Home Security in Miami, Florida
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.
