Putting it together: the basic components of a modern home security system by Clark Biase

It's a nightmare no homeowner wants to face: coming home after a vacation only to find your home has been broken into. Not only have precious belongings been taken but there's property damage as well. Insurance might be able to cover some of the replacement costs for items such as televisions or computers but there's nothing that will bring back items with personal value such as heirloom jewelry. Unfortunately, home burglaries happen more often than you would think. According to the FBI, last year there were over eight million property crimes in the United States reported by law enforcement. What's more, San Antonio and Lubbock made the FBI's top ten list of cities with the highest property crime rates. While many people imagine home break-ins occurring during the middle of the night, the truth is the majority of burglaries occur between the hours of 6am and 6pm, while everyone in the house is at work or school. Even more surprisingly, over a third of burglars walk right in the front door. Because a break-in happens approximately every 15 seconds, it's important to secure your home. The following is a list of the components any modern home security should have.

• Video surveillance. Video surveillance is an important component of any home security system for several reasons. First, potential thieves are often put off by visible signs of security. They are generally looking for easy targets that present them with a low risk of being caught. Even if your video surveillance isn't obvious, it still can be an important tool in identifying anyone who tries to break into your home. Thirdly, video surveillance allows for remote camera viewing.
• Remote camera viewing. This home security system feature is becoming increasingly common and is extremely useful. Remote camera viewing allows you to see who is in and around your home at any given time, from practically anywhere in the world. Not only those, but security apps allow you to either grant or deny access to your home at the touch of a button. This is an ideal way to keep tabs on your home while you are away.
• Home audio and intercom systems. Imagine being able to communicate quickly and easily with family members no matter where you are in your home. Even better, these systems can make it possible to screen visitors and answer the door from any room in your home. As a bonus, many home audio and intercom systems can also be integrated with your favorite radio stations so you can listen to music throughout your home.
• Advanced motion detector with pet immunity. Motion detectors are great - except when Fido or Fluffy keep setting them off. If you do have pets, make sure your motion detector's immunity can accommodate your particular pet, as not all detectors have the same sensitivity or detect motion in the same way.
• Smoke and heat detectors. If you don't already have smoke and heat detectors in your home, make sure you have them as part of your overall home security system. Reputable

alarm and security TX experts offer completely integrated systems that provide an all-in-one, comprehensive home security solution.

When choosing a home security system, make sure the control panel and user interface is one you can easily use and feel comfortable with. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to speak with a home security specialist in order to choose the system that's right for you.

About the Author: Clark Biase is a home security expert and contributing writer who specializes in helping families secure their homes.

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