Security Companies Offer More than Just Alarm Monitoring

According to a recent article in the Washington Post, a burglary occurs in the U.S. every 14.6 seconds. The average loss during a home burglary is approximately $1,725, but this total can run much higher, especially considering the fact that thieves tend to target expensive items that can be carried away and sold on the street – items such as jewelry, silver, gold, guns and electronics.

Perhaps not surprisingly, statistics tell us that homes without security systems are three times more likely to be burglarized than homes with adequate, up-to-date security systems. If you’ve ever considered signing up for a home security system, but you’re not sure whether or not it’s worth the investment, you’ll be glad to know that most home security companies offer protection against a variety of things, including fire, environmental dangers and medical emergencies. In addition to 24/7 burglary protection, here are some of the other services you can expect to get from a reputable home security company:

Carbon Monoxide Protection

Often called the "silent killer" because it’s virtually undetectable, carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas. In rare cases, carbon monoxide can leak because of faulty home construction. Unfortunately, these leaks are responsible for the deaths of approximately 170 people each year.

Many home security companies will include a carbon monoxide detection system in their basic monthly services. If unsafe levels are detected, the system automatically signals staff members at the security-monitoring center, who will immediately send emergency services to the home.

Medical Monitoring

No matter what your age or medical condition, accidents can always happen. Whether you have an accident or an unforeseen medical emergency, you can get help right away if your home security system offers emergency services. By pressing a special panic button on your security monitor, you’ll be connected with the call center, which will immediately send emergency help to your home.

Environmental Monitoring

Many home security systems offer an environmental response service to help protect you against severe cold spells, extreme heat and water damage due to flooding.

If temperatures get dangerously hot or cold in your home, a sensor will go off and alert you to take precautions. Likewise, an environmental monitoring system will also alert you immediately if any area of your house starts collecting water due to flooding or structural leaks.

Fire

Many of today’s home security services offer a fire detection sensor that’s included with every basic home security kit. This sensor will automatically detect smoke in your home and set off an alarm so you can get to safety. The sensor will also send a special signal to the call center of your home security company, which in turn will immediately alert your local fire department.

All of these monitoring services are usually included in the basic home security kit that you pay for every month. Be warned, however, that not every company offers these protection benefits. Before you decide to sign a contract with a home security company, make sure that it offers these invaluable monitoring services – and that you’ll be able to get them for no extra charge.

Nina Kratz is a home consultant who writes in her spare time. She blogs on a variety of subjects important to homeowners. Visit http://www.securitychoice.com/ to learn more about home security systems.