NCJ Number
145710
Journal
Security Distributing and Marketing Dated: (April 1993) Pages: 79-80
Date Published
1993
Length
2 pages
Annotation
A study of burglaries and alarm ownership conducted in three Philadelphia suburbs between 1989 and 1991 produced detailed analysis of security at residential and commercial premises.
Abstract
The study shows that only 4.1 percent of commercial establishments with a security system and three or more antiburglary precautions are burglarized. For businesses with an alarm system but less than three other precautions, the chance of burglary increases to 4.2 percent. Businesses without security systems are four times more likely to be burglarized than those that do, despite the number of precautions taken. The study of residential security and burglaries found that effective security included a combination of using a security system and taking other precautions. One fact is constant for both residential and commercial establishments: a security system does deter burglars. The most effective deterrent to burglary, therefore, is a clearly displayed dealer sign or decal that announces the presence of an electronic security system at the property. A comparison of security effectiveness in the three communities shows that security systems are most effective in communities that have a large concentration of businesses. This may be because there are more people and guards present to apprehend burglary suspects once they are detected by the system. 2 charts