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After nearly 30 years in law enforcement, I cannot remember a single time that I responded to an alarm called in by an alarm company and actually caught the perpetrator in the act. Here is how it normally happens:
Break-in Occurs: A bad guy breaks into a building (house or business).
Alarm Triggers: The alarm triggers, alerting the monitoring company.
Challenge Attempt: The alarm company may (or may not) offer a challenge over the alarm system to the person(s) inside.
Validation or Failure: They either validate it was accidental or fail to properly authenticate.
Second Attempt: The monitoring company may attempt again with similar results.
Police Notified: Upon failure to authenticate, the monitoring company calls the local law enforcement agency on a non-emergency telephone number, providing the address, homeowner/occupant information, and nature of the alarm.
Dispatch: The law enforcement agency dispatches officers to the address. The average response time is around 7-10 minutes.
Quick Exit: Most burglars are in and out within 5 minutes.
Empty Scene: Law enforcement arrives on scene to find a broken-into building with no one nearby.
Report Filed: A report is done.
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Recommendations for Better Home Security
1. Install Motion-Activated Cameras Inside and Outside:
Place cameras both inside and outside your home.
False Triggers: Be mindful of potential false triggers from pets; select cameras that can be adjusted to ignore pet movement.
Deterrence: Visible cameras outside the home act as a deterrent to potential burglars.
Evidence Collection: Good quality cameras can capture clear images of intruders, aiding in identification and prosecution.
2. Get a Dog
Deterrent Effect: Most burglars avoid homes with dogs.
Barking Alert: A barking dog can alert you and your neighbors to an intruder’s presence.
Size and Bark: The effectiveness of the dog as a deterrent can vary based on its size and the nature of its bark.
Audible Alert: Having an alarm system with a loud “siren” or alert, both inside and potentially outside, could alert your neighbors to call law enforcement.
Non-Monitored Option: Systems like SimpliSafe or Cove do not require monitoring as part of the package, which is a good option. However, be aware of pets triggering the alarm.
Side Note
Non-Monitored Systems: Consider systems that do not require monitoring, which can be more flexible and cost-effective.
False Triggers: Always keep in mind the potential for pets or other factors to trigger alarms or motion sensors, and adjust the settings accordingly.
By implementing these recommendations, you can enhance your home security more effectively than relying solely on a traditional alarm system monitored by an alarm company.