By now you’ve seen the “powerful” television ads being run by ADT and the other big boys selling centrally monitored alarm systems. Maybe one of these companies has visited your home with an offer of a “free” or “almost free” alarm system. Sounds good, doesn’t it? Perhaps they even asked you the magic “closing” question…”Wouldn’t you spend just $1.00 per day to protect your family?” Who could say no to that question? That’s what they are counting on! Now they have you ready to sign your contract! What is wrong with this picture? First of all, no one “gives” you a free system! No one! These “big boys” spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on their powerful television ads and your dollars are used to pay for them. Add it up.

If you are reading this article, you are probably thinking about installing a Security System in your apartment. Much like traditional homes, you should first evaluate your apartment’s vulnerabilities. Is the building always locked to visitors? Are there entry and exit doors in more than one part of the building? Are the entrance/exit doors clearly visible to other tenants in the complex? Are the doors to your apartment solid wood doors or hollow construction doors? Are your windows accessible to entry from the outside? Are you on the first floor and are is there landscaping obstructing your windows from the view of your neighbors? Do your neighbors know you and do they know your work schedule?

As the founder of a Security Systems Equipment Company, I am continuously baffled as to why so many homeowners, (and for that matter business owners), spend the money to install a Security System with central monitoring, but don’t include smoke and fire sensors. The common refrain I hear is “I already have battery operated detectors that I installed myself” or “There were already wired units installed when I bought the house”.

Did you know that apartment dwellers, according to some studies, are approximately 85% more likely to be the victim of a burglary than traditional homeowners? Why is that and how do I protect myself? There are a number of reasons why apartments are good targets for burglaries and other crimes. Here are some: