Home security companies are known for offering plenty of advice about how to create a more secure environment. Likewise for tech experts who make their living writing about home security equipment. But what do first responders say? What kinds of advice do the police and fire departments offer?
It is an important question given that police officers and firefighters have no vested interest in selling a particular brand of home security equipment. They do not benefit financially from homeowners taking a more aggressive stance to protect themselves against burglary, fire, etc. Therefore, the chances are greater than any advice police and fire departments could offer is intended to actually reduce risk.
Common Advice From Police Departments
To get a better handle on the advice police and fire departments might offer, I dug around the internet for news stories containing tips offered by first responders. A post published by the city of Pasadena, CA pretty much summarizes everything I found online.
Starting with police department advice, the post recommends that people make a point of being always aware of their surroundings. This makes perfect sense. Criminals look for opportunities to go after victims who are not paying attention. Being aware of one’s surroundings gives a person the upper hand.
The Pasadena police also recommend:
- deploying strategies to prevent porch piracy.
- keeping items left in vehicles out of sight.
- being aware of online scams, particularly phishing scams.
- keeping windows and doors locked.
- using timers or automated lighting to confuse burglars.
- avoiding the temptation to share travel plans on social media.
These are all things we have heard time and again. Police departments repeat them frequently because they actually do work. If you take a close look at what all the strategies have in common, it becomes apparent that police departments are recommending that we make it as difficult as possible for criminals to commit crimes. That is really what it boils down to.
Common Advice From Fire Departments
As for preventing fire and carbon monoxide poisoning, the Pasadena fire department offers advice relating to open flames, lighting, and even holiday decorations. I should note that the post in question was specifically oriented to holiday fire safety. Its fire safety principles really boil down to taking the necessary steps to reduce the risk of fire.
In addition to being careful with open flames and electrical devices, it isa good idea to have an adequate number of smoke alarms installed throughout the home. One is better than none, but three or four are better still.
Every floor should have at least one smoke detector. There should be a detector installed fairly close to the kitchen as well as additional detectors near bedrooms. Strategically placed smoke detectors act as early warning devices in the event that a fire breaks out.
Installing Monitored Home Security
My own advice in wrapping up this piece is to install a monitored home security system using a company like Vivint Smart Home. Monitored video cameras, window and door sensors, and interior motion sensors can deter burglars. As for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, they are known to save lives.
Monitored home security is preferred because it means remote monitoring personnel are always keeping an eye on things. Homeowners never have to worry about missing alerts because a third-party is handling the monitoring.
First responders know what it takes to keep people safe. When they offer advice on home security, consumers should pay attention. Police and fire departments would far rather look for things to do then respond to emergencies that could possibly have been avoided with better security strategies.
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