There was a time when thinking of Miami, Florida, brought to mind all kinds of things: music, bright neon lights, pastels, and sunny beaches covered with sun worshippers. Miami certainly has earned its right to a place in the sun, it has also earned its right to another distinction that’s not quite so positive: crime.
Just as is the case with so many other large cities, Miami has always had a crime problem, but again, like many areas, crime in Miami has increased and become much more serious. Fun times and promise always overshadowed what crime issues Miami visitors and residents had, but in the past few years, the types of crimes committed have shifted from violet crimes such as murder and rape to property crimes such as burglary and theft.
According to FBI statistics, Miami has a crime index of 5.6 out of 10, which means that the city has a higher average crime rate than similarly sized metropolitan areas. This is despite the fact that Miami’s actual crime rate has fallen in recent years. Whether it is violent crime or property crime, Miami still ranks high among American cities.
What Are the Chances?
If your idea of a pleasant evening includes taking a nice stroll on a city street, you might want to give it a second thought. That’s because the chances of becoming a victim of a violent crime are 1 in 157. This is compared with the state of Florida, which has a 1 out of 120 chance. A violent crime is classified as four major offenses: murder, nonnegligent manslaughter, robbery, forcible rape, an aggravated assault.
If you think your chances are better with a property crime, think again. FBI statistics from 2019 shows that on an index of 1 to 100, Miami property crime rated 35.96, almost twice the state average. Property crime includes the offenses of burglary, motor vehicle theft, larceny-theft, and arson. Theft-type offenses are taking property or money, but there is no force or threat of force against the victim.
What Will Your Response to Crime Be?
When you are faced with the prospect of being a victim of crime, most people say that they would call the police. This is a reasonable choice, of course, but what will that really give you?
First, it is interesting to note that according to a recent report issued by the city of Miami, there are only two sworn police officers for every 1,000 citizens. Further complicating things is the fact that police response time averages just over eight minutes for high priority calls, from call to arrival.
It is clear that whatever crime a citizen experiences, there will be some police response, which is essential. Shows of force and taking reports are important parts of law enforcement, but what do they do for the victim?
There are alternatives to these problems that do get to the heart of the issue: preventing crime in the first place and responding in a timelier manner. Private guards and patrol services are numerous, but they are expensive and of questionable value. The truth is that no solution has the proven benefit of electronic alarm systems for the money and continuous, 24/7 protection of your person and property.
Electronic alarm systems can differ significantly, depending on the particular needs of a property and owner, but none other offers protection 24/7, without fail. An electronic alarm not only serves as a visual deterrent to prevent a crime but instantaneously reports a crime and signals a response. There is no better method of fighting crime available.
When you are looking to buy a home security system in Miami, Florida, you need to think about what features you want in a home security system and how much effort you want to put into its installation. If you are living in an apartment, the wireless systems are best for you because they are easier to relocate. Wireless home security cameras, home automation features, and alarm monitoring services are some of the features you should consider in Miami, Florida.
• Wireless security cameras: most homes and apartments require additional wiring for the installation of a hardwired home security system. On the other hand, wireless security cameras utilize your home’s Wi-Fi to provide real-time video surveillance without using wires and cables, which saves a lot of time and money.
• Home automation features: A good smart home security system in Miami, Florida include many home automation features, like automatic locks and arm/disarm the system. With these features, it becomes easy to control what’s happening inside and outside your home, irrespective of the place you are in.
• Alarm monitoring services: Alarm monitoring services are offered by various home security companies. This is a monthly service under which homeowners receive 24/7 monitoring from a professional monitoring company. By availing of this service, the monitoring company sends alerts to you or local authorities if an alarm is triggered at your home.
• Cellular alarm systems: Traditional alarm systems use landline of your home to connect with monitoring companies or authorities. These systems work over cellular networks and provide a more reliable and convenient security option.
The upfront cost of home security systems in Miami, Florida ranges from $300 to $1,000. Many homeowners pay around $600 without professional installation. The cost of professional installation ranges from $100 to $1000 and it depends on the system’s complexity.
Professional monitoring requires a monthly fee and usually it costs between $15 and $40 per month. There are some home security companies In Miami, Florida, that provide a deal on cost of the equipment if you sign up for a monitoring contract.
Always have thorough research before finalizing a home security service provider because it is a matter of the safety of your home and assets. Make sure to check the reviews of all the companies that you are looking for a home security system.
