Home Security & Surveillance Systems

DIY or Professional

• Security and surveillance systems can be installed by the homeowner or professionally done. Complete packages for both are available at many home improvement and electronic stores and have become simple enough that it only takes basic skills to put one in.

Basic Security System

• A security system normally consists of sensors on the doors and sometimes windows. Often a motion detector on the inside is included. The keypad turns the system on and off and might have a panic button to instantly trigger a loud alarm. More sophisticated controllers allow management of the system via the telephone or Internet. A professional system is usually monitored by an outside company for a monthly fee to the homeowner. If the alarm sounds, the monitors can call the homeowner to see if all is well or notify the local police.

Camera Surveillance

• A basic surveillance system is usually one to four cameras set around the exterior of the home. One may be dedicated to allowing the homeowner to see who is at the front door before opening it. A more sophisticated system is wireless and records all the motion the camera sees onto a hard drive. Often they are controllable over the Internet and with the right password the video can be seen on any computer with an Internet connection.

Layered Defense

• Securing a home with electronics should be only a part of a home's layered defense. Proper outdoor lighting, denying a hiding space around the yard and having strong windows and doors are all important. Criminals pick easy targets of opportunity and if they believe your home is secure they will look elsewhere.