Ensuring the security of your home should be a top priority. Like most homeowners, you probably already have at least one type of alarm in your home for protection. But how often are you testing it? If it’s been some time since your last alarm test, review the following tips to ensure your home is adequately protected.
Smoke Alarms Even if your smoke alarms’ chirps seem strong, some smoke alarms may still fail to recognize signs of imminent danger. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the best smoke alarms combine ionization technology and photoelectric technology. Most smoke alarms can be tested by pushing a “test button” on the unit. Smoke alarms should be interconnected and tested monthly, which ensures they are operating normally and will respond in the event of a fire.
Door and Window Alarms Doors and windows are favorite points of access for burglars. To ward off would-be criminals, window and door alarms can help call attention to the presence of an intruder. These alarms should be placed on both first and second story windows and on all doors leading outside. Often, these alarms have a range of detection. To test these alarms, approach a window or door as if you were trying to enter your home. If the alarm does not sound, check the batteries to ensure they are fresh. If your batteries are charged, check the alarm’s sensor to ensure it’s working properly.
Motion Detector Alarms In addition to door and window alarms, portable motion detector alarms can be placed in strategic areas inside your home. While these can help ward of criminals, motion detector alarms can also keep parents informed about the whereabouts of children within the home, particularly at night. To test motion detector alarms, simply obstruct its path to determine if the alarm is registering motion efficiently. If it isn’t, try replacing the batteries in the unit before testing it again.
Home Security System To ensure your home security system is in working order, it’s important to test it regularly. Often, it is the responsibility of a homeowner to inform the security company if there is a problem with an alarm. If using a monitored system, there may be a way to test the system from the control panel. These simple tests should be conducted weekly to ensure your alarm system is operating normally. Otherwise, review your alarm system’s operating manual for instructions on properly testing your system. Need a home security system? Check out our access control systems for Columbus, Ohio.
Protect Your Home Increasing the security of your home is an investment in the health and safety of your family. Securing your home isn’t just about alarm systems, it’s about preparedness. In addition to testing alarms throughout your home, conduct a walk-through of the space to ensure there are no “weak spots” criminals can exploit. Be sure to review points of entry into your home, such as basements with outside access or garage doors. If you have questions or need assistance with your home alarm system, contact the professionals at All Secured Security Systems Columbus Ohio today.