There are many things that families and businesses do in order to safeguard their property. One technique that is often taken in the name of security is the addition of security bars to doors and windows. In spite of the inherent benefits of securing property, these bars often present risks of endangering the people inside.

One thing remains accurate, most burglars will keep moving rather than attempt entering into a home that has security bars on doors and windows. Home protection is the only security that these bars supply however for many, the risks involved in having these bars on windows is not worth the small measure of security that is provided. In other words, the good of these bars is really outweighed by the negatives.

A lot of people do not buy new security bars but rather rely on the same bars that have enclosed the windows of the home or business for many years. Some of these are rusted and nearly impossible to take away. In emergency situations, every second matters and these bars can be the very things that trap people inside a burning or flooding structure.

Security bars are no longer the cheap alternative to traditional alarm systems and monitoring services that they were touted to be in the past. In fact, more often than not the present a greater risk than they are a benefit to business and homeowners. Many larger companies offer free installation of alarm systems and alarms as well as monthly monitoring services at reasonable rates. More significantly not only are these monitoring services presented for breaks-in, but also for fire and smoke as well as panic button services.

Security bars may have had a time and place, but they have been replaced by something that is much more effectual at deterring criminals as well as something that provides a greater degree of protection for the most precious assets of any home or business - the people inside. The costs concerned in monthly monitoring seem great but most will find that the value this service provides if and when it is ever needed is well worth every penny.

Options to burglar bars that are not terribly expensive include planting thorny bushes below windows and keeping them trimmed back just enough that they do not block a view of the windows. Most intruders do not want a difficult entry point and they certainly do not want to be wounded during the process by prickly plants. Lighting is another alternative that is essentially less expensive than it would be to fit burglar bars. Intruders do not want to be observed. If the area surrounding your home and business is well lit, it will serve as a deterrent. Explore options such as this before resorting to security bars.

To answer the question of whether or not security bars are worth the risks for home or business protection the answer would be a loud "No!". There are other preventative measures that can be taken in order to discourage criminals that pose far less risk to family members and employees. These alternatives should be implemented rather than those that pose further risks to those you are trying to protect.