The Benefits of Having a 24/7 Monitored Security System

​Not so long ago, only the wealthy could afford to have a home monitoring system installed where they live. However, with the advances in mobile technology, these systems are more affordable for today’s homeowners than ever before.

Many homeowners feel they do not own any items worth stealing and therefore have no need to install such a system. Unfortunately, in many cases this is not true. Burglars focus on easy jobs that will garner big payouts by searching for items such as tools, jewelry, smartphones, laptops, cameras or small appliances. Items such as these are found in homes everywhere, not just in wealthy neighborhoods. No matter what one’s status or location is, any home is at risk from possible invasion.

Almost anyone can install do-it-yourself safety measures in their home, including cameras, sensors, alarms and other hardware. Some criminals may avoid breaking into a home with a visible alarm system; however, this type of DIY alarm system only works if someone is in the home to hear the alarm. If no one is home, the system is useless.

For this reason, it is important that the homeowner includes 24/7 monitored protection as part of their home system. With a monitored system, they know that no matter where they are, the system is protecting their home from intruders. If an alarm goes off, the monitoring company will immediately contact the police. In addition, many of these systems are programmed to contact the fire department in case of fire or carbon monoxide in the home. Some systems also include a panic button that silently alerts the company to contact the police.

Studies show that a burglary takes place in the United States about every 18 seconds. The following statistics illustrate the risks everyone takes if they do not make use of a monitored system:

1. Burglars are more apt to avoid homes that have security systems.
A study conducted by the University of North Carolina states that 60 percent of convicted burglars admit that the presence of such a system at a home often led to them choosing another home to rob. Most burglars gain access to a home through a window or door. If they see evidence of security equipment in these areas, they are apt to leave that home.

2. Studies show that a majority of burglaries occur between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 pm.
Many burglaries take place during the day while homeowners are at work or at school. This reduces the chances that anyone will notice the burglar. Many monitored systems include cameras that can film the intruder in action.

3. Career criminals can rob a home in less than ten minutes.
Burglars search for homes that are easy targets. They know how to quickly break into a house, take what they want and leave before anyone notices that something is wrong. Again, this is where the use of the cameras becomes important.

4. Home systems with 24/7 monitoring have faster response times than those without it.
If a homeowner cannot respond to an alert, they are confident that the monitoring company will immediately respond as soon as they receive it.

5. Monitored systems cover more than just burglaries.
Although homeowners use these systems primarily to thwart burglaries, a high-quality system also connects to and alerts the local fire department and/or police department. If there is a fire emergency or a high level of carbon monoxide in the home, the fire department will be notified immediately. Depending on the system in use, the fire department will also respond if the homeowner needs help due to falls or other types of medical emergencies.

Most homeowners are already aware of the problems that may arise, including burglaries, home invasions, fires and medical emergencies. No one should wait until a tragedy occurs to safeguard themselves and their family. The wise homeowner will make it a priority to have a 24/7 monitored security system installed before any tragedy can take place.