A home security alarm system is viewed as one of the most influential deterrents to burglary and an identified 'risk cue' to would-be intruders. When installing a home security alarm system, consider the following:

·         A home security alarm system is made up of alarm sensors which when activated, can send an alarm to a third party.  Before deciding on an alarm system, consider if you are prepared to pay ongoing security monitoring costs or would prefer an alarm system which sends alarms directly to your mobile telephone. 

·         All home security alarm sensors, except those required to make entry to your home should be configured to activate immediately and without delay.

·         The location of the security alarm control panel is vitally important and should be positioned in a secure area, out of view and protected by a sensor with immediate activation. A burglary can take place without being detected if the intruder is able to access the home security alarm panel or telephone line before the system has time to send the alarm (up to 30 seconds). Disabling of an alarm can be carried out very quickly.

·         The positioning of home security alarm sensors is important to both maximise their coverage and minimise false alarms i.e. facing a sensor toward a window or glass door is likely to cause many false alarm.

·         It is important to install a strobe light and siren at the front of the property, visible from the street. This will act as both a deterrent to intruders and will also draw attention to neighbours / passers-by that a burglary is occurring.

·         Similarly, make sure you have home security alarm signage / stickers fitted at all locations around the exterior. Ensure they are clearly visible on approach to the house as they act as a strong deterrent to intruders.