HONG KONG MAY be one of the world's safest cities, but many people still worry about home security.
'People just want to feel safe,' says Bruce Lee Yu-yim, vice-chairman of the International Professional Security Association Hong Kong.
If you live in a high-rise building, you're least likely to be burgled, Lee says. Closed circuit television (CCTV) and microwave (or sensor) systems are popular in more vulnerable, low-density residential areas.
Sophisticated systems involving iris or fingerprint technology have been slow to take off in Hong Kong because of the cost, Lee says. But it's not uncommon for luxury home owners to hire security guards - at a cost of HK$6,000-HK$12,000 a month for a regular guard, or more than HK$20,000 for a former Gurkha.
Kwok Man, sales manager for Uniforce Security Systems, says alarm systems that were once installed only by the rich are now being sought by the middle class. The wide choice available means there's a system to suit every family.
Highly visible systems that sound a loud alarm when triggered and flash a bright light are regarded as the best deterrent, Kwok says. A system with motion sensors around the perimeter of the property and entry points to the home costs up to HK$40,000 to install and HK$450 a month for maintenance and monitoring. If the alarm is activated, Uniforce calls the police. A similar system with four or five sensors protecting only the home (not the perimeter) costs HK$10,000-HK$15,000 to install, plus a HK$250 monthly fee.
Do-it-yourselfers can opt for an easy-to-install, self-monitoring system from DRS Electronics. It comprises an alarm that plugs directly into a normal phone jack and communicates wirelessly with sensors that detect motion, fire or intruders. Once a sensor is activated, the alarm automatically calls four pre-set numbers of your choice. There's also an optional panic button for elderly residents, or an emergency pendant they can wear around their necks. The system costs about HK$2,500.
