Dummy vs. Real Burglar Alarms: Only One Works

Mammoth Takeaways

• Security Coverage: Real alarms provide comprehensive security coverage with active monitoring, sensors, and cameras, ensuring effective protection against intrusions, unlike dummy alarms, which only serve as visual deterrents.
• Cost Differences: Dummy alarms are inexpensive and easy to install, making them a low-cost option, whereas real alarms involve higher upfront costs and potential ongoing fees for monitoring services.
• Benefits of Real Alarms: Real alarms offer significant benefits, including actual intrusion detection, immediate alerts, and the ability to contact authorities, providing peace of mind and reliable protection.

Ever wondered if a dummy alarm could really keep your property safe?

The idea is tempting. You could save money while still deterring burglars with a fake security system.

But here’s the truth: dummy alarms might not offer the protection you think.

Is a dummy alarm box or system really enough? Or is the investment in a real alarm worth it?

What Are Dummy Alarms or Dummy Alarm Boxes?

Dummy alarms are fake devices that mimic real alarms with shells and blinking lights, offering no actual security features.

Common Features and Appearance

There are many dummy burglar alarms on the market, ranging from simple boxes mimicking popular brands to units with blinking lights or motion-activated "cameras."

How Dummy Alarms Work as a Deterrent

Dummy alarms act as a visual deterrent, giving the appearance of security and making properties less attractive to opportunistic intruders.

What Sets a Real Burglar Alarm Apart?

A real burglar alarm includes active monitoring systems, sensors, cameras, and alarms, providing genuine security. These systems may be locally monitored or centrally monitored and can activate alarms and recordings during an incident.

Types of Real Alarms

• Wired Alarms - These burglar alarm systems are hooked up to their sensors and components via tactile wires for improved reliability.
• Wireless Alarms - This is a system that uses radio signals in order to communicate with other parts of the unit (ie. sensors, cameras…)
• Smart Alarms - These alarms are typically packed with all the latest technology for monitoring, alerting, and customizing.
• Local Alarms - A local alarm is not connected to an alarm monitoring service but will sound an alarm and notify the individuals on the property or nearby.
• Central Alarms - A central alarm is one that is attached to a monitoring center, which can contact and request emergency services for a monthly fee.

Functional Capabilities of Real Alarms

Real burglar alarms are composed of a collection of different types of sensors strategically placed across a property. Typically they feature door and window sensors to detect unauthorized entry, glass break sensors which recognize the frequency of shattered glass, and motion detectors which sense movement in a covered area.

Oftentimes, these sensors are connected to visual devices such as cameras or audio recording capabilities for an added layer of security. This extra layer also provides evidence in the event of an intrusion.

Benefits of Dummy Alarms

So why do people opt for a dummy alarm for their property?

Cost-Effectiveness

Dummy alarms are inexpensive, often costing under $10-20. There are many different options and styles available at different price points.

Ease of Installation

Installing a dummy alarm is remarkably straightforward, requiring minimal time and effort. Since there are no actual wires or complex hardware involved, you can easily attach the fake unit and its components with adhesive or a few screws. This simplicity makes dummy alarms an appealing option for those seeking a quick and hassle-free “security” solution.

Visual Deterrence

Dummy alarms mimic popular brands, deterring intruders by giving the illusion of protection. It is a quick and simple way to appear secure.

Drawbacks of Dummy Alarms

Lack of Actual Security Features

Despite the appearance of providing coverage and security, these fake units offer neither. The lack of hardware and software means that if an event does occur, nothing will happen. There is no alarm to be activated, no footage to be recorded and no notifications sent.

Vulnerability to Savvy Intruders

Individuals who are breaking into and onto property are sometimes wise to the current trends in the market. These intruders have learned what units to look out for, vulnerabilities, and how to spot a fake system, meaning that it won’t deter thieves in the know.

Benefits of Real Alarms

Actual Protection and Monitoring

Real burglar alarms are equipped with technology that provides safety through monitoring and sensor detection. The parts of a real alarm system work together to communicate and provide an area of protection on the property on which it’s installed. Sensors are constantly working to detect motion or unauthorized activity and relay this information back to the control panel. In the event of an intruder, an alarm is sounded and notifications are sent to the business owner or monitoring center for next steps.

Advanced Features

Many modern alarm systems have the options for advanced features such as remote monitoring, comprehensive coverage of sensors, optional cameras, and the ability to contact the authorities if required.

Drawbacks of Real Alarms

Higher Cost

A real alarm system is going to cost more than a dummy alarm. This is because it is equipped with all of the previously mentioned features. Depending on the complexity of the setup up these systems can require quite an investment.

Installation Complexities

Installing a burglar alarm system is more complicated than sticking a plastic box on a wall. Different styles of alarms will require different levels of installation complexity. Sensors need to be properly placed and attached to the unit either via wires or wireless signal. The system will also need to be tested and calibrated to guarantee that there is proper coverage and that no false alarms are going to be triggered.

Ongoing Maintenance

As with any piece of equipment, there is going to be ongoing maintenance required. This means routinely checking on the various components for cleanliness and lack of damage. It’s also important to guard against battery failure to keep the system up and running. Some maintenance can be done by you, but for more complicated matters, such as faulty sensors or malfunctioning control panels, professionals should be called.

Comparing Dummy and Real Alarms

Deterrent Effectiveness

Both dummy and real alarms offer a visual deterrent. The appearance of a burglar alarm system, whether fake or genuine, does give pause to those who may be looking to cause harm. However, in the event of a brazen thief, a dummy alarm will not actually provide any protection and may not deter individuals who recognize a fake burglar alarm.

Long-Term Cost Implications

In terms of cost, dummy burglar alarms and boxes are pennies compared to a real alarm system. However, in the event of a break-in or vandalism, not having a real alarm may cost more when it comes to damages or stolen property. Real alarms provide coverage and evidence, while a dummy alarm is gambling on the safety of your property.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

Assessing Your Security Needs

When choosing a burglar alarm, assess the specific security needs of your business. Different types of businesses require different levels of security. Consider factors such as your business's net worth, employee safety, and the physical value of your property. For large companies or businesses in urban areas, dummy alarms are generally not a suitable choice.

Budget Considerations

Consider the cost of coverage relative to your business income. While some businesses have larger budgets, burglar alarm systems are available to fit various financial needs. If you need a temporary solution, a dummy alarm might be an option.

Combining Dummy and Real Alarms for Layered Security

While relying solely on dummy alarms is not advisable, they can still serve a purpose. A common strategy is to use dummy alarms alongside a real alarm system to create the illusion of greater coverage. However, it's important to note that areas with dummy equipment will not have full protection, potentially leaving vulnerabilities.

Mammoth Security: Your Source for Real and Effective Burglar Alarms

Protect your home with confidence—choose Mammoth Security for real protection.

Our genuine burglar alarms offer advanced features, reliable monitoring, and peace of mind. Don't settle for less when it comes to your safety.

Contact Mammoth Security today for a free consultation and discover how our top-of-the-line systems can secure your property effectively.