Perth Mint

SECURING YOUR HOME – PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR PROPERTY

As with a vehicle, a home alarm system needs to be serviced regularly to prolong its life and ensure it runs smoothly, efficiently and reliably.  However, people seem far more concerned with looking after their cars or their lawnmowers than they are with ensuring their alarm systems are in good working order which means they could be putting themselves and their property at risk.

It’s not difficult to maintain an alarm system, nor is it overly costly – but it tends to be overlooked.   

Give this some thought :

·       Burglar alarms decrease crime in residential areas – a finding made after a five year study by the Rutgers University School of Criminal Justice .  Other studies claim that alarm systems can reduce the likelihood of a break-in by up to 40%.

·       Problems with insurance could arise if alarm systems are shown to be poorly maintained.

Many security systems now also come with the option of smoke detectors which provide a vital early warning for potentially lethal situations where fire and smoke are involved as well as detecting carbon monoxide, which is deadly.  If these were to be left un-serviced and badly maintained, it could be a tragedy waiting to happen.

Also, if alarm systems aren’t maintained properly, that could lead to frequent false alarms which are inconvenient and irritating – and can lead to a situation where no-one bothers to respond and that could also have a disastrous result.   

It’s best to keep the operating instructions readily available, and heed the manufacturer’s advice on what the  maintenance schedule should be.

A leading industry professional in Western Australia recommends that security systems and CCTV systems be serviced annually, with the following suggestions for optimal performance:

·       Test your alarm regularly.   If you have a monitored system, first inform the security company and then do the testing.

·       All warning devices (bells, sirens etc), cameras, detectors etc should be checked.

·       The back-up battery must be checked and should be clean and not corroded, with the voltage checked.  They should have a battery life of between 8 – 12 hours, and should be replaced BEFORE they weaken.

·       Keep sensors free of dust, insects and spider webs as these can activate the alarm – and it may be wise to spray with insect killer.

·       Ensure overhead components, wiring and conduiting aren’t damaged. 

·       All equipment needs to be wel-ventilated.

·       Also check that remotes are fully operational with battery life in good order, as well as other components such as motion sensors and exterior beams also in good working order.

Alarm systems should also be checked for functionality after severe electric storms or if there have been noticeable power surges as these can cause false alarms and can compromise the structure of an alarm. 

Naturally, an alarm system isn’t the one and only deterrent against burglaries.  Ensuring that all other aspects of home security from perimeter fencing and door and window locks to exterior lighting, security signage and vigilance will all play a role in ensuring your home and assets are secure.

The Perth Mint