarms.
Benefits of Home Alarm Systems
Installing a home alarm system offers a multitude of benefits, including:
1. Burglary Deterrence
A property equipped with an alarm system serves as a strong deterrent to potential intruders. Studies show that homes without security systems are significantly more likely to be targeted by burglars. The mere presence of visible alarm signs or cameras can discourage criminals from attempting to break in, making your home a less attractive option for theft.
2. Notifications in Real Time
Home alarm systems provide instant alerts to all household members when suspicious activity is detected. Whether it’s an unauthorized entry, a window being opened unexpectedly, or motion detected in restricted areas, the system sends real-time notifications via smartphone apps or text messages. This immediate feedback allows residents to react quickly, whether by contacting authorities or taking other appropriate actions.
3. Surveillance
Modern alarm systems often come with integrated surveillance cameras that allow homeowners to monitor their property remotely. For example, you can explore the latest advancements in sight sensor cameras at Build Like New, which offer enhanced security features.
With a smartphone or computer, you can check live feeds from inside and outside your home, ensuring peace of mind when you’re away. These cameras can also record footage that can be useful for identifying intruders and assisting law enforcement if a crime occurs.
4. Smart System Integration
Many contemporary alarm systems can seamlessly integrate with other smart home devices. This means you can control lights, locks, and even thermostats through the same interface used for your alarm system. For example, you can program your lights to turn on automatically when the alarm is triggered or lock your doors remotely if you forget to do so when leaving. This integration enhances convenience and security, allowing for a more holistic approach to home management.
Conclusion
A home alarm system is a vital investment for anyone concerned about security. By understanding how these systems work, homeowners can make informed decisions about protecting their properties. With advanced technology and features available, modern alarm systems offer a robust solution to keep your home and loved ones safe. Whether you are at home or away, a reliable alarm system ensures you can rest easy, knowing that your security is in good hands…
