Home security

mhdold

Anyone out there have a home security system? ADT? Brinks? Slomin? We're buying a condo and would like to install one. My head is spinning. Which is best? Do we need to spend a lot? Help!
MHD :shock:

armchair_warrior

money could be spent on insurance and to replace all the items. if you ever get robbed.

escap

Some items are irreplaceable (pictures, heirlooms, etc.). I think a security system is a good idea, although unfortunately I can't be of much help as far as which ones are good. I think you can hire a "security consultant" who can take a look at your property, identify vulnerabilities and recommend a security system and and/or insurance.

veggiequeen

It seems like I'm always hearing stories about how by the time the security system people call the cops and they get to your house, the intruders are long gone. Or, I guess you could just get the alarm part (no service) so the alarm will sound if someone breaks in... at least it will scare them off. (oh, and does NYC charge a fine if they arrive and it's a false alarm? I know some other cities do...).

I think the security consultant idea is a good one... try to identify things that would prevent them from even thinking about breaking in in the first place (proper locks, etc).

kevin_on_putnam

Subject: Re: Home security

mhdold wrote: Anyone out there have a home security system? ADT? Brinks? Slomin? We're buying a condo and would like to install one. My head is spinning. Which is best? Do we need to spend a lot? Help!
MHD :shock:

We've owned a house since 1999 and have never had a problem. That being said, we have really good neighbors that wouldn't hesitate to call the police, and we have steel entry doors and multilock locks, bars on the downstairs window etc. I personally wouldn't get an alarm if you're worried about breakins because most burgleries are "crimes of opportunities", smash and grab type affairs. If you're worried about your personal safety, I definately wouldn't rely on alarms. The response time in our neighborhood is very good. If you call 911 you'll get a much quicker response than if you wait for the police to respond to an alert from Slomin's.

qtrain

Subject: Re: Home security

mhdold wrote: Anyone out there have a home security system? ADT? Brinks? Slomin?

I've had good results with Play it Safe!