Driveway Alert System

When talking about home security systems, most alarm companies and even statistics tend to focus on the importance of guarding the front door. It is true that almost 30% of all residential burglaries happen right through the front door or windows without the use of any force. But what about the other 70%? Are your windows and doors the only point of potential intrusion?

A common point of entry for burglars is the driveway, and the garage. It is a side entrance that people tend to ignore when planning their home security system.

A driveway alarm system is designed to alert you as soon as someone enters your property. This makes the system your first line of defense against any intrusion.

How they work?

This system makes use of motion sensors strategically placed around your driveway. These are designed to notify you when there is a certain level of commotion within a defined range (depending on the motion sensor’s detecting ability). As soon as the motion sensor picks up a signal, a notification is sent to the receiver, which may then sound the alarm.

Different Types

You will have the option of choosing from the following two types:

Wireless: This system utilizes radio communication between the sensors and the main alarm panel. It is designed to take less time to install and operates on batteries. It is recommended for constructed houses, since it involves no rewiring. A wireless driveway alarm system, on the other hand, may be prone to radio interference from other appliances at home.

Wired: A wired system sends its signals through low voltage wires buried underground or in the walls. The installation of this type of alert system may require a lot more effort, time and money. Therefore, it is usually recommended for houses under construction or renovation. Wired systems are considered better in terms of reliability and performance as a general rule.

Things to consider:

Before you go out to purchase a driveway alarm, there are a few things that you should take into account:

  • Establish the transmission distance you need: This is the distance between the sensor placed outside and the indoor receiver. The presence of walls between these two devices will affect the signal, so plan accordingly.

  • Think about why you want it: Do you need a driveway alert system to detect only vehicles or people and animals as well?

  • Decide:  Whether you want to integrate this alert system with your existing home security network or would you rather keep it as a separate, standalone device? If it’s the former, then you will need to find a set of devices that are compatible with your existing system.

  • Look for potential interferences: Plant your outdoor sensors strategically, so that you can avoid any trees or other interferences.

  • Determine the number of sensors and receivers you want: If you have multiple driveways, or a big house, you might need to purchase a whole set of sensors.

Keeping these few pointers in mind will ensure that you don’t end up buying a system that does not suit your needs. A driveway alert system will only be useful if it is compatible with your house and your individual requirements.

A few important statistics!

If you are still not sure whether you need a driveway alert system or not, take a look at the following:

  • In 2012, there were approximately 8,975,438 property crime offenses in the US. (FBI)

  • Burglaries accounted for 23.4 percent of all property crimes. (FBI - 2012)

  • 68.5 percent of all property crime was larceny-theft. (FBI - 2012)

  • 90% of convicted burglars admit that they would ideally avoid homes with security systems. (

  • 74% of incomplete intrusions are because of the presence of alarms. (

  • It takes less than 60 seconds to break into a home. (

60 seconds may not be enough to react to a possible intrusion. A driveway alert system could buy you extra time, which may make all the difference in the end.



Q:Can you give me tips on how to choose the best driveway alert system?

A:If you are going for a driveway alert system, you will need to consider three major things. First, consider the distance between the outside sensor in your driveway and indoor receivers. Second, decide what your sensor needs to detect, whether it is an intruder, a child, or an animal. Third, decide how loud an alarm should be in case your alarm detects an intrusion. After considering these factors, you can select a cost effective alarm accordingly.

Q:Can you help me in wireless driveway alarm product selection as I am shifting to a new home?

A:If you are moving to a new home, you would need to consider a few factors before selecting a wireless driveway alarm system. If you already own a wireless driveway alarm system, you can take it with you. However, if you need a new alarm, you would need to consider factors such as the transmission distance between your vehicle sensor and indoor receiver, what you need the sensor for, and how loud should its alarm ring.

Q:How can I install a driveway alert system in my home?

A:If you want to install a driveway alert system in your home, you would need to go through the instruction manual. If you are unable to follow instructions and they are too complicated for you, you may seek professional help by calling an electrician. A skilled electrician will ensure that your system is installed without any faults.

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