How to protect your home: security systems range from low-tech to state of the art

Despite a recent high-profile kidnapping incident, Hong Kong is widely considered to be one of the safest cities in the world to live, however, simply for peace of mind and comfort, it can still be useful to invest in a home security system.

Although protecting the home from criminal intrusion is usually the main priority for installing a home security system, advances in technology and a wave of new devices go beyond basic security to include lighting controls, temperature settings and appliance operation, which can be controlled with a mobile device.

Allan Lee, Honeywell Security channel marketing leader with responsibility for product development and channel sales marketing in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan says home security systems vary between simple non-tech precautions to the latest high-tech laser-motion sensors and systems that can be operated remotely. He says the ascendancy of the smart home and advances in technology enable real time video streaming in and around the home and the ability to receive clips and images at anytime and anywhere. 

However, before installing a security system, Lee emphasises it is mission critical to do thorough research to make sure any devises installed are the best suited to the appropriate safety or security requirements. For example, people living in a high-rise apartment or a managed property complex would have different safety and security needs to those living in a stand-alone home. Generally in Hong Kong, most high-rise apartment blocks and complexes are fitted with surveillance cameras and have security guards who are on duty round the clock. In this case a home security system could be useful for smoke detection and checking on people in the apartment, such as elderly relatives or anyone who may require emergency assistance.

In contrast, properties without security guards present would be more suited to having close circuit television cameras (CCTV) fitted both outdoors and indoors. ''Exterior surveillance cameras can act as the first line of deterrent,'' explains Lee who adds cameras that monitor street scenes can provide police with useful information when tracking people thought to be acting suspiciously.  If in doubt about which system will work the best, Lee recommends an on-site assessment by a security system professional to determine the best solution.

Focus on the details