Home security system sales are thriving, fueled by rising crime rates in a tough economy. (WSBT photo)
Story Created:
Apr 13, 2009 at 5:38 PM EDT
Story Updated:
Apr 16, 2009 at 12:35 PM EDT
MISHAWAKA — Tough economic times are not stopping homeowners from protecting themselves. Police are seeing more crime in this recession. Home burglaries and break-ins are no exception.
Home security system sales is one of the few recession-proof businesses — thriving at a time many other companies are facing layoffs.
When she moved into her Mishawaka neighborhood last August, Melodie — who didn't want WSBT to use her last name — decided to install a home security system.
"I found out there had been so many break-ins," she said. "I was especially afraid at night. It was hard to sleep."
Her alarm system is connected to her doors and windows. She also had a motion detector installed.
"If anybody breaks in, the police are gonna be here within minutes," Melodie said.
She's part of a growing number of homeowners across the country who are taking a proactive step to protect themselves from crime.
ADT saleswoman Lisa Roth told WSBT customers want to feel safe both when they're gone and when they're home.
"These are people you may work with, people that came over to the house, your friends or even your family we're finding are breaking into houses because they're desperate," said Roth.
Melody thinks her security system may have saved her life. She lives very close to a home where police found 86-year-old Bill Fields murdered in January. The suspected killer — their neighbor — Adam Chrzan.
"He kept on knocking on my door, asking to do yard work," Melodie recalled.
Chrzan knocked on other neighbors' doors too. Police believe he stole from Fields before killing him.
"I think my security system might have been why he didn't pick me," she said.
Melody said that piece of mind is well worth the $35 a month, should trouble ever try to walk through her door.
The cost of a home security system varies, depending where you get it. Most companies will work with your budget to get a system you can afford. Generally, there is also an installation fee.
Chrzan is still awaiting his trial for murder, burglary and robbery. He faces a maximum of 145 years in prison if convicted on all three of those charges.
