Dept Homeland Security

Homeland Security Technology ( Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:28:00 +0000

By Dakota Blue

Dept Homeland Security

Since 9/11 there have been a million changes, large and small, within our government and our society. Technology has constantly evolved throughout history and 9/11 made that undoubtedly clear. Homeland security has developed great technology to keep our nation safe and secure from any kind of attack. I'll go over a one that covers information and intelligence gathering and analysis. One type of technology is called the SIPR (Secret Internet Protocol Router).

The SIPR replaces DDN DSNET1 as the "secret" of DISN. A completely new router system makes up the infrastructure. Secret level network connectivity is based through secret level networks which provide base router connectivity to SIPRNET for the Department of Defense.

Transmission sevices use smart multiplexer and 512 kilobits per second (kbps) channels. Other transmissions will be leased as needed. Expansion is expected to reach T1 circuit data rate of 1.544 Megabits (Mbps) and potentially to the T3 data rate of 45 Mbps.

The "secret" layer of DISN is to support national defense C3I requirements including COMSEC keys with STU-III to make secure dialup SIPRNET communications. Many commanders request this service before deployment. SPIRNET is begining to replace NIPRNET as a favorite.

SPIRNET began in 1994. It supports the Dept of Defense TCP/IP. Subscribed government agencies can use this to transmit datagrams at the SECRET-NOFORN classification level.

Key Terms & Abbreviations:

SIPR - Secret Internet Protocol Router
SPIRNET - Secret Internet Protocol Router Network
COMSEC - Technology providing telecommunication security through encryption
STU-III - The second type of COMSEC
NPIRNET - Non-Classified (or Secure) Internet Router Network
DSNET1 - TDN-1 gateway
SECRET-NOFORN - Secret Not Releasable to Foreign Nationals

I've been writing all of my life and have a career as a ghostwriter. Writing is my passion and always has been. I've also won some awards for my writing including "Best Creative Content Writer" in 2001.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dakota_Blue

Dept Homeland Security

Tips On Choosing The Best Webcam Security Software For Your Home(Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:46:00 +0000

By Nahshon Roberts

Dept Homeland Security

If you want to take your webcam security system to the next level, you must use a very effective, easy-to-use, and fully functional webcam security software. And with all the available security applications out in the internet and in stores, picking the right webcam security software application for your home is a daunting task. Here are a few tips to help you choose the security software that is perfect for you.

Read About It

It is a very good idea to read product reviews and user opinions in various websites on video surveillance. You can also find product reviews in computer magazines. By doing a little research on webcam security software that you're interested in, you'd get to know more about the product, its features, its price, its efficiency, and its functionality. The information that you will get out of these reviews will greatly influence your choice on what security software to use.

Know Your Hardware

You should also check your personal computer and your webcam if it meets the minimum requirements for the security application to function well. Again, this can be done through research. Most software reviews will tell you what you need. You have to take note of requirements such as computer processing speed, RAM (Random Access Memory), operating system (whether the software application would run on Windows or MAC), and webcam compatibility. If you are shopping in a store, you can always find a list of minimum requirements on the box of the security software.

Seek A Techie's Advice

If you are a beginner, it would be a great idea to go talk to the techies at the computer shop. Tell them what you need, so that they can recommend the right set-up and software for you. If you have a friend who already has a webcam security system at home, you can also ask him. Chances are, your friend will be able to recommend the right security application for you.

Compare Products And Their Prices

Now that you have all the information that you need, it is time to compare the different webcam security software available and their respective prices. Now, you may come across two products which offer the same features and functionality, but with different prices. Before you go for the cheaper security software, try to consider the perks that goes along with the more expensive product. 24-hour tech support, warranties, and quality often come with expensive products. If you can afford the pricier software application, go for it. If not, you would be running the risk of buying a low-quality product. But then again, there are lots of security applications that are very affordable. Ultimately, research plays a key role in the products that you will buy.

These are just some ways to find the best webcam security software for your home. Being able to get the best one relies heavily on your knowledge about the product. Using the most dependable security software for your home will surely be worth your time and money.

Need information on webcam security software, CCTV security systems, and hidden surveillance cameras? Visit Video-Surveillance-Guide.com now.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nahshon_Roberts

Dept Homeland Security

Home Security Alarm Systems - Wired or Wireless?(Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:17:00 +0000

By Greg Shuey

Dept Homeland Security

Home Security Alarm Systems are pretty easy to install these days. Depending on the type of house you own, you will determine the type of home security alarm you will need. Most alarm systems these days are wired throughout your home, however, because of the difficulty and time it takes to install these systems in your home, many home security alarm companies are starting to use wireless security systems.

This comes as no surprise since the world we live in today is becoming more and more wireless every day. These "new" security systems don't require any drilling or laying wires throughout your home. Sometimes, they don't even need to be installed by professional companies. You can find these types of alarms at your local hardware store.

These new home security alarm systems are great for lot of other reasons. Because your system communities wirelessly, it is easy to move the components around your home without having to deal with any wires. Until now, this wasn't even an option. Now it is a commodity! It is also extremely easy to add new features or sensors to different rooms, doors, and windows without having to drill more holes and run more cables for each device you plan to add. There are, however, limitations by these new systems as to how many devices it can support.

You must realize that no home security alarm system is fool proof or perfect by any means. Nothing in this world is perfect and wireless home security systems aren't in anyway perfect either. The major downfall of these systems is the fact that they are powered by batteries. This means that you will have to actively monitor the system to make sure that it is still running. You may have an inactive home security system without even knowing it.

If you are a big shot and are using security cameras on the outside of your home, beware; they suck batteries faster than any other component of the wireless security system. Make sure that you are using the type of cameras that use motion sensor technology. These will allow you to get more bang for your buck when it comes to batteries since they will not be running all the time.

No matter what you choose to do, you need to make sure that you are taking the proper steps in protecting your home from intruders. Both wired and wireless home security alarm systems are supplements to your home security and family safety.

Greg has experience with protecting homes from invasion and has a Home Security Alarm System of his own. He wants others to know how affordable true protection for your family really is. Visit Get Home Security Today to learn about the different Home Security Alarm Companies, for more information, and to get a free quote from the nations top security companies

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Shuey

Dept Homeland Security

Security Systems Protects Against Home Invasions(Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:09:00 +0000

By Bruce Kelly

Dept Homeland Security

Home invasion is described as the crime of entering a private and occupied property with the intention of theft or violence. It can also be applied to a situation where a homeowner invites someone into his or her house but the guest overstays a welcome, leading to an argument that may involve the authorities escorting the guest out. This is a different crime than theft, though it is similarly motivated and comparable in statistics. Home invasion is particularly dangerous because it may involve several criminals, one or more of which may be capable of great violence. After all, a burglar can plan his or her strategy around not being seen by others. However, home invaders are usually seen by the occupants, which can lead to deadly results.

There have been many cases of home invasion, and contrary to popular belief, not all of these crimes are committed because of soured relationships between known acquaintances and friends. There have been reports of criminals randomly choosing shoppers in malls and following them all the way home. This may be a very different set of circumstances than a typical robbery, because any loud siren noise would only provoke the invader, prompting him to order the homeowner to turn it off. This defeats the purpose of an alarm system. An older model alarm system may be equipped to handle theft but not address the possibility of a home invasion.

However, many modern alarm systems of today have proven to be effective at preventing burglaries, as well as crimes of home invasion. How so? The key is in live monitoring from a national brand like Brinks or ADT Security. For a small monthly fee the homeowner's property is monitored by an international network of live operators located throughout the United States. These personnel are trained to respond to emergency situations as they happen. Consider how the process works.

First, an alarm is set off by unusual movement, by a panic button or by another party breaking and entering the premises. The homeowner is first contacted by personnel to make sure that the alarm was not accidental. When the owner fails to quickly respond (and cite the proper code) then the operator contacts local police to investigate the matter. This means that within minutes of entry, police are told to go over and visit the home in question. If they catch the home invader in the act then prosecution will be easy and the invader will be jailed for a considerably long time. Having a home security system gives that added point of protection not just when you are away, but also while you are inside your residence.

However, it's very possible that just the idea of such sophisticated security systems will discourage criminals from even attempting to invade a guarded home. They may be deterred from a warning sign or from other evidence that the premises is being monitored 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Instead, the criminal will turn his attention to a nearby house-one not equipped with an alarm system. Safeguard your home and family with ADT security.

The author, Bruce Kelly, has 10+ years of experience configuring and installing home security alarms .

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bruce_Kelly

Dept Homeland Security

Security Systems - Protecting Your Home and Business(Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:05:00 +0000

By Anne Clarke

Dept Homeland Security

It is important to have practical, effective security systems to protect your home or office. After all, these are probably the largest investments you will ever make, so it makes sense to protect them.

Some of the items you may want to include in the security systems you install are:

Motion detectors - The basic way that a motion detector works is that it is able to pick up any kind of motion going on in a 180-degree range in a room. These are best used in large and open rooms. If the room has large openings into other rooms, these detectors can work to scan other rooms as well.
One of the concerns that some people have about these detectors is that their dog or cat may accidentally set the detector off. The most sophisticated detectors are able to measure the steps of somebody walking in a room. Because the stride of a cat or dog is much different from the stride of a human, the security systems are preset to be able to distinguish between these strides.
Door and window sensors - In all actuality, door sensors and window sensors are exactly the same. When security systems are installed, these sensors are installed in two parts. One part goes on the door frame while the other part goes on the door itself. The same is true for windows. The sensor has charge that is sent from the part on the frame to the part on the door or window. When this charge is broken by the opening of a door or a window, the alarm sounds.
Smoke alarms - No hallway should be without them. These detect smoke before a fire begins, which gives your family vital escape time if there is a catastrophic fire happening.
Glass break alarms - In some ways, glass break alarms are pretty similar to motion detectors. They look similar and are similar in size. Instead of detecting movement, these alarms actually detect noise - specifically, they detect the noise made when glass shatters.
These alarms can be advantageous in areas of the home where there may be many windows. The reason why is because you would not need to place several motion detectors. These glass break alarms are sensitive, so they can actually pick up glass shattering in a wide range.

These are a few of the items above included in many security systems, but the fact is that new innovations are constantly being made. There are many security companies and each one is trying to remain competitive in the market by making new and superior advances.

It is always a good idea to study up on the items included in security systems and then try to get a good idea of the most cost-effective way to protect your home or business. If you have these ideas in your head, a security salesperson will not be able to enter your home and sell you things that you very well may not need. A little bit of research can save you a lot of money.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for Web sites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background also includes teaching, gardening, and fashion. For more of her useful articles on home security, please visit Home Security, supplier of security systems, personal security, wireless security systems, and more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Clarke

Dept Homeland Security

Home Security Video Systems(Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:26:00 +0000

By JB Mills

Dept Homeland Security

There has been an explosive boom in the sales of home security video systems and home security system surveillance cameras over the last several years. There are wide-ranging reasons for buying and installing these security video systems. The three biggest reasons for purchasing a home video system are: To safeguard the family's safety, the protection of private property, and monitoring of in home employees such as housekeepers and nannies.

How do home security systems provide their owners with a sense of peace and protection? Members of law enforcement in many cities bear witness to the home security systems capacity for producing a desired outcome of protection against unwanted threats. These are just some of the key applications:

1. Baby sitter surveillance systems are very a popular and effective means of watching over your children and their caregivers
2. Protect against employee theft
3. Outdoor areas of your property can be remotely monitored by webcam
4. Visitors to your home door may easily be identified by an outside closed circuit tv.

A quick review a few of the cutting-edge trends in home surveillance technology will help you have a better understanding of what is available to you. First, although wireless technology contributes to the convenience of setup and operation, conventional wireless video recording cameras are still restricted by the range in which the wireless transmitter and receiver will effectively reach. Second, monitoring options for many of the newer video surveillance cameras are IP-based which means they are configured to function over digital computer networks allowing users to view what is being observed over the internet. Third, DVR technology continues to expand, many consumers are turning to PC-based DVRs. This affords them the ability to convert their PC into a fully functioning DVR device.

There are hundreds of security system installation companies that can aid you in choosing the most beneficial and most useful security video system to guarantee your peace of mind and safety. Furthermore, home security video is scalable and modular. Customized systems can be built to suit every budget and requirements to ensure maximum protection. Some of the different features in the home security video systems that can be applied are the DVR cards, the digital video recording equipment, capture devices, USB, and remote video surveillance software.

Security cameras are everyplace these days and the reason is quite clear: there's just no better way to protect your home or business concerns and ensure safety. With dramatically improved digital technology and decreased operating expense, security cameras are not just in banks or department stores any longer. As a matter of fact, whenever you look around, you'll discovery them in every imaginable place, making them one of the more widely used CCTV systems. Regardless what system you finally select, a home security alarm system is highly advisable. Securing the safety of your family, your home and your possessions ought be among the foremost concerns in your daily life, but with a quality security system, you are able to rest easy, secure in the knowledge that your family is protected by the best technology available.

JB has started a blog on Blogger that has more information about home security equipment and installation.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=JB_Mills

Dept Homeland Security

Home Security Systems - Have Peace Of Mind(Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:12:00 +0000

By Scotie Keithlow

Dept Homeland Security

With increasing terrorism and home invasion incidents, it seems that there is no longer a safe haven where you can assume that your loved ones and children are safe. The general aura seems to be that of increased terror, robberies and murders. People are becoming more aggressive and the world is no longer as safe as it used to be.

The fear that the next home to be attacked or invaded could you yours sends a chilling shiver down the spine. But it is a fact that not many can avoid today if they are practical people. One way to avoid this constant tension about whether your loved ones are safe at home or not while you may be attending a late night office party, is to look up the wide range of home security systems that are available these days. What you actually need is some kind of an alarm or a panic room which can be used if a burglar tries to force entry.

There were days when people used to keep fire arms in their homes just in case of an unexpected untoward incident but these days people are looking towards more technology oriented solutions that those that involve a lot of brawn.

This is where the sophisticated alarm systems come in. These hi-tech systems are capable of allowing access to the home based on various criteria. These could be a password, voice recognition, finger printing and the like. Don't be surprised because these things are no longer gizmos that you see in Star Wars and Mission Impossible. They are now available for the common man to buy and use for the security of their loved ones. These systems are no longer affordable to only the rich and the famous. They have percolated the income strata's since the need to keep loved ones safe is a need that does not recognize income and wealth levels.

There are other gadgets that can monitor the front and back door and take pictures of anyone who come on the door step. This has made life very difficult for the robber especially if they are not expecting such security or prepared for it. Whether the called rings the bell or not! Whether the caller knocks on the door or not! The vigilant camera is bound to take pictures of what comes in and goes out and can be used for reference in the unlikely even if a forced entry.

To find more tips and advise about home security visit http://favouritearticlesite.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scotie_Keithlow

Dept Homeland Security

Home Security: Apartments & Condos( Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:24:00 +0000

Dept Homeland Security

Home security isn't just for people who own houses. Just because you have a security guard at the entrance to your building, don't assume your apartment or condominium is entirely secure. Your safety is up to you. It's a good idea to make sure the apartment and surrounding grounds look secure before you sign a lease (since you're limited to the kind of improvements you can make yourself).

Here are some home security tips for those who live in apartments or condos:

Have the apartment's locks changed when you move in. (The maintenance crew can simply swap lock cylinders with a random vacant apartment, a project that is free and takes only a few minutes.)

Depending on the neighborhood, you may also feel more secure if you have a deadbolt lock. Apartment renters, make sure to get permission first.

Use your peephole, and don't open the door for strangers. Demand identification from package delivery services, even if they're in uniform (uniforms can be stolen).

Even if you're home, don't leave the door to your apartment unlocked.

Make sure the building's public areas aren't threatening, i.e. lights out in the parking lots, laundry room, or hallways.

Get to know your neighbors, and watch for suspicious people on the premises.

Home security alarms are available for apartment and condo dwellers as well; look into portable door/window alarms or a wireless home security system (things that can move with you when it's time to find a new home).

Don't leave your windows open, and make sure they all have secure locking mechanisms.

Likewise, don't leave a sliding glass balcony door open, even on upper floors. (Balconies can make a handy ladder for burglars to climb to upper stories.) These kind of doors should have not only a lock but a Charley bar (or at least a wood board in the runners to keep the door from being forced).

Just use your last name, or if necessary last name and first initial, on your door or mailbox. This keeps strangers from knowing your gender or how many people live in your apartment.

Dept Homeland Security

The Cost of Installing a Home Security System(Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:48:00 +0000

Dept Homeland Security

Home security systems are of two kinds: do-it-yourself packages and professional systems provided by companies that install and monitor alarm systems. The former are usually wireless systems, and are cheaper to install than professional systems.

Before you opt for one system or the other, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the benefits as well as shortcomings of each.

Do-it-yourself systems can be bought off the shelf from any home improvement or hardware store, and are undoubtedly inexpensive. However, these can leave much to be desired in terms of quality and effectiveness. The smallest and most easy to install are relatively cheap, and can cost as little as $100. Choose these if you live alone or in a small home with two to three people, and no valuable possessions other than the standard ones (TV, VCR, etc). But if you have a home with children and/or valuables such as jewelry or antiques that you keep in the house, you will probably want to consider the more expensive home security systems.

The most cost-effective home security systems are those that guard the perimeter of your house. Arguably, if a burglar is stopped at the first hurdle, he can’t do you or your loved ones any harm. Perimeter systems are programmed to sound an alarm when someone tries to cross over your grounds. Most of the latest ones are programmed to identify the weight and shape of intruders, and are not likely to be triggered by apples falling to the ground or your toddler crawling out onto the lawn to retrieve his favorite beach ball.

The least costly systems, which you can get for a couple hundred dollars or so, include such devices as door and window sensors and surveillance cameras. The degree of sophistication of the gadget increases as the price goes up. For example, a PowerMax home security system with a keypad attached for access cord protection will cost you $195. A similar system provided by Ademco will cost you $224.95.

If you live in a large house, if you're away from home a lot, or if your home is in an isolated area, you might want to think about remotely monitored systems. These are the most expensive to install, since they require monitoring by your service provider.

Remote monitoring is a useful option because your service company will directly contact the police or fire department, should the appropriate alarm go off. A monitored system will cost you about $1000 to install, as well as a monthly fee of approximately $30. Such systems also usually require you to sign a contract with the providing company, generally for two or three years. Monitored systems also cost about $300 a year in terms of maintenance.

Before choosing your system, also check with your insurance company about prices, since most companies have links with security services providers, and can sometimes offer you home security at a discounted rate. Alternatively, if you don’t have insurance yet, most insurance companies offer you a discount on their home-owners’ policies if you set up a home security system. The rate of the discount varies according to your choice of system. For example, if you opt for an inexpensive burglar alarm, you are likely to get a discount of 10% on a premium policy.

There is a wide range of choices in home security systems, so pick one that suits your budget and also caters to your individual needs.

Remember that the key to security is also to visually enforce the fact that you have a home security system. Put up signs in your yard that deter burglars from approaching your home, and set up a prominent ‘Beware of Vicious Dog’ sign, even if you don’t have a dog. You can even purchase a porch light with a timer, set to go on and off every few hours, so that anyone watching the house may believe that there is someone home, even if there isn’t. Ultimately, though, if you live in an independent house, a basic home protection system is essential at the very least. Once your system is installed, it only costs you a reasonable fee to maintain it – a fee that is worth paying for the security of your home and your family!

Dept Homeland Security

Types of Home Security Systems(Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 11:52:00 +0000

Dept Homeland Security

Have you been a victim of burglary? The FBI’s crime log determines that a burglary takes place once every 15.4 seconds. That's why so many people are looking into home security systems, and you might be smart to do the same.

Even if you belong to the friendly neighborhood watch, this does not ensure that your home is protected. Keeping a gun at home is another option that many people choose, but this can result in unforeseen tragedies. Besides, you may end up having your gun used against you by intruders. Your home may be better-protected if you live with a large family and the home is rarely left unoccupied, but many burglaries occur with people in the house too. Choosing a home security system is a reliable and safe way of protecting your home.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Alarm Systems

Home security systems are broadly divided into indoor systems and outdoor ones.

Most standard indoor home security systems are installed at your doors and windows. They work by checking for two things: opening of doors and windows, or signs of movement inside the house. The system detects the latter with the help of motion sensors. To use this type of system, you need to enter a special code into your control set, which allows you to set your alarm when you need to, and also to turn it off before you enter the house.

The outdoor home security system also monitors your grounds. Most outdoor systems are programmed to turn on flood lights at the slightest hint of movement on your grounds. In earlier models, there was the possibility of your cat setting off the alarm as she took a stroll around the compound, but newer models are programmed to check the size and weight of the intruder before setting off the alarm, and consequently, there are fewer false alarms.

Outdoor alarms also include driveway alarms to ensure the safety of your car.

Electric or Battery Powered?

Most systems operate on either electricity or batteries. While the latter are more reliable in case of a power shutdown, you also have to check the battery supply routinely.

Add Video Surveillance?

Some of the more expensive and sophisticated systems offer you the added security of close-circuit television (CCTV) and wireless video surveillance (VSS). These generally consist of several transmitters and one receiver, which is connected to your TV or VCR. The advantage with such wireless systems is that the only cable you use is the one that connects your receiver to your TV. Wired systems are more reliable than wireless ones.

Security for Apartment Buildings

If you live in an apartment building, you can also opt for special systems designed to be installed in multi-apartment premises. Usually, these are installed by the building supervisor, and include giving out access card keys to residents, which are used with key pads installed at the entrance to apartments, floors, and common areas like gyms and swimming pools.

Open areas should also be lighted during the nights, so that they may be easily monitored by security guards. If your apartment complex doesn’t have such security facilities, speak to your building supervisor today!

Don't Forget the Risk Assessment

An essential component of choosing the right home security system is to carry out a program of risk assessment. Many home security product providers offer you free risk assessment modules. Since there are many types of home security systems, risk assessment is essential to allow you to decide what kind of system will optimize your individual needs.

Common-sense Stuff

Choose a security system that also has an in-built smoke detector, so that you also protect your home from fires. Remember that installing a home security system only complements your own, more conventional means of protection. That is, don’t depend on your system to do all the work!

Make sure you have sturdy doors and windows which you can bolt and lock. Place grills on your windows so that even if the glass is broken, they do not allow access for anyone to enter the house. There is no replacement for the good old fashioned porch light. Make sure you have adequate lighting around the house and at strategic locations in your grounds, since nothing deters a would-be burglar than a bright light. Whatever system you choose, make sure that signs of its installation are clearly visible. Having ensured all this, turn on your alarm and enjoy a night out with absolute peace of mind!

Dept Homeland Security

Buying a Home Security System( Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 08:31:00 +0000

Dept Homeland Security

Buying and installing a home security system yourself helps you to cut down on the costs of professional installation. However, do ensure that you buy your system from an authorized dealer, even if you’re planning to install it yourself. Unauthorized systems may be cheaper at first glance, but most of these do not guarantee you service and replacements.

The first thing you need to do before buying your burglar alarm is to decide what kind of system you want to purchase. To do this, you need to perform a risk assessment. Large properties are best left to the experts, because the scale of work required would probably be too much for you to handle by yourself. However, regardless of whether you’re installing your system yourself or having the job done professionally, do a personal check on the areas of your house (and grounds, if you have them) to decide where you need sensors. Nobody knows your house like you do!

Many services ask for a monthly fee, especially if you need them to monitor your system for burglar and fire alarms. While it’s a good idea to opt for such monitoring, choose a service that does not require you to be tied to a contract for a lengthy period of time (for example, two or more years). Services like ADT and Brink, for instance, ask for a hefty monthly fee as well as a long-term contract. Choose a service that has a reasonable monthly fee and no contract, so that you can change the service at any time if you are not happy with it, without worrying about the contract.

The best place to buy your home security system is from a local dealer that has a license. (This is code for don't buy an alarm off eBay and expect it to rock.) Since most states now require legitimate dealers to possess permits for sales, it would be a good idea to check your dealer’s authorization before you buy from them.

A local dealer is your best bet, because they will help you customize your system according to your specific needs. While large-scale manufacturers also offer this service, they may be too busy to cater to an individual customer’s needs. Your local dealer, however, will probably be around when you need a fix. Choose a reliable dealer; ask around first, and don’t rely too heavily on advertisements because these can be deceptive. Word of mouth works best. Check with your friends and acquaintances and find out if you can find an established dealer who has had his business open for more than a few years.

Also, many users have found that large-scale manufacturers are not always prepared to replace small units, such as panels which are susceptible to failure if struck by lightning. Your local dealer will probably come right over and fix it at a nominal charge.

Whether you install your system yourself or get it professionally installed (which will double your costs), it’s a good idea to monitor your system yourself. Distance monitoring is not foolproof, and if your system gives way in the middle of the night, the odds are that you won’t get to know about it because the failure alarm will buzz at your supplier’s.

If you are a do-it-yourself type, installing your own system can be a very good idea because in the process of the installation, you really get to know your own alarm. Having your home security system installed by someone else is a little bit like buying a car without looking under the hood first. Like any other piece of technology, alarms need to be learned and understood. Know your system and it will work wonders for you. Not knowing your system will put you at a distinct disadvantage, because you’ll be calling for help even for simple teething problems. However, if you’re too busy to baby-sit your system or are just reluctant to get involved in anything that requires more than pushing a button, your local dealer will probably be happy to install and explain the basic functions of your system to you.

While there are no hard and fast rules about buying systems off the internet, it’s best to pick an empirical store where you can get in touch with the provider should anything go wrong. The internet, however, is a useful resource for checking about costs and service providers with other users.

Dept Homeland Security

How to Choose A Home Security Company(Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:48:00 +0000

Dept Homeland Security

If you're planning to buy a continually monitored home security system, you need to be careful selecting a security company. Many of them require leases, so it may be difficult to get out of a signed contract if it doesn't turn out to be what you expected. Leases are fine, as long as you know what you're getting into. In order to select a home security company that is dependable and fair, consider asking some of the following questions to any perspective company before you sign anything:

How long have they been in business? Try to find a home security company that's been around for at least five years, thus suggesting they won't fold up and disappear anytime soon.

Does the company have all the proper licenses? For instance, do they have a low-voltage electrical license? Some states require special alarm-contractor licenses; does the company have one? Ask to see their license numbers so you can verify their information. If they are legit, a home security company should have no problem giving you this information.

Is the company bonded and insured? They should be responsible for repairs if any damage occurs on your property when they are installing your home security system.

Find out if they do background checks when hiring employees.

Does the home security company own their own monitoring service and where is it located? Is it local?

Is the home security monitoring service listed with the Underwriters Laboratories?

Would you be required to lease their home security system or do they sell them outright? Both options have pros and cons, and it is important you know what you're committing to.

How long is the warranty good for and what does it cover?

How much does the monthly monitoring service cost in addition to sales and installation cost? Is it a set price or do the fees increase periodically?

These are just some questions you should consider when purchasing from a home security company. When it comes down to selecting an alarm system, listen to what the salesman has to recommend. He or she should know the products extremely well. But remember, they are usually working on commission, so don't get suckered into buying a lot of unnecessary extras.

If you don't know where to start looking for a home security company, check with the National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association for a list of companies in your area. Try asking friends or neighbors for referrals of home security companies in your area. Your insurance agent may also be able to recommend someone.

Dept Homeland Security

Home Security Information(Dept Homeland Security)

noreply@blogger.com (great) — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 07:03:00 +0000

(Dept Homeland Security)

Home security should be important to everyone whether you live in a house or an apartment.

Knowing your home is protected provides peace of mind both when you are away and when you are home. Security is important even if you have outstanding public safety agencies (police, fire, highway patrol, etc.) in your area. There are far more homes than there are police officers, not to mention a plethora of skilled thieves, so it's important for you to do everything possible to make your house secure rather than just relying on others.

When people think of protecting their homes, they often think of fancy expensive security systems with lots of bells and whistles. That is certainly an option, but there are measures you can take that won't break the bank, too. Also, depending on your home and neighborhood, you may not need the most expensive system.

Home security isn't just about your own home, either. A lot of determining whether or not you're a significant risk involves taking stock of your neighborhood including public safety facilities like police and fire stations. Though incidents can happen to anyone, some neighborhoods are certainly more at risk than others. Installing a burglar alarm can certainly help make you less of a target, but the best strategy may be to start a neighborhood watch.

Home security is also about you and your habits. If you have a large family where someone is almost always home, you may be less at risk than someone who lives alone and is frequently away on business trips. The value of your home and your possessions is also a factor, although thieves can also be tempted by less valuable items if they believe they will be easy to fence.

When you think of protecting your family and your belongings, you'll also want to think of personal safety and the protection of things that are important to you but might not necessarily be located in your home, such as your car. Motion-sensing lights and driveway alarms may deter thieves from breaking into your car when you are at home, but what about when you are at work? Or out on the town? Check out this site's article section to find information on car alarms and car theft prevention tips.

To keep your family safe, you should also include an accident prevention and fire safety plan. These types of dangers can put you and your family at risk as well as threatening to destroy your personal belongings. Forethought and preventative measures go a long way in this area.

Please browse around the site for more specifics on any of these topics. I am actually thinking of starting a blog on various cool security gadgets soon (a bit like HGTV's I Want That, except with toys related to this web site only), so check back soon if that's something that interests you. For more on housing trends and technology, you can also visit my new project: Home Improvement Ideas

(Dept Homeland Security)