The Importance of Home Security

As animals do various things to provide security of their home, man being an
animal is no different. He does a lot towards the improvement and security of
his home. History shows that man from the beginning of time covered the
entrance to their caves with large boulders, preventing any animal or rain,
snow or any other severe effects of climate.

As time moved forward and he was able to train animals like dogs, he found a
guard for his home. After the invention of doors, locks and keys, it made his
home safer. But with the passage of the time, with the evolution of the human
brain, there also came an increase in crime. A simple lock was not enough to
protect his home. With the enhancement in technology, various new means of home
protection was introduced.

According to a survey, forty percent of home burglars were able to enter houses
due to the lack of secure locks and doors. Electronic locks with some
sophisticated software provided the ability to track and access the locks. The
user can open the lock connected to the network just by the click of a button.
This kind of technology is widely used in offices and commercial areas.

Another outstanding progress made was the invention of the fingerprint door
lock. These locks are designed to attain a very high level of security. Their
sensors have the ability to recognize fingerprints. Biometric fingerprint
Internet banking USB key, Biometric fingerprint time and attendance and
Biometric fingerprint embedded modules are some of the stunning examples of
fingerprint locks.

Grade 1 ANSI (American National Standard Institute) launched a wide variety in
deadbolt locks for exterior usage such as the outer door or the door of the
garage. Due to the increasing demand for ANSI locks, their replica products are
also widely available in market. It is very difficult to distinguish between the
real product and the duplicate, but they cannot provide a quality as that
provided by ANSI locks.

Regardless of the type of lock, the quality of the door is very important. Its
thickness, texture and lock selection play a key role in home security. The
simplest and the most insecure lock is the knob lock. Deadbolts are of two
kinds: internal and external. To secure the home with the best lock on the door
is the cheapest way compared to other home security items such as alarms,
cameras and security networking.

The Internet helps in the selection of an appropriate door along with the right
lock for their homes. Many websites introduce the complete range of products in
conjunction with their prices for any particular company. Many companies
provide special offers to motivate people by fulfilling its demand with top
quality products.

Statistics by the US bureau of Justice have revealed that thefts on property
were at a staggering fourteen million and eighty three percent of these
attempts were successful with the thieves entering the building or house
located on the property. Using the right security alarm can help protect you,
your property and your family from any untoward incidents that can cause
danger. Home security alarms, security systems and automated monitoring systems
have been designed to send messages, calls or make loud sounds if your house has
been intruded.

It is a better to be prepared by enhancing your home security since nothing can
be more important than your home. This is where you and your family and
belongings. Once you have these systems in place only then can you be sure of a
sound sleep and a home with the latest technologies is definitely not an easy
target for burglars. There are numerous places to get your home security in
order, from getting experts to install it or even installing it yourself. If
you want to install it yourself then there are forums available online that
will guide you through the whole process and even show you loopholes that you
could miss.

How to protect your home using Home Security System

We all worry about the security of our homes, especially when we have a family
to take care of. How do we make our homes as threat-proof as possible without
turning it into Fort Knox? Obviously, nobody wants to live in a prison, but is
there anyway of making your home completely safe from all intruders? The answer
to this question is quite obviously a no! If someone wants to get into your
home, they will do, but there are many ways and means of ensuring that your
home is as protected as it can be and also for ensuring that it doesn't look
like an easy target.

Intruders look for homes that appear vulnerable. If you have an open window or
gate, or valuables in full view of anyone that happens to pass by, you are
increasing the dangers of your home security being breached. One way in which
you can repel any intruders is by having a clearly visible alarm fitted to the
front and back of your home. You can get some great "dummy" alarms that are
less costly than full home security systems, but still look like the real
thing. It just means that it isn't worth the intruder breaking in to find out
whether or not it is real!

Home Security Systems can be a little costly, especially if you decide to have
a fully monitored system, as this generally includes annual subscription
charges. However, a price cannot be put on you and your family's safety. So if
you can afford to pay more for a better quality system, it could prove to be a
good investment, especially if you have suffered the traumatizing experience of
having a break-in.

If used correctly, the security systems can be a great relief for you and your
loved ones, and reduces a lot of aggravation. Claiming after a break-in, with
the police and insurance companies, is a very time consuming and irritating
process, and anything can reduce that risk, is obviously a good thing.

When thinking of investing in a home security system, you should think of how
the cost outweighs the risk. Better quality systems will incur a bigger cost,
but if you are in an area where home security is threatened regularly, the cost
may be worth it in the long run. You should make sure you shop around for the
best deals and arm yourselves with as much information as possible so you know
exactly what options are available and how much different packages cost. Don't
just opt in for the first one that you may see, as you could find that other
companies may offer a cheaper deal. You should also find out exactly what is
offered in your deal before you sign on the dotted line, and work out if there
are any extra hidden charges you may have to fork out for.

There are so many options available, from the simplest to the ridiculously
complicated depending on the level of security you are looking for. Obvious
things like signs that say your home is protected and visible CCTV cameras and
alarm systems are by far the easiest and cheapest way to make sure that an
intruder knows that there will be trouble if he or she decides they want to
break in to your house. Broadcast the fact that you are protected and you will
have less of a risk than those who have no security whatsoever.

All in all, the decision of home security systems falls on you and your
personal choices, but there are people and websites dedicated to helping you
find the best ways to protect your home. After all, nobody can put a price on
the safety of not only you, but your family as well, and we all know the
devastating effects burglary has on a family. It really does pay to be
protected.

Home Security Light: The First Security Provider

The first step to prevention of home invasion would be as simple as a security
light. It keeps away those who want to illegally enter in plain sight and also
provides comfort for the home owner. Recently added technologies such as
alarms, security cameras, security networking and other accessories cost much
more as compared to home security lighting.

Motion sensor lighting control is one of the most outstanding inventions in
this modern era. A survey shows that 60% of people say that home security
lights are the best way to secure their homes from burglars. Solar Centurion is
wonderful for security lighting or expediency lighting in the yard, garage and
gate of the home and even on streets.

These security lights turn on by means of a sensor. The sensor, which is used
in these lights, is of two kinds, infrared and microwave. Microwave sensors are
more widely used when compared to the other one. These sensors send out very
high frequency radio waves. The sensor has the ability to tell when someone is
coming under the light as the person or the object suspends the radio waves.
When the disruption is sensed, this sets the light to turn on. The second type
is the infrared sensor. These sensors will respond to the temperature and heat.
When a warm object comes in the range of the sensor, it will trigger the light
to turn on. Other examples of home security lighting include low-pressure
sodium vapour lights and floodlights.

The lights, which are used, are of two kinds, external lights and internal
lights. Light in the home lies in the category of internal lights such as the
lights of bedroom, bathroom and kitchen etc. Mostly homes have passive
infra-red (PIR) restricted tungsten halogen floodlights. This is available
outside the home such as in the yard and at the gate or in the street. Some of
the advanced lights have automatic system to turn on and off. Some PIR units
have been formed to chime as well as turn on the light.

Designer series of many light-manufacturing companies consist of motion sensor
technology with decorative light fittings. This makes the light more attractive
and striking. In some cases the multi lens technology is used which provides the
safety at its peak point. Discounted and low energy light bulbs are often used
in those states where crime is at very high level and the income is very low.
In a nutshell we may say that the home security light has the easiest
installation and cheapest way of security.

Some of the advantages of using outdoor motion sensor security lights are when
you are away from home and the sensors detect any motion within their range,
the lights will brighten the entire yard or direction they are pointed in. This
will definitely give you a better sense of security since it has been proved
that homes with security lights are less prone to be attacked by burglars.
Security lights are manufactured to suit every budget and come in various
designs, from wireless to ones that are to be fit.

If you are home late, and its dark the motion lights are quite a blessing at
such times. On a funny note it acts as an effective pest control mechanism,
keeping away skunks, raccoons, rabbits etc because none of these pest like to
be in bright light. Security light help in saving costs as they only come on
when required unlike other light that need to be left on day and night. Studies
by security light manufactures have shown that Energy savings can vary from ten
to fifteen percent of the entire lighting power use which is mainly because of
the use of the EMS or energy management system technology.

With all the pros mentioned, the outdoor motion sensor security lights can be
quite a gain to the home security and the final decision to get one is
definitely left to homeowners.

Common Sense Home Security Tips

It is not unusual to be concerned about the safety of your house and its
valuable assets from the insatiable eyes of the thieves that can strike anytime
in your house and wipe you off leaving you empty in your pockets. Therefore, be
assured, since thinking about the safety of your house is nothing but natural
and the best thing is that you can do a lot to protect your house in that
respect. Just like you take care of your computer by installing the latest
anti-viruses, anti-spywares and other firewalls, protecting your house from the
burglars is no more different. It is important that you ask yourself some
questions, which would help you to determine how safe your house is. They would
include questions like whether you have ladders or any other tools that a thief
could use to break into your house, whether you have any sort of alarm which
could alert you of any possible break-in, etc. If all these questions point out
that your house isn't safe from the burglars, it is about time that you do
something about it.

Firstly, you have got to remember that thieves would generally avoid those
homes that are always occupied by residents. However, mistaking this fact to
mean that you family would be safe could be the greatest mistake that you could
have ever made. Burglars would stop from doing anything, which means that to get
to the loot, they could even harm your family. However, you would be just as
helpless when you have been robbed off your belongings when you are not there
in your home at all. Now that you know about the risks that involve with
respect to a burglary, it is important that you be aware of some common sense
that could come a long way with respect to protecting your house as well as its
valuable assets from any possible break-in and the best thing about these tips
is that it is much more easier than the pain staking installation of the
anti-viruses that you do in order to protect your computer systems from any
virus threats.

Don't forget the keys: Handing out the keys of your home even to your friends
could be the biggest mistake that you may have ever done. It is important that
every family member knows where exactly you keep your keys all the time so that
you know what to do if any of them are missing. Never use those traditional
techniques of hiding your keys under the mat or in a flower vase, since that's
exactly where the robber would look for them in the first place. And always
keep separate key bunch such as for your home, for your car, etc.

Strangers beware: this may seem like the same advice that your mother always
gave you when you were a child. Never let any stranger into your house come
what may. It is important that you teach your kids to follow this advice all
the time. If someone needs some help and asks if he or she wants to make a
call, don't let them in your house. You can make the phone call for them if
they really are in any kind of trouble.

Keep your doors and windows locked all the time: This tip goes without sayings
that in your absence, always keep your house locked, including your windows.
This proves to be a great habit and it greatly reduces any chances of any
break-ins. Locking the windows would also include locking the windows of your
attic.

Don't show off your valuables: Your house is your home and not a museum or a
jewelry shop where you put up all the valuables on display. Doing this is only
inviting unwanted attention from the criminals who lurk around your
neighborhood looking for an opportunity to strike big.

The last tip and probably the most important one would be to remain alert all
the time. Home security systems are a good investment and if you don't already
have one, go get one right away.

Improving Your Security And Privacy

Due to the increase in door-to-door salesman, criminals looking to scope out
your residence, and other annoyances, you may sometimes feel that answering
your door isn't worth it. When you do finally answer your door and find a
door-to-door salesman, you may have a very tough time getting rid of them. They
will continue to hassle you and keep coming back until you support their group
or buy one of their "innovative" products.

To prevent this from happening and keep unwanted company from bothering you,
you should use a protective barrier between your door and the street. You don't
really need a 15 foot high electric fence, as even the most basic of fencing
will do the trick. You can install a simple decorative fence around your yard,
complete with locking gate, to keep any type of solicitors at bay.

Although a fence is a great way to achieve privacy, not everyone has a yard
that they can build a fence on. You can also use a gate that blocks entry to
your porch or front door, as this way you can keep the gate locked at all
times. The main idea and theory here is to make it difficult to approach the
door to your home. This way, salesman, solicitors, and even snoops will see
that it requires a lot of effort to reach you -- and they will normally just
give up and move on.

Even though a fence or locked gate are great, you can't overlook a dog either.
A barking dog can be very effective, as trespassers simply can' t look over a
dog that is barking. Barking dogs aren't the same as a fence or gate, although
they are very common these days. Keep in mind however, that the effectiveness
of a dog with scaring off unwanted guests will greatly depend on the
disposition and character of the dog you have.

Nearly every dog will bark when it sees a stranger, although not every dog will
prevent someone from coming to your door unless it has been trained to do so. A
lot of door-to-door salesman and snoops deal with dogs on a daily basis, and
will normally just ignore the dog and the barking and proceed to come to your
door. If the dog is more of a violent nature and appears ready to strike, then
it will be a different store. If the salesman or snoop notices the dog is ready
to bite, he will normally stop in his tracks and turn around -- out of the fear
of getting bit.

Keep in mind that having a dog doesn't mean that you have to blood train him or
put him on steroids to keep unwanted visitors away. What you need, is an
aggressive dog that will stand his ground and help you keep your privacy. When
a solicitor visits your home and sees your aggressive dog, he won't want to
sacrifice a sale at the risk of getting bit by your dog.

As annoying as door-to-door solicitors are, there are ways that you can improve
your security and your privacy around your home. You can also invest in home
surveillance systems as well, to further enhance your privacy and security. For
solicitors, fencing with a locked gate is the best way to go, if you have the
room for it. On the other hand, if you don't have the space for a fence, you
can always use a dog or other options. Privacy and security is very important
-- which is why you don't want solicitors invading your space.

Achieving Safety With A Burglar Alarm

Years ago, home burglar alarms were only found with rich homes. These days
however, the prices have dropped and they are becoming more common with homes
of average folk. A lot of people who invest in burglar systems go for the do it
yourself systems. They can be wired or wireless, setting off an alarm when an
intruder attempts to break in or when they are moving around inside of your
house.

With home burglar alarms, there are two types -- open and closed circuit. Open
circuit systems work by setting off an alarm when the circuit closes. When a
window or a door is opened, the circuit is immediately completed and the alarm
goes off. Closed circuit systems work the opposite way. When a window or door
is opened, the circuit is broken -- also setting off the alarm.

Another, more sophisticated option, are motion sensors. Motion sensors sense
any type of motion within a certain radius to the sensor. Once it has sensed
any motion, it sends a signal out to the control panel that will analyze it and
see if the movement is considered suspicious. If the movement is indeed
considered suspicious, it will react to the way you have it set up and inform
the proper authorities or sound the alarm.

Motion sensors can also be adjusted as well. You can adjust them for things
such as pets walking around or any other activity that is common with your home
that wouldn't signify a burglary taking place. Motion sensor alarms are very
common these days, and one of the best ways to keep your home safe from a
burglar -- and give you peace of mind in knowing that you are protected.

Normally, it's a good idea to use motion sensors and magnetic switches with
your burglar alarm setup. Magnetic switches will protect doors and windows
while the motion sensors will help to protect larger rooms, such as living
rooms and hallways. The combination of the two is never a bad idea -- and will
go a long way in protecting your home.

Another available option that you have is a security camera. Video cameras are
also common these days, and can be mounted in very strategic areas throughout
the parameter of your home. They will pick up images in the area they are
mounted, which will be displayed on the monitor. You can also record the video
to a videotape as well, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants to keep
track of the information that the camera picks up.

You can also get a burglar system from a home security company as well. Most
companies monitor their systems remotely, and always have someone in the office
to look after the system. Once the alarm is set off, the company will
immediately inform the local police or send their own security personnel out to
your home. This way, night or day, no matter where you go, your home will always
be protected.

Investing in a burglary system of any type is always a smart investment. You
have several different to choose from, depending on your needs. If you've been
worried about your home and the things you keep inside your home, you should
invest in a burglary system. They will help you keep peace of mind, and know
that you are protected. They don't cost that much either, which makes them an
even better investment. If you own a home -- you shouldn't hesitate to invest
in a burglary system.

Home Security Advice

When the topic of home security springs to mind, most people seem to think of
burglar alarms and little to nothing else. Alarms can be a great way to protect
your home, although they are only a small part of what makes up an effective
home security system. Burglar alarms are a key to protecting your home --
although there are other things you'll need as well.

Believe it or not, the windows are actually the key to home security. Homes
that have poor constructed windows tend to get broken into a lot more than
homes with secure and sturdy windows. When you are dealing with your windows,
you should make sure that you have tough glass and locks that fit to the
windows. When you are away from home, you should always make sure that your
windows are locked. Even though some windows may be hard to reach, you should
always lock them. Burglars make a living out of stealing -- and they will
normally find a way in if they see the opening.

Along with the windows, doors are also known to be a weakness of security
around the home. Doors should always be strong and sturdy, complete with tough
locks that aren't easy to force open. If you have a spare key, you should be
careful where you leave it. Losing your keys can also make you a target,
especially if you have anything on your key ring that reveals your home address.

To better protect their homes, most people choose to invest in a home
surveillance system. These systems are great for monitoring the home, as they
can record video and keep it stored for you to view later. If you travel a lot,
a home surveillance system can be an ideal way to keep a check on your home
while you're away.

Guard dogs are also common with home security as well. A guard dog can protect
your home from burglars, thieves, and other types of trouble. Guard dogs can be
very handy to have around, as most dogs are more than capable of scaring away
trouble with their bark. The only downside to guard dogs is the fact that
you'll need to train them and ensure that they always have food and water.

Last, but certainly not least are burglar alarms. Burglar alarms can be
effective to an extent, although they are primarily good for scaring thieves
away. If you put an alarm in a visible location from the outside of the home,
most burglars won't even attempt to enter your home. Even though burglar alarms
are great for scaring off thieves -- you'll still need to have other areas of
your home safe and secure as well to get the most of your home security.

The Cons Of Home Intruder Alarms

Although home intruder alarms are thought of being an integral aspect of home
security, research has shown that these alarms aren't difficult at all for
professional burglars. The reason for this is due to the fact that most
homeowners tend to forget to set the alarm or fails to lock up the windows and
doors like they should. Although the technology behind home intruder alarms is
great, the technology can't really do anything for you unless you use it
properly.

Even though you may set your alarms when you leave, there is always that one
chance that you may forget. On that very day that you forget a burglar can
easily cash in on your mistake and break into your home. Most professional
burglars are very familiar with home intruder alarms and know exactly how to
deal with them. Even though you may have the most expensive alarm on the market
today, it won't be able to do anything if you forget to program it.

Almost all home intruder alarms need to have the windows and doors properly
shut before they are activated. When you enter or leave your home, you'll need
to enter a password into the control panel to activate or deactivate the alarm.
If you arrive home and forget to deactivate the system, it could go off on you.
This can be very embarrassing, especially if the alarm sounds and the police
show up -- only to find that you are trying to "break in" to your own home!

Most burglars out there can rob a home in as little as 15 minutes. Although
some burglars choose to work with others, most prefer to work along. The
experienced burglars almost always do their research first, and go from there.
A professional burglar will never enter a home he isn't familiar with, for the
simple fact that he could get caught. Instead, he will spend a lot of time
studying the home and the family. If there is a home intruder alarm present,
the burglar will watch from the shadows until he has learned how the system
works. Once he sees that you have failed to input your password or activate the
system, he will make his move. Once the burglar is inside the house and the
alarm is off -- he can be nearly impossible to catch.

If the alarm is set and the burglar happens to trip it, he will immediately
flee from the area and move on to a different home. Home intruder alarms can be
very loud, with most contacting the police or other law enforcement agency the
second they notice a break in. Even though they may have their faults -- home
intruder alarms are still
great to use with home security as long as you remember to activate them before
you leave your house.

The Best Ways To Prevent Burglary

These days, home burglary is one the rise. Over 70% of all crime these days
relates to property crimes, normally involving the home. Although police and
local authorities are doing everything they can to put a stop to crime,
burglary is something that cannot be stopped. Even though there are ways to
protect yourself, burglars will always be lurking out there -- waiting for
their next victim.

Even though there are ways to prevent unwanted entry to your home, a determined
burglar will always find a way to get in. Breaking and entering is his job, and
most burglars are extremely good at it. Statistics show that burglaries occur
every 15 seconds. What that means, is that every 15 seconds there is someone
out there getting robbed.

Over the years, home burglaries have received a lot of attention, some of which
have even been on the news. Although some burglars eventually get caught and
arrested, most seem to disappear without a trace. To protect yourself and your
home, there are tactics such as security alarms, burglar alarms, and even
security cameras that you can use.

Property marking is a great way to protect yourself as well. Property marking
involves marking everything that you own with a signature or mark that you can
easily identify once the property has been recovered. You can use micro dots,
UV pens, or even laser pens. The idea here is to mark your property so it won't
be easy to sell on the black market. Even though it may sound weird, most
burglars do study their targets quite a bit before they decide to rob them.

One of the most effective forms of home security is the home security system.
If a burglar tries to rob your home and notices that you have a security system
set up, he will normally start to get second thoughts and eventually change his
plans. On the other hand, if the burglar decides to go ahead and rob a home
with a surveillance system anyway, the system will normally catch him on video,
making it easy for the police to identify who he is. Home surveillance and
security cameras are great to have, and can either be wireless or wired, dummy
or real, outdoor or indoor, or even a combination of several.

Alarms are also a great way to prevent burglary. The police will tell you that
home burglar alarms prevent over 50% of attempted burglaries in the home. There
are several types of burglar alarms, from those that aren't expensive to those
that are monitored around the clock. Alarms will let burglars know that robbing
your home isn't going to be easy, and that they should really give it a second
thought. Tried and true over the years, alarms have be proven to be very
effective and above all else -- they work.

No matter what direction you decide to take, there are indeed ways that you can
protect your home from burglary. In the United States, home security systems
have really become a big business. Millions of home owners throughout the U.S.
are investing in security and surveillance systems, knowing that the day will
come when they will come in very handy. Even though you may never be robbed,
there is always a chance. Burglaries can happen at any time, which is why you
should always be protected. If you think ahead and invest in a security system,
you'll be prepared for anything that happens. You have to think in terms of self
defense -- and ensure that your home is protected for anyone who decides to make
you a target.

Spy Cameras And Home Protection

With crime on the rise, technology has lead to a decrease in home security
prices. Although many devices have dropped in prices over the years, the spy
camera is one of the most popular to experience a decrease in price. What was
once only dreamed about in movies such as James Bond is now a reality that is
very affordable.

The spy cameras of today are included with pin cameras, pens, and even cameras
that are hidden in a pair of sunglasses. Most kits cost a few hundred bucks and
will come with sensors and remote Internet access -- complete with alarms. This
way, you'll have the chance to hook up your house wide cameras to your main
cable system and watch the spy camera from any screen in your house. To watch
the video though, you'll need to have your television set to a specific channel.

Along with spy cameras there is also a variety of other devices that you can
use to protect your home and yourself such as motion sensors, alarms, trip
wires, spy cameras, surveillance cameras, finger print locks, digital locks,
and many more. Almost everything is available at an affordable price, unless
you choose to have professional installation. Professional installation will
cost a lot more money, possibly even thousands of dollars if you have a big
house.

If you aren't familiar with the way spy cameras and other spy related security
works, it may be in your best interest to hire a professional. A professional
can show you how to work the equipment and answer any questions that you may
have. Even though it will cost you a lot more than if you were to do it
yourself, it would be a lot better than messing something up. Spy cameras and
equipment can be very tricky -- especially if you have no experience with home
security.

The pin and sunglasses spy camera is among the most popular. These cameras may
require professional installation, as you'll need to hook the wireless panel up
to a monitor or your computer. Depending on the type of spy camera that you are
using, hooking everything up can be anywhere from novice to professional level.
Sunglasses can be great to use at home or anywhere else you travel within
distance, as the camera is completely undetectable to those who are standing
within your field of vision.

For protection around the home or anywhere else you travel, a spy camera can be
a great investment. These cameras are becoming more and more popular these days
due to the drop in price. Although they were very expensive when they were
first introduced, those times have changed. You can get a spy camera now for
just a few hundreds bucks -- making it an investment you can never go wrong
with.

Preventing Burglary With Adequate Lighting

As many already know, adequate lighting is a critical part of keeping your home
safe. Even though lighting is very important to home safety, a lot of homeowners
don't look at their lighting as being an integral aspect of safety. No matter
where you may live, you should always make sure that there is plenty of
lighting in place and that the lights are out of reach for those without a
ladder.

The lighting that is around the doors of your home is very important, as most
burglars like to focus on doors before anything else. When it comes to the
doors of your home, any lighting at all is better than no lighting. If a
burglar sees lights around your home, chances are he'll move on. If the lights
are off however, the burglar will more than likely proceed as planned.

If you own a garage, you should always use an automatic garage opener. Once
they have been activated, most will automatically turn on the lights. Your
carport is also important to safety. If you are going to be away from home, you
should always make sure that the leave the light on your carport on. You can
also use motion detected lights as well. When these lights detect any type of
movement, they will automatically turn on -- which could easily startle a
burglar.

For the exterior of your home, motion detected lights are the way to go. If you
have a large backyard, you should always make sure that you use motion detected
lights. To be on the safe side, you can always connect an alarm to the lights.
This way if someone was to move through your yard, the lights would sound the
alarm. Burglars don't like alarms and they will normally flee the instant they
hear an alarm sound.

If you are planning to use motion sensors in your front yard, you should make
sure that you have planned the locations carefully. People walking by the
sensor or kids playing nearby can easily trigger it. When you set the motion
sensors up you should always make sure that you hook lights up to them as well.
This way, those in your family will know where the motion detectors are and they
can easily avoid them.

Having the right amount of lighting around your home will go a long way in
keeping your family safe. Burglars don't like to be around light, which is why
it is so very important. If you don't have a lot of lights around your home,
you should do something about it. It doesn't have to be anything fancy -- all
you need is enough lighting to make sure that a burglar thinks twice about
breaking into your home.

Information About Security Cameras

As crime and theft with businesses continues to get stronger and stronger, the
need for security increases as well. Although security personnel is a must
have, businesses need another form of security that isn't quite as noticeable.
Crooks can spot an individual without a problem, which is where security
cameras come into play.

Security cameras are very popular these days, coming in many shapes and sizes.
The wired types can fit in speakers, clocks, and even smoke detectors. The
wireless types on the other hand are far more flexible and can be placed nearly
anywhere. Wireless security systems are a great addition to any home or
business, as they can be placed in areas that a thief wouldn't even begin to
suspect.

For the home or business, Internet wireless security cameras are a great way to
monitor remote video. The system camera will transfer signals through a LAN
adapter or wireless network on to a specific IP (Internet Protocol) address.
This can be a great way to keep a watchful eye on your property while you are
on vacation or out of town. There are some Internet systems that will alert you
via email if there is any detection in movement.

The cameras that work with home surveillance systems are power driven, normally
by 9 volt batteries, providing up to 10 hours of energy. They are very powerful
cameras, as even the slightest amount of movement will activate the motion
sensors in the cameras. Once the camera has been triggered, it will immediately
start recording video, taking pictures, or transfer the live video feed to
another computer.

There are also digital security cameras as well. Even though they are smaller
in size, they can still record video for a long period of time. They are so
popular these days due to the fact that the video or pictures that are stored
on them can be saved and edited on a computer. Digital security cameras also
eliminate the needs for recording tapes as well, which can take up a lot of
space and aren't very safe for keeping in areas with high temperatures. Digital
security cameras store the information within their memory, which will help you
keep up with the pictures and video feed.

Security cameras have been around for many years, gaining their reputation and
popularity with businesses. As years went by and they became more affordable
people began to use them in their homes. A security camera at home can be a
great way to protect yourself from burglars and break-ins, keep an eye on the
babysitter, or just monitor things while you are away. Security cameras are
very affordable and they can easily give the peace of mind in knowing that your
home is protected no matter where you go.

Information About Home Security

A majority of us that reside in the United States are worried about leaving
home while either at work or on vacation. If the neighborhood is considered to
be bad in terms of crime, it may be troublesome going to sleep. A lot of people
live in fear or leaving their kids or an old person at home due to the fact that
someone could easily break in to their home and harm them. Due to this fear,
some may even hide weapons in the house.

Each and every one of these fears that people develop stems from incidents that
have happened in the past to others. These days, people are getting more
cautious about protecting their loved ones and their homes. Most use burglar
alarms, keep their doors locked at all times, never open their doors to
strangers, and keep their windows locked. When going out of town, they will
inform neighbors that they will be away -- and then will invest in a home
security system.

Burglars and intruders alike will often keep a watchful eye on any
opportunities that present themselves to gain entrance to a home. Thieves do
their research well and look for any entry that they can use to enter the home
such as doors, windows, skylights, and chimneys. They will also pay attention
to any surveillance systems as well, and do their homework on how to disable or
avoid them. If a house is well equipped with alarms, cameras, and motion
detectors, a burglar may actually think twice before he attempts to ransack a
home.

What many fail to realize is the fact that burglars are smart people. They
spend a lot of time planning to rob a home, carefully studying and watching.
Although locking your doors and windows will help to an extent, it normally
won't keep a determined burglar out of your home. If a burglar sets his mind to
something and has a plan in mind, simply locking your windows and doors isn't
enough.

If you have sturdy and strong doors and windows on your home, it will take the
burglar extra time to break in. In the process, he can easily get caught due to
the high level of noise he will make trying to get into the home. If you have a
lot of valuables in your home, you can always invest in a strong fireproof safe
to store them in. To protect the exterior of your home you should have always
have good lighting in your yard.

Alarms are popular to use as well, as most will go off the second a burglar
tries to open a window or a door. They are very popular these days, providing a
high level of security for your home. Alarms and surveillance systems include a
variety of detectors, control panels, alarms, and cameras. Although they may
cost you a bit of money -- the peace of mind and safety of your family is more
than worth the investment.

No matter what area you may live in, you can always secure your home. To better
secure your home and know what equipment you need, you should always try and
understand the frame of mind that burglars use. This way, you'll know what you
need to protect your home. Home security is a common issue these days and for
good reason. With crime steadily on the rise -- protecting your home, your
family, and your belongings becomes more and more important.

Home security for your Mailbox

With the holiday season upon us many persons are receiving in the mail a lot of
different offers for goods and services requiring that they to spend their
money. For many persons that will be about all the mail they receive in their
mailbox outside of their regular bills, until the season has passed.

In many cases when you receive mail in your mailbox your personal information
is usually a part of what is sent. This is never a good situation as most
mailboxes used by homeowners are easily broken into. This presents the ideal
situation for identity thieves, as many of us do not even consider our
mailboxes when we think about home and personal security. Every day we receive
tons of mail and this is a haven for those identity thieves that will continue
to be so until we address the problem.

There are plenty of mailbox designs around but many of them have been around
for over fifty years and do not stop anyone from gaining access to our mail. In
fact with some mailboxes all an identity thief has to do is just reach inside
the mailbox with his hand and pull out the mail. All these boxes do is to
receive our mail, but they do not protect it in any way.

As homeowners many of us do not even think about how we are providing the
perfect Christmas gift for identity thieves. We take our mail out of the mail
box and go back inside our homes, unaware that an identity thief only needs a
couple of pieces of our mail to get our personal information. They will then
use it to gain and charge up credit cards to amounts we cannot afford and then
we may find ourselves responsible for wrecking our credit.

It is therefore very important that as part of your over security plan for your
home you include your mail box. You should take out your mail from the mailbox
as soon as it arrives. If no one is available to take the mail form the mailbox
you get a mail box that uses a padlock on it. You can also rent a post office
box from your local post office or you can use a private mailbox service. Both
offer a very secure delivery system. It will cost you a few dollars per year
for rental fees.

If you decide to replace your mailbox you should choose one that is made from
solid steel. Make sure that the top part of the mailbox is easily accessible by
the mailman so that he can place the mail inside the box without much trouble.
The section of the mailbox that you will use to access the mail should be of
such that a key is required to open it. This will protect you from having your
mail stolen and by extension identity theft. Mailboxes made of steel are
virtually impossible to get into and does open easily when you use your key for
access. It is important that you install your mailbox properly and keep it in
good working condition.

You can find steel mailboxes at any hardware store both on the Internet and in
your neighborhood. Take time to compare prices and the quality of the features
of the mailbox, before you decide on the one you will buy.

If there is any sign of tampering you should have it immediately repaired. Also
if you should see someone tampering with your mail box, you should write down
their description and report it to the police or your local postmaster. Do not
accost these persons by yourself, if at all; let the police handle the matter.

You must pay careful attention to your mail and your mailbox, as the identity
thieves will be doing just that so protect yourself from them.

The best in House Alarm and Home Security Devices In the days of the past,
homes were designed to protect the inhabitants. They included nifty little
additions that would make intrusion by an outsider virtually impossible.
Drawbridges and a moat surrounding the castle is the way men kept intruders
out. Today, things are a little different, we use alarm systems that are
possibly managed by companies. Installation of a quality home security system
will not only increase your personal safety but will also lower the homeowner's
insurance in most cases.

There are many different security systems available on the market with many
different features and device that aim to protect your family, home, and
possessions. Some home alarm systems are very advanced while others are simple
in design and function. For example there are talking devices, video devices,
key systems, and electronic number locking devices. Many of the talking devices
will assist you with monitoring the status of your home when you are away with
voice technology. The talking devices also help you to better understand your
personal security alarm system. There are security devices available for sale
that include some of the extra features that allow for the remote operation of
your system, utilizing key fobs and remotes to control the alarms features.

These little devices work much like the alarm systems that many vehicles are
equipped with that allow the user to activate or deactivate the house alarm.
Many of them are equipped with buttons that will send an alarm immediately to
certain emergency response systems. This button is commonly known as a "panic
button." These buttons are usually large and placed in open or clearly marked
areas of the home such as the bathrooms and near the front or rear exits.

Extra protection can be ensured with the use of decals and clearly visible
signs and markings which are strategically placed. They are used as a deterrent
for those who wish to violate your home. All of these precautions are taken to
protect you in the event that an intruder with ill will and intends to violate
your privacy and well being. Studies completed worldwide indicate that homes
that do not have home security devices are more likely to be burglarized than
those without any protection at all. Many have tried to cut corners and post
fake signs with the intention of fooling would-be intruders. Although clever,
they are usually only good for lowering the odds of this happening. Why not
take the full measures needed to protect your family from the worst possible
scenario -- a home intrusion.

There is also the worry that in the event of a power outage, a home can be left
completely unprotected. This would not be a problem if you had a source of
back-up power. A good home alarm system is only effective if it is operable
when the main power source is not working. It is also important to mention that
other devices such as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide poisoning monitoring
devices are needed for an extra level of protection to alert authorities for
any emergency that might arise. These types of devices can be linked to the
home alarm systems that protect your home. Your home will be well protected and
so will you and your family if you take all of the precautions necessary.

Use all of the necessary equipments such as wireless systems, keypads and
monitoring services that are needed to ensure your safety. Be sure that the
device in properly installed and all of the equipment is in working order. Be
sure to make certain that all who need to know how to operate the alarm system
are well trained in its use. All passwords, numbers, and responses to emergency
response systems are needed for the operation of the home security device to
work, as it should. When this is done you will be able to feel a higher level
of security and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home are secured
from intruders or others that intend to harm you or your family.

Fifteen Ways to Discourage a Criminal

Wonderful! You're going away on vacation. You've worked hard, and you deserve a
break. Make sure you don't get a "Break and Enter, "as well.

Here are fifteen tips to help ensure that when you return from vacation, your
home and possessions will be as you left them. If you follow some of these
suggestions, you'll enjoy your holiday more, because you'll know you've taken
ample precautions. The only thing that you'll worry about will be whether you
left the iron or the stove on, by mistake. There is no cure for that worry!

1. Put your mail on hold. There's nothing that says "Nobody's home," like an
overflowing mailbox or a pile of mail on the floor under your door's letterbox.
Do this early enough to allow the post office to get the information to your
letter carrier. Just to be sure, do it three or four days before you leave.

2. By the same token, put your newspaper delivery on hold. A pile of unread
newspapers is as clear as a neon sign saying, "Vacant," to the thief.

3. Get a timer for your lights. They're not expensive, and they give the
illusion that someone's at home.

4. Leave some music playing, or put the TV on a twenty four hour talk channel.
Anyone approaching your premises will hear it and assume someone is there.

5. Never put a message on your answering machine which states, "We're not home
right now: ," because if an well organized thief is calling to see if anyone's
home he'll know that the coast is clear. You might as well put on a message
saying, "Come right in."

6. A debate about whether to leave your drapes open or closed when you're on
vacation has raged on for years. You have to decide what's best for you, taking
into account what's visible from outside your windows .Some fence-sitters in
this debate leave some drapes closed and some open.

7. Another debate surrounds whether or not you should leave your car in the
driveway. Many people feel that an observant thief will notice a car that never
moves. Others think that a car on the property will convince a thief that
there's someone home.

8. Padlock all gates which lead to your back yard. A thief won't relish the
idea of trying to get back over the gate while carrying your video player and
gun collection.

9. Get someone trustworthy to go to your home regularly to move the curtains,
water your plants and do whatever yard work needs to be done. It's unlikely
that your trustworthy friend will have a home-wrecking party as always happens
in the movies.

10. Give a contact number to a neighbor or friend. This is for emergencies only.

11. It may seem obvious, but double check that all the doors and windows are
locked.

12. If you have an alarm system, call the security company and let them know
that you're leaving and if someone's taking care of your property, inform that
too. Suggest that they send a representative to drive by your place every
couple of days. (Not at a regular time, and not too slowly or obviously.)

13. Let the cops of the locality know your travel plans. As with the security
company, they could drive by occasionally, as long as it's not too obvious.

14. Get a floor safe and store your valuables there. If installed properly, it
should be undetectable.

15. Consider hiring a house-sitter. Having a dependable person living in your
home may be your best insurance against being a robbery victim.

It may sound more complicated than a military exercise, but remember that you
can start on your preparations well in advance of going away. Remember, it will
all be worth it when you see your property retreat in your rear view mirror,
secure in the knowledge that you've done everything in your power to protect
your home and belongings from criminal attack.

Hidden Cameras and Home Security

Hidden video cameras, also known as "nanny cams" or "spy cams", are tiny
cameras designed to be concealed in almost any conceivable item, from a shirt
button to a houseplant. Since the advent of 911, this type of camera has become
a security and monitoring tool used in many public places like airports, railway
terminals, shopping malls, or any other public place where monitoring the
activity of people is important to security and crime prevention.

Hidden cameras also provide a means for homeowners to observe activity around
their home without the camera being visible. These cameras are useful in
keeping an "eye" on the nanny or babysitter when parents leave the care of
their children to these individuals. Recently developed remote monitors make it
possible to observe activity in side your house while you are away. For example,
a homeowner can monitor activity from the office or any other location with
Internet access. When connected to a recorder, hidden cameras can record that
activity.

Hidden cameras are produced in wired and wireless designs. Wireless cameras
require batteries to operate. Wired devices require hardwiring to a power
source. The advantage of wireless systems is obvious. Wireless systems continue
to operate even in the event of a power failure.

The technology used in most hidden cameras is the Charge Coupled Device, or
CCD. CCDs transfer images into electronic impulses and send that information to
a monitor, recorder, or both. The formats for these cameras vary from 1/2"" to 1".
The most common formats used by homeowners are the 1/4" or 1/3" sizes. CCDs are
relatively inexpensive and provide good images.

Hidden cameras come in two basic color model types. The black and white model
performs better in low light applications and is less costly than the color
models. The color model on the other hand can transmit color images, making
identification and description much easier and accurate. High quality cameras
are able to alternate between black & white and color as the homeowner desires.
However, with the improvements in security technology and decreasing prices for
surveillance cameras, the color models are more frequently chosen over the
black and white models. In fact, some vendors no longer distribute the black
and white surveillance cameras.

The use of hidden cameras is a controversial subject and there are laws
governing their use. In some places hidden cameras are totally banned or are
against the law to operate unless certain criteria are met. It is important for
anyone considering the purchase of a surveillance camera to check with local
laws and regulations regarding the use of surveillance cameras where they live
or work.

Hidden cameras can be very effective for people who own businesses, and should
be seen as a necessity especially by shop owners. It would give you peace of
mind to know what's going on in the shop when you are not in. Here are some
unique Hidden Camera devices that can be useful; one of them is the SONY dream
machine that can identify concealed actions in your dorm room or bedroom. The
other is the Universal EXIT Sign surveillance camera that can be fitted without
difficulty and catch-thieving employees easily.

An effective hidden camera is the Down-View Smoke Detector that is very
functional when set up on the ceiling. It can be mounted at various spots like
stock receiving doors and above a cash register and ensures that employees or
customers do not steal from you.

Like these there are many other unique hidden camera devices like
thermostat-hidden camera, Neon Blue Wall Clock device, Emergency Lights device,
Flower Pot cam, Motion Detector camera and plenty more.

Is a Warning Sign and Decal Enough of a Deterrent?

Trespassers could be a real pain especially when they lurk around your property
during your absence. Although not all the trespassers have to be feared of,
however, when it comes to criminals, it is time that you should always be on
your guard. Well, you're in the 21st century and all thanks to the technology,
you need not worry about those things anymore. Therefore, when we talk about
security systems, lets just say that you'd be surprised to see what technology
has to offer you in that respect. And the best thing is that many of these
security system options are really inexpensive since safety is the main concern
of these security systems manufacturers.

The best solution when it comes to home security or even security for any
private property would be using warning signs and decals. They are probably the
best options available since they are not only very cheap but they are also very
practical. Besides, these options act as ideal tools for the people who are
quite comfortable with low-tech tools. Warning signs and decals can be helpful
during various situations. They not only help in warding off the trespassers
but also help in keeping the criminals at bay. Lets just take a situation, so
that you will get a clear picture of the idea of using warning signs and decals
for your home or even your personal property. If a criminal even manages to get
past your gates or even the guard dog for that matter and if he is just about
to break into your door and window, he immediately sees a sign- "This place is
under 24hrs camera surveillance". What does he do next? Four out of five times,
he will just bail off, unless he knows about diffusing the systems. Now, putting
up this sign does not necessarily mean that you should have camera surveillance.
That's exactly the kind of trick that the warning signs and decals play on the
prowlers and other people who are not authorized to enter your house. These
signs work just like the way the scarecrow does its job in the farms.

This means that the best thing about these warning signs and decals is that
they serve as an extremely effective warning even if you don't have any
security systems and other surveillance in your house or your property for that
matter. Therefore, if you are one of those prospective customers who are looking
for something really affordable and easy to install, warning signs and decals
are just the thing for you. These affordable and practical options help in
warning any of the intruders and keeping them at bay, which can be easily
mounted up on a wall or even on a post for that matter. Another advantage of
these signs is that they also come in the form of stickers, which easily sticks
to any surface; even the glass ones and they are also easily visible.

One thing that you should remember is that these warning signs and decals
always form the first line of defense. So, sometimes, it is possible that they
don't work all the time. In case of crafty criminals, these signs don't always
do the trick. That's because, some of them will actually just ignore the signs
and move on to break into your house. During situations like these, it is
always advisable that you get additional security systems like camera
surveillance, alarm systems, etc. Therefore, if the warning signs and the
decals fail, you can always bank on the security systems to work its charm.
Installing these signs isn't all that difficult. They're just as easy as
sticking stickers to the wall. So, warning signs and decals definitely act as
deterrents but at the same time, they also act as guides to rescuers during any
rescue operations especially in case of floods and earthquakes.

Why Do You Need a Wireless Home Security Camera?

This subject could truly be a topic for debate because many people are for the
wireless technology and on the other hand, many are for the wired technology.
That's because, people just can't seem to make up their mind on deciding which
one is better than the other. So, when it comes to deciding which surveillance
system to go for, people just start to rack their brains. Well, for those who
are confused with respect to making up their mind, simply read on? Although
there are many ways for making your house secure and protecting them from
unwanted attention, i.e., from thieves and other unauthorized persons, setting
up a wireless home security camera system may as well be the best decision that
you could ever make.

Safety is the main concern for house owners these days and who is to blame them
for that. Considering the crime rates on the rise, any security measure that you
take for your house may just not feel good enough. This is where the wireless
home security camera systems come into play. These systems are ideal for
assuring complete safety of your home, come what may. The best thing that you
can do is invest in a wireless home security camera that works on motion
sensors. The motion sensors help in detecting any movement in any area of your
house. When these motion sensors are safely installed all over your house and
when these sensors are connected to the camera, you can be assured that you
have successfully secured your house. That's because, on the event that these
sensors detect any movement, they effectively send the signal to the camera
which are also placed at the key points of surveillance areas and the camera
simply capture the moment by recording the entire event.

Another advantage of the wireless home security cameras is that they don't
consume electricity like the way the wired security camera systems do. That's
because these wireless cameras don't need electricity since they operate with
the help of batteries. Therefore, you're also indirectly saving on the power
costs. And the best thing about these cameras is that they don't consume too
much power from the batteries. Security cameras always have the benefit to act
as evidence during thefts and other criminal activities. The footages that
these cameras capture can be used to bring down these criminals so that they
don't commit such acts in future. That's because situations may arise when you
might be on a vacation during the weekend and you return to find that there has
been a break-in in your home. In this case, only such security cameras act as
evidence and help you putting such criminals into jail.

In case of buying a wireless home security camera, you would think that cost
would be a huge factor. Well, it is not since the entire equipment would cost
you hardly around $50 to $75. This makes the wireless home security camera
probably the best deal that one could get with respect to home surveillance
systems. And the best part is that the installation process hardly takes about
half an hour. Another advantage would be that some of the wireless cameras are
so small, that they can even fool the craftiest of all the thieves since these
cameras can virtually be hidden anywhere. Some wireless home security camera
options also include the night vision mode that makes it easily possible to
record any suspicious activity during the night. Therefore, it goes without
saying that wireless home security cameras enjoy more advantages than the wired
ones. These security systems are ideal to protect your home, your assets and
your loved ones from any danger whatsoever. Besides, wired cameras often give
away the thieves as soon as they see any wires anywhere. This is one aspect
where the wireless home security cameras always capitalize upon.

Why Do You Need Emergency Exit Door Alarms

Well, sometimes it may get really frustrating for you to see your friends go in
and out of that door that you had specifically assigned to be your emergency
exit, in case of fires of course. We've all been there in that situation, but
now, there is something that you can do about it. And the best part of this
solution is that it is really inexpensive, realistic and as the name suggests,
safe. The solution that we're talking about is the emergency exit door alarms.
Now you may ask why exactly you would need an emergency exit door alarm. Well,
it restricts strangers or even your friends from using those doors, which were
originally meant for emergency purposes only.

The purpose of these emergency exit doors is pretty simple. All thanks to the
alarms that these doors make use of, it becomes very difficult for the burglars
to break in to your house through these doors. Owing to the benefits of the
emergency exit door alarms, it really doesn't make any difference whether you
want to install these doors for your business or even for your home for that
matter. One of the best things about these emergency exit door alarms is that
you can turn any door located in your residence to an emergency exit door by
installing this door alarm on them.

Whenever you install an emergency exit door alarm, you can simply keep that
door unlocked and remain assured because even if anyone, i.e., a burglar,
breaks into your house, the alarm will release a high pitched sound that could
easily make you and even your neighbors for that matter about any break in to
your house. The emergency exit door alarm may just as well be the security
device that you were always looking for. Some of the alarms fitted in these
devices are so sophisticated that even if the protected door is accidentally or
even intentionally kept opened, the alarm sets off an extremely loud sound for a
time of thirty seconds or the time which was defined by the user of the alarm,
which in this case would be you. And only you can stop this alarm with the help
of a special override key.

One of the best things about these emergency exit door alarms is that it also
comes with a stop sign, which assures the fact that no one uses that particular
door, accidentally. Another feature of these alarms is that they are protected
with the strongest of material, i.e., a polycarbonate covering which cannot be
destroyed so easily. Some of the emergency exit door alarms even offer the user
the feature of either sounding an alarm or using an enunciator. One of the most
important advantages of these alarm systems is that they are very easy to
install since they come with proper installation instructions. The versatility
of these emergency exit door alarms is truly admirable since they can easily be
installed on steel as well as wooden doors which makes this security device all
the more popular.

The working of the emergency door is pretty simple. As soon as an authorized
person opens the emergency door, the alarm sets off immediately producing a
loud noise and only after the door is closed does the alarm stops. The alarm
system also offers easy to customize options to the user with respect to the
alarm sounding time and the noise that it produces. Although many of these
systems are operated by a key, there are other systems that work solely on the
basis of entering uniquely assigned codes. The code system is so simple that
even your children can operate them without breaking any sweat, provided they
know the codes of course.

These alarm systems can really be very helpful especially during an emergency
situation like fire or if someone's breaking in to your house. During
situations like these, technology sometimes really seems to be a boon for
mankind.

Video Monitor Home Security, is it for you?

Home owners are stressing too much nowadays on installing video monitors for
the sake of the security of their homes. Sure, the law officials are doing
everything they can to assure your safety but lets admit it, they're not going
to look after you throughout the day, right? Therefore, it is high time that
you take things into your own hands since it is about time that you realize
that the safety of your home and your family solely lies in your hands. You
should also understand that as seen on TV, home security systems are not only
meant for the rich and famous. Although you really don't require the most
expensive security systems, you will be surprised to find that many home
security systems are really inexpensive and at the same time, very practical.

It is not advised that you opt for the high end, state of the art video monitor
systems unless you are one of those customers who have that kind of money. For
those who are under a tight budget, you'd be surprised to know that you can get
the latest that the technology has to offer with respect to video monitor home
security systems. Many of these systems are really cheap and very easy to
install too. When deciding which video monitoring system would be the best one
for you, there are certain things that you should always take into
consideration. They include important factors such as opting for hidden spy
cameras or the visible ones, the wired cameras or the wireless ones, whether
you are opting for indoor surveillance systems or the outdoor ones and the type
of recording format, i.e., recording by way of VHS tapes or by using the DVD
system.

Once you have taken these factors into consideration, you need to know what
each of these equipments is capable of handling. This means that you should
know what are hidden cameras, visible cameras, wireless cameras, etc. All
thanks to the advancement of technology, the sizes that some of these cameras
come in are really amazing. Some cameras are so small that they could even fool
the most experienced of all thieves. One of the best advantages of these small
wonders is that they can literally be hidden in any place that you could think
of. Nowadays some of the cameras also come with an additional feature of built
in micro phones so that you can actually hear the conversations of the people
who are being recorded by the video camera simultaneously.

Another aspect that you should know is the number of cameras that you will need
for your entire house. That's because if your house is really big, you will have
to invest in an ideal home security system which would not only include video
cameras but also motion sensors that could actually detect the movements of the
strangers and then record their activity. Developments in the field of
technology have enabled video monitor home security systems to be better than
ever. This advancement can be clearly seen with respect to the picture and the
sound quality that the security video monitors have to offer. Therefore, these
security marvels ensure the safety of your home as well as your assets when you
are away on your weekend getaway or simply ensure your safety whenever you are
alone at home. Once any break-in is recorded by the video surveillance system,
it can easily act as evidence when it comes to nabbing the criminal and putting
him to jail for good.

Another thing that you have to remember is that investing in a video monitoring
home security system should never be considered as a liability. That's because
the cost of getting the system is nothing when you compare it to the loss that
you nay suffer due to a possible break-in. Delaying the security aspect of your
house is not an option since you never know when and at what time would a crime
strike.

Foil a Felon

This is the age of information. Everyone tries to gather as much information as
possible. We have twenty four hour a day newscasts, online updates, and never
ending coverage of everything that happens in the world. We are constantly
urged to be alert, and to notice details. TV cop shows highlight the need for
surveillance and record- keeping in the solving of crimes. Everyone in our
society receives these "Keep your eyes glued," messages. Everyone even includes
criminals.

Although it's a generalization, most thieves belong in one of two categories;
some thieves are driven by their addictions; some are driven by a sense of
superiority to everyone else. An addict is trying to feed his addictions while
the other is trying to feed his own desire to outwit others. He's the con man,
the trickster, the smooth talker. This fellow can rob you blind, lying right to
your face and stringing you along. He's not the guy that will steal your toaster.

The addict is a desperate person. He's sizing up your property to see if he can
rush in, grab something quickly, and then make a clean getaway. He's looking for
a way to avoid detection by nosy neighbors, passersby, and casual observers. The
best way that a thief can avoid attracting unwanted attention is by finding an
entrance that is not easily seen. Some homeowners make this easy by growing
shrubs or dense trees right in front of their windows. All that he has to do is
get quickly behind the foliage and start working on the window. If he finds a
house that has been built in a way that windows or doors can't be seen by
neighbors or passersby, in he'll go. And out he'll come, carrying away your TV
and your peace of mind.

Another easy mode of home entry is through back laneways. Many homes were built
long ago, at a time when driveways were not automatically part of the planning.
Many of these homes have a rear entrance with a garage added. Not only can he
sneak off with the contents of your garage, but he can also examine your house
at leisure to find the best back entrance. As long as no one sees him acting
surreptitiously on your property, chances are he'll get away with the theft.

There are two things that even a strung out junkie will avoid, if possible.
He'd rather not deal with dogs. Whether it is a tiny yappy lap dog, or a
slavering Pit Bull who hasn't been fed lately, dogs cause trouble for thieves.
They'll bark and run around excitedly getting their owners' attention and
clearly showing the general area where the intruder is hiding. And that's if he
doesn't get a hold of the thief. If he does, all of his territorial instincts
will kick in and heaven help the thief. Some dog owners claim that they're not
liable for any damage done to the criminal, providing they have posted a sign
clearly stating "Beware of Dog." Others say that if you post such a sign you're
admitting that you have a dangerous animal on the property. This admission may
lead to charges that you failed to protect the thief from your big wild dog.
Some people avoid the whole issue by erecting signs and organizing a sound
track of barking.

The second thing that thieves dislike when looking at a potentially easy home
entry, is firearms, or evidence of them. Stickers on the windows, which alert
the robber to your membership in the National Rifle Association, may deter him
from attempting entry. However, firearms are valuable, and are easily sold in
the shady underworld where the habitual thief spends his time and money. If he
thinks it's worth the effort, he may watch this house very carefully over the
next few days. Then, when he's sure that everyone has left the residence he may
be brave enough to go in for the firearms.

You may think that the common thief is a dying breed in this high tech,
information age. But because he's a desperate person with a powerful need for
money, a determined thief can still get into your house unless you try to look
at your house through his eyes. Then you must take steps to keep him out.

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) at Work around the Home

Corporations and government agencies have used Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)
to monitor building exteriors and interiors, and control traffic, for many
years. Most of us have seen cameras mounted high on the corner of company
buildings, affixed high on a parking lot light pole, and even attached to
traffic lights. With these devices security and law enforcement are able to
observe, record, and quickly respond to any odd activity viewed on a security
monitor.

Closed circuit systems have been a surveillance tool used not only by law
enforcement, the military, and corporations but is becoming the first line of
protection for homeowners. Cameras, strategically placed around home, can
project any outside activity to monitors inside the home. Closed Circuit
Television's are capable of broadcasting surveillance into a network. With such
a system the property owner is able to observe activity on their personal
monitor, call for help, and have cops on the scene before an intruder realizes
what's going on.

Closed Circuit Television is a method of home security utilizing a camera or
system of cameras to monitor activity around a perimeter of a property.
Depending on the degree of protection desired, Closed Circuit Television
systems can communicate with other property protection such as alarms. Many
alarm systems are designed to trigger the camera to begin recording and
continue recording until the alarm is disarmed.

Earlier Closed Circuit Television models were relatively expensive and
purchased primarily by government agencies and corporations. But, as a result
of new technology, these systems have become more affordable for the homeowner
and small business owner.

Technological developments of Closed Circuit Television systems have made it
possible for small business owners and homeowners to monitor their property,
possessions, and employees remotely, and in real time, from another location.
The homeowner can access the server controlling their home camera system, for
example, and monitor all activity in their home from their office.

Other advances in Closed Circuit Television technology are infrared night
vision and Passive Infrared motion detection capabilities. Another development
is Pan Tilt Zoom camera systems, which are capable of rotating both
horizontally and vertically, and can zoom in on a specific area on a property.
Current models can even connect to the USB port of personal computers, allowing
the homeowner to produce and save digital images of property activity.

Closed Circuit Television systems can also record activity. This is helpful
visual evidence for law enforcement and juries. In one instance, law
enforcement was able to quickly apprehend a kidnapper and convict him because a
store Closed Circuit Television system had recorded the kidnap. Moreover, Closed
Circuit Television systems do deter people from stealing. Seeing cameras on a
property will make a thief think twice about breaking into a building.

Studies have shown that after 24 months of using a Closed Circuit Television
crime rates have reduced by twenty one percent when compared to twenty-four
months earlier to the introducing the Closed Circuit Television systems. Though
use of Closed Circuit Television systems has reduced crime rates in the location
that they have been used, it has been criticized for causing a potential
displacement effect. In other words, the crimes that could have taken place
have just moved to another location or are committed at a different time.

Choosing a Surveillance Product

Today, while homeowners are away making a living or away on vacation, homes are
left empty for large amounts of time, leaving homes and possessions unprotected.
With burglaries and home invasions more pervasive than in past times, homeowners
are taking measures to protect themselves from these invasive threats. One
technique on the rise is the use of surveillance equipment.

There are many different types of security and surveillance products on the
market, from high-tech surveillance systems to do-it-yourself alarm systems.
Having a well-designed plan and choosing the appropriate surveillance product
for your home is important for optimal security and protection.

Fake surveillance cameras are exactly that, fake! They are inexpensive
look-alikes that are designed only as deterrent. These fake cameras are only
mounted to a building and are not wired to anything, therefore unable to
record. The only advantage to this type of camera is its price and ease of
installation.

If your security plan requires the monitoring of only one area a wired
surveillance camera may best serve your purposes? These cameras are fairly
simple to install. However, there are models on the market that do require
specialized technicians for installation.

Wireless surveillance cameras, in comparison to wired systems, are more
flexible. They can easily be relocated throughout a property and there is no
wiring to reveal the cameras location. And unlike its wired counterpart, these
cameras can be networked with greater ease. Following the installation
instructions, the property owner can install many wireless devices.

A more conspicuous device is the covert surveillance camera. These systems are
the James Bond of the surveillance camera market. These cameras can be placed
in regular looking items, such as a doll or potted plant, and allow the
property owner to observe activity without provoking suspicion. These systems,
although more expensive, are a great interior monitoring device to observe the
activity of, for example, nannies, babysitters, and store cashiers.

For areas where lighting is low, night vision surveillance cameras are
recommended. This style of camera produces strictly black and white images. To
produce a black and white image requires less light than the production of
color. Many corporations, shopping malls, and parking complexes use this type
of camera to monitor their parking lots because of the lighting situations
found in those locations.

The most common surveillance camera purchased by homeowners is the home
surveillance camera. Generally, this camera system is packaged into a complete
kit, providing the homeowner with all the necessary wiring and hardware, to
include detailed instruction, for installation.

There are many surveillance products that can be used for home security. There
mechanisms differ on the situation in which they are to be used. The most basic
is the home security cameras that can observe and record every corner of a home
using internal and external night vision cameras. If you are indecisive of the
surveillance product you need a security camera kit can be pretty handy since
all you need to do is plug and play. Another useful surveillance product is the
security quad processor that is capable of networking multiple security cameras
and playing them on one monitor. There are other useful products as well that
can be found and are convenient security experts like RF modulators, DVR
recorders, Internet monitoring of security cameras, wires and other accessories.

There are many factors to consider when planning the purchase of a home
surveillance system and the success of any security system is dependent on the
expertise of the installer. The layout of the home, the exterior lighting,
wiring systems, and other factors must be evaluated as part of your home
protection plan. Most professional security companies highly recommend that a
qualified technician perform the installation of a surveillance system. The
Internet provides listings for practically every home security need, the
producers of the products available, and detailed information about the
company's products and reputation.

Choosing a Home Security Company

Thefts and burglaries seem to have become very common in this day and age and
as a homeowner, if you are not equipped with what it takes to protect your
home, you are as well sitting as a duck that may as well be the next target of
your neighborhood cat burglar. The safety of your family, your home and its
valuable assets should be given the number one priority and if you're up to the
challenge of putting up a fight against these adamant thieves, then a home
security system is probably the best solution that you have, or is it?

When we talk about home security systems, the first thing that comes to your
mind is surveillance cameras, burglar alarms, motion detectors and other
examples of what the modern day technology has to offer with respect to
protecting your house. All you have to do is simply conduct a research and you
will find a variety of DIY home security systems available in the online as
well as the offline market places. At the same time, a thought that always
comes to mind is that if you yourself can install a DIY home security system
without breaking a sweat, it could be very much possible for a burglar to foil
your attempts in protecting your home. The constant risk of these DIY home
security systems is that you are informed about the burglary only after the
event has taken place. You may as well lost thousands of dollars before you
check the surveillance tapes for the robbery in your home. Therefore, in order
to avoid these worst-case scenarios, it would always be advisable that you
invest for a home security system that is monitored by a well-established home
security company.

Trusting your home and its belongings on a reputed home security company is
perhaps the best thing that you can do to assure the safety of your home. Once
the security surveillance systems are installed in your home, these home
security companies keep a check on your house for any unusual activity. This
means that whenever you're not in your house and if any burglar even attempts
to break into your house, the alarm is immediately tipped off, in the event of
which the home security company either sends someone to check the house or they
might just call the police and allow the officials to handle the matter thereon.
This, however, depends on the service that you have signed up for with the home
security company. This means that the home security company gives you the
option of either sending in their professionally trained security staff or
calling up the police in the event of any theft taking place in your house.

Another best thing about these home security companies is that they are the
ones who would always be there for the maintenance of you home security systems
every year or whenever the situation calls for immediate maintenance. However,
one thing that you shouldn't forget that all this definitely doesn't come for
free. This means that these companies charge a certain fee for their services,
so get ready to shell out some dollars for the installation as well as the
monthly service charges. One best thing about these home security companies is
that they can greatly lower your insurance premium payments since the insurance
companies often offer a discount for those houses which are more secure.

Some of the things that have to be kept in mind when availing such services of
a home security company would include you to do some research about the
company, i.e., how long has the company been operating, whether the company is
insured or not, checking the background of the home security staff, etc. Home
security companies often offer their services once the clients have signed a
particular contract. Hence, it is important that you go through the contract
thoroughly so that you don't find yourself opting for the expensive security
add-ons, which you really don't require.

Using Sensaphone Monitoring Systems for Better Home Security

It may be hard to accept but home break-ins occur every day, at any time and
anywhere. The facts are that every year approximately four million household
were burglarized in the United States and close to half a million cases
resulted in bodily injury and in some twenty thousand cases homicides occurred.
Sometimes persons end up feeling like a prisoner in their own home, constantly
worried about whether or not their home will be broken into. One way you can
stop your worrying is to install sensaphone monitoring systems to keep tabs on
your home. Statistics shows that homes that do not have a home security system
are more than twice as likely to be broken into by a burglar when compared to a
home that has a security system.

When you use a dependable security system like the sensaphone monitoring
systems to keep tabs on your home, it will be a lot safer. The lives of all the
persons who live in the house will be safeguarded from any potential attack from
those predators who are seeking to enter to rob and do harm.

The robbers out there have become much more sophisticated and are aware of the
different home security systems that are being used by homeowners. Many will
simply avoid homes with security systems while others will look for any
weakness and will try to exploit it. There are a few thieves who are so skilled
that they may be able to get around the home security system. It is therefore
very important that you use a security system that operates as a good deterrent
for the thieves.

There are many home security monitoring systems that are available, and the
sensaphone monitoring systems are among the most effective ones. They can be
programmed to detect the various methods used by many criminals to try and get
into your home. The sensaphone monitoring systems used to keep tabs on your
home can be installed fairly easily. They can also be camouflaged in the house
in such a way that the criminals will never notice it at all.

The Sensaphone monitoring system is a remote monitor and alarm notification
system which has features such as voice messaging, relay output that can be
programmed, and phone line seizure. It is a standalone system with external
inputs and protects homes by alerting owners of any change that has occurred or
is occurring in vital environmental conditions. It also has the ability to
monitor other conditions including temperature, power supply, alarms, humidity,
and intrusion. The system monitors your home twenty four hours a day.

Once an alarm is tripped, the system will notify up to eight persons by
utilizing the voice telephone calls, which will keep calling until an answer is
received. The system can be set to notify security agency or the police,
emergency medical technicians, ambulance, and fire department. The system also
has non-volatile memory and a twenty four hour battery backup.

One of the great features of using the sensaphone monitoring systems to keep
tabs on your home is that there are no monthly or yearly fees required. Thus
you do not lose service or features simply because you did not pay your monthly
fees. This system is ideal for those who cannot afford to pay those ever
increasing monthly fee. Persons who do not want to be restricted by those
systems requiring monitoring fees will find this system very useful and to
their liking. Thus anyone with the system can stay almost anywhere and know
what is going on in their home. If an alarm is activated they will instantly be
notified and can take the appropriate action.

The system is an investment that will be well worth it in terms of the level of
security it offers you and your family. It also offers you some amount of peace
of mind and quietness, as you are able to sleep comfortably at nights or be
away from the house for any extended period of time.

More Dependable than a Watch Dog

It's not fair. Some people have great wealth and many possessions. Others are
poor and have nothing. This inequality has recently spurred the development of
home user- friendly security systems. A homeowner can now ensure the safety of
his home, his family and his possessions through use of a home security camera
system.

Whether you live in an overcrowded city or in one of the rapidly growing
suburbs, you hear reports of people living nearby, having their homes robbed.
You may think that you're safe because you've never had anything stolen. But,
at the risk of seeming paranoid, do you realize how frantic some petty
criminals are? If they're gripped by the need to feed a drug habit, they'll
take anything they can carry away. They can turn your chairs, lamps, kettles or
art pieces into drug fixes in short order. I hear you thinking, "Yes, but I have
insurance." There are two problems with that. If you make a claim on your
insurance, your deductible will go up. Even worse, your peace of mind will be
destroyed. The idea of someone sneaking around your house, gauging the value of
each of your items will prey on your mind more than the loss of your belongings.
With the installation of home security camera systems, you can relax and move on.

The Wireless Home Security System

These systems are designed for home installation, and run on lithium batteries.
They remove the necessity for the costly and unsightly installation of a wired
system. The only maintenance you have to do on a wireless system is to check
regularly to make sure that the batteries are still charged up. Dead batteries
won't safeguard you! With the addition of a wireless system to an existing
home, you benefit in two main ways. You are protected from break-ins, and if
you decide to sell your home, you have the choice of taking your wireless
system with you. Of course, you also may decide to offer your security system
to the buyer as a selling incentive.

A home that is fitted with a wireless security system uses radio wave
frequencies to keep in contact with the security company. The system has a
control panel with many variables from which the homeowner selects his
preferences. There is a wide range a range of security settings. The homeowner
can set it to be extremely sensitive or more "relaxed." For example, how many
seconds of movement must pass before the alarm goes off? Does the homeowner
want a silent alarm or one which will awaken the neighborhood? Motion sensors
react to any movement within the premises when armed. The softly lit keypads
are as clearly visible to the thief as to the homeowner. However, when a
burglar tries to disable the keypad, the alarm is triggered. If the motion
sensors have not already set the alarm off, the thief himself will bring the
authorities running. The homeowner can access his system remotely, by key-fob.

The Wireless Security Cameras These tiny cameras are an essential part of the
wireless security systems. Often employed in businesses or public buildings,
they allow a security guard to monitor all movements within the closed circuit.
The homeowner can use them to monitor his property.

Myths about Security Systems

There are two main rumors about security systems:- they are extremely expensive
and they are so complicated that you'll never learn to operate it. Although home
security camera systems were once only affordable by the rich and famous, but
now they have dropped in price with every passing year. Also their quality and
reliability have increased greatly. Can you put a price on peace of mind?

Complicated? Not at all! They are very user friendly today. They're friendlier
than a watch dog and cannot be bribed with meat! The newest home security
camera systems are an affordable response the steadily increasing crime rate.

Home Security for Peace of Mind

In today's world home security is no longer about having gates locked or a dog
prowling the yard. Today, home burglaries take place with alarming frequency.
Federal statistics indicate that home burglaries are climbing toward ten
percent from 2004. Why such a rise? The reason is that security in convenience
stores, malls and gas stations are using monitoring cameras and security alarms
to protect their employees and assets. This causes the thief to seek other means
of revenue. Your home!

There are seven reasons to consider a security system for your peace of mind:

1) As stated earlier, home burglaries and invasion have risen from past
statistics. The thieves or drug users of today have no problem entering your
unguarded home and taking whatever money they need or items they are after. In
addition, more families are two income families. This means there's no one at
home for large portions of time. If there are children, often they are left
with a nanny or babysitter. In some instances these individuals need to monitor.

2) The installation of a security system will help the homeowner protect
property and possessions against any intruder and, depending on the homeowners
needs, can even give an "eye" into the activity of those looking after your
children. It's an effective way to protect your home and the loved ones.

3) The surveillance systems on the market today are relatively inexpensive,
when compared to home protection. In addition, most surveillance cameras are
easy to install when following mounting and networking instructions, if there
are more than one camera involved in your home protection plan.

4) Most surveillance systems of today can be integrated and interfaced to alert
security personnel or police. In an emergency situation, the appropriate home or
business security system, can instantly transmit a call to 911 and
simultaneously record the activity. This is very useful information for
insurance companies and the courts.

5) Surveillance cameras are able to record any event that takes place on a
property. In the event of vandalism or fire, the recorded event will definitely
assist law enforcement in prosecution and insurance companies in processing a
claim.

6) Home surveillance should not be considered as merely a present investment of
protection for the property owner. Home security systems increase the marketable
value of one's property. Today's property buyer wants the security of the
investment.

7) The security system packages in today's market are various and diverse. This
variety gives the homeowner or renter a wide range of options in developing a
quality security program. For apartment renters subscribing to a monthly
security program could prove to be an economical way to protect possessions and
loved ones. These subscriptions operate much like subscribing to the telephone
or cable company.

In today's world home security has become more than making sure the doors are
locked and gates secured. The criminals of today have become adept to
navigating simple security systems. But with a comprehensive security plan the
homeowner can record these navigations, should a thief dare. With the
appropriate surveillance system loved ones can be protected from unsuspected
individuals. And lastly, surveillance systems are very useful to law
enforcement and the courts. A dog's testimony is nothing but a yelp, but the
evidence captured by a surveillance camera is a bite in crime!

Home Security- Basic Knowledge about Home Surveillance

When it comes to assuring the safety of your home, one thing that you have to
remember is that compromise is not an option in this respect. You would always
want the best for your home and you would never want to lose out on your assets
by way of thefts when you could have done something about the entire situation.
Therefore, in order to familiarize yourself with the basic concepts of home
security, it is very important for you to know the various terms that are used
in the home security systems front. This would include identifying the systems
that are ideal for your house and ignoring the systems that are a bit too much
of an add-on for your home. One thing that you should know is that there are
many options available when it comes to choosing home security systems and any
quick decisions in this respect could just as well be the gravest of errors
that you could have ever made.

You will find that most of the home security systems that you may come across
aren't that difficult to install. Sometimes, with respect to finding the right
security systems, you may just feel to give up your search since it could be
frustrating to find the one that exactly suits your home safety needs. That's
because, if you opt for one home security system, there will always be a
question lurking at the back of your mind and each of these questions will
always begin with the two words "what if: " Therefore, in order to make this
process much easier, it is important that you identify your needs and what you
expect your home security surveillance systems to do for you with respect to
providing the best security system that your house could ever ask for.

Surveillance circuit monitors and other security systems are the ones that you
usually tend to come across nowadays and the best part about these systems that
they are not all that difficult to operate as one would imagine them to be
otherwise. Another advantage of many of these home security systems is that
they are really inexpensive which makes them al, the more popular among the
customers who want the best for their homes. One best thing about the security
monitors is that the signal that the cameras pick up can be broadcasted in any
of your rooms at your own convenience. Therefore, it is really important that
you know what you're talking about especially with the sales people who are
trying to sell you expensive security systems that you really don't require.
This requires you to have some knowledge with respect to the different security
systems available in the markets and the best system that would actually suit
all of your home security needs. Once you have acquired the basic knowledge
about home surveillance and other security systems, the rest of the process
should be like a breeze for you.

In order to ensure that the quality that your security system gives you is
perfect, it is important that you opt for the security systems manufactured by
the same company itself. Other factors that you have to consider with respect
to getting the best out of your home security surveillance systems include the
lighting in your rooms, the sensitivity of the motion detectors, the resolution
of the monitors, etc. Comparing the various options that are available at your
disposal, you just might get your hands on the best that home security systems
has to offer and that too at an affordable price.

Can Home Security gates be useful? With the level of crime across the country
seemingly getting worse, it is hard for homeowners to ignore the need for
adequate security for their homes. Especially for those who live in the suburbs
or in the country areas that are not so well populated one aspect of securing
the home that needs to be considered is getting home security gates. Home
security gates are mainly used to limit access to your property thus enabling
you to have some control over who gets onto your property for whatever reason.
The same is true for persons who you do not what to see or entertain. There are
many advantages of getting home security gates installed. Most home security
gates operate via a keypad, which will open the gates at the entry of a code or
password. There may also be an intercom system attached to the whole system
where whenever someone comes to the gate they will use the intercom to identify
themselves without you having to leave the house.

Home security gates provide homeowners with some degree of security and operate
as a buffer between your home and the undesirables out there. These gates offer
protection from thieves and robbers who are always waiting for the opportunity
to take advantage of any situation. Home security gates are not easy to force
open so intruders cannot get into your property using a vehicle.

Home security gates are very easy and convenient to operate. A remote is
usually used to open the gates so you will not have to leave the house or get
out of your car to open the gates. They usually operate on a timer so once a
number of seconds have passed they will automatically begin to close. Some
gates even have a sensor that will detect when an object is in the way and will
not close until it has been removed. You can also close the gates by using the
remote.

They also give you some safety where children are concerned. Children can be
protected from persons entering the property hence they will be safely inside
and pets cannot wander off the property. Other animals can also be kept off the
property where they can do damage to the home or cause harm to someone on the
property.

You can also use them to provide you with some degree of privacy. These gates
can be made of many different materials and if you get one that is solid wood
or metal you can prevent persons from peeping or spying on you and your home.
They can also be used to stop drivers from using your gateway or driveway as
way to turn their vehicles or to park them.

Another benefit of having home security gates is that of lower insurance rates.
Many insurance companies will offer you better premiums if your home and its
perimeter are well protected. If they are well designed, home security gates
can add value to your home and if they are stylish and pleasing to the eye, can
also improve how the home looks.

Along with advantages come some disadvantages. One of the major problems with
most home security gates is the use of electrical power. These systems work
well under normal conditions but if there is any loss of the power supply the
gate will also lose power and cease to work the way it was intended. It will
become necessary to acquire a backup power source like a generator. Some
systems however, can be operated manually if the power is lost.

Many of the home security gates can be costly, especially if they come with
security cameras at the gate so you can see who is at the gate. The cost will
increase depending on the size of the gate you want for your home and the type
of material you would prefer to have it made from.

They have to be serviced on a regular basis. As with any machine they can
malfunction or simply go bad, so regular servicing may be needed. But the
bottom line is everything comes for a price and so does security for home.
Although home security gates are costly and requires maintenance, the security
provided by it is really beneficial.

Will Jokes Deter A Criminal?

If your neighbors on both sides have home security signs on their property and
you don't, whose house do you think a thief will target? Sure, he knows that
the signs may not really indicate the presence of an alarm. Sure, he's aware
that many people post those signs just to discourage people like him from
breaking in. He's not feeling lucky though. He's going to your house, because
at least there he knows that there's no alarm standing by on a hair trigger.

Should you post security signs? It's up to you. If you have an active security
system, the installers probably put up the signs for you. And, if you don't
have one, you may feel a bit safer if you put up a few signs to scare off
potential thieves. But have you thought about the thief who lives nearby? This
is the neighborhood thief, the one you'd never suspect. He sees your neighbor
come and go, always stopping to arm and disarm his security system. He sees you
going in and out of your house without pausing, pulling the front door behind
you as you juggle your briefcase and coffee cup. It's easy to see that there's
no alarm system in place, just by his daily, casual glance.

Some people take a humorous approach to security. They put up signs like these.
"The dog's okay, but watch out for the wife!" "Attack cat on duty!" "Guarded by
Smith and Wesson!"

Amusing as these signs are, they wouldn't stop a thief from picking that house
rather than homes with authentic security stickers. The thief isn't just out
for a stroll. He's looking for an unprotected home. He's in a great hurry.
These signs are more likely to assure him that you're unprotected than to make
him laugh out loud. If you're counting on his uncontrollable laughter to alert
your watch dog, dream on! How amusing would it be to have someone enter your
home and shake up your world? Victims of robberies generally report that the
worst part of being robbed is the sense of invasion it engenders. Some people
have trouble trying to relax and trust others after the trauma of being robbed.
You can put up all the horns, speakers, lights and fake cameras you like and
hope for the best. But what possible reason could people have for not erecting
signs if they really do have an alarm system?

Unlikely as it seems, some home alarm customers prefer not to display their
signs. There are three main reasons for this. First, the socially conscious
alarm owner may prefer not to advertise his prosperity. He may feel guilty, on
some level, about the fact that he has things worth stealing. Many people who
grow up in poverty have a fixed idea that money is dirty and the rich are evil.
They feel that people will either envy or despise them for what they have
achieved in life. This is a deep, emotional response, and it doesn't yield
easily to contrary arguments. But at least this unassuming home owner knows he
is protected, even if no one else does.

The second homeowner who doesn't want security signs on his property is the one
who feels that his home is his castle. He thinks this entitles him to bear arms
in self-defense and in the defense of his property. He may not know that he's
in danger of being labeled a vigilante if he shoots a thief who presents no
physical threat to him. There are cases on record in the USA of homeowners
being imprisoned for shooting thieves during robberies.

The third homeowner who doesn't erect signs is the handyman who installs the
system himself. He may have bought the system second hand. In this case the
original stickers are protecting the home of whoever bought it new. It's
unlikely that a new system would come without stickers, but it is possible.

There are so many advantages to displaying home security signs that they far
outweigh any disadvantages. It creates an illusion which can be life saving.

Are Home Security Cameras Useful For Your House?

We all know that home security is important but at the end of the day we still
put it off and only realize the consequences of our aloofness when we suffer a
break in. If you want to protect your family and home you must take care of
home security before you have a problem. Once you move in your house, you must
ensure that the doors are strong and have the locks changed as well, since you
cannot be too sure of the copies of keys that are out there. The next thing you
must check is that the windows are sturdy and lockable. Have an alarm system
installed if you travel a lot or just are not at home during the day.

Getting an external security camera would be a better idea since you would know
exactly who came to your home when you were not in. Security cameras are now
available cheap making surveillance systems affordable and are not just used in
mansions and shopping centers anymore. When people install security cameras the
risks of being victims to robberies is reduced tremendously since the cameras
scare off probable criminals. For homeowners that live in neighborhoods that
have seen a number of robberies, using security cameras can be quite a relief.

In the past surveillance systems used to cost a fortune but today they are
available in the electronic departments of retail stores at low prices. It
costs around a hundred dollars to get a waterproof night-vision cameras with a
monitor, which is quite a reasonable amount. Besides this, getting security
cameras can also help in lowering the insurance rates you pay and this can be
quite helpful since it covers the cost of purchasing security cameras.

If you attach a VCR to the security system you install, it will give you better
peace of mind. If ever you do become a victim of a robbery, you will have the
criminal caught in the act on tape and can hand it over to the police who will
be able to nail the thief quickly and easily. You can also install split VCR's
that have to be changed every twenty-four hours or security cameras that that
would directly download video footage to your PC as it records.

When you choose a security camera system you have to consider a number of
details, so you must prepare yourself prior to shopping for it. You must check
for power outlets available or if you would like to install a
battery powered system that would be a whole lot expensive. It would also need
you to invest time to check batteries and change them as it depletes, else the
security camera would be of better use as a toy. It would always be a better
idea to get power outlets fixed by the electrician incase your home does not
have any near the entrances.

Another factor to consider before you purchase a security camera is where you
would like to install the security camera and the number of locations around
your home you would like to cover. Getting the large windows under camera
surveillance would be a good idea along with the obvious entrances to your
home. There are a number of advanced systems that can be used with security
systems so that your home has that extra protection. The packages available
have pre set numbers that can be called or message delivery if a break in has
been detected.

Security cameras can make things easy and protect your family and valuables
when you are out of the house or on vacation.

Advantages of Buying Do-It-Yourself Alarm Systems and Joining an Alarm Forum

There are many alarm systems kits on the market today that you can install
yourself. Most hardware stores carry these products, and distributors like
Radio Shack do as well. You can also find do-it-yourself alarm systems and
vendors on the Internet. Ordering online requires a little research on the part
of the homeowner, one reason why "Alarm Forums" can prove helpful.

Installation of alarm kits is a relatively simple task of mounting and
connecting a couple of wires. But be sure to follow the instructions that come
with your kit. For effective and efficient use proper installation is most
important. Additionally, although do-it-yourself alarm systems are economical
because there are no labor fees, in some instances warranties could become
voided if the system is improperly installed. Be sure to review the kits
warranty before installing the product, or even purchasing it, to understand
the warranties limitations.

It's important, when shopping for your alarm system, to consider purchasing a
kit that will provide technical support throughout installation and use. Most
vendors found on the Internet do provide technical support services should you
have difficulty with installation of their product or find your alarm system
malfunctioning.

Most of the people who would install Alarm Systems by themselves would always
ask this question, Should it be wireless or hard-wired? Well, it all depends
on you, what you choose is what you get and that's what you pay for. A
hard-wired alarm system is the pick if you are deciding an alarm based on the
price. If security is the major concern, and you want it to be the best then
once again a hard-wired alarm system would be apt! And if you want the whole
DIY alarm system installation to be easy then a Wireless Alarm system would
obviously be the safest bet. If you might need the best of both then a hybrid
alarm system would be a good call. Signaling devices, detectors, control panel,
battery or power outlet are always needed no matter what alarm system you decide
to settle on.

Prior to purchasing any kind of electronic home protection device the homeowner
should first consider joining an alarm forum. The Internet provides many website
forums from which the homeowner can get help and advice regarding household
security from security professionals and other homeowners. In these forums, the
homeowner can find out which products are best suited for a particular need,
tips on installation, ideas on the best location for an alarm, and much more.

For example, Home Security Store.com and forum.skype.com provide forums for
homeowners to ask questions and get ideas about how to most effectively protect
their home. In these forums the homeowner can also find out what systems are
most economical and effective for their particular security application. In the
example of Home Security Store.com, not only does this site provide a forum, but
it also offers many security products. The advantage of a site like this one is
that, once you find a product you are interested in, you can jump on its forum
and get detailed information regarding the use and application of all their
products. Qualified technicians are even available to assist you in your
selections and inquiries.

Forums on Alarm Systems are not affiliated with any Alarm manufacturers or
companies neither is any technical support provided by the alarm companies. The
people that give you tips, answer your queries or simply offer you assistance
are volunteer members. The feedback you get from these products on Alarm
Systems are unbiased opinions and should be used for reference purposes only.

The forums have plenty of information for people that would want to install
Alarm Systems from understanding How Alarms Work, Design Help and How to as
well. This helps in figuring out what you expect the entire setup to do and you
can then purchase the equipment needed to start installing the Alarm System.

Alarm Forums are very useful and have is a good source of information for
Internet users to share their knowledge when it comes to Home Alarm systems and
help people all over the world.

Driveway Alarms

Driveway alarm is probably the best option that you can have with respect to
efficient and inexpensive home security systems. Getting your home equipped
with an effective driveway alarm does a lot more than just alerting you of any
possible break-in. They are probably one of the most important aspects with
respect to home security systems. Although home security surveillance cameras
do their task pretty well with respect to monitoring your home, installing a
driveway alarm should just as well complete the job by assuring hundred percent
safety of your home. They act as the best security safety measure with respect
to denying any unauthorized person from entering your property.

What exactly are these driveway alarms and how can they be so helpful? Well,
for starters, driveway alarms are based on the concept of motion sensor
technology which means that they can detect any movement that goes on within
the range of their motion sensors. As soon as any motion is detected, an alarm
is sounded wherein the transmitter propels a signal to the receiving end
thereby making the house owners vigilant of an unusual activity in the property
premises. The basic objective of driveway alarms is that they help to inform the
home owner of any unusual activity regarding any unauthorized person in the
driveway.

One thing that must always be kept in mind is that these security systems
should be thought of as a one-time asset and never be thought as a liability.
Since there are no maintenance charges in this respect, which usually drains
off some dollars from the homeowner's funds due to constant, recurring costs.
One of the best things about these driveway alarm systems is that they come in
many different varieties that suit the taste of the client. This may include
the standard driveway alarm systems and the wireless driveway alarm systems.
Due to their easy and inexpensive installation techniques, it really doesn't
matter whether you want to install them in the convenience of you home or even
your business for that matter, since all these alarms are made to do is to
notify you of any intruder coming near your house or even your business
premises.

These alarm systems basically consist of two main devices, i.e., the
transmitter and the receiver wherein the transmitter sends a signal to the
receiver that then sounds off an alarm that informs the house owner of any
possible intruder in his premises. Due to the driveway alarm's ease of use, it
is perfect for residential as well as commercial purposes. All thanks to the
recent advent in the field of technology, many of these driveway alarms are
even designed for malls, residents as well as businesses in the form of
automatic doors and gates which also helps in creating a good impression for
customers as well as guests. Some of the types of the driveway alarms that are
used nowadays include wired alarms, wireless alarms, infrared driveway alarms
and the metal detection alarms.

These alarms are so flexible that they act as multi-functional security systems
not only for the driveways, but in other areas too. These alarms can do a lot in
protecting your beloved cars and bikes from the thieves who are always hunting
for their next catch. Another advantage of these driveway alarms is that they
usually act as your first line of defense against any possible break-ins
thereby giving the burglars an idea of the home security systems in your house
as a result of which they usually chuck the entire idea of robbing any of your
valuable assets.

There is often this debate about which driveway alarm should be used although
the answer is pretty simple to guess. The wireless driveway alarms have more
benefits than their traditional counterparts, i.e., the wired ones. That's
because the wireless ones are relatively easy to install and they never act as
a give away to thieves, which is not always the case with respect to the wired
driveway alarms.

Making A Safe Room

The safe room, which is also known as a panic room, is a secure location within
a home or building that is designed to provide safety for families during
terrorist attacks, nature, burglaries, or other types of threats. A safe room
is an ideal investment for any home owner, although the more fortified rooms
with heavy security are normally found in the homes of rich people. Those that
have a lot of money really have no budget -- therefore they can easily spend
thousands on making their safe room the best place to go in the event of an
emergency.

For most of us, a safe room is a location that family members can run to and
hide, or call for help in an emergency situation. You don't really need to go
all out and put steel walls and a steel door in the room, although you do need
a fortified door that opens outward with fortified walls. You can have a door
constructed of wood or other material, although the key should be a material
that is very hard to break through. No matter what type of door you choose, the
doorjamb should be steel, to prevent the door from being kicked in.

It's almost important that your safe room doesn't contain any windows. Windows
can provide entry for burglars, which is something you obviously don't want.
You should also make sure that you keep a phone in the room, along with water,
first aid kits, food, and any type of defensive weapons that you can get. It's
also a good idea to keep medical supplies in the safe room as well, just in
case you need them.

No matter how hard you may try, it's impossible to predict how long you will be
locked in your safe room when an emergency happens. Therefore, you should always
think about ventilation, lighting, and even hygiene. Being locked in a room for
several days or possibly even weeks can affect your hygiene, which is why you
should keep proper hygiene supplies in your room at all times.

The reason why most people invest in a safe room is burglars, as they present a
real threat. No matter where you live, or how nice the neighborhood may be, a
burglary can happen at any given time. When a burglary happens, the last thing
you want to try to do is to reason with the burglars, or attempt to cooperate
with them.

When you have a safe room, you can take your family there. You should always
make sure that everyone in your family knows where the safe room is located and
how to use it. If you have children, you should teach them about the room and
how important it is. The room should never be used for recreation purposes or
for children to play in. Instead, it should only be used in case of an
emergency or a place for you and your family to hide.

If you have a safe room or just interested in one, you should always make sure
that you keep the proper supplies on hand, just in case. When you finally do
use the safe room, you should always make sure that you keep the keys to open
the room inside, so no one else can get in. While you are in the room you can
call the local authorities, then wait inside your safe room until they get to
your house and the problem is solved. Never, under any circumstances should you
come out of your safe room before the police arrive. If a burglary is taking
place, you will only make the situation worse.

Fire Escape Ladders And Your Home

If you own a home -- a fire escape ladder is always great to have. It can save
your life, and should therefore be an integral part of your residential safety.
A fire at can completely engulf your home in no time at all, normally in less
than a minute. Even though you may have smoke alarms and fire extinguishers
there, the fire can get out of control fast and surround you with smoke, making
it impossible for you to get out. To protect yourself and your entire family,
you should always a fire escape ladder at your home at all times.

You don't need to pay a lot of money for an expensive fire escape ladder; all
you need is one that is durable and sturdy. Fixed structure residential fire
escape ladders are the best to get, simply because you don't need to assemble
then. With a fixed structure ladder, all you need to do is climb down to
safety. They are permanently attached to your home -- so they will always be
there when you need them.

When you look for a residential fire escape ladder, you'll find that there are
several different styles to choose from. There are chain and rung fire escape
ladders that are designed for multiple stories, to those that reach even
higher. You can also get permanent interior ladders, exterior permanent
ladders, collapsible fire escape ladders, and even retractable fire escape
ladders. Fire escape ladders are a great thing to have as a method of fire
safety.

If you've ever lived in an apartment building or seen the outside of one,
you've probably noticed their fire escape. Fire escapes, depending on how many
stories the building may be, will vary from simple ladders to steps. The fire
escape is very important, especially with tall buildings. Those who live on the
higher floors of apartment buildings absolutely must have a fire escape so they
too can exit the building in the event of a fire.

For your home, you can also purchase a fire escape kit that includes a heavy
duty escape ladder that can be assembled up to 40 feet in length. These kits
also include smoke hoods as well, in order to help keep the smoke out of your
face. Most come with chemical sticks and a horn as well, so you can let
rescuers know where you are in the home when they arrive.

As you can tell, a fire escape ladder is very important to have with your home.
Homes that are 2 stories or more simply must have an escape ladder. Fire escape
ladders are perfect for safety, and may one day save your life. Even though
they may cost you a bit of money and time to install, they are one investment
that you'll never go wrong with.

Guard Dogs And Home Security

These days, home security is simply a must have. Burglaries and crime are
always on the rise, which makes it all the more important to protect your home.
There are various burglary alarms and home surveillance systems available,
designed to help you protect your home. Although they are good in their own
rights, nothing compares to an old fashioned guard dog. Guard dogs have been
used for generations -- to help people protect their homes and their belongings.

For many years, guard dogs have helped to scare off burglars and thieves.
Although most have gotten used to dogs now days, nothing fends off a thief more
than a vicious dog grabbing his ankle and clamping down. Almost all guard dogs
have serious bites and can seriously injure a burglar. Guard dogs are trained
to protect one's home -- and they will do so no matter what.

When you get a guard dog, you should always make sure that you let him know who
is safe to be around your home. You don't want the dog to be vicious towards
everyone, as friends and family are certainly allowed to be around your home.
Most guard dogs are left outside of the home, with some deciding to keep them
indoors. Indoor dogs are great, as they will instantly catch a burglar the
second he decides to break into your home.

If you plan to keep your guard dog indoors, you should always have a supply of
food and water available, as he will be there when you aren't. You will also
need to give him access to an outdoor area as well, so he can use the bathroom.
A fenced in yard is an ideal place for a guard dog to go outside, as he can come
and go as he pleases. Sometimes, a burglar will try and sneak around the back
entrance -- which is where giving a guard dog outside access can really come in
handy.

Before buying the dog, you should always carefully research the species and
where you plan to get your dog from. Police dogs or dogs that have been trained
for protection are ideal, as they already know how to defend things. Dobermans
and Pit Bulls are great for protection as well, simply because they are well
known for being very vicious.

If you carefully research your options and get your guard dog from a reliable
source, you shouldn't have much of anything to worry about. You should never
get your dog from a lesser known or poor source, as the dog may be poorly
trained or not in good health. A guard dog can be a great addition to any home
-- providing you get a dog in good health and more than capable to fend of
burglars.

How Home Video Surveillance Works

When they were first introduced, video surveillance systems were mostly used
with medium to large businesses. These days however, they are becoming more and
more common in homes. Video surveillance security systems are also known as
Closed Circuit TV (CCTV) and are used to monitor certain areas around the home
and help to protect it from burglars and thieves.

The monitor is a key aspect to the video surveillance setup. The monitor will
feed the video from the cameras that make up the system. The monitors are
normally black and white and feature a higher resolution than that of a
standard television set. Monitors vary in size and resolution, although the
standard resolution is between 500 and 1000 lines.

Cameras are also important. When setting up the home video surveillance system,
the cameras are placed strategically around the outside of the home, in the most
vulnerable areas. They should be set up in areas where they are nearly
impossible to see. The cameras are always working, sending the video
transmissions to the monitors on a frequent basis.

Coaxial cables are also a must have for video surveillance systems. The coaxial
cables are what transfers the video signals from the camera to the monitor. The
cables are available in a variety of sizes. You can find them at a local
electronics store in your area. Your home video surveillance system will
come with coaxial cables, although you may need more depending on where you
plan to set the cameras up at.

Home video surveillance systems also use switchers. Switchers allow you to run
multiple camera feeds to one monitor. Normally, a switcher will cycle through
feeds unless it detects movement going on around a camera. When the switcher
detects any type of movement, it will automatically lock in to the camera that
has detected the movement.

There are some video surveillance systems that you can get for the home that
make full use of VCRs. These systems will use the VCR to record any live video
feed that you program. This can come in handy if you travel a lot, as the VCR
can capture a break in as it happens. If you end up going to court or to the
police, you can use the video tape as evidence. VCRs can catch burglars in the
act -- especially if you set the camera up to a location that is hard to see.

By utilizing the combination of a monitor and video camera, home video
surveillance systems can easily catch burglaries and break-ins. They are very
affordable these days, and used in thousands of homes throughout North America.
If you've been looking for the ideal way to protect your home -- a home video
surveillance system is something you should look into immediately.

Vacations And Home Security

Nothing is more stressful, disappointing, or downright sickening than returning
home from a hard earned vacation -- only to find that your home had been robbed.
Burglary is a common thing these days, with burglary around the home occurring
quite frequently. When you go on a vacation, you shouldn't have to worry about
the condition of your home and your things. Your vacation should be relaxing,
without having to worry about anything. If you plan ahead before you go on your
vacation -- you can help to minimize the risks of anything going wrong.

One way to fend off burglars is by hiring a house sitter. A house sitter is one
of the best ways to get rid of any type of trouble as well. All you need to do
is find someone who will swing by your house a few times a day, check on
things, and turn the lights on at night. If you have animals at your house, you
may want to hire a house sitter to care for your animals as well as your home.
In most cases, peace of mind is worth any price. If you decide to hire a house
sitter, you should always make sure that you choose someone reliable who you
can trust while you are away.

In the event that you are unable to get a house sitter, you should strive to
make it appear as if someone is living in your home. To be on the safe side,
you can have a neighbor whom you trust keep an eye on your home. Whoever you
choose to watch your property should have a number to contact you with in case
something goes wrong.

You can buy various timers and such that will make it appear as if people are
in your home. Radio timers and light timers can go a long way in making
criminals believe someone is at your house. You'll also want to consider your
lawn before you leave as well. If the grass is too high, people will wonder if
anyone is home. You should always cut it before you leave, and have someone
else cut it for you if you are going to be gone for more than a week.

You'll also want someone to pick up your mail as well. If the mail starts to
pile up in your box, criminals will know that you aren't home. Even though you
may not be on vacation for long, you should always make sure that your door is
locked and that you leave the spare key with someone whom you trust who can
keep an eye on things for you.

When that individual comes by your home to check on things, they should be sure
to turn the lights and television on in the evening. You should also make sure
that your trusted person knows to check on the interior of your home, and look
for anything out of the ordinary. If something is wrong, that person shouldn't
hesitate to contact the police. A broken widow, door, or furniture out of place
is the first sign that something is wrong.

Vacations are something we all need to take. Vacations are supposed to be fun
and relaxing, with no worries about anything else. If you take the necessary
steps before you leave, you shouldn't have anything to worry about. Whether
it's a friend or family member stopping by to check on things or a house sitter
that you've hired -- peace of mind goes a long way in helping you make the most
of your very important vacation.

Theft Proofing Your Mailbox

Although most people only think about their home and property when dealing with
home security, the mailbox is equally as important. On a daily basis, there is a
lot of personal information that goes through your mailbox. Even though burglary
is a concern, identity theft is just as big of a concern as well. Most people
don't even think about theft proofing their mailboxes, which easily explains
the increase in identity theft over the years. Almost all mailboxes can be
easily broken into, giving thieves instant access to personal information.

Even though there are many mailbox designs in the United States, most of them
are outdated in terms of security. They may perform their duties of receiving
mail quite well, although they normally don't offer the security needed to
protect people from identity theft. These days, identity theft is a common
thing -- simply because people don't do a better job with protecting their
mailbox.

Each and every day we all get personal information delivered to us by mail. In
some cases, we get credit card offers or bills that contain our personal
information. Although we don't think anything about it, most of us head out to
our mailbox, collect the mail, and then go back in our houses. All it takes is
a thief to beat you to the mailbox, just a couple of minutes. Once the thief
has collected a few pieces of your mail, he can easily use your personal
information to charge credit cards and other bad things using your identity.

To protect yourself against identity theft you should always include your
mailbox in your plans for home security. The mailbox is very important, and
should always be protected. If you have a traditional mailbox now, you should
get rid of it immediately. As a replacement, you should look into a safe and
secure mailbox. The ideal types are those made of solid steel. The top of the
box should be accessible to the mailman, allowing him to put the mail in
without a problem. The bottom side of the mailbox however, should only be
accessed via key. Mailboxes that require a key to get into will protect you
from identity theft -- as the thief simply won't have access to your mail.

You can find secure mailboxes at a local hardware or department store, even
online. There are very affordable these days and will go a long way in
protecting you for identity theft. Mailboxes that are constructed from solid
steel are nearly impossible to break into, yet they will open easily for you to
check your mail with the lock and key system. The next time you go out to the
mailbox to check your mail -- you should think twice about your safety and
theft proof your mailbox to protect yourself and your loved ones from identity
theft.

All About Pepper Spray

With crime being more present than ever these days, it always pays off to
protect yourself. Although there are police officers and others out there who
uphold the law, you never know when something may happen and they aren't
around. To protect yourself, there are several products and forms of protection
that you can get. Among the may products available to you, is something known as
pepper spray -- which is one of the most common forms of self protection.

Personal protection products such as pepper spray, will work a lot better and
yield the most power when you have full belief in yourself. When you have
belief in yourself, you will trust your senses, pay attention to what is going
on around you, believe in your naturally ability to defend yourself, and show
people that you can defend yourself. Although personal protection products are
great to have, you need to believe in yourself in order to use them properly.

Protecting yourself is something you simply must do these days. Over the years,
personal protection products have become a way of life, with pepper spray being
among the most popular and best forms of protection. When used properly, pepper
spray can stop humans from attacking quickly and safely. It's also useful with
dogs as well. It comes in an aerosol form, is easy to use, and can stop most
attackers in a matter of seconds.

The active ingredient found in pepper spray is OC (Oleoresin Capsicum). The
spray comes in 10% or 15%, with a heat rating of 2 million. OC is non toxic,
non flammable, and comes from the well known cayenne peppers. When used as a
spray, OC acts as an inflammatory agent, causing immediate dilation of the
nose, throat, lungs, and eyes -- resulting in constricted breathing and
temporary blindness. Although it doesn't lead to death, the effects will last
up to 45 minutes, and make attackers feel as if they are dying. The effects
will take place immediately, giving victims plenty of time to escape and seek
help.

The use of pepper spray is completely legal, although there are certain rules
and restrictions that you must follow. As you may already know, you can't carry
pepper spray or any other form of self defense on airplanes. There are also some
states that will prevent the use of pepper spray, while others require that you
have a FID (Firearms Identification Card) to own or use the spray. To be on the
safe side, you should always check with local state regulations before you
purchase any form of self defense product, such as pepper spray.

When you are out and about, pepper spray is easy to hide. Women normally keep
it in their purse, where it is easy to access. If you plan to carry it in your
purse, always make sure that it is easy to access, with nothing in the way. You
can also carry it in your pocket or in your coat as well, where you can easily
reach it in a moment's notice. An attack can occur in a matter of seconds --
which is why you want to be able to reach it fast.

All in all, pepper spray is a great self defense tool. It can also be a deadly
weapon if it isn't used properly. Whenever you carry pepper spray, you should
always follow the safety precautions and rules of the spray. If you use it for
self defense purposes and know how to properly use it -- you can enjoy the
confidence and security that it provides.

Basic Knowledge About Home Surveillance

If you are interested in protecting your home with a surveillance system, you
should first grasp the concepts of the technology. There are several home
surveillance systems to choose from, making it in your best interest to learn
all you can. Most aren't hard to install or monitor -- providing you have the
right guide to assist you.

No matter how hard you may try, it can be nearly impossible to ask the right
questions or complete your goals without first finding yourself overwhelmed by
possibility. There are many alternatives and "what ifs" to any home
surveillance system. Selecting which type is best for you can be a bit easier,
if you know what they offer and which one will work the best for you.

Closed circuit television and several other types of electronic devices are
much more common these days, and easier to operate than ever before. They are
also more affordable as well, and becoming more and more popular with home
owners everywhere. The basics behind closed circuit systems lets you know that
the signals the camera picks up aren't broadcast through the air, but instead
sent directly to the monitor, which can be observed from virtually anywhere --
at anytime.

If you learn more of the basic concepts involved with home surveillance
systems, you can make more sense of the language when you talk to salesman and
others in the trade. If you aren't familiar with any of the technology or
systems at hand, you won't know what salesman or others in the trade are
talking about when you inquire about your home surveillance system.

Therefore, you should always strive to learn as much as you can about the terms
and subjects of home surveillance. It's actually easier than you may think, as
long as you keep it simple. Once you have built the foundation, you'll find it
easier to learn more.

The first thing to know is that the camera is responsible for all images that
are displayed on the monitor or captured. The performance of the camera will
vary on the reflected light available on the area that you are surveying, the
quality of the components that you are using, and the overall performance of
the camera. Some cameras are high quality, while others can be very poor and
lack in direction.

Overall quality with a home surveillance system however, will greatly depend on
the weakest area of the chain. To get the most from your system, you should
always make sure that each and every component is of the same quality. This
way, you can get great display images without having to worry about shoddy
quality. If you do your research and compare, you can even get great quality at
very affordable prices.

When you select the home surveillance system that you will be using, you should
always take the time to research and compare. If you understand the basic
concepts of home surveillance, you'll have a much easier of time of selecting
your equipment and components.

To make the best decision possible, you'll need to look at certain areas of
home surveillance systems, such as the illumination, lighting, resolution,
sensitivity, and the video signal that is sent to the monitor. The quality will
vary among the different options you have available, which is why you should
always look for the best system that you can afford. This way, you'll have the
surveillance protection you need for your home -- at a price you can afford.

Location Importance And Crime

When looking to buy a house, the location of the house is very important. Most
people want to buy a home in a decent neighborhood, as they have the intention
to remain at their home for many years to come. If someone is planning to buy a
home strictly for the resale value, then the location will prove to be even more
important. The resale factor of a home is very dependant on the location, simply
because someone wouldn't want to buy a home that wasn't in a decent neighborhood.

When buying a home, the general rule of thumb is to purchase a home that will
appeal to a large number of potential buyers. To do this, you'll need to look
at the location of the home. The community is very important, especially in
terms of crime. If you buy a home in a neighborhood that is well known for
crime you'll more than likely have difficulty when you try to sale. Bad
neighborhoods generally spark little to no interest. These days, people want to
buy homes in the best possible neighborhoods that they can afford.

When buying your home, you should always narrow the choices down a few of the
best cities around you. You'll want to buy your home in a community that has a
very stable economy and plenty of commercial and business districts. This way,
when you decide to sell your house, you can rest assured that your house is in
a good selling area. You should also look at the crime statistics for the area
as well. If the crime rate is high, you should look into another area.

You should also look into the local school system as well. Even though you may
not have kids now, you should always think about the future. A home that is
within a short distance to shopping centers and quality schools are always easy
to sale. If you buy a home that is in a bad neighborhood and has poor schools,
you'll quickly regret that decision. If you can't afford to purchase a home
that is in a good location, you should work on your credit and save up some
money until you are able to purchase a home that is in a desirable location.

Although the size of a home is important, the location is one of the most
important aspects to buying a home. The location is important for those living
in the home as well as the resale value. A home that is in a desirable location
is always easy to sale, for the simple fact that the location speaks for itself.
If you've been thinking about buying a home for the resale value -- you should
always make sure that you pay close attention to the location.

All About Lock Picking

When you don't have the right key, lock picking is a great way to open just
about any lock out there. Normally, picking locks is something we associate
with crime and illegal activities, although crime isn't always the case. There
are a lot of instances where locking picking skills can come in real handy.
Take for instance a lost house key or locking your car keys inside your car.
Even though you could always break a window, calling a professional locksmith
is the best to go -- it can save you a lot of money in repairs, and get the
lock open fast.

To properly pick a lock, you'll need the right tool kit. Even the most basic
lock picking kit will contain a lock pin and a tension wrench. If you have an
emergency, you can normally replace the lock pin with a hair pin. Professional
locking picking kits on the other hand will normally include a variety of
tension wrenches in several different shapes and sizes, covering several
different styles of lock pins. Some include a locking picking gun, which uses
vibration to push all the lock pins up at the same time.

When picking a lock is necessary, the first thing to do is to insert the
tension wrench into the keyhole and attempt to turn the cylinder. Next, you can
use the lock pin and gently pry up on the pins. Once the pins reach the normal
opening position, you'll hear a clicking noise, letting you know that the pins
are in the right place -- and the lock is open.

There is also another technique to lock picking, which is known as racking.
Racking uses a lower precision level, and uses a special pick known as a rake.
To use the rake, simply insert it into the keyhole until it reaches the back of
the cylinder, then quickly pull it out so that it hits all of the pins when it
comes out. A tension wrench is also used as well, to turn the cylinder.

The hardest lock out there to pick are master locks. They offer an excellent
protection system, and aren't as susceptible to picking as other types of
locks. Master locks were invented by Henry Soref in 1921, introducing the first
lock to use laminated layers of solid steel. Although master locks use the same
picking system as other types of locks, those that are in combined format will
require a locksmith with a lot of patience -- and skill.

To learn more about lock picking, there are several books and illustrations
that you can buy, which will show you the techniques step by step. Often times,
a video or Cd is included that will show you the techniques in action. Several
books and videos were made by true locksmiths, although others are more
directed for people who just want to learn a bit more on the subject. If you
want to become a locksmith or a professional at lock picking, you can also find
books and videos out there that will help you become proficient at picking locks.

Anytime you buy a lock, you should always keep in mind that just about any lock
can be picked. Although most locks can be picked, there are some that take a bit
more time and patience than others. When you buy a lock, you should always think
in terms of safety and select one that you know it isn't to penetrate. This way,
you can have a sense of security in your lock -- and know that you are safe and
protected.

Wireless Security Systems

With crime on the rise, home security systems are a must have. With burglars
becoming more and more common, you simply must protect your loved ones as well
as your possessions. There are several different types of security systems
available for you to choose from. For your home, there are wired and wireless
security systems available. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages,
along with the differences in price as well.

The driving technology found with both wired and wireless security systems are
quite different. Wireless security systems don't need to be wired through the
house; they will instead send transfer messages to the control panel through
radio signals. When they were first introduced, wireless security systems were
proved to be unreliable when compared to the wired systems. As time went by and
more and more people looked into them, wireless systems began to take form.

When compared to wired systems, wireless security systems are a lot easier and
more convenient to install due to the fact of there being no wires. Wireless
systems can save you a lot of money, time, and effort due to there being no
ripping of the floors or walls in your home. Wireless systems on the other hand
are more expensive than wired systems and you'll need to replace their batteries
on a periodic basis. The primary advantage to wireless security systems is the
fact that they are easy to relocate, meaning that you can easily shift them
from one home to another.

Wireless security systems use the same components as other security systems
such as the touchpad, control panel, cameras, detectors, and alarms. Wireless
systems rely on radio frequencies that are transmitted by the door contacts,
windows, and motion activated sensors. The touch pads that are located at the
entrances to the home will provide activation and deactivation of the system.
In the event of the power failing, a backup system will take over the wireless
system and continue to provide security for your home.

To use a wireless system, all you need to do is input the code through the
control panel. Normally, this is done prior to entering and leaving your home.
Once the code is input into the control panel, the control panel will send
remote signals to the rest of the system that will activate the alarms.
Depending on the system you have, an alarm will go off either by motion
detection or a window or door being opened.

If you look around you can find several different wireless security systems,
many of which you can install yourself. Before you buy a system though, you
should always consult a professional who can survey your home and suggest the
equipment you need. Even though it may cost a bit more money, it will be more
than worth it down the road.

The Internet And Home Surveillance

In the past, many have often wondered how they can keep check on things at home
while they were on a trip or vacation -- hundreds of thousands of miles away.
These days however, keeping tabs on your home while you're away is quite
possible. With the Internet and today's technology -- you can keep watch on
your home no matter how far away you may be.

Although the technology may sound a bit out there at first, this day and age it
certainly isn't out of reach. The hardware used for surveillance is inexpensive
these days, and ready to use all over the world. All it takes is someone with a
bit of common sense and the curiosity to try new and exciting technology.

To use these types of equipment, you'll need a reliable connection the
Internet. The Internet is the heart and soul of distance surveillance
equipment, enabling you to keep a check on your home from hundreds of thousands
of miles away. If you are planning to invest in an Internet powered surveillance
system, you should first make sure that you can get a high speed Internet
connection to your home. Dial-up isn't recommended, as the speeds are far to
slow to broadcast video.

There are two solutions that you can choose from, each one varying in features
and complexity. The first solution utilizes a personal computer. Several home
surveillance cameras are connected together to a system that will survey their
areas and record what they see at either a set rate per second, or going by
movement they detect. Depending on the system you get, you may or may not be
able to adjust these settings.

The computer will play back the video via the monitor, and record the video to
the HDD, or hard disk drive. You'll need to connect the computer to the
Internet through an ISP (Internet Service Provider), in order to watch the
video from a distance. To watch the video while you are away from home you will
need to log into the computer with a unique username and password. You can log
in at any time, and to operate the computer or watch the video images that the
computer surveillance system has recorded.

The other solution you have available is much easier. Normally, this solution
is used to check on a home through a single surveillance camera. Setting things
up this way will allow you to use a single camera through your IP (Internet
Protocol) address. By setting it up through your IP, all you need to do is
check on things is to link directly to your IP. Once you have brought up your
IP address, you can see live views through the camera. This method works
similar to a webcam, in the sense that it streams video around the clock.

No matter which solution you choose, both are somewhat easy to use. Of course
the second solution is much easier to use and setup, although it does have it's
downsides as well. Both have great things to offer you as well, including the
ability to log in at any time. You can check video any time you wish, even
chance your preferences based on what you need.

Anytime you need to monitor your home from far away, home surveillance and the
Internet is all you need. The Internet is a common commodity these days,
capable of doing far more than anyone ever thought possible. By investing in a
surveillance system that utilizes the Internet -- you'll be able to keep a
watchful eye on your home from wherever the road takes you.

How Pepper Spray Works

Also referred to as an OC or capsicum spray, pepper spray is a very effective
inflammatory agent that can easily irritate the eyes and result in pain,
temporary blindness, and tears. Pepper spray is an organic based agent that
comes from cayenne peppers. The spray will normally come in canister form,
which his often times small enough to be carried in your pocket or in a woman's
purse.

Once the spray is used it will immediately result in dilating of the
capillaries in the eyes, resulting in temporary blindness, chocking, coughing,
and tearing of the eyes. The spray will also cause an extremely intense burning
on the skin and result in nausea. The mucous membranes will also begin to swell,
making breathing very difficult. The spray is very painful, often resulting in
the individual who was sprayed to double over and fall to the ground. It causes
temporary incapacitation, due to the fact that the individual won't be able to
breathe or see properly.

Although the spray is very effective with most, it may not have as much of an
effect on individuals who are on drugs, drunk, or already hysterical. With
these types of people, you may need to give them a couple of quick sprays to
the face to get the right effect. The overall effect on the length of the spray
will all depend on the strength of the pepper spray. Most pepper spray effects
will last anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour.

Often times the spray is used with controlling riots or in self defense
situations. Pepper spray is very handy to have in violent assault situations,
as a violent assault occurs every few seconds in the United States alone.
Pepper spray is safer to use than guns or knives. It is also non lethal,
although there have been rare cases where pepper spray has lead to death. In
these cases however, there were medical conditions present that the spray
aggravated -- leading to death.

Pepper spray is great to have around your home, or to carry with you at all
times. If a burglar breaks into your home while you are there, you obviously
want something to protect yourself with. A can of pepper spray is very
effective, and can easily stop someone from attacking you. All it takes is a
direct spray to the eyes.

Although it is very effective to have with you, pepper spray is illegal to have
in some countries, such as the United Kingdom. In the United States however,
there are some areas that require you to have a license before you can legally
carry pepper spray. Before you buy some pepper spray, you should always make
sure that you can legally carry it in the area you live in.

Wireless Alarms For Your Driveway

Those of you who want to protect your home from possible annoyances and
intrusions, never miss out on a home delivery, or always be aware of someone
coming up your driveway -- should invest in a wireless driveway alarm. There
are a variety of different styles, with each one offering you a truly unique
and innovative way to keep up with what's going on around your property.

You can get either wireless or handheld models, which vary in detection ranges,
from the average 1,000 feet for small driveways to the larger driveways which
span 2 miles or more. Some models will warn you of visitors with tones, while
others use prerecorded messages. The more advanced models on the other hand,
well you communicate with visitors through the use of an intercom system, which
you install at the end of your driveway.

All types of wireless driveway alarms feature a receiver and a transmitter. Any
presence in your driveway is detected by the transmitter, normally through
infrared equipment, which notifies you through the receiver. Most models will
allow you to speak through the receiver, transmitting your voice through the
transmitter. If a solicitor or burglary is trying to visit your home, your
voice is normally all it takes to turn them around in the other direction.

Even though the technical name is "wireless driveway alarm", there are several
uses for this technology. You can install the equipment in your yard, out of
plain view, or even use the system as an intercom for anyone who pulls up to
your gate.
You can also install the system on your roof, or just use it strategically
around your property. There are several uses for wireless systems, although the
intention is to alert you when there is any type of human presence or movement
on your property.

When you set up your wireless driveway system, you should always place it
somewhere where it isn't easy to see. You don't want someone who visits your
property to have plain view of your equipment, as it can easily give you away.
Instead, you want to make sure that you are alert of any visitors, yet they
aren't aware that you are using any type of alarms.

Depending on how much money you have to spend, the systems that you can choose
from will vary. There are simple wireless driveway alarms out there, yet there
are also systems that can do just about anything you want. If you live in a
suburban area, you may want to go with a standard wireless alarm. Standard
alarms are best for this type of neighborhood, as they are easy to install and
will immediately alert you whenever there is presence on your property. Another
great thing about these types of systems is the fact that you can act
immediately without having to physically be in touch with the receiver.

All in all, wireless driveway alarms are a great security measure for anyone
who owns a home and wants to protect themselves from unwanted visitors. You can
get a slew of features as well, depending on the type of alarm that you select.
You can install most alarms yourself, although the more advanced models will
require professional installation. The self installation types will come with
instructions as well, so you won't encounter any problems. Even if you've never
used them before -- wireless driveway alarms are a great investment that will
alert you anytime someone decides to visit your property.

All About Padlocks

We all remember the days of the padlock. When they were first available, they
presented a great way to keep your belongings safe. They were common with
lockers at school, with just about every locker having one. Padlocks were easy
to open as well; all you needed was the combination. Once you had the
combination, all it took was three clockwise turns, two counterclockwise, and
once last clockwise turn to hit the final number and open the padlock.

Although the combination padlock was popular for it's time, people soon began
to realize what happened when they forgot the combination. Combination padlocks
were great for those who had a sharp memory although sooner or later forgetting
the combination was bound to happen. Once the combination had been lost, a pair
of bolt cutters would be required in order to cut the lock.

Shortly after the combination padlock came the padlocks of today -- lock and
key. Padlocks that required a key were much easier to use, requiring no
combination. All you had to do was keep the key with you at all times and you
had no worries about the padlock. If you ended up losing the key however, you
would need to cut the lock. To prevent losing the key, most people chose to put
the padlock key on their key ring or wear it on a necklace around their neck.

The most popular type of padlock today is Master Lock. The Master Lock brand
has been around for generations, proving to be the hardest type of lock to
break. It's been well proven and well documented that guns can't harm Master
Locks. Even if you shoot the lock dead on with a shotgun or handgun, the lock
won't give. Master Locks are made of solid high grade steel and won't give way
to a few shots from a gun. Although they may sustain damage from the blast,
they will still be there once the shooting has stopped -- protecting what you
have them locked to.

Although Master Locks are the most popular and most common type of padlock,
there are other types available as well. Multi-Lock, Medeco, and KW are all
excellent examples of quality padlocks. These locks feature unique and
innovative designs that are near impossible for thieves to get rid of. You can
use them around the house to keep doors locked, safes locked, cabinets locked,
and virtually anything else that contains your possessions.

The best thing about padlocks is the fact that they are very affordable. You
can find them in virtually any department or hardware store. You can shop
online as well, and compare what each company lock will offer you. The next
time you need to lock up something and you need a small lock -- you can count
on one of the many padlocks to give you the protection and safety you need.

Guns And Home Security

Guns have always been a sure way to protect yourself and your home, although
things have changed quite a bit over the years. Even though those who live in
the United States have a right to bear arms, there are also certain
responsibilities that come along as well. Those who own guns have the
responsibility of protecting their home and their family -- and also their
guns. Anyone who owns a gun may have self protection in mind -- although he
also has a priority to protect his guns as well.

Anyone who owns a guns should never allow them to fall into someone else's
hands. To ensure this never happens, the gun owner should always keep his gun
collection locked away in a safe or gun cabinet. You can get many different
sizes of gun safes, that will hold a variable amount of guns. Anything can
happen if the wrong individual gets a hold of your guns, which is why you
should always make sure that they are well protected -- and locked up.

Gun owners can protect their own property as well, by storing their guns in
fireproof gun safes. Fireproof gun safes can protect guns and keep them safe,
even if everything else burns to the ground. Even though gun owners have the
responsibility to keep their guns out of the reach of others, they also have
the right to ensure that no harm comes to their guns as well.

Fireproof guns safes will also keep guns safe from children as well. All
children are curious, and like to get their hands on anything they can. If you
leave your guns lying around and not locked up, a child will eventually find
it. You should also ensure that your guns are never loaded either, as a child
can really hurt himself if he finds a loaded gun. Although you may keep your
guns locked up in a fireproof safe -- you should also make sure that the ammo
is out of the guns and locked away in the safe as well.

Keep in mind that children may look for your gun on purpose, knowing that the
guns are something that you use. Therefore, simply putting your guns on a
higher shelf doesn't really protect your children. If a child wants something
bad enough, he or she will do anything possible to get it. The only real way to
keep your guns safe from children is to ensure that they are always locked up in
fireproof safe or traditional gun safe.

Children may show interest in guns at an early age, which can be a good thing
but can also be a bad thing. At a young age, a child won't know anything about
gun safety. Therefore, if a child happens to come across your guns, bad things
can happen. If you have guns if your home, you should always make a point to
teach your children gun safety. This way, they will know that they aren't
allowed to handle your guns, and they'll be aware of what can happen if they do.

By keeping your guns in a fireproof safe or traditional gun safe, you'll keep
your guns safe from children or others. Fireproof safes will also keep your
guns safe from fire as well, which makes them an ideal investment. Although you
can also get a traditional gun safe if you prefer, fireproof safes are by far
the best way to go. You can keep your guns safe from children, others, and even
fire -- which makes them more than worth the money.

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