Are you the type of person that dreads meeting a salesperson at your front door? Maybe it is the nosy neighbor or the friend who drops by unannounced with all six of her kids.

Perhaps you live alone and fear being burglarized or you possibly just prefer to know when someone is approaching before anyone reaches your door. There are also times when you are expecting someone and would like to know when he or she arrives, such as when you are waiting for a delivery and want a moment’s warning.

Today, there are many types of driveway alarm systems to signal you that a visitor is present before you hear the doorbell or see the nosy neighbor peeking through the front window.

Wireless driveway alarms are simple to use. One element is placed somewhere along the perimeter of the home or the driveway. Outdoor elements are of course made to withstand the weather, and the other element is placed inside the home in a convenient location. When the sensor is tripped, the alarm will notify you.

They are not just great for keeping people out they also keep your kids inside the yard the same way. It a child passes the sensor, the warning goes off and you will know if your child is straying beyond the boundaries.

The simplest and most inexpensive versions simply beep or give off a tone when anything or anyone passes by the sensor. The next step up is an alarm that contains a communication system that is similar to an intercom. You can speak to the person approaching and ask him or her purpose of the visit before allowing further access.

There are even alarms that work for miles, which would come in handy for those who live in rural areas, or those who wish to monitor their business location once they have gone home for the night.

Wireless driveway alarms are very affordable. The more options and the greater the range, the more expensive they will obviously be, but every homeowner can afford at least a simple version.

 A driveway alarm can improve your security by giving you advance notice of both welcome and unwanted visitors. It can also help you avoid missing deliveries. The most common systems cover up to 1000 feet, but units that work up to 3 miles can also be purchased.

There are basically three types of alarm systems, depending on their sensor mechanism:

• a motion detector that is activated by either large animals or moving vehicles
• an invisible beam that, when broken, activates the alarm
• A metal detector that will only be set off by large, metal objects, such as vehicles.

Which type of sensor you choose depends on your objectives.

Other features:

• Most systems use a wireless signal to activate the in-home receiver. This eliminates the need for running a wire.
• The detectors can be battery or solar powered; here again, this saves you the effort of running power out to the sensing location. However, batteries need to be replaced and some areas, particularly shady locations or cloudy northern climates may not be suitable for solar powered units.
• The alert tone or message can vary. Choose one that is suitable for your needs. Some systems also will connect to outdoor lighting, so that you can illuminate the drive when someone arrives.

Most systems allow you to buy additional equipment that can cover up to four different locations on your property at the same time. These features can be installed to protect areas such as garages, barns, patios and pools. They can sound alarms or automatically flood the areas with lights.
Driveway alarms give you time to get out of your bathrobe and into some clothes, before the in-laws catch you unawares! And if you have a hard time saying no to solicitors, driveway alarms can let you know when to make yourself scarce. Sometimes you just want to be alone, and it is your right to keep your private time private. Installing a driveway alarm as part of your home security system can only increase your overall sense of safety. A Driveway Alarm can alert you before someone gets too close. A driveway alarm system is there to help you before you become another statistic.