Home security features can be as varied as keeping valuables in a safety deposit box, having security screens or making sure you lock up each time you leave the house.

Neighbourhood Watch state coordinator Sergeant Steve Batterham says another home security method is the installation of an alarm.

“However, alarms should never be a substitute for good physical security but rather be an addition to it,” he says.

Real Estate Institute of Queensland is the Neighbourhood Watch program’s major sponsor.

The organisations work together to promote community safety.

When buying an intruder alarm system you should consider obtaining more than one quote to ensure you are buying the system you need.

There are several alarm components available including:

• Movement detectors (ultrasonic, microwave infrared) which react to movement and/or heat and can be placed in strategic locations around your home;

• Magnetic reed switches which are electro-mechanical devices that activate when the electronic circuit is broken;

• Duress or panic assistance in the form of a fixed button, coded pad pin alert or a portable device connected to an alarm.

A good alarm should include the following:

• 24-hour battery backup;

• Comply with Australian Standards 2201;

• Two tamper resistant sirens, one inside and one outside (satellite);

• User-friendly code pad and control box;

• The installing company has technicians available every day of the year;

• Installer uses 14/020 wiring (six core wiring);

• 12-month warranty on components and installation.

If monitored, the alarm system must include an Austel-approved dialler and wiring.

The installer must also be licensed.

“No alarms are directly connected to a police station,” Sergeant Batterham says.

“Neighbours, friends or an alarm-monitoring security company are usually relied upon to ensure an effective response such as notifying the police if necessary to the alarm.”

The REIQ encourages its more than 2000 members across the state to get actively involved in their local NHW programs.

When buying, selling, renting or investing in residential and commercial real estate, look for the 2007 REIQ accredited agency logo as a sign of an agency dedicated to the highest standards of business practice.

For a list of REIQ accredited agencies in your local area visit www.reiq.com.au or phone 07 3249 7347.