What Everyone needs to know about Home Security Systems

Why burglaries happen?

A burglary, more often than not, is invited. Just as we earn our living by going to work everyday, a burglar enters homes to steal, thereby earning his livelihood. But a burglar’s job is filled with challenge – using his intelligence and observation, he has to identify his target – the home which is not adequately protected, and also has something worth stealing. In other words, he looks for soft and lucrative targets. Remember, burglars choose unoccupied homes with the easiest access, the greatest amount of cover, and with the best escape routes.

What can one do to prevent burglary?

Even if you are well-off, it is important that you do not exhibit an extravagant lifestyle. Make your home a ‘hard’ target, by installing Electronic Security Systems. Studies show that homes without security systems are about three times more likely to be broken into than those not so equipped.

So how does a security system actually work?

An Electronic Security System works pretty much like a human being. Just as humans have a brain, a Security System has the Control Panel. This functions as a central computer, receiving messages from a number of sensors that act as the "eyes" and "ears" of the system. These sensors are usually connected to the Control Panel by way of wires, just as the eyes and ears that are connected to the brain via nerves. If the security system is "armed" (on) and a sensor sends an alarm signal to the panel, it sounds an audible local alarm. It also automatically dials a computerized Central Monitoring Station (CMS) or the Police by means a built-in digital telephone communicator. The CMS personnel then alert the appropriate authorities. Keypads, normally located near common entry doors, allow the user to control the system.

Does the Electronic Security System only protect against burglars? 

Modern security systems, by virtue of their compatibility with various sensor technologies, can also handle other undesirable events such as fires, flooding (like in the basement), LPG gas leakages, or even medical emergencies. Apart from sending an alarm signal to the CMS, many security systems can also send appropriate SMS messages to designated mobile phones!      

Apart from the Control Panel, what all other components are there?

Any number of sensors and other accessories make up a system. A well-designed system may consist of some or all of these:

• Magnetic Contact sensors to protect doors and windows that open
• Glass-Break sensors to protect windows and other expanses of glass
• Motion sensors to detect movement within a defined area
• Vibration sensors to sense knocking and/or banging on windows and walls
• Manually-operated panic switches
• Moisture sensors to detect water flooding and seepage
• Smoke sensors to detect smoke and fire
• Heat sensors to detect sudden rise in temperature
• Sirens and sounders to sound a local alarm
• Auto dialers to dial programmed telephone numbers and deliver voice messages

Can I have my system turned 'ON' when I'm at home?

Yes, your system can be designed in any number of ways to accommodate your lifestyle. You can choose from several levels of protection. For example, when you are away from home you can have all sensors activated. When you are at home in the evening, watching TV or making dinner, you can choose to have your door and window sensors activated and your motion sensors off. System smoke detectors and panic switches are always active. A professional security systems dealer can help design a system that works best for your requirements.

Will my dog set off the alarm system? 
A Passive Infra-Red motion detector (PIR) is a security sensor that detects an intruder as he passes through the area "covered" by the PIR. Since PIR's are motion sensors, they are designed to be used when no one is at home or when the family will not be moving through the protected areas. If you have pets at home when the PIR is on, let your Security System installer know so he can provide you with the appropriate ‘Pet Immune’ motion sensor that detects human movement and ignores pets.

Can a sensor detect an intruder while he is still outside my house? 
Vibration sensors also known as inertia sensors are excellent for protecting windows, doors, roofs and walls. They mount directly on to these surfaces and are designed to detect vibration caused by hammering, chiseling, sawing and cutting. They detect the intruder while he is still outside your home. All weather, out-door PIR’s are also available. These detect an intruder as he prowls in your garden!

I have already constructed my house, I will not allow my walls to be broken into to put in the Security System wiring.
No sweat! Wireless security systems are now a reality. The sensors communicate with the control panel using secure wireless communication protocols. You need not worry about the aesthetics of your home being marred. The wireless security system installation is quick, reliable and neat.

What if there is no electricity?
No problem! Your system comes equipped with a built-in maintenance free rechargeable battery. During electricity failure, the battery takes over automatically and powers the entire system. Depending on the total load, the back-up time could be for several hours.  Batteries usually last for 3-5 years.

How is my family protected during the day when the security system is un-armed?

Panic switches mounted unobtrusively at strategic locations within the house can be manually operated to sound the alarm and/or dial for help, should the need arise. Wireless panic switches may be worn on person.

What about false alarms?

Technically speaking, there is no such thing as a false alarm. However, there may be ‘nuisance’ alarms. All alarms generated must have a cause. This could be a door inadvertently left open, or a dying battery. While most nuisance alarms are caused by errors of the part of the user, they may also occur due to poor system design or improper installation by the alarm company.  

How does one evaluate the products offered?

The Bureau of Indian Standards has not yet laid down any standards for electronic security systems. As a consequence, indigenous manufacturers do not have any guidelines to follow. However, as there are stringent security system standards enforced in Europe, USA and other Western countries, one may look for EN or UL certifications for the products being purchased.

Where does one find and evaluate a good security system installer?

Designing and installing home security systems is a skilled activity requiring good knowledge and experience on the part of the installer. Look in your neighbourhood Yellow Pages, resident directories, or search the internet to locate a security system installation company in your area. As electronic security systems need to be checked and serviced regularly, it is important to have an installer who responds quickly to a maintenance call. Check the number of years that the installer has been in business, and ask him to furnish a client reference list. Make it a point to call at least three contacts from this list and enquire about the satisfaction levels.

Who responds if the alarm is sounded?

The alarm system is connected to a local siren. This usually scares off the intruder without eliciting any other response. Although neighbours and passers-by usually ignore alarm bells, their attention will definitely be drawn towards the racket, and in the process, they may see the unwanted elements committing or attempting to commit their nefarious activities. Good neighbours may even phone the police and/or the owner of the property where the break-in occurs.

Finally, as personal security is increasingly getting important, it is a good idea to seek expert advice and consult a professional security systems company such as Kawach. Please mail us your query on info@kawach.com and one of our Channel Partner / TSSE  will contact you immediately.