Home Security Systems Can Protect Against More Than Just Break-Ins

Break-in prevention is one of the top concerns homeowners have when installing a security system. In addition to keeping burglars out of your house, a top-notch security system can also protect you from all sorts of other hazards, some of which you may not spend much thought on.

Here are some other things that a home security system can protect you against.

1. Fires and Floods

A top-quality alarm system may include not only door alarms, but can have fire alarms and water damage alarms connected as well. Whether you're a heavy sleeper or whether you're out of town, these alarms can alert you to the issue instantly. Not every security system has these sensors installed, but adding them is definitely worth the extra cost.

2. Identity Theft

Not all criminals will simply come to your home and steal your belongings physically. Identity theft can be just as damaging, and a home security system can help you avoid becoming the victim of this type of crime. Some identity thefts happen when your information is stolen online, but others occur when criminals obtain your personal information from paperwork.

Your mailbox can be a great way for these criminals to steal your identity without even breaking into your home first. Make sure your security system includes securing your mailbox (ideally with a lock) and pointing a video camera at it.

3. Wildlife and Pests

Some homes have unexpected security risks, such as unsecured or poorly secured pet doors. A home security system that includes a well-secured pet door can help you avoid letting other neighborhood pests or, worse, wildlife and pests into your home.

In some cases, your security system can also help fight against pests by capturing any pests that enter your home on camera. This allows you to react to their presence immediately before an infestation can take hold. Depending on how much camera coverage you have, the footage may even be able to show you exactly how the pest got into your house.

4. Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide detectors are an essential part of any home security system. Carbon monoxide can be created by a malfunctioning appliance or trapped in your home by a malfunctioning vent pipe.

Since you typically can't smell carbon monoxide, an alarm system that includes detectors for this deadly substance could save lives by alerting you to a problem. Like fire alarms, these detectors are worth adding for your own personal protection, no matter where you live.

5. Pranks and Vandalism

Whether the teens in your neighborhood are acting up with destructive pranks or whether you live in an area with a graffiti problem, good home security systems can help. Beefing up your outdoor security features could help you avoid dealing with vandalism in your yard and home.

Some common aspects of a home security system that are recommended to protect against vandalism such as graffiti include:

• Bright, motion-sensing lights
• Prominent outdoor security cameras
• High, non-solid fences (such as chain link)
• Thorny bushes near walls and windows
• Signs that list your security company or Beware of Dog signs

Many of these security features are the same ones you may already have in place to deter burglars. But they can also help make vandalizing your house appear less attractive, because the criminal who does so is more likely to be caught.

Remember, your home security system can only protect you against these eventualities if you take care of it. You should hire a professional security company not only for the installation of your system, but also for regular maintenance and to troubleshoot any issues that may crop up.

For more information on the security services, get in touch today.  SCSC Southern California Security Center  can help you install both physical security features such as door locks and electronic digital security system features such as a Ring doorbell.