Home Security News

Police Assessing Your House for Security

I caught a short news article from the Mexia Daily News that said the Wortham, Texas Police Department was offering free security assessments for residents.  I think this is a great idea and should be put into practice all across the country.  It's really hard to look at your own home the way a burglar might and honestly assess the security of the house.  But an expert can certainly see things you walk past every day without even realizing it's a security problem. 

Here's what the Wortham police are doing:

"This will consist of an overall security evaluation of homes, such as door and window locks, lighting and other safety checks. Home owners can also receive crime prevention tips and recommendations for better home security against personal and property crimes. The evaluations will be done by a licensed police officer of the Wortham Police Department. Home owners can be given a safety certificate from the police department that may save money on homeowners insurance."

Sounds like a good deal to me.  Who wouldn't want to get a break on home insurance (and know your home is safer at the same time)?  Let's hope more police departments follow suit....

New Home Security Blog

There aren't too many blogs out there on home security (unless they're run by a security company), but here's a new one that focuses on products, both for home and personal security:

Home Security Gadgets & Reviews

Both the fun and the serious is covered.  Examples include this beer burglar alarm (that would be from the "fun" side of things) and this wall-mounted locking mailbox.

The blog is pretty new, but I'm sure there will be more posts coming down the line.

Should You Buy a Burglar Alarm?

If you've been on the fence about home security systems for a while (do I spend the money and invest in one or do I just hope nothing ever happens to my house?), then you may want to read this article from the Bradenton Herald, which discusses, "Home Security System, a Cost Worth Considering."

It talks about the cost of buying and installing a burglar alarm as well as monthly monitoring costs that come with professionally installed systems.  But it also talks about the benefits of knowing your home is safe.  At the end it has a list of questions you should ask a dealer before signing the dotted line.  Knowing what to ask can save you some money and ensure you get exactly what you need for your home and family.

Should You Install a Home Security System?

Should you have a home security system?  I don't necessarily think everyone needs a full-blown electronic system that includes video surveillance, alarms, and all the bells and whistles.  I do think everyone needs to have a home security plan, good door and window locks, and some often missing common sense (i.e. lock up when you leave the house, don't leave windows open and unlocked, don't have your personal information available for the world to see on the mailbox, etc.).  But if you're waffling back on forth on whether to make the investment of an actual home security system, the following article from Insurance.com might help:

Should I Install a Home Security System?

Not only does it ask pertinent questions such as "Do you live in a high-crime area?" and "Can you afford it [a home security system]?" but the article also offers some tips on how to make your home less of a target for burglars and how to "minimize the need for a home security system."

Home Security Learning Tool (AKA a Game)

Over at the Discovery Channel site, they've got a interactive game on their "It Takes a Thief" page.  There's a house, and you have to poke around with your "flashlight" to identify all the security concerns.  There are ten things total (I got the first seven pretty easily, then had to hunt for the last three) with a "hint" option if you get stumped.  Useful advice goes along with all the items, so why don't you check your home security acumen by seeing if you know everything in the game? Here's the link:

http://dsc.discovery.com/fansites/ittakesathief/interactive/interactive.html

Thieves Often Strike During the Holidays

With Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up, most people are more interested in making vacation plans to visit family and friends than thinking about home security.  According to news article Police Say Thieves Often Thrive During the Holidays, the holidays are often a time when burglars are making plans too.  Not to visit family but to visit your house when you're not away.  Browse through sites like Home Security Information and Crime Doctor to learn how to protect your house when you're not home.  There are also lots of tidbits in this blog if you check out the home security and home automation categories.

Steps to Home Security

The approach of cold and snow won't stop burglars from scouting neighborhoods, looking for likely targets.  A number of recent news articles offer some simple advice for keeping your home secure and making it a less enticing target.

Check out:

Steps to Home Security
Top 10 Home Security Lapses Revealed
Home Security Checklist

Home Security with Linksys

A lot of homeowners are getting into the idea of setting up video cameras in their home and monitoring them via the Internet while they're away.  An article in the Charlotte Observer, Home Security the Wireless Way, takes a look at the Linksys options as well as a couple of other camera systems designed for homeowners who want to check in remotely.  To achieve this, the writer says, "The simplest offerings are stand-alone video cameras with built-in Web servers. I experimented with three such models, the $230 Linksys WVC54G Wireless-G Internet video camera and two more advanced $1,000 cameras, the Panasonic BB-HCM371A network camera and the D-Link DCS-6620G Wireless Internet camera." The article goes on to describe subscription costs and initial set-up costs.  It's worth a read if you're looking for remote home video access.

Wakamaru Security Robot

We've mentioned home security robots before, but it seems most of them have been classified as toys rather than legitimate security tools.  Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. in Japan is coming out with a new, more serious, home security robot in September.  The 1 meter tall robot will be able to talk with its human owners and detect intruders within a 5-meter radius when the homeowners are gone.  If an intruder is discovered, it will send information to their cellphones.  The homeowners will also be able to remotely look around their house via the robot's camera; they can even talk to people through the robot.

Source: Security Robot Gets Household Status

32% of Homes Secured with Alarm Systems

In the 1970s, hardly anyone had a professional alarm system (2% of homes in the U.S.).  Today, 32% of homes have them, according to Washington Post article Alarms Fortify Secure Feeling. Homeowners aren't necessarily adding alarm systems because of rising burglarly rates or a desire to increase the value of their home.  "Electronic security systems have grown in popularity in part because the cost of installation had decreased significantly in the past 15 years. In 1990, a home security system cost an average of $1,509, according to J.P. Freeman Co. research. By 1999, the average price had decreased to $1,000. Today, you can get one for about $95, said Joe P. Freeman, chief executive of J.P. Freeman Co. He noted that most companies require buyers to sign a monitoring contract that costs about $30 a month."

Oh, and it's an added boon that many insurance companies will cut a better deal for homeowners with security systems.

Granite Countertops Before Security System?

It seems homebuyers are eager to get the kitchens and bathrooms of their dreams, but don't think twice about buying houses without home security systems (at least according to security consultant Frank Fourchalk in Wants Outweigh Security Needs For Homebuyers). He says, "Good security should be an essential factor when purchasing your new home. Buying decisions are quite often made on the size of kitchens or bathrooms with little consideration given to the importance of a good home security package."  The problem, he says, is builders aren't even installing home security systems in new homes because customers don't seem that interested in it. Unlike those trendy granite countertops, people aren't demanding good alarm systems (or any at all). 

"It always amazes me," he writes, "that new home buyers spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on the purchase of a new home, fill it full of their worldly possessions, and lock everything up with a $30.00 deadbolt and a 99 cent key. The reason most people don't think twice about it, is because it has come to be accepted. We have accepted the $30.00 deadbolt and the 99 cent key as long as the kitchen has an island and the ensuite has a soaker tub."

It does seem pretty ludicrous when you think about it that way.  The answer?  Make a home security system a priority when shopping for a home.  (Even if the home doesn't have one, put installing one among the first rennovations you do.)

Home Security Survey Helps Identify Weaknesses

How secure is your home? Responding to neighborhood burglaries, the Virginia Beach Polie Department created a home security survey to help its citizens find out what areas they were deficient in. They put a copy online, so anyone can use it--there's nothing that is specific to any particular region. If you're trying to figure out where to start, or you already have a home security system and want to make sure it's up to snuff, try taking the survey.  It's only a couple pages and doesn't take long to read through. There's nothing you have to submit--just print it out and have at it.

Home Security Survey (it's a .pdf file so you need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view it).

Beware of... Vacuum? (VC-RP30W Robot Vacuum Cleaner)

According to the March/April 2005 issue of Smart HomeOwner, the VC-RP30W Robot Vacuum Cleaner is a home vacuum cleaner than can do double duty as a home video surveillance monitor. The Samsung vacuum does all the typical cleaning stuff you'd expect from a robot vacuum: dirt pick up, air purifying, "auto-charging and sensor maneuvering," but it also can be controlled through the Web. You can use a keyboard to move it around the house or let it run on automatic.

So, what's the home security catch? The VC-RP30W, thanks to an onboard web cam, can be used for surveillance while you're away from home. It doesn't sound like it can replace your home security system (yet), but for those who love the latest in home automation toys, it could be fun.  At $3,000, the Samsung vacuum is arguably only for a select few (and right now it's only available in South Africa and Japan), but no doubt the technology will come down and price and be more widespread in the future.

More information:

Samsung Unveils Its Multifunction Robot Vacuum
www.samsung.com

Monitored Security Systems

According to a news report at Washington D.C's NBC news station, Washington Consumer's Checkbook tested a number of monitored home security systems. The price range was around $2,000 (give or take $500) for the inital installation and then "The cost of the monthly service also varied. For three years of service, the total cost ranged from $720 to $1044." Their finding for top home security companies is only relevant to the Washington D.C. area, but the article also offers some tips for improving security without installing an expensive system: Checkbook Magazine Tests Home Security Systems.

Prevention Instead of Reaction

Why is it we only get smart about home security after something happens to us or to someone we know? Burglaries drive security sales, an article in the online version of the Delaware News Journal, notes that recent break ins in the area have spurred home security related purchases ("Deadbolts, window locks, floodlights and motion detectors have sailed off shelves at his Scott True Value store"). Though it's a local article, it's not a bad read if you're looking for some inexpensive security options that will still help make your home a less ideal target for thieves. Better to be prepared before something happens.

Cost vs. Savings (Alarm Systems)

A recent article in the Orlando Sentinel addresses the cost of installing a home security system versus the savings.  To arm your home with a security alarm system, the article suggests an expenditure of anywhere from $300 to $3,000. (Although advances in manufacturing and competition have dropped prices in recent years, new technology and added features keeps alarms from being cheap purchases.) In return, however, you can barter with your homeowners' insurance agent for a savings of 10%-20% on your homeowners insurance policy. And, of course, if a home security system keeps you from being robbed, the savings are priceless. The peace of mind alone is worth the cost for many.

Online quotes:
InsureMe.com
Netquote.com

Full article: Alarm systems wrap home in high-tech security blanket

Reality TV Comes to Home Security

Just when you thought they couldn't possibly come up with any new avenues for reality shows... Discovery has a new television show called "It Takes a Thief." In this hour long show, security experts (including an ex-burglar) come to a homeowner's house, demonstrate the vulnerabilities, and proceed to create a new home security system.

To apply to be on the show (and get a complete home security system custom-designed for your house) you can find the email address at the It Takes a Thief application page (you need to be in the tri-state area for now).

And here is a more thorough review from someone who managed to catch more than 10 minutes: It Takes a Thief Critique

Inside a Security Company

You probably know that the fancier (read: more expensive) home security systems include monitoring by security companies. If you're wondering what the companies see when they're monitoring your house and what technology they use, this article on Seacoast Security which operates in Maine may be of interest. It talks about the basics (i.e. what happens when motion is detected when the homeowner has set the alarm and presumably isn't home) and how they deal with false alarms. It's an interesting look at things from the other side.

New Wireless Surveillance Technologies

Remember when pens that were secretly wireless video transmitters were the things of movies? Well, that technology is here. An article online at the Washington Times says Homeland Security is driving a lot of the new surveillance tech, creating "networks of wireless sensors, miniature video cameras and low-power transceivers, all with the ability to process, send and receive data" (Wireless World: Security monitoring grows). While the primary goal is national security, it will be interesting to see how this new technology funnels down to the average consumer. The article mentions that big companies like Motorola are working on wireless surveillance tech in relation to hone security applications. "The company... has developed a wireless home monitoring and control system comprising cameras, sensors and software that consumers can operate from a desktop computer at the office."

At the very least, all this snazzy spy stuff should soon give us some devilishly tiny and subtle nanny cams.

Guide to Home Security

The recent Cincinnati News article Practical Guide To Home Security is worth a read if you're new to home security or just looking for some cheap ways to make your home less attractive to thieves.  The article discusses perimeter defenses, doors, lighting, guarding points of access, basic alarm systems, and ways to make your home unappealing to would-be burglars by making it seem that people are home when they're not (i. e. using timers for the lights and other home automation to turn things in when you're not around).

D-Link Holiday Offerings

According to a recent press release, D-Link ( "global leader in the digital home and connectivity technologies" ) has a few interesting home automation toys available for the holidays. Examples include:

D-Link SecuriCam® Internet Home Security Camera (DCS-900) -- A security camera with a built in web server which allows you to check in on your home from anywhere there's an Internet connection. It can also work as a Nanny-Cam or child monitor.

D-Link AirPlus® Xtreme G® Wireless bundle (DWL-926) -- This package combines the D-Link DI-624 Xtreme G Wireless Router and D-Link Xtreme G Wireless CardBus Adapter for those who want to set up wireless networks.

Read the press release for more on D-Link and their products.

Home Security Article

"The decisions you make regarding home security never should compromise safety, escape and rescue," says a recent article in the Staten Island Advance. It goes on to say security is one area where you shouldn't skimp. It covers installing deadbolts and safeguarding windows, though it only briefly mentions options for alarm systems. Though the article is New York based, most of the information is applicable to all.

Don't compromise on home security

Webcams for Home Security/Remote Security

Webcams & Home Security--a viable choice?

Tech site Slashdot had a lively discussion on using webcams for home security purposes last spring. Users discussed the merit of using a webcam in conjunction with a cell phone for home security, linking to an article that talked about this combination for boat security. It's worth reading through the comments for the suggestions on what people have used successfully (and not so successfully) for wireless cameras related to home security.

Using Webcams as Remote Security?

Home Monitoring Via Internet or Cell Phone

An interest news article, Forget to turn off stove? Turn to the Net , takes a look at upcoming wireless security technologies that combine with broadband internet access to allow you to peek into your own home while you're away. "Advances in video electronics and the steady march of broadband Internet service are combining to offer consumers new ways to keep visual tabs on their homes or small businesses through cameras and "Webcams," whose pictures can be seen through password-protected Web sites."

You'll be able to check not home security type things like whether the front door has been opened but measure temperature or set an alarm for detecting water in flood-prone basements. Alerts can be delivered via the Internet or your cell phone. For people with high-resolution cell phones, there will even be the option to see through your phone's display what your webcam or home security camera is seeing.

Neighborhood Watch Effectiveness

On the fence about setting up a neighborhood watch? Not sure whether they're really effective? There are plenty of news articles every month that highlight the effectiveness of neighborhood watch programs in various neighborhoods. Here are a couple of recent mentions:

Woodway subdivision making their homes safer with neighborhood watch
Plymouth Neighborhood Watch helps protect residents

Home Automation Software & Kits

In case you're in the market for home automation software or a set-up kit, X10 (a home security equipment retailer) had some nice sales going in when I stopped by today. More than %50 off on some of their kits. If you've been thinking of automating some of your switches or appliances, check out their home automation gear.

False Burglar Alarms

Across the US, police are getting fed up with the time and cost involved with responding to false burglar alarms. Some are charging fines for false alarms while others won't respond at all unless the owner calls in to verify. This is something to consider when you shop for a home security system. Look for alarm systems that have precautions against triggering "false alarms". Also, ensure everyone in your household knows how to work the security system's control panel.

Recent news stories featuring measures taken against false alarms:

Milwaukee: Police No Longer Will Respond to Alarms Unless Verified
Washington: Bellingham Police To Stop Responding To Home Burglar Alarms
Arizona: Pine Bluff Prepares to Charge for False Burglar Alarms

Wireless Alarms Thwart Burglars

In Ashton, a town in the UK, wireless security systems were provided to residences and businesses. The area had experienced quite a few burglaries, and the large project (city funded, it looks like) dropped the crime rate noticably. It made "residents feel safe and confident in actually leaving their homes." I wish someone around here would start handing out free home security systems!

Free alarms 'reduce burglaries'

Browse Wireless Security Products

Neighborhood Watch Programs Lower Crime

Statistics prove that an active Neighborhood Watch program can lower crime in an area. They can be effective in both rural and urban communities. A Carson City article details how crime was lessened: "Crime lowered by neighborhood watch programs".

The Elvis Presley Password?

An article in London reported that the name Elvis Presley was the most commonly used password and home security systems. They posted a list of the top 10 and found numerous celebrities in there. An interesting tidbit, but also a warning. Don't pick something obvious when choosing your passwords. You don't want a would-be burglar guessing the password to your alarm system!

Read full article

Why Create a Home Security Blog?

Whether you rent or own, home security should be important to you and your family. When I was looking for information on the topic, I found a whole lot of sites ready to sell me stuff. I had a harder time just finding some basic information. So, the purpose of this blog is to ferret out information on home security, fire prevention, homeowners insurance, and home surveillance systems. I will provide tips and point you to relevant news on the topic. I don't pretend to be an expert, so I will be documenting my sources. Hopefully, this blog will be of some service to you if you are looking for advice on how to make your home more secure.