Surveillance Equipment

Scare off intruders with a driveway alarm

If you wish to scare off a possible intruder, never miss a package delivery, or always be aware if someone is on your property, you should invest in a driveway alarm system. There are many styles to choose from, with each one offering you a modern way to keep up with what is going on around your home.

Driveway alarm systems use motion sensor technology and will transmit a signal to a receiver in your home when motion is detected on your driveway. Most models will allow you to speak through the receiver, which carries your voice through the transmitter. If an intruder is attempting to survey your home, your voice is normally all that is needed to persuade them to run away. Driveway alarm systems can be used in a variety of ways such as alerting you if cars are coming up the driveway, someone enters your tool shed, intruders are in the front or backyard, or even if someone enters your garage. Driveway alarm systems can be standalone or integrated into your existing home alarm system.

You can buy wireless, wired or handheld models, which have varying detection ranges, from 100 feet for small driveways to 2 miles or more for larger driveways. Some alarms will warn you of visitors with sounds, while other systems use prerecorded messages that are specific to a designated zone. More advanced models will come with multiple transmitters that allow you to place several sensor alarms along walkways, your driveway and other places around your property.

When you set up your alarm system, you should always install the sensor someplace where it isn’t easy to detect. Although most driveway alarms are weather resistant, they should still be placed in a somewhat protective area. You will also want to make sure that the sensor is in a location where tree branches will not be blown by the wind into the detection zone.

Depending on your budget, the system that you can choose from will vary. Standard wireless driveway alarms with no expanded features can cost between 50 to 100 dollars and are best for suburban areas, as they are easy to install and have enough range for detection on a normal driveway. If you live on a large property, own a business or want more sophisticated features, you will have to spend more to find a driveway alarm that meets your needs. More advanced models have bright strobe lights, loud sirens or even a phone dialer that will automatically dial 911 or a neighbor. Always ask yourself the maximum transmission distance required, the amount of maintenance you are willing to accept and what the overall function of the alarm will be.

Knowing when a visitor or possible intruder is approaching is the first step towards protecting your property and family. Coupled with your home alarm system, driveway alarms are an excellent way to add more security to your home and give you and your loved ones daily peace of mind.