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| Intruder Alarms |
Locks and alarms are both important, and serve different purposes.
Whilst an alarm system will tell you if an offender has tried to enter your house, your door and window locks will keep them out.
Prevention is better than cure. You should fit and use locks to all external doors and windows.
More importantly, be sure that your door and window locks are effective before you invest in an alarm system.
If you are taking out a loan to build or buy a property, consider allowing for cost of good quality security locks and alarm system.
Over the life of your loan the additional cost will be negligible.
Which alarm is best for you?
For each person, the answer will be different. It depends on your home, your possessions and factors such as your lifestyle, children or even pets.
Shop around. Licensed security companies can show you the available options for your situation and needs.
It may also be useful to look at the way burglary is being committed in your area.
Alarm technology
Most alarms have battery back up in case the power supply is cut, as well as a panic button so you can set off the alarm if you suspect there is an intruder in your home.
There are alarms, which can be activated with a keypad and others by a remote control. Alarms use remote sensors, usually connected by concealed wiring to a control panel.
Sensors may include:
- Door and window switches
- Sensors triggered by movement
- Glass breakage sensors
- Shock sensors
- Smoke Detector
Who to trust when choosing an alarm system
We recommend that you obtain quotes from at least 3 licensed security companies and always ask to see their security license and identification. Seek advice from some independent source such as your local police Crime Prevention Officer, or contact the Security Agents Institute on 9328 2771.
Have you considered a monitored alarm system?
When activated, alarms sound a local siren. This is designed to attract attention and scare off an offender.
If neighbours or passers-by do not respond to the noise (in some cases, they may think it's a car alarm gone off accidentally), then obviously the deterrent value is limited.
The big advantage of a monitored alarm is that it uses a telephone line to alert a monitoring station of activation. This means that your home is under security "watch" around the clock whether you're there or not.
The monitoring station can then make arrangements to check the premises. As a general guide, monitoring costs about $1.00 a day. Take responsibility for securing your home. It's all about a Safer W.A. and reducing crime to improve our quality of life.
"Crime prevention is everybody's business."
How to choose the alarm system that's right for you
Intruders are far less likely to break into a home with an alarm system.
Having said that, there are literally dozens of alarms systems available in Western Australia.
Regardless of how good the alarm system may be, if it's been installed incorrectly or is poor situated, it is of limited use.
It's important to have a reputable, police licensed consultant install your alarm system and ensure that it compiles with Australian Standard 2201.
