The high cost of living means we are all trying to save money, whenever and wherever we can.
Your home security system is a valuable tool in the fight against crime, especially given our crime levels. It is therefore important that you choose a system that offers you the best possible protection – a system should never be chosen simply because it was the cheapest one available.
Charnel Hattingh, National Marketing and Communications Manager at Fidelity ADT, says there is a wide range of security packages available which makes it very easy to become completely overwhelmed when trying to pick one or choosing between the attractive packages on offer.
“Don’t enter into a contract with the first, lowest-priced security provider you can find. Ideally, you should first try to get a number of quotes and compare each one to see where you can get the most value for money and the best possible protection,” says Hattingh.
Hattingh recommends that homeowners listen to their instinct, to err on the side of caution and know the difference between companies who offer comprehensive security solutions, compared to those who simply offer a monitoring system.
She also advises homeowners to only consider security companies who are properly registered with the various industry regulatory bodies. This provides further assurance that you are dealing with a responsible and reliable provider.
Before entering into an agreement with any security company, homeowners should ask themselves the following questions:
- What does the security package entail?
- How up to date is the technology the security provider is offering?
- Does the package include armed response officers, who will respond in case of an alarm activation?
- When facing a crisis, how fast will one of their officers respond?
- Are they appropriately trained and adequately equipped?
“The security company should also encourage regular checks on your alarm system. This will allow homeowners to anticipate and account for any wear and tear, for maximum protection in the long run,” recommends Hattingh.
The best approach, she explains, is to make your selection from a number of providers who offer an effective monitoring system backed up by properly equipped and trained response officers.
“You and your loved ones deserve to be safe, no matter where you stay. Most critically, if a perpetrator triggers your alarm system, you should not have to wonder if your security company will come to your rescue,” concludes Hattingh.
