Unmonitored Burglar Alarm Security Systems

Unmonitored, Home Security Burglar Alarm Systems

We all see that the news is full of crime stories and we listen with even greater interest when it is close to home, it is often about this point that we seriously consider a home security burglar alarm system.

We know we don’t need to build ourselves Fort Knox – as most house crime is opportunistic and not planned – and anyway, even banks get broken into, but the main thing is that if a thief wants to get in and he is smart enough or foolhardy enough, then he probably will, so why, you ask, would I bother to install a burglar alarm? The answer is that it will dramatically reduce the likelihood of you getting a burglar as it removes the “simple opportunity” and turns it into a difficult chance where the risk of getting caught seems much higher, and if he/she does enter, it is likely to be for a much shorter time.

So what is an unmonitored burglar alarm system?

Simply put, unmonitored home security systems have all of the audible sounds and flashing lights etc that monitored systems may have but are not connected to a security company. They have reliance upon the noise itself notifying the home owner, neighbours and those in the general vicinity, that there may be a security breach / issue and then further relying that at least one of these people will notify the authorities.

What is it likely to entail?

• Most burglar alarm systems will have contacts at doors and windows and will include some form of motion sensor. – Motion sensors however should not be considered as the main system leader – remember that they will only pick up once the intruder has already broken in – a decent motion sensor can detect the difference between a pet and a human.
• All exterior entry points are most likely to have contacts that will sense if it is open or not.
• Glass break sensors may also be included.
• Keypad – to operate or shut down the system
• Siren and lights (if applicable) – many unmonitored alarm systems use strobe lights
• Control panel and back-up battery system (system would be pointless if it fails during power-failure)
• Alarm company installation sign (which can be another deterrent – remember the would-be intruder does not know it is an unmonitored alarm system)
• Possible additions to a more sophisticated system
• Panic buttons
• Smoke detectors (if doubling up as a fire alarm also)
• Under carpet pressure pads
• Cameras and CCTV recording
• Lock-down screens for windows

Pro’s of an unmonitored burglar alarm system

It is usually a lot less expensive than a full monitored system

• Once only investment
• No monthly monitoring fees
• Possible reduced home and content insurance
• Greater peace of mind
• Less risk of a break-in
• Often works well if you get on well with your neighbours

Con’s of an unmonitored burglar alarm system

• It is not being monitored so will not necessarily be subject to an immediate response
• If it is a false alarm you will be called out and you will have to deal with interested parties
• You do need to get on well with neighbours – it relies on them to notify the authorities
• The alarm is ineffective if those in close proximity ignore it
• So many different alarms go off today there is an inclination to ignore them
• Pointless if the house is isolated – no one hears it
• Not effective if neighbours are at work when you are or on holiday when you are
• You have to remember to switch it on and off

A final point

We have all heard someone say – why bother to have a burglar alarm system at all – just install a false box – it does not work any more – most burglars look in a telephone directory to see if the alarm company exists and know that most real alarm companies will not allow dummy boxes to display their logo.

You can find more information on sites such as www.just-burglar-alarms.co.uk.

Visit our article for information on Monitored Burglar Alarm Systems.