High Tech Home Security: New Year, New Solutions
by Wendy Croix
Home Improvement Ideas Columnist
Should your home security system go wireless? Want an email ping, if there's a problem on the home front? We're not just talking burglar-proofing with the new high tech home security. Today's home security systems are wireless, and can monitor your nanny, your teens, or your stay-at-home seniors in real time, all the time.
Home Security Systems Plus
Whereas conventional burglar and fire home security alarms use telephone technology, the new home security systems have gone wireless. Consequently, home security can be bundled as an option with other wireless services like Internet, cable, broadband, or even Internet telephone service. Though prices can vary significantly depending on the number and type of monitoring devices you choose, a typical wireless package might run about $500 in start-up costs, and then $25-$50 per month for the security service.
With Home Security Systems Going Wireless, There's No Such Place as Away
If you have a second home, or if you're out of town on vacation, you can still monitor your house from any Internet connection. Your web-based home security account offers a continual, detailed activity report. You can also manage your home security system yourself via remote access, turning your lights on and off, or your home's temperature up or down.
Home Security with a Capital S
All a burglar has to do to disable the conventional home security system is cut the phone wires. Wireless is far less vulnerable. Though the new wireless technology is impressive, do follow the guidelines of the National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association when shopping for home security--even over the net. Find several NBFAA certified companies and compare. Get advice from your police department's crime prevention unit, from state security company licensing agencies, and from your insurance agent. Once you've narrowed your options, get each company's home inspection and ask for their quote in writing. Then, have a safe, secure new year.
Sources
- Alarm.com
- "High-tech security puts owners in control," by Jim Watkins. The Washington Times (Sep 10, 2004).
- "Home security comes out of dark," by Eric Lai. Toronto Star (Aug 16, 2003).
- "Innovations Switch Jetsons' Home From Fantasy to Real-Life Option," by Michael Sasso. Tampa Tribune (Mar 10, 2004).
- "Keeping guard on household - SPECIAL REPORT: THE HI-TECH HOME," by Adrian Lynch. The Australian (Nov 19, 2002).
About the Author
Wendy Croix, Ph.D. is a creative writer, freelancer, and self-confessed home improvement junkie. She's also a professor with more than twenty years’ experience in the field of education.
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