Planning Your Alarm System part 1

Planning Your Alarm System Part 1

Levels of Protection

The goal of a residential security system is to detect and intruder as early as possible, alert the home’s occupants of the intruder’s presence, scare him away before there is any harm done and alert authorities should the need arise. Creating layers of protection that progressively increase in tighter security should complete this goal. Picture four progressive circles around your house—much like the rings in a target—with your family and most valuable possessions at the center of the rings. The interior of your home is the second layer, the perimeter of your home is the third and the property surrounding your home is the fourth circle.

For most people, installing a security system which protects the second and third circles (the interior and perimeter of the house) is both effective and cost efficient. If this is the case for you, the third ring is where you begin your defense. This consists of alarm sensors on the windows and doors. You may also want to install alarm screens which allow you to still keep your windows open, yet protect tampering with a screen. Similarly, there are glass-break sensors to detect any attempt at breaking windows or sliding glass doors.

Strategically placed interior motion sensors are the next layer of protection. Protecting the interior is especially important if you chose not to install  a complete point-of-entry system. At the minimum, include motion detectors in high-trafficked walkways, hallways, entry areas and family rooms. A more thorough protection would include all rooms that contain valuables, but that is not always an option. Remember, however, that motion detectors can’t discern between you, the children, the family dog and an intruder. Any change in the field will trip the alarm. Therefore, the type and placement of the detectors is critical as well as remembering to turn the system on and off.

The innermost circle requires spot protection for high-value areas such as a safe or gun cabinet. This circle also includes 24-hour panic buttons. Spot protection is typically controlled separately can can remain on even when the rest of the system is turned off.

Once you determine how many layers of protection you need, decide how you want your security system to respond. Include at least one alarm siren to scare off the robber and alert you to the situation. Larger houses should include a second interior siren. You may also want an exterior siren, heard outside the house, so the neighbors are alerted to the situation. Also consider if you want the system monitored by a UL-listed central station.