For most people, the primary reason to install a home security system is to prevent thieves from breaking in and stealing valuables or threatening loved ones. And while this is an important – perhaps, the most important – consideration, it certainly is not the only one. There are many reasons to install a home security system that go beyond stopping a burglary.
Let’s take a closer look at them.
Protection From Fire
Did you know that most home security systems also provide additional protection barriers for home owners? While most people tend to rely on their fire detectors to spot the presence of smoke, home security systems also typically offer early warning systems.
Monitored home security systems go beyond simply warning home occupants of the presence of smoke, they may also be able to pinpoint heat sources and contact emergency services. Why is this so important? Well, consider that in only thirty seconds, a small flame can turn catastrophic.
It only takes minutes for a home to become filled with thick, choking black smoke. When mere seconds and minutes can be a life-or-death matter, the earlier the warning, the better. Time is, by far, the biggest factor in escaping with you and your family’s life and health intact. Heat, smoke, and fire detecting home security systems provide more time and save lives.
Protection From Carbon Monoxide
Over half of all carbon monoxide poisonings happen within the home. Why? Because carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas and can be released from stoves, wood, charcoal, heating systems, gas ranges, and other things within the home. Even more, carbon monoxide can be deadly. If carbon monoxide builds up in the home and a person cannot sense it, tragedy results.
While carbon monoxide detectors can detect leaks and warn homeowners, far too few keep their carbon monoxide detectors serviced. They simply take a back seat to fire detectors. Fortunately, home security systems can be purchased with an add-on carbon monoxide detector that interfaces with the alarm.
Carbon monoxide replaces oxygen in the body’s cells. Over time, organs begin to fail and affected individuals feel dizzy, head and chest pain, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and even death. Yet, this doesn’t need to be the case. Just like a fire, the faster carbon monoxide is detected, alerted, or responded to, the chances of injury or death are greatly reduced.
Protection From Medical Emergencies
For many homeowners, especially elderly ones, medical conditions are a real concern. Fortunately, most home security system companies offer systems that include medical alert integrations. These integrations allow individuals to press a button or pull accord to receive emergency assistance.
One of the biggest concerns families have are the safety of children or elderly parents. Whether it be through a slip and fall or otherwise, if family members have a quick way to signal for medical assistance, lives are saved. In cases where a medical emergency occurs, response time is critical.
While not every home security system comes standard with this feature, it is generally common enough that it can be requested during purchase or installation. Or, you can purchase it as an add-on through many providers. Why stop at simple burglary, fire, or carbon monoxide poisoning? Protect your loved ones with medical alert options as well.