Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SUNDAY, June 5, 1994 TAG: 9406060175
SECTION: HOMES PAGE: D-1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: LENGTH: Short
Stop your mail and newspaper deliveries, or have a neighbor pick them up.
Notify police so they can send extra patrols to your neighborhood.
Make your home look occupied by setting automatic light timers, leaving shades and blinds open, leaving a radio on, keeping the lawn and bushes trimmed and turning down the ring on the telephone.
Compile a list of professional alarm installers. Ask neighbors, real estate professionals or police for recommendations. The National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association in Bethesda, Md., also can provide lists of member companies.
Call several companies and ask if their employees are trained or certified by NBFAA or if they have appropriate state or local licenses if required.
Read contracts or sales agreements closely to determine, for instance, if the system you're getting is leased or sold to you.
Ask for a demonstration and inspection once the system is installed.
Ask about possible insurance discounts. Homeowners who install alarm systems can sometimes save up to 15 percent off their homeowners' insurance premiums.
by CNB