How safe is The Villages
 

A new resident recently posted a question about whether to have an alarm system installed in their new home. I was surprised at the number of people who said, "no, it's not necessary in the Villages."

I disagree with that assessment. Not because it's The Villages, but because this is 2011 and this is now. I think I'm fairly safe in saying that most people have auto insurance, golf cart insurance, health insurance and home owners insurance. I think too, that most people would not do without those insurances. I firmly believe in the insurance offered by a whole house alarm system. For both fire and intrusion.

I think is a little dangerous to begin believing that The Villages is "so safe" that the insurance of an alarm system is totally unnecessary. So much so that one would offer as advice to another, to not install one. How awful would you feel if, as a result of that advice, an alarm was not installed and there was a fire or theft that turned deadly. Of my 5 closest friends in the Villages, 4 of them have whole house alarm systems.

The Villages is surrounded on all sides by cities that have their share of poverty, crime and unemployment. Is it conceivable that those people don't know about The Villages, and don't have the notion that residents are living like "millionaires?"

Those of us who have at least 10 years of memory of Villages living remember the rash of burglaries about 4 years ago. Some at night, some during the day, and many while the residents were at home. The 'Bubble" is not unbreakable. One evening, as my wife was leaving the house for her evening walk, a deputy stopped her and asked where she was going. When she told him, he said, "not tonight, you're not, we have a suspect holed up in one of these yards around here."

Those who choose to not have an alarm system are within their rights to do so. Advising others to not do it because the Villages is so safe, I think, is not prudent.

As for my wife and me: we sleep much better at night knowing that our whole house alarm systems is awake and is on guard for our safety.

JLK

Very difficult to have a dog and an alarm, as sometimes your dog will walk around during the night and set off the motion detector. I think many villagers feel safe with their pets.:blahblahblah::blahblahblah:

The motion sensors are not activated during night monitoring. Only the perimeter sensors. I agree that many villagers with dogs feel a certain degree of safety.

To me, the best security system is a big dog with a big dog bark and nosey neighbors.
Alarms have their purpose but for me that would be in addition to, not instead of the dog and watchful eyes in the neighborhood.

Don't exclude without knowing facts
 

This is another misconception that could discourage a person who's never seen the system design possibilities from getting one. We've had whole-house alarm systems in our homes over the last 20+ years. There are many kinds of sensors, like glass-breakage, door and window opening, etc. besides motion sensors. A person can also have various kinds of sensors in various zones.

In the end, the homeowner can set various levels of protection when arming the system. At the control panel, it can be set up to both include or exclude some of the types of sensors. Like talk host, we always set the perimeter-only alarms, like doors, windows, and glass breakage at night or when we are around and staying inside.

On another note: A dog barking is definitely good protection and we have one. But, I've always been skeptical as to how much good a dog is if an armed intruder simply shoots the dog dead. It takes 2 seconds. Then, it's onward to beat, rape and kill occupants who could be sleeping or just unaware and are in the way of ransacking the place.

We have an alarm simply because we have always had an alarm and have gotten used to the feeling of security it gives us. For us it's almost like a seat belt in a car....we have gotten so used to wearing them that it feels strange to not wear one. It is absolutely not a reflection on the safety of tv, it's just a low cost personal choice.

To add on to what ilovetv noted, we have a remote arm/disarm function (via keychain fobs/remotes) for our security system in OH. It allows you to control the arming and disarming of the system, as well as a couple of other functions, from outside the house by using buttons on the remotes. The reason we had this functionality included in the system was so we could have magnetic switches installed on the garage doors - most people opt to not arm their garage doors unless they program in a lengthy delay to allow themselves time to rush into the house upon arrival to disarm the system via a wall-mounted keypad. This way we're able to also protect the contents of the garage without running the risk of tripping the alarm if we didn't make it to the keypad in time (or exiting and not getting the door down quickly enough).

Additionally, we also had water sensors installed in several locations in the house - by the washing machine, the hot water heater, floor drains and sump pit in the basement (in OH!). If any of them detect the presence of water, it'll trip the alarm and call the monitoring center. The system's also programmable for use with X-10 lighting modules - allows you to selectively control interior and/or exterior lighting at your home. (See www.x10.com) You can also get temperature sensors to monitor inside air temp as well as refrigerator/freezer temps.

The point of all this blathering is to note that, to us, a security/alarm system can be something more than just means to set off an alarm if there's a break in. There is a lot more that can be piggybacked onto a system to expand its functionality.........if that's what floats your boat. We like those features as much as the basic alarm capabilities.

JMHO - - - - :)

Bill

Could you imagine what it would be like around here if everyone had an alarm? How many homes are unoccupied for half the year? Many things can set off an alarm, even a big storm. I'm not saying that you shouldn't have one but there is one thing everyone should do. Fortify your bedroom door. You are most vulnerable while you're sleeping. I don't care about our "things" only our safety. A .357 wouldn't hurt either.

I think Talk Host was referring to my previous post. From the responses to that post I was beginning to think most people do not an have alarm system - and I was impressed by the feeling of security that was evident. For those of you who do have alarm systems I'd appreciate some advice on who provides this service in TV. As I posted, I've been contacted by ADP, but they were very expensive if you required more than their basic system and they kept changing their price to try and get me a 'better deal'. If you'd prefer, you can PM me with the information.

My thoughts exactly.. Have house alarm alarm with eleven stations (each with two levels of protection)..the darn thing even talks....("garage pass-door opened").. My lovely pooch took 2 weeks to realize no need to bark at the alarm voices--Heck, when I enter my open garage door from driveway (with perimeter alarm on and motion sensors disabled) it has the sound of a "BOOM-stick" being racked. (That'll make ya want to stop and shake out your shorts). If ye get past the alarm and the pooch there is a special hand held "noisemaker" in the house. Asked ten peeps (male) and seven of them keep a "noisemaker" at the ready--inside the house.

We feel safe in the villages. So do our neighbors. We all keep an eye out on each other. You bring with you the feelings about safety or unsafety you have had previously. The Villages feel like our home in West Chester, only safer because most people are not working.

The statistics prove that the crime rates in TV are some of the lowest in the country.

Each should live in a manner that they feel most comfortable.

On a similar thread, someone said that they keep the doors locked and the windows down on a lovely 70's day while they are in their home in TV. There are three of us and our Camellia is only 1930 square feet. We let the air in on a pretty day and feel like there isn't any danger in doing so. You can practically see the perimeters of a house that size from the great room.

You can't change peoples mind about FEELING or not feeling safe, nor should you try.

Just my very personal and very humble opinion.

It's our retirement and our life so what makes us happy and comfortable is what we should have, get or buy. A home alarm system is a personal choice that falls in that category. It is not for everyone for various reasons. More power to them. Some can't live without one. More power to them also. For those that make the decision to get a home alarm system, the wise thing to do is exactly what I saw going on here - research so you get the best deal for your money - the most bang for your buck - the features you want.

I am a retired LEO (still new to TV having moved here a month ago from Tampa) and wish to share my opinion on why it is a bad idea to not secure your home. We at TV are blessed with a wonderful community with good people, which makes it easy to assume there is no need for home security. However, that would be a mistake.

There are hundreds of service people coming and going every day in TV. There will always be a few willing and capable of breaking into a home or car that is unattended or not secured if the opportunity exists.

A dog is a good alarm system when you are home. But the dog cannot be left inside a home when you are away for an extended period of time. Having good deadbolt locks on exterior doors and windows will discourage would be intruders when you are away or at night when you are asleep. Most burglars operate on opportunity.

Have a procedure at night where you physically check each door to ensure they are locked and the garage door is down. Leave a light on at night so there is some light inside the home.

TV provides a home check service during times when you are gone for an extended period. A good neighbor policy is helpful with everyone keeping an eye out for anything unusual or suspicious. Let your neighbors know when you be away and don’t be shy about calling Community Watch and report suspicious activity in your neighborhood.

Cancel newspaper subscriptions when away for a weekend or longer. Piled up newspapers in the driveway alerts strangers to the fact you are not home. If you see your neighbor’s papers piling up in the driveway, please have it checked it could be a sign there is a problem.

Alarm systems can help in securing your home. Just remember you have to stay on top of maintenance issues with alarms. Nuisance alarms can be costly with alarm fines, if TV has a nuisance alarm policy, most Sheriffs Offices do have false alarm policies.

ive got a little white 10 lb yorkie-poo alarm. if that doesnt scare an intruder away then my .357 stainless steel will! ive had an alarm system for many years but here in the villages i dont feel the need for one. there is nothing more frightening than an alarm system going off in the middle of the night because of a malfunction. and they all do at one time or another. no thanks.....the lack of crime is one of the many reasons we live here.:D

It's probably just me, but I would think that an intruder standing in my bedroom in the middle of the night would be more frightening than the alarm going off.

In addition to the tangle of complications associated with protecting ones self with a 357, which I assume is constantly at your finger tips, have you though about what it will do to the ears of you and your wife if discharged inside a room.

JLK

dont assume so much. it is not even close to my fingertips. and what ifs are not important if an intruder is detected.

[QUOTE=Talk Host;350530]It's probably just me, but I would think that an intruder standing in my bedroom in the middle of the night would be more frightening than the alarm going off.

This is exactly why I said in a previous post to fortify your bedroom door where you are the most vulnerable.

I'm wondering if any of our posters leave their exterior doors unlocked at night.

Not a good question to post in a public forum! :(

I think the title of the thread is misleading. The responses have less to do with how safe TV might or might not be and more to do with what do individuals do to feel safe in the confines of their home.

We have the dead bolts, a dog and "Protected by S&W" stickers at eye level on each door! Ditto where ever we are....not just TV.

btk

I'm not asking for specific addresses. Just a broad question to test the strength of the argument that The Villages is safer than other places in the US.

JLK

I did a Google search on S&W to see if I could find out more about this security outfit. Guess what I found out? I found out that if you look up "sucker" in the dictionary that you'll find my picture! Thanks Kid!
http://thmg.photobucket.com/albums/v..._DuhSmiley.gif

I see lots of replies of "my .357" and my dog will alert us.

How many of you know how to use that ".357" or whatever you have in hand, either long gun or pistol? Remember all those houses are close together and any bullet that you launch you are responsible for where it lands. You just fired all six rounds, and hit your neighbor. Good shooting??????? and the bad guy is still coming at your unhurt.

I will be willing to bet that under stress you could not hit a target at 5 to 7 yards in under five seconds or more. You will never get your ".357" in the fight. There is a drill that we do at 7 yards, 21 feet. A reasonably heathly person can cover those 21 feet in about 1.5 seconds. Can you get to your ".357" and get a round off htting the target in 1.5 seconds? Just to let you know, I can from 5 yards, drawing from cover, place 6 rounds on 3 targets in center mass in 2.88 seconds movng backwards. Drawing from cover on one target I can hit center mass in 1.05 seconds with two rounds. I have gotten older and slowed down lots. Back in your younger days I was under .88 seconds for the same drill. Age does slow us down. *S*

As a long time competitive shooter and NRA Law Enforcement Trainer I have watched shooters at a public range, take time to get a good sight picture, steady breath, long easy pull on the trigger and put several shoots in a small group. They are really proud of themselves. Shooting this way in a stressfull situation will only get you killed.

Get some training, tactial firearm training in shooting is stressful situations. A timer at a range under the instruction of a good trainer will help you break all the bad habits that you have learned in your life time of shooting and will keep you and your love ones alive.

In times of stress people get what is call "Tunnel vision." You see only what is in front of you and hear nothing. You won't even hear the shot if you do pull the trigger.

Get some training if you are going to have a firearm in your home. Learn what to do, and when to do it.

Figmo has a lot of bravado in his post. He can cover 7 yards in 1 or 2 seconds, grab his pistol, and put bullets in center mass. This can be done in a drill, but how about if you are wakened from a deep sleep by a burglar at 3 in the morning? Chances are that will not happen in the same time period.

Lock your doors and you will be safe in The Villages. Like Bryan said, a home security system (like ADT) is a personal choice. A pistol in the house is much more likely to kill or seriously harm a family member than an intruder - no matter how well trained you think you are.

That avitar explains it all.

It's an ALERT to occupants & neighbors to call for help!
 

Regarding this: "there is nothing more frightening than an alarm system going off in the middle of the night because of a malfunction."

There ARE things far more frightening as talk host said, and as Dr. Wm. Petit of CT can attest...who is brutally widowed from the home invasion in which his wife and daughters were were raped, murdered and burned.

And, when our own or a neighbor's alarm goes off in the night, for real or for some wrong reason, it is a wake-up call to DO something!

If it is the neighbor's house, most people would think calling 911 is the right thing to do....instead of lying there resenting the neighbor and thinking "oh, how annoying and inconvenient to me.....that darn neighbor is interrupting MY sleep I need because I'm retired and don't have to get up for work anymore".

When we have heard a neighbor's alarm go off, we try to contact them wherever they are. To me, that's what most people in TV would do, without resenting the homeowner for having a system.

And by the way...with the perimeter armed and motion sensors off while we're sleeping, I can't think of one time when our system sounded the alarm because of a malfunction, and we have a dog that is free to go about.

I appreciate hearing my neighbor's alarm going off. It tells me they need help and we could be next!

If the intruder is already in your bedroom while you are sleeping, that gun isn't going to be a factor no matter how fast you are. You are SLEEPING.

Now if you are awakened it's a different story.

Exactly how many of these invasions are we talking about. I would assume most robberies are when the home is not occupied or the occupants are out of the home.

:sigh: I don't mean to be rude, but although I value all your opinions on why or why not to have an alarm system, no one is answering my original request for recommendations for Alarm System vendors. Can someone please help me out?

The Villages is relatively safe
 

I put fear of house burglary way down on my list of my Villages-related concerns, after:
1. The IRS investigation of the Developer's dealings with the Center Districts
2. Sink holes
3. Lousy drivers-- both cars and golf carts
4. Tornadoes
5. Hurricanes
6. A paranoid, trigger-happy neighbor with a .357 magnum (a firearm which has a lot of penetrating power) shooting at a noise in the night and the slug going through his wall and my wall
7. Ladies in red hats

:1rotfl:
Especially ladies in red hats!
What about alligators?

I agree with your concerns and in that order.

I don't know Taylor because I really can't remember anyone having a security system on my street.

Based on some of the posts here we must be averaging about 3 a week. This thread reminds me of that very long thread about guns, owning, carrying, etc.

You serious Bogie? Cause I believe anything you say.............

No. Just wondering why so many feel unsafe. I understand locking the doors, I do always have, but fortifying your bedroom...............

I have heard some of the builders of custom homes in The Villages have started to offer "Panic Rooms" as an option. There is also the option of adding a whole-house Halon 1301 fire suppressent system.

Maybe if The Villages Safety Department and the Marion/Lake/and Sumter County Sheriff's Offices were 'allowed' to provide their daily incident records each day for publication in the Daily Sun (or TOTV), we would be better informed and thus could make a more enlightened decision regarding home security issues.

There are lots of systems out there that work well in protecting you. Honeywell makes a very nice system that is easily installed by most technicians. It is expandable as you wish, with modules for every desire. The actual alarm system itself is not expensive.

ADT is not inexpensive. I had ADT for a while in The Villages and I was not happy with their service. The is no company that is local to The Villages. Your central station company can be anywhere in the world. If you are happy with the one you have now, you can keep using them. It's not necessary that they be "right around the corner from you."

Lots of people feel secure without alarm systems in their homes. There are those of us who are more comfortable with that added level of security in the event the unlikely occurs. Just like seat belt security and health insurance.

How hard is it to put a solid wood door on your bedroom and maybe a dead bolt. If it doesn't stop the intruder completely it will at least slow them down and give you time to call 911 and/or grab your weapon of choice.

IMO an alarm system gives a false sense of security. It will take time for the police or whoever to respond.

Anything can happen anywhere but I think The Villages is very, very safe.

Does anyone know of any intruders in a house when the owners were home?

I guess that I am in agreement about the relative danger. I am a pragmatic person. I don't take stupid risks. But I also don't live my life in fear - except for snakes and red hat ladies.

About 4 years ago, there was a rash of burglaries in The Villages. At the time, most of them were reported in the Villages Daily Sun. According to those reports, many of the intrusions were while people were at home. Some reported people awaking in the dead of night with intruders in their bedrooms. Some were in broad daylight. If my memory serves me correctly at least one home owner was injured in a scuffle with the intruders. To the best of my recollection, there were about 15 or 20 burglaries in that series. Two of the burglaries were about three blocks from my house.

One or two individuals were arrested and charged with some of the crimes.

About 5 years ago, there was a home intrusion not far from Lopez Country Club. Two young men held a man and his wife at gunpoint while they ransacked the house. Before leaving, they murdered the woman and seriously wounded the husband. I have a more than casual knowledge because I was called for jury duty. I was not selected. Both of the defendants were found guilty and only one, I believe, received a death sentence. The couples daughter investigated, but was never charged.

In this case, the "panic" or "ambush" alarm could have been helpful.

JLK