(NC)—Did you know that in Canada, every day approximately 1000 people celebrate their 50th birthday?

As time goes on, more and more Canadians are staying in their homes longer. Feeling a sense of security is an important part of our decision on whether to continue to live in our own home or moving in with children, other family members or deciding to change our residents to a retirement community. The fear of being burglarized, the concerns of having a fire or the panic of not being able to reach the telephone during a medical emergency can make this a very difficult decision. The anxiety of making a choice to give in to our pride and vital independence is one last thing we tend to want to hold on to as long as possible.

Today there is new home security technology available that can make this choice easier for yourself and your family. There are many home security companies available to choose from, however you want to select a company and a technology that is best suited for your lifestyle. According to Patrice De Luca, V.P. of marketing and business development for Protectron Security Systems, it's important the company and the technology are reliable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.

'Choosing a company that looks after burglaries, fire response and medical emergencies will certainly give you a peace of mind knowing that all your needs are handled by one company,' De Luca added.

Time is crucial when it comes to security

he stressed. For example, it takes the average person approximately 7 minutes before they have an opportunity to call the fire department to notify them of a fire. In some cases, an entire house can be fully engulfed with fire within 4 minutes. Fire statistics report that 8 out of 10 fire deaths occur in the home. Lets assume you have a medical emergency and can not get to the telephone, what will you do? 'We offer a necklace, which has an emergency panic button that will trigger the emergency dispatch processor immediately.'

Safety begins at home

Here are a few home safety tips seniors should consider according to De Luca:

• Install and use good locks on doors and windows.

• Don't hide keys under the doormat, in the mailbox or in a planter ... leave an extra set with a neighbor.

• When service or delivery people come to your door, ask for ID, and check with their company if you're still not sure.

• Make sure the street number on your house is large, well-lighted and unobstructed so emergency personnel can find your home quickly.

• If you decide to install an alarm system, consider one that is monitored for burglary, fire and medical emergencies. For more information on home security visit www.protectron.com.

- News Canada