Residential alarm systems are being installed today in record numbers. Unfortunately there is a trend towards cheap ineffective systems that rely on someone being in your house before the alarm is triggered. On a recent visit to one of my distributors, I found that the equipment I used to install is now a special order item. I haven't installed alarm systems in about 8 years now, being involved now with consulting and engineering.

Wire is too expensive. That's what I heard. Wireless systems that any trained monkey can install rather than hard wiring that (when installed and designed right) doesn't false alarm and really works. I used to install special systems that need hard wiring to work.

It is only because I am doing work on my home and needed to add to my system that I found out. I want the alarm to trigger while an intruder is still outside, not when he is already inside. Even with good PD response, an alarm that works only when someone is moving inside is useless. Of course when you are home and turn it on at night, only the doors are protected on the systems installed today.

That's great as long as you remember to put up the sign that reads "burglars please use the doors". A sad state of affairs.

False security is worse than no security. You let down your guard, leave things around, and don't take normal precautions.

I guess you get what you pay for. Free alarms are worth just that, nothing. If you are on a limited budget, get a good survey from an expert in physical security. Not a free quote from your local oil company. Your local PD will help. But, keep in mind that the officer that comes over is not an expert in physical security. He is schooled in various aspects of crime prevention, but can't tell you what works and what doesn't. A true consultant knows and has seen thousands of past burglaries just like your local police officer. But he also has special training in precisely how to protect your property.

Think twice, spend once.Don't lie to yourself.