Don't Let Intruders in Easy, if you Own a Security System, Use It
As the holidays grow close, the theft rate increases. Especially with the slow economy, burglars are finding more ways to break into cars, businesses and houses. There is a proactive approach to help prevent theft, or at least make it more difficult for burglars to steal your possessions. One method is to simply turn on your security system.
Todd Harrison, Operations Manager at Atronic Alarms, says that many people will not arm their system as they are running out of the door to go to work or just head out for a couple of hours.
“It is important during the holiday season, and especially during these difficult economic times, that if you own an alarm system, you use it!” Todd says. “Many times if the sign itself doesn’t deter a thief, the alarm sounding inside the home will. But if you don’t arm your system, it can’t do its job. My system is always turned on, even when we are in bed at night. Being in this business for over 16 years I have dealt with too many clients that have had horrible experiences.”
More than half of residential burglaries occur in the daytime because many people are away from home. The National Burglary and Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA) says that you shouldn’t invite burglars in from the street with a tempting display of gifts that can be seen through the window. Residents should also create a “I’m Home” ambiance by leaving inside lights on at a low setting. Lights automatically turning “on” and “off” during the day is a strong deterrent, and can be set with a home automation lighting system or timers purchased at your local hardware stores.
Are you vacationing for the holidays? Below are tips you might remember to help keep your home safe:
1. As mentioned above, give your home a “lived in” look by using lighting systems turning your lights on and off during the day and into the evening.
2. Leave on a radio or television during the day
3. Ask for help from a neighbor or friend to “house sit” your home by checking on the place once a day to pick up mail and newspapers.
4. Have a neighbor take out your trash on trash day and bring the trash cans back in.
5. Leave drapes and shades open
6. Replace all your burned out yard lights and install outside lighted motion detectors
7. Keep bushes and trees trimmed back to prevent “hiding” areas.
8. If you have a security system, ALWAY notify your alarm company to let them know you will be gone and who they should contact if case of an alarm. Some security systems will even allow you remote access via the internet to change the homes environment while away.
For more information, visit NBFAA web site at www.alarm.org.
