Ensuring the safety and security of your home is now more important than ever. With advancements in technology, homeowners now have access to a vast array of sophisticated security solutions tailored to meet diverse needs and budgets.
But is home security really as simple as connecting a couple of Wi-Fi cameras that you bought online?
We met with business partners Martin Jones, CEO, and Chris Worsick, vice-president, at Selectron Ltd for expert advice.
Essential features
“A basic modern home security system should prioritise security, and include both fire and life safety systems,” Mr Jones said.
Mr Worsick added: “We always recommend getting an intruder alarm as a first line of defence. It’s easy to assume that exterior cameras alone will deter intruders, but only a professionally monitored alarm system can immediately alert authorities and ensure help is dispatched if someone enters your property.”
Common misconceptions
It’s not unusual for homeowners to cut corners on security because they believe they won’t be targeted due to lack of valuables or the presence of dogs. But do you even know how your family pet would respond if a stranger entered your dwelling?
Better yet – should your pet be relied upon to take the desired actions if he hasn’t been professionally trained to do so?
There is also a misconception that home security systems are difficult to operate, but Mr Jones argued: “All modern security systems are designed to be user-friendly, regardless of age.
“There are options to enable or disable the system by inputting a passcode manually, using a wireless remote control known as a fob, or by means of a remote app on a smartphone.”
Mr Worsick said: “It’s also important to keep in mind that camera technology has improved significantly in the last few years and newer models can produce chroma view colour images, even at night, which have a much higher resolution so that they can be enhanced or enlarged.
“Your older equipment might still be functional, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider upgrading.”
Construction climate and connectivity
At first glance, low-cost Wi-Fi cameras available online can seem a budget-friendly solution for home security, but many are designed for North American use and are not well suited to Bermuda’s construction materials and challenging weather.
“Wi-Fi cameras can be excellent — when they work,” Mr Worsick said. “However, many people who import them struggle to get them to function reliability and for this reason we only install wired systems.
“The limestone walls, metal doors, and stainless-steel appliances that are popular in Bermuda can interfere with Wi-Fi signals, and local networks often lack the strength to support multiple cameras.
“As a result, users frequently experience blurry or distorted images due to weak transmission and recording issues.
“Bermuda’s corrosive salt air and high humidity can also cloud camera lens, and shorten the life of many of these products.”
Advantages of a monitored system
Self-monitoring cameras can act as a deterrent, provided they are real cameras and not dummies, and might well capture the image of an intruder. But they won’t automatically notify emergency services in the event of a fire or break-in.
“You might receive a notification on your phone that there has been some sort of a disturbance, but you won’t know if it’s genuine,” Mr Jones said.
“On the other hand, a fully monitored system is connected to a monitoring call centre which will follow set protocols if your system is activated, meaning a rapid response.
“Insurance companies also offer discounts for homeowners with professionally monitored fire and intrusion detection systems.”
Mr Worsick said: “Our systems also have a GSM cellular network back-up system in place, meaning that if the power fails at your house, your system will continue function until the power is restored.”
There is also a high degree of customisation available to meet the unique circumstances of any property, including options for window alarms, in-room motion detectors, heat detectors for kitchens and utility rooms, pool alarms, water tank leak detectors and standard home automation features such as controlling when lights and air conditioning turn on and off.
Maintenance and testing
Unlike a self-monitoring system where homeowners are left to troubleshoot salt-covered lenses and dropped Wi-Fi connectivity issues on their own, clients with a monitored system can test their units directly with the Monitoring Centre anytime. This should be done monthly.
To further ensure system reliability, Selectron only uses products that have been tested locally for a minimum of six months, including weathering at least one hurricane.
There are also annual maintenance plans available for security systems, intruder, fire, video surveillance camera systems, door access control systems and gate operator systems which ensure that the equipment remains operational and can extend the life of the system.
Budget considerations
While sleek design is a trend, functionality and reliability are paramount, especially in Bermuda’s unique environment.
“At Selectron, we offer a no-charge site visit to determine the best system suited to each property and budget because factors like house size, number of stories and wireless range will determine what sort of system will be most effective,” Mr Jones said.
“We recommend you start with a basic system and expand. A door contact, motion sensor and smoke detector provide basic security. You can add panic buttons and cloud-based video surveillance camera systems for added security as you move forward.”
Investing in a reliable home security system is not just about convenience: it’s about peace of mind. Whether you start with a basic setup or opt for a more advanced system, the key is to choose a solution that offers both reliability and long-term security. After all, keeping your home and loved ones safe is an investment worth making.
For more information visit: https://www.selectron.bm/residential-security
