Security: A Gift Worth Giving
Raise your hands all of you that found a home security system in your Christmas stocking last year.
A security system is not something we often associate with gifts and giving, but for so many of us, it could prove the most welcome of additions to our homes.
“Home security brings peace of mind and helps protect the things you value most, as well as the safety of your loved ones,” says Vincent Lim, General Manager, Watch24 Security Services. “It can be a practical and thoughtful gift”.
“But, unfortunately, some so-called home security systems consist of little more than a couple of motion detectors and a siren, which serves no purpose other than to make a loud noise and annoy the neighbours,” says Lim.
Keep connected
Lim says that when selecting a home security system you need to make sure it has three key features: monitored response, professional installation with ongoing customer service, and Australian certification standards.
“An alarm system that isn’t monitored is not effective,” says Lim. “If an alarm is raised, it doesn’t help if no-one responds. You need to make sure real people monitor the system you buy, around the clock. For example, a response person can determine what action needs to be taken, be it a call to a neighbour or dispatching emergency services.
“Secondly it’s important that whichever system you buy, it is installed and maintained by trained professionals. You don’t want a simple configuration error, or a drained battery, to leave you stranded when you need to call for help.”
“One way of making sure the system is installed and managed properly is to choose a supplier that meets – and even exceeds – Australian standards and certifications. The Australian Security Industry Association rates monitoring services on a tiered system and you need to ensure your home security monitoring service is rated Grade A1, the highest possible rating. The standards can help you make sure that anything you install has been rigorously tested for our local conditions.”
The wireless advantage
Increasingly popular is a new breed of security system that combines all the benefits of a monitored alarm system with the advantage of wireless operation.
“Wireless technology makes installation much easier, particularly in older homes where rewiring connections can be challenging,” says Lim. “And, if you’re a renter or move house, you can easily take the system with you.
“But the real benefit of a wireless system is its ability to grow with you as your needs change. For example, since newer systems are compatible with a whole range of detectors – such as wireless smoke alarms, door and window entry alarms, and pet-sensitive motion detectors, you can start off with a basic system for your immediate needs, and then add to it as required, without the complications of wiring, or reconfiguring the system.
“So long as you keep the essentials in mind – monitoring, maintenance and certification, a wireless home security system could just about be one of the smartest gifts you can give someone you love.”
Watch24 Security Services is a wholly owned division of Signature Security Group, the largest Australian owned electronic security company. All Watch24 security systems are monitored by Signature Security’s Grade A1 Alarm Response Centres in Sydney and Perth.
Find out more about wireless alarms or alarm monitoring.
Media Contacts:
Marisa Piombo
Signature Security Group
Tel: 02 9325 5504
marisa.piombo@signaturesecurity.com.au
Guy Lerner
Watterson Marketing Communications
Tel: 02 9929 7533 or 0402 188 318
guy.lerner@watterson.com.au
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