Summertime Security

Here's an oldie, but a goodie... It's been a long time since a client faced the dilemma of securing a window that is regularly left open for fresh air circulation.  It's a ground floor, crank out window which when closed is relatively secure, unless broken.  This is monitored by breakage detection.  But if left open intentionally...well then you have to be creative.  Security screens.  A security wire is interwoven in the mesh of the screen to keep it from being cut and sound the alarm if it is damaged, and a simple, normally closed, button style contact sensor ensures that the alarm sounds if the screen is removed.  An elegant solution, and if cost is a factor, perhaps not all of the windows have to be left open for adequate ventilation, eh?

Even though every security solution should be customized for each family's situation, sometimes design aspects of the system can become predictable and formulaic.  It is good to be reminded that every situation warrants exceptional investigative technique to help ensure that the alarm system works within the framework of normal household operation.  The normal function of a family should be considered when designing an alarm system. 

Granted, sometimes being safe is a pain and presents obstacles.  Somewhere, even on some ethereal level, there could exist a list of which estates are most desireable as a target for intrusion or robery.  Another list might prioritize kidnapping targets.  In extreme cases, security might become, necessarily, intrusive.  Think of a presidential daughter, upon her arrival at an otherwise ordinary school dance, being escorted from the limo by a handsome fellow and five or six armed Secret Service people.   In some cases, then, security may be inconvenient, however warranted. 

Here's the thing, most of us don't need that level of protection.  Every week I meet people who are moving into homes that have existing alarm systems.  If every family worked the same, perhaps taking over an existing alarm system, as currently installed, would be sufficient.  Another such scenario is when a builder or architect or general contractor includes a standard, pre-wired security system.  Of course they are qualified to run wire to doors and maybe a keypad or two, but design requires the input of the occupant of the home and a professional who knows the latest security equipment available and how to employ it for the comfort and convenience of the end user.

Participate with an alarm professional.

Of course all opinions and suggestions manumitted here are subject to your own better idea. I'm not proud.