The DNA of an effective security system and service, Part #1 - Deter

An effective security system is made up of four parts. Those parts are as follows:

1.  Deter

2.       Control

3.       Detect

4.       Respond

The deterrent is all about making the home / building less attractive to a thief because of  real or perceived existence  of a  security system . They will know this because of signs and equipment in place and visible. The greater likely hood of being noticed is a real fear for them.  In my non-scientific estimation, the signs count for 50% of an alarm's effectiveness.  I am talking about bonafide, credible signs from a reputable alarm company. This is not a generic, off the shelf, do it yourself sign. Or something that looks older than dirt.

A yard sign should be installed at the front of the house, preferably below the address, clearly displayed for all to see.  A 2nd one for corner houses or  those with long drives is a good idea.  Alarm warning window decals placed near doors and on windows are recommended as well. The type I prefer are dual sided. By keeping them inside facing out, keeps the weather off them. Plus the better ones are protected against fading by UV light. When the crook see properly placed, a professional company signs, most of the time...they make themselves scarce.  Signs are the 1st part of the installation and should be placed immediately  when the order is placed, such partial protection begins right away.

The alarm equipment can be an actual deterrent as well.  An exterior siren and/or strobe light say, 'stay away or prepare to be blasted'. Another deterrent is an 'armed keypad'. If the intruder see a 'red' armed light indicating the system is armed, odds are he is going to vacate. Often though we recommend a keeping the keep 'out of site' so that it is not found in the 'disarmed state'. That is probably worse than having no system.

The next article will cover the 2nd part; the Control.