Most Americans take home security for granted, believing that our homes are sanctuaries and that we will always be safe there. Unfortunately, the statistics say otherwise. In fact, home burglaries are among the most common crimes carried out in this country. Home burglaries can take place at anytime of the day, whether someone is home or not. Therefore it is incumbent upon homeowners to do everything within their power to protect themselves from being victims.
It’s been suggested that if more Americans knew the facts about home security systems and crimes in general, they would be more willing to investigate purchasing one. To that end we’ve included some interesting facts below we hope will at least get you thinking. At the end of the day, if you’re concerned enough about the safety of your home and family you will take the necessary steps.
Not Worth the Cost
There is a myth among consumers who do not have a home security system that such a device is not worth the cost. There have been several survey-based studies over the last several years investigatingconsumer opinions in this area, on average, when asked whether or not the cost of home security was worth it compared to the benefits derived from it, only one in eight respondents answered in the affirmative. That means seven out of eight home owners are unlikely to spend the money on home security. Yet when you interview those who have and use their alarm systems, or have been the victim of a home invasion or burglary, the numbers are completely different.
Home Security Systems Are a Deterrent
Alarm companies routinely make known the fact that having yard signs and door details is a great way to deter criminals from even trying a burglary. Those claims are supported by a 2010 study which noted that homes not protected by alarm systems are almost 3 times more likely to be burglarized than those with alarm systems. The study even went so far as to look at homes where alarm systems were present but yard signs could not readily be seen because of snow or other conditions. The homes most often passed over had both an alarm system and a yard sign that could be easily seen.
Peace of Mind Is Priceless
Several studies done in the latter part of the previous decade looked at crime victims and their assessments after being victimized. These studies concluded that victims of home burglary who did not have alarm systems at the time the crime was committed regret not having one by a ratio of three-to-one. Many respondents said after the fact that they should have spent the money on alarm system rather than lose their peace of mind as the result of a burglary. Interestingly, the vast majority of these homeowners purchased alarm system as a result of becoming victims.
Apprehending Criminals
If your home is ever burglarized, there is little chance of the perpetrator being caught if he is not observed by someone. An experienced burglar knows how to get in and out quickly without leaving any evidence that can trace the crime back to him. However, an alarm system greatly increases the chance that a burger will be apprehended. Not only does the noise attract the attention of neighbors, but the alarm monitoring company can hear everything that goes on inside the home and can alert police as soon as the premises is entered.
Homeowners Insurance Reduction
One of the added advantages of having a home security system is that most insurance companies will offer a rate reduction on your homeowner’s policy. Statistically, since homes with alarm systems are at reduced risk of burglary, property damage, and loss of contents, insurance companies are willing to reward homeowners with lower premiums. This discount can range anywhere from 5% to 20%, depending on a number of factors, and how much of a discount you would get on your specific policy is determined by your provider.
Your home is the one place you and your family should always feel safe. In today’s world, providing a safe sanctuary requires that we take extra measures to protect ourselves. That’s why a home security system from a company like Pinnacle Security is a good idea.