Why should I invest in a home alarm?

If you are thinking about getting a home alarm or security system installed in your home, you might be wondering if home alarms are worth the investment. In this article we will look at the benefits, costs, and tips to enhance your home security.  

What are the benefits of having a home alarm system? 

Having a home alarm system offers numerous advantages that enhance the security of your home.

They can be a visual deterrent against burglaries: According to An Garda Síochána home alarms are an effective deterrent against burglaries. The presence of an alarm system can deter potential intruders from attempting to break into your home, and if your home has visible cameras or an alarm, criminals may look for an easier target. 

They can lower the cost of your home insurance: If your home is protected with a working burglar alarm, (monitored or otherwise), you can save more on your home insurance. If your home insurance is with Zurich, please note that for the alarm system to be acceptable it must be approved to EN50131 standard and must provide protection to all external doors and accessible windows.

Peace of mind when you are away: Knowing that your home is protected 24/7 gives you and your family peace of mind, whether you're at home or away. Many modern alarm systems offer remote monitoring capabilities, allowing you to keep an eye on your home from anywhere using a smartphone or computer. This feature is particularly useful if you are away.

Integrated systems: Many alarm systems come with integrated smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, providing early warnings, and potentially saving lives in case of fire or gas leaks. In addition, some alarm systems offer medical alert features, which can be particularly useful for elderly or disabled family members.

Smart technology: Modern alarm systems can often be integrated with other smart home devices and can be tailored to fit your specific needs and preferences, including various sensors, cameras, and monitoring options. Overall, investing in a home alarm system is a proactive step towards ensuring the safety and security of your home and loved ones.

Home alarm systems can save you money: There are 2 main types of alarm systems in Ireland, there is “alarmed” systems which are bell only alarms or a system with SMS alerts, and there is “monitored alarms” which is an alarm connected to a central monitoring system. The prices may vary between systems. While an alarm system may incur a cost, the benefit of having an alarm system and deterring potential burglaries of your valuable contents in your home outweighs the cost.

Other ways to prevent burglaries

In addition to having a home alarm system installed in your home, there are other ways to deter intruders.

Locks and doors: Ensure all exterior doors have deadbolts. Fitting and using good quality locks such as levered deadlocks on your doors will make it harder for burglars to barge through them. You should also ensure all ground floor windows have locks.

Hide keys out of sight: Remove keys from locked doors and windows and keep them out of sight.

Hide valuables out of sight: Valuables (cash, jewellery, etc.), which can be seen from outside, are tempting targets for burglars, so keep them out of sight.

Apply timed switches on lights: Put timer switches on your lights so it looks like you’re at home when you’re out.

Protect what matters most

Home alarm systems offer many great benefits and peace of mind that you and your family are doing everything you can to protect your home. We also gathered a more extensive list of ways to protect your home against burglaries. If you want to learn more about protecting your home, we also have lots of useful home safety guides.