Security Systems . . .
While not directly related to the 2nd ammendment or firearms, security systems are one aspect of home defense. And here at You Can Carry we are all about protecting familes. So here’s my take on home security systems . . .
I must first disclose that I currently work for a home security system company. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and everything in between. I don’t own a home (or rent a home–I live in an apartment) but if I did I WOULD have a security system in my home. If they are installed correctly and maintained correctly they are very reliable. Of course, those are the 2 biggest problems with security systems. Either they do not get installed correctly or the owner does not maintain it properly (this includes regular testing and inspection to ensure that the system is functioning properly) or even worse-the owner doesn’t even know how to use the system.
While it may not deter every burglar, especially one who has a special interest in your home, it will deter the random or simply desperate burglar–they’ll usually just go to a different house. The signs and stickers prominently displayed will be more than a casual burglar wants to deal with. If you have a cellular back up system (which means that it does not require your home phone line to connect to the monitoring station) then even if a robber cuts your phone lines your alarm will still be effective.
Another positive aspect, is that you can get smoke detectors, panic/medical alert pendents, CO detectors, flood sensors, etc. that can save you or your home from other disasters that may not be criminal in nature. These are often overlooked as a positive benefit of a home alarm system.
Some other things that help your home defense plan: a LOUD dog, a shotgun, a handgun, nothing of value or perceived value visible or obvious in the windows, a well lit house, and cell phone always handy.
All in all, I would NOT completely rely on an alarm. But when I own my own house I will use this as a piece of my home defense system. Of course, I’ll always have a firearm close at hand, but hopefully I’ll never have to use it.
Very concise safeguard points here Rob. while a burglar alarm acts as a deterrent by increasing the risk for a bad guy the security ultimately is in peoples hand. A faulty installation or having only couple of windows and doors secured by motion detector will only add to the false sense of security which vanishes very quickly when there is a break in. I would advice before choosing a home security company to read the terms and conditions. Most disgruntled customer today blaming the alarm companies are folks who jumped to hasty conclusions as to what the alarm companies offer. Thanks for the great post. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Thanks Nathan–that reminded me of one other point that I wanted to make–when I have a security system put into my home I will have complete coverage. Even if it costs me some money up front–most of the security companies make all their money on the monitoring services and so they can give you a small amount of equipment up front for no cost–however, this amount of equipment usually will cover or provide less than adequate coverage for the home.
My advice is to pay some money up front and get good coverage of your home. Have a good understanding of what the equipment can and can not do–and find out about the different options available to get the best coverage. Don’t sell your families safety short for a few bucks.
Thanks so much Rob. Security less by even 2% is still no security when it comes to the family.