Home & Security Buying Guide
It’s an unfortunate reality that we all must face that we do not live in a utopian society.
Burglaries and other forms of home invasion are an unfortunate part of the world that we exist in. Fortunately, there are some easy steps to take to increase the likelihood that you will never have to fall victim to such acts. We’ll take you through the process of explaining various security measures and turning your home into a safe place, without having to convert it into a fortress.
SWANN Wireless Home Alarm Kit
Deterrence
- Imitation devices
For a fraction of the cost of a full security system an imitation device can enhance your security. Deterrence is the best defence and these products have the look of a professionally installed alarm system. They don’t actually provide an alarm, but with a dummy camera cover and strobe light to fool suspicious eyes into thinking twice about targeting your home.
Imitation devices are ideal to supplement a true security system, giving you real protection plus the enhanced effect of additional deterrence. - Infrared night vision
It’s worth looking for a camera system that includes infrared lighting for night vision. Just like the spy-vision you see in the movies, these cameras are able to see in the dark using infrared LEDs that aren’t visible to any intruders.
Fire & Safety
- Smoke Alarms
Legislation – All residents must have at least one working smoke alarm installed on each level of their home. This includes owner occupied, rental properties, re-locatable home or any other residential building where people sleep. For new homes, the smoke alarms must be mains-powered (with battery back-ups in case of power failure), so they need to be installed by an electrician.
Ionisation or Photoelectric? – there are primarily 2 types of smoke alarms, ionization and photoelectric. Ionisation alarms work by using a radioactive source to ionize the air, creating a current. Minuscule products of combustion, like carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, disrupt that current, setting off the alarm. Ionisation smoke alarms are suitable to detecting fast flaming and other fires which product small particles of smoke, such as those produced by burning paper / wood or flammable liquids. Note: Cooking and steam can set them off and become a nuisance – that’s why they’re not recommended in a kitchen or bathroom.
Photoelectric alarms work by using a beam of light. When visible smoke particles enter the chamber and scatters across the beam of light the alarm sounds. Photoelectric smoke alarms are suitable for detecting slow smouldering and other fires which produce larger particles of smoke, sucha s those produced by burning foam/rubber, cigarette smoke and other synthetic materials. Both ionisation and photoelectric smoke alarms can be installed to help ensure maximum detection of the various types of fires that can occur within your home. Fire Protection Association Australia recommends installing a photoelectric smoke alarm in each bedroom, in corridors and hallways that lead to exists and the living area.
QUELL Photoelectric Smoke Alarm
Home & Business Monitoring
- Surveillance cameras
Surveillance cameras don’t only act as a fantastic theft deterrent when fitted externally to your home, they can also be used for peace of mind beyond home security. Whether you simply appreciate the comfort of having a monitored property or want an extra set of eyes to keep track of the kids at sleep or at play, video surveillance can come in handy.
A typical security system provides a comprehensive video surveillance array for both indoor and outdoor use. A common system boasts four weather-proof cameras that liaise with a four-channel digital video recorder capable of monitoring and storing footage on a hard-drive based PVR, across all cameras. Use this type of system to keep track of the kids, as well as deter or record any potential thieves who may be monitoring your home.
Home Safety
- Alarms
Alarm systems are one of the most common forms of security on the marketplace today. They vary in types, and can be used for security ranging from cars and homes to individual protection. For home purposes, alarm systems need not be installed on the entirety of your house and can be placed in strategic spots that may have been identified as potential unsecure areas. For instance, your home may have secure screen doors installed, but the windows are unprotected. There are a range of products to cover your security needs from individual protection to your entire home.
A wireless security system is a perfect starting point for anyone looking for a home alarm system. Many are designed for DIY installation and no complex wiring is involved and the system can be set up in minutes. A typical system may include multiple sensors, a water-resistant individual person medical alert remote control, and a remote for arming/disarming the system. Often your phone can be configured with a back-to-base dialling option or self-monitoring, whereby any alarm trips can notify your choice of phone.
- Baby monitors
Gone are the days where monitoring your newborn or the elderly meant constant physical presence or an audio-only baby intercom. Modern baby monitors uses advanced wireless technology to allow you to keep track of your child with both sound and colour video. The wireless signal can transmit through walls and/or ceilings, ensuring you can see and hear exactly what’s going on with your loved ones whenever you need to.
- Doorbell video intercom
Armed with this type of product, you can have the upper hand of knowing who’s at your door before you even open it. These video intercom systems are easy to install and are designed to be wall mounted which keeps it out of the way and in plain view. The outdoor camera component should be designed to be theft-proof and tamper-proof, which means you’ll have the comfort of seeing and hearing who’s at your door for a long time to come.
QUELL Personal Alarm
Personal Safety
- Personal Alarms
A compact personal alarm is ideal for the security conscious individual who wants the comfort of an attention-drawing protective measure. With the press of the button, a personal alarm will unleash an extremely loud shriek of around 100dB, drawing attention to you and any would-be criminal. They’re the perfect size for a pocket or purse and often feature an inbuilt flashlight.
Last updated: February 2012
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