Fortunately, I live in a safe, low-crime area, but I’m not deluding myself into thinking that I’m somehow immune to break-ins. They happen everywhere, even in “safe” areas. While we don’t have a security system, we do have keyed dead bolts installed on the front and back doors, we keep our windows closed and latched, and we keep our mini-blinds closed so that people can’t see in and be tempted by what’s inside. We also put on our front and back porch lights once dusk settles, and even if we’re out, we leave the lamps on in the living room. But I still sometimes consider getting a security system. They’re a bit pricey, and there is a monthly security monitoring fee, but the reassurance a security system provides and the safety it also provides is definitely worth it.
I used to work with security systems, doing system monitoring, so I know a little about how they work. I monitored security systems for homes, schools, hospitals, churches, restaurants, and general businesses. I handled alarms for break-ins, tripped motion sensors, panic buttons, fires, and so on and so forth. So I know that the alarm systems do work, and in addition to the loud alarms they give off when tripped, they also signal the monitoring center to call for help right away.
I have never experienced a break-in or even an attempted one, but my grandmother and grandfather did, five years ago, when they were in the process of moving from their home in Philadelphia to where we are now. They weren’t home at the time, but it was a sickening and horrifying ordeal for them to come home to. Their dogs weren’t hurt, but their televisions were stolen, as was my grandmother’s jewelry, including some heirloom pieces that belonged to her mother and grandmother. Plus there was the expense of having to repair the broken in front door. Could a home security system have prevented the break-in from happening? Possibly. In many cases, just the signs and stickers alerting would-be intruders of an active alarm system can be enough of a deterrent.
Protectamerica.com is one company you can consider for a home security system or even an upgrade to the wireless security system. They have several packages available, with each one offering a set amount of entry points (doors and windows) that can be guarded. I’m interested in the gold package, which would cover 15 entry points — that would cover our front door, back door, and the easily accessible windows. Each package also includes panic buttons, stickers, signs, and system monitoring for a set price each month.
For more information, visit the website protectamerica.com. You can also call them toll-free at 800-470-2751. FYI, if you place an order over the phone, you will receive two free keychain remotes.
