Alarm

What should an alarm system do for me?
A basic alarm system is installed to detect and deter intruders and to protect the premises against fire and environmental conditions. An alarm system can consist of perimeter devices, which secure vulnerable access points such as doors and windows. Interior devices, consisting of passive infrared detectors or under carpet mats, detect movement inside the premises. Smoke detectors, thermals, rate of rise heat sensors and such equipment are used as an early warning for fire detection. The number and type of protective devices that you choose to have installed will determine the level of security you attain. The various additional features and/or functions of the alarm system, such as: medical alert, environmental protection (high/low temperature, gas leak, high water, etc.), employee access control, etc. will also effect the cost. All of these can extend your security and the protection of your premises.
What should I check when the alarm system has been installed?
Before the Alarm Installer leaves your premises, please make sure: • You have established a proper customer identification number, abort code or password with the Monitoring Central Station to use for your security verification. • All the devices within the alarm system have been tested and are working properly. • The alarm installer trains all of the people who will be using the alarm system and that they also have been given a proper customer identification number, abort code or password. • You have all necessary, emergency phone numbers written down for future reference. (Example: alarm installation company, Monitoring Central Station, responding authorities, etc.) • You know how to “arm” and “disarm” the system properly and that you know how to operate all the devices within the alarm system, so that you feel comfortable using the system. If you don’t understand some of the functions of the alarm system, it is critical that you ask questions of the alarm installer and get the appropriate explanations before he or she leaves the premises! This will help to prevent false alarms later on.
What should I consider before having an alarm system installed?
Your need to evaluate your total security requirements by assessing your lifestyle and/or your business routine and determine your home or business needs, etc. As an example: • Do you live in a high crime neighborhood or a remote unprotected area? • Are you away from the premises frequently? • Do you have young children? • Do you have many employees to keep track of at the premises? • Do you have pets? • Do you have an all-wooden building or a substantially older structure, which would be particularly susceptible to fire? After your assessment, you need to do the following: • Be sure to contact your local police depatment or crime prevention branch, alarm association, Better Business Bureau, consumer protection agencies and/or insurance company for a list of reputable companies in your area. • Be sure that you advise each company that you are getting competitive quotes. • Be sure that you make a true comparison of each proposal based on a site inspection. Then, thoroughly review the number and kinds of components to be installed, so that you are evaluating similar types of installations – comparing “apples to apples.” • Be sure to understand what the differences are in the quotes given to you. If there are significant differences, how will they impact your over-all security protection?
I’ve heard so much about these “wireless” security devices. Do they really work & how long do the batteries last?
Yes on both counts! Technological breakthroughs have led to the development of wireless electronic security products, and their effectiveness has been proven time and again over the years in millions of installations. With the new advancements over the past few years, security systems have never had so many functions, been more dependable, and offer home automation conveniences as well. Wireless alarm systems not only work, many people add on features like a smartphone app to make sure they use their system daily. Most our security equipment is powered with lithium batteries that last 5 to 7 years depending on usage. Of course, your system will let you know a long time before they do so you can replace them, call us and we can help you through the process.
What is a glass break sensor and how do they work?
“Acoustic” glassbreak sensors, usually mounted on ceilings or walls, work by “listening” for the sound of breaking glass in a window. “Shock” glassbreak detectors are mounted on the window and “feel” the shock of breaking glass. If an intruder does break threw a window, this will trigger the alarm before they are in the home. They can be a great alternative, or compliment, to motion detectors. Just one of the way’s to customize your home security system.
I have a dog! Does that mean I can’t install a PIR?
Absolutely not. Recent innovations in security technology have resulted in the creation of “pet immune” motion detectors-allowing dog and cat lovers to enjoy the same level of protection they would receive with a standard PIR. If you have a large pet you may be better suited for a glass break sensor. That’s why are security consultation is so important. We can offer custom solutions for our client’s and offer different solutions for your custom security system.
Can I set my alarm with a pet left inside?
Yes, but you must have a pet immune motion detector! All About Security offer’s the choice in motion detectors that can be pet immune, as well as other ways to customize your alarm system!
What is a PIR?
A passive infrared motion detector (PIR) is an electronic security device that detects intruders by “sensing” motion or body heat in the area being protected. Most PIRs are designed to be used when your family is away from home or when no one will be passing through the area “covered” by the PIR. Used effectively, they are one of the best pieces of security equipment available. Used ineffectively, motion detectors are a risk of false alarms.
What are magnetic contacts?
Magnetic contacts are two-part devices used to protect windows and doors. One part of the contact is a switch installed in the window or door jam; the other contains a magnet and is placed in the window or door itself. Any noticeable shift in contact with the switch results in an alarm. Today, alarm systems are customized by adding sensors like these are used for non-emergency event for anything that opens or closes, like a medicine or liquor cabinet.
Will my children be able to operate the alarm?
Yes! The system can be armed with the press of a button and disarmed with a 4-digit code or key fob. I love when my son uses the system, it insures me that he made it home You can also get notifications when they made it home, if you have an images sensor you can get a image of your child right when they come home. No more worrying while waiting for their call!
What does the keypad do?
You operate your security system by entering your security code at the keypad. Generally located at entry doors, keypads can arm and disarm with push-button ease, and literally put security at your family’s fingertips! With our touchscreen keypads, you can have security with the added convenience of turning lights on, adjusting your thermostat, and so much more. Not to mention that our color touchscreen keypad looks pretty good too. With our wireless alarm systems, your touchscreen keypad is your alarm panel and you can control everything from that central location.
I’ve been thinking about buying a security system for a while now, but I don’t know that much about them.
A hardwired security system starts with a control panel. Usually located in a closet or a basement, the control panel contains the “brains” of the security system, and essentially operates as a central computer. With wireless security systems, often the alarm panel is the keypad. You can call us at 909-295-5819 and we will answer your questions without a high pressure sales pitch.
What should a home alarm system consist of?
At the very least, your system includes an alarm panel and door sensors, to protect any doors leading into the home. Most break-ins occur through a forced door. We will address additional protection with the homeowner such as windows, motions sensors, glass breaks, and many other types of security equipment. It’s always best to add monitored smoke alarm detection if possible. It is extremely important as is furnace failure detection, water-level detection and carbon monoxide detection if your able to add those features in now, or in the future.
Can I operate my alarm and stay inside my home?
Yes! A properly designed home security system allows a separate setting for “at home” or “stay” mode, and “away” functions.
Whats the At Home/Stay setting on my alarm system?
The “at home/stay” most often you will see a (Stay) button, this setting protects the perimeter of your home, so you can walk around freely with the alarm still on, you will feel safer, and if someone tries to get in one of your doors or windows that are protected the alarm will be triggered.
Does the alarm sound a siren when activated by an intrude?
Most home security systems are designed to have a loud siren detect an intruder. We have audible devices such as sirens and bells, which are in most cases, “a second line of defense” for deterring burglars. There are options for a “silent” alarm in the event of duress or when no one is in the property to increase the chance of catching the burglar. With video alarm systems a silent alarm can help catch an intruder when your away.
How do i know if a home security is a good fit?
There is almost always a good fit with right security system if your dealing the right security company. As long as your priorities are the focus rather than the security company’s you can make an educated decision after being informed by the right information. The protection of your home and family is something we take very seriously. We know that their safety and your peace of mind are priceless. We also understand there is a cost associated with a monitored alarm system. That’s why our security consultant’s will work with you to make sure it’s a good fit for your needs. We understand looking at your budget is important as well. Got Security is a company whose culture is based on integrity, appreciation, accountability and having a sincere desire to help people. It’s better to know what you want to protect and what matters most to you to customize your home security; for some it is about life safety. For others, it is about protecting their stuff. For most it’s about their family and protecting others! Everyone has different needs and that’s why cookie cutter alarm packages rarely work. There are many families who don’t want a security system but like smart home features. It’s your home, your customized system. Their alarm system will be different set up than someone else who may be focused on protecting their loved ones. Shopping for a home security can be a daunting task, at Got Security we guarantee the best value in the industry with our Lowest Price Guarantee. If there is a comparable alarm system for a lower we will match it, if we can’t beat it. Our security systems cost is the one of the most aggressive pricing out there. We strive to help members of our community find the best solution for their individual needs. If for any reason our services aren’t a good fit for you we won’t be selling them to you.
What are the things a homeowner has to consider when putting in a system?
Make sure whoever you choose to protect your home and family, will provide a consultative approach when meeting you to identify what matters most to you. Several factors need to be addressed when putting in a system. Simply, some Q&A between you and your security consultant to make sure your priorities are being addressed. Don’t let someone tell you what’s important to you. When presented with advertised alarm packages make sure that the features that benefit your life are included. Wireless security systems have a lot of options. You don’t have to purchase everything that is available when you first get started. Deal with a security company that let’s you expand and customize your security so your smart home security system can grow with you. You also want to consider the items on the list below before installing your alarm system. In the end, make sure whatever you get is what’s best for you, your home , and your family’s needs. • Security Protection (ex. doors, windows, motion detection, glass break detection, and more) • Life Safety (ex. smoke alarm, carbon monoxide alarm, medical alert) • Environmental Protection (ex. sump pump, water level, furnace failure, generator running), Lifestyle (remote services, phone applications, integration to lights, locks and thermostats) • Who lives in the home, any persons who will be using the system, the areas you want to protect, as well as any pets inside the home.
Does the alarm work when power is out?
Yes, alarms should have a back up battery! All of our alarm systems are designed with a “standby/ backup battery” that will operate your alarm during a lost of power or power failure. When there is a power outage the back up battery will kick in. When the power is running again the battery will be recharged for future use.
Can I get a discount on my homeowners insurance when I purchase a security system?
Yes! Most insurance companies will discount your insurance rates by 5-20% depending on the level of security you have. Every insurance company is different and adding monitoring fire prevention may be an important factor.
What happens if I accidentally trigger my alarm system?
Quickly use your alarm code to silence the alarm and send a signal to the Central Station to cancel alarm and the responses. You should call the Central Station with the number provided by your security company as well. If you have a 2 way voice system, and are at home, you can give your safe word over the alarm panel.
What are some current trends in your industry?
As mentioned in the comments regarding changes with technology, the consumer is now interested in staying connected. Most home-owners have smart phones and if they currently don’t have one, they will soon. Staying connected remotely is certainly a trend. Smart home services are all become more and more popular for everyday homes.
Can I Arm and Disarm my alarm from my phone?
The consumer is now interested in staying connected. Most home-owners have smart phones staying connected remotely is priority now! With a cell phone feature you can arm and disarm your security system from anywhere, will let you know if you forgot to arm , and will send notifications to your phone. The app also allows you to control other features with additional equipment and services. Got Security’s alarm systems are the foundation of affordable smart homes.
Why not just have a dog?
A dog is often like a family member, I know for my family, my dog is one of the reasons why we got a security system. Often, the intruder is someone who knows you, and your dogs. They wouldn’t break in without a plan. Dogs are also easily defeated, such as luring them into a room and closing the door, or giving them “treats”. Unfortunately, dogs are sometimes stolen, poisoned or even killed by the perpetrator. I know, we rather have our posessions stolen then our family dog. Ever time someones tells me they have a pet we suggest to get a monitored fire alarm with their home alarm system. If there’s a fire your dog can’t call the fire department. A monitored fire alarm can.
Can i get a Security System if I don’t have a phone line?
Yes! Not only can you get a Security System with out a phone line, it is much safer by using a cellular technology you don’t have to worry about a phone line going out or in some cases a theft cutting your phone line. And With more families choosing to forgo a home phone in favor of a group cell phone plan, it makes sense that you don’t have to pay for a phone line just for your security system. Have to have a “land line”? To save the money get an inexpensive Internet based phone and upgrade your alarm systems.
I rent an apartment. Should I get a home security system?
Yes! National Crime Prevention Council, says that apartments are actually 85% more likely to be a victim of a burglary than single-family homes. This is why All About Security has a solution for renters with wireless security systems and other personal protection services. While most security company will only protect home owners, here All About Security we think everyone should be protected. We offer different types of security to be able to find a solution for everyone.

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