Do Alarm Systems Work? A Closer Look at the Effectiveness of Different Types
When considering whether to install a home security alarm system, it's essential to understand how effective various types of alarms are in deterring and responding to burglaries. A survey we conducted among 1,000 of our website visitors provides some insightful data on how people typically react to hearing an alarm in their neighborhood.
Ignoring the Alarm: Over 30% of respondents admitted they would completely ignore an audible alarm.
Passive Observation: 42% said they would look out the window to see what was happening but would not take further action.
Overall Ineffectiveness: Combining these responses, a total of 75% indicated that an audible alarm would not lead to significant action or intervention, suggesting that audible-only alarms might not be as effective as one might hope.
Given the limitations of audible-only alarms, it’s worth considering other types of security systems that can offer more reliable protection.
Audible Alarms: While they can deter some opportunistic thieves due to their visibility and the noise they generate, their real-world effectiveness in getting neighbors to take action is limited.
GSM Speech Diallers: These systems notify you or your designated key holders via a phone call when the alarm is triggered. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain but require the recipient to take immediate action, which might not always be feasible.
Monitored Alarm Systems: These systems are connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) that monitors signals 24/7. Upon receiving an alarm signal, the ARC will contact you or your nominated key holders. While more reliable in ensuring someone is alerted, the effectiveness still depends on the availability of the key holders.
Police Monitored Systems: Contrary to common belief, these systems are not monitored directly by the police but through an ARC. If an intrusion is verified, the ARC may contact the police, but police response is prioritized against other ongoing incidents, which may not guarantee an immediate response.
Smart Alarms: Increasingly popular, smart alarms provide notifications directly to your smartphone via SMS, email, or app notifications. They offer the ability to remotely monitor your property through live video feeds and receive updates about who arms or disarms the alarm. This option empowers homeowners to take immediate action, even when they are away from home.
The choice of an alarm system should be based on your specific security needs, the typical response of your community to alarms, and how actively involved you want to be in monitoring your property. Here are some considerations:
Community Engagement: If you live in an area where neighbors tend to ignore alarms, relying solely on an audible system may not be sufficient.
Lifestyle: If you travel often or cannot rely on neighbors for immediate action, a system that offers direct and instant notifications to your phone would be preferable.
Security Level: For higher-risk areas or properties with valuable contents, monitored or smart alarm systems provide a higher level of security.
Ultimately, enhancing your home security is about choosing a system that not only deters burglaries but also provides real and actionable alerts when an intrusion occurs. Whether you opt for a basic audible alarm or a more advanced smart system, the goal is to choose a solution that aligns with your security needs and lifestyle.
For more detailed advice tailored to your unique situation and a free quote, contact us today.