It's remarkable how significantly you can improve your home security with the simple addition of a burglar alarm, CCTV camera or other home security device. However, these conventional security systems are often of very little use to the blind or visually impaired, and people who suffer from vision problems can often find it difficult to secure their own home enough to remain fully independent.
However, options do exist for the visually impaired homeowner looking to beef up their home security, and a number of security devices are available that specifically cater to the unique needs of the visually impaired. Here are some of the most useful pieces of home security equipment for visually impaired homeowners:
Doorbell intercoms
One constant problem for independent, visually-impaired people is knowing just who has arrived at your home when the doorbell rings. Even if you are expecting trusted company, unwanted visitors can show up at any time, and may even deliberately call on you when they know you are expecting visitors and have your guard down.
The simple front door peepholes used by people with serviceable vision are obviously not suitable for visually impaired people, so you should consider replacing your ordinary doorbell or door knocker with a doorbell and intercom system. These devices will allow you to communicate with visitors before letting them in, ensuring you don't allow anybody you don't know or expect into your home.
Driveway alarms
Living in a home close to a busy road can be particularly trying for the visually impaired householder, as it can be difficult to know whether a car has pulled into your driveway or not. On the other hand, vehicles pulling into your driveway when you don't expect it can be equally troublesome and disturbing.
Installing a motion-activated driveway alarm can help allay these fears, and help visually impaired homeowners know for certain whether or not a vehicle has pulled up to their house. These devices generally consist of a simple motion sensor placed by your driveway, connected to an audible alarm installed within your home. The sensor and alarm can be connected with wires or with wireless transmissions depending on your budget and needs.
However, if you do opt for a driveway alarm system, it is vitally important that the motion sensor is placed a foot or more above ground level. If positioned too low, the alarm can be activated by small animals and blowing leaves.
Handheld alarms
For ultimate peace of mind, blind homeowners also carry a handheld alarm with them as they go about their daily routines to ensure that security and help are always close at hand.
These portable devices are connected wirelessly to a central alarm box; some handheld alarms simply set off an audible intruder alarm to scare off home invaders, while others allow you to communicate directly with security personnel via voice communication. The security personnel will be able to talk you through the process of securing yourself in the event of home invasion, and will be able to call on the emergency services for you should the worst happen.
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