Security system rebates around the corner

Elmwood

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 07/02/2024 (716 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Home and business security protection systems are an important tool in making our neighbourhoods safer and they should within everyone’s reach. Cities across the U.S. and Canada are adopting rebate programs because they deter burglaries and reduce our home and business insurance costs. Insurance companies are also offering discounts for home and business owners who purchase security systems because they reduce claims.

Neighbourhoods benefit, too, and a growing number of cities are using home and business security rebates to help those who need it most, including seniors and vulnerable residents. Besides applying to homes and businesses, successful programs are also including religious institutions, non-profit organizations, and renters.

Large cities such as Chicago, Ill., Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Md., have introduced rebate programs because they make safety and economic sense. Smaller communities’ benefit, too, because they have the same problems. They, too, can deploy police resources more efficiently and enhance public safety.

In Manitoba, towns with exceptionally high crime rates have asked for exactly this kind of help. A recent high-profile crime at a Winnipeg restaurant renewed calls by the Manitoba Restaurant and Foodservices Association for authorities to take meaningful action.

Rebate programs in Chicago and Washington, D.C., offer rebates up to C$600 for two cameras; up to $200 for subscription costs for cloud-based video storage; up to $275 for two lights; up to $130 for two vehicle GPS tracking devices; and up to $160 for annual subscription costs for GPS tracking applications. In other words, meaningful coverage with approved systems.

The technologies have gotten better, cheaper, and easier to use over the past few years. Many systems now allow for easy self-monitoring with smartphone technologies. But many residents, including seniors, need financial help and other incentives. They deserve to feel safe too, and our neighbourhoods will truly benefit with better community protection system coverage.

A province-wide tax rebate for approved home and business security protection systems will help remove financial barriers for the most vulnerable in our community, give them greater personal protection and make our neighbourhoods safer.

For more information, please call my office at 204-415-1122 or email me at jim.maloway@yourmanitoba.ca