Security should be a top priority for any homeowner or building manager. Break-ins can be costly, distressing and very time consuming to resolve, so anything that can help reduce the likelihood of a burglary is definitely worth considering.

From small stand-alone devices to large multi-network systems, there are a whole host of products designed to keep you safe.

In this article, we delve into the different components that make up a security system before highlighting how you can ensure you get one installed in the most effective way.

Example Components of a Security System

Security systems are largely made up of different components that all serve a specific purpose. When you get a security system installed, you can decide which components are important and necessary for your building. You may just want an alarm, or you may decide on something more integrated and comprehensive.

If you’re not sure how best to get started, our expert team here at Sovereign Fire and Security can provide recommendations to suit your budget and expectations. We can help you understand all the different products on the market and work with you to find the best solution for your specific building.

CCTV

CCTV cameras are one of the most visible components of a security system.

CCTV can be a very successful deterrent in itself – illustrating to potential burglars that they are being filmed. This is likely to make someone think twice before going ahead with any planned or spontaneous break-in.

Modern CCTV systems can offer remote log-in so you can check-in to see the footage wherever you are in the world, giving you instant peace of mind.

For high risk buildings, you can opt for 24/7 surveillance of CCTV, helping to provide effective response to any break-in.

Intruder Alarm

Intruder alarms also play a vital role in security systems. They quite literally sound the alarm during a break-in. This can help prevent further theft as well as increasing the chance of neighbouring buildings/pedestrians noticing anything (which could be used to help identify criminals).

Intruder alarms can also alert the local authorities when activated, providing an instant response to help combat the burglary.

Access Control

Access control systems provide an effective way to grant entry into a building or room. Access control can leverage anything from a key fob to biometrics (such as fingerprints or iris recognition).

Here at Sovereign Fire and Security, we can ensure your system meets current legislation including being DDA compliant. We also offer systems for car park control such as Vehicle Number Plate Recognition (VNPR) and Bio-metric reader systems.

From family homes to large corporate offices, access control systems help provide a practical and secure way to manage who can access what within a building.

Video and audio controls can also mean you can grant access to visitors in a safe and convenient manner.

Physical Barriers

Physical barriers are another great way to boost building security. Combined with access controls, this can provide an effective way to grant entry onto a property.

Physical barriers can include anything from automated gates and barriers to electric fencing.

Restricting access via a barrier can be particularly effective at preventing unauthorised vehicles from gaining access onto a premise.

Panic Buttons

Panic buttons provide an instant alert to a central control panel, signalling an emergency such as a break-in. These can be monitored 24/7, providing a quick response if they are activated.

From high risk businesses to individual homes, panic buttons can be a great additional security measure to help thwart any criminal activity.

Security System Installation

Successful security installation uses an integrated approach. All the different components of building security are effective, but when they are integrated and working in harmony with one another, they become truly powerful.

As a result, it is best to use a professional installation provider who can not only tailor the components to your needs and budget, but also sync and integrate everything together. This means access controls can be integrated with physical barriers, alarms synced with motion detection, or intruder alarms connected to vulnerable areas such as windows and doors, to name but a few.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to installation and the best solution will depend on the type of building it is, the purpose and your individual requirements.

During installation, there are aspects of integration which can be achieved in different ways. For example, some systems may opt to be hard wired together, while others may decide a wireless connection is better. These sorts of decisions will be influenced by the overall objectives of the security system.

Installation is likely to begin with a review and audit of the building, identifying vulnerabilities as well as physical challenges such as building layout or restrictions (e.g. on grade listed buildings). From here, a clear plan can be created that maps out what products are required and how best to connect them.

Using a professional security installer also gives you access to maintenance and ongoing support, ensuring your systems are always fit for purpose. This is particularly useful for commercial projects, where security requirements may change over time and new features may need to be added.

Learn More with Sovereign Fire and Security

Here at Sovereign Fire and Security, we install and maintain highly effective fire, life safety and security systems.

Our products and services help give you peace of mind and allow you to get back to enjoying time with your family or running your business, without needing to constantly worry about security and break-ins.

We offer a broad spectrum of support, from looking after the needs of major commercial clients through to protecting homes, families and individuals.

We have the experience and knowledge to help you get the most out of modern security, by creating systems that meet your requirements and budget.

For more information, simply get in touch with our expert team here at Sovereign Fire and Security.

Contact us today.