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So you're thinking about buying an alarm system...BUYERS
BEWARE! Next to insurance coverage, this is probably one of the most important things you will ever buy for your home or business. Before you buy an alarm system, there are a few things that you should know. Why Should I Buy an Alarm System? Electronic security alarms are recognized as an effective tool when used in conjunction with other crime prevention measures. In independent studies, a premise with an alarm system is many times less likely to be burglarized than a premise without an alarm system. In a 1993 study in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, there were 6,343 reported break and enters. Only 74 of them were on homes with alarm systems. In 1992 a study conducted by the Portland, Oregon Police Bureau noted that losses against premises with alarms totalled $227,054 while losses against premises without alarm systems totalled $7,470,897. In reviewing these two statistics, the key is in differential losses between losses on premises with systems and losses on those without alarm systems. What Should An Alarm System Do For Me? An alarm system is installed to detect and deter intruders and to protect the premises against fire and other environmental conditions.. A basic alarm system will consist of both perimeter, interior and fire protection. The first stage secures vulnerable access points such as doors and windows while the second stage consists of space detection such as motion detectors which detect movement inside the premises. Smoke detectors and rate of rise heat sensors are added for fire detection, or the alarm system can be tied into an existing fire system in a commercial setting. The level of security you purchase will be determined by the number of protective devices you choose to have installed and the various features and functions of the alarm system. In addition, some alarm systems integrate home automation which can turn lights and appliances on and off automatically. What Questions Should I be asking Prospective Companies? First of all, ALWAYS get more than one quote on an alarm system. Always comparison shop. Make certain you advise each company that you are getting competitive quotes. When comparing companies, be certain to make a true comparison by thoroughly reviewing the number and types of products to be installed. If there is a significant difference in quotes, be sure to understand the differences and the impact they will have on the overall security.
Here's How A Security System Works Control
Panel: This is a
large metal cabinet, which is the "brains" and communications center
for a security system. All sensors and keypads in a system are
connected to the control panel. The control panel can also activate
sirens or lights, and can send emergency messages to a central station
over a telephone line or radio link. It is typically placed in a closet
of an out-of-the-way location. Once you have made your decision, make certain all specified devices are installed and working properly. Make certain that the installing company does adequate training of all people who will be using the alarm system. If you do not feel that you understand some of the functions of the alarm system, ask questions. Do not be afraid to have the installing company come back to do more training at a later date once you have become comfortable with the use of the system. User error accounts for 75% or more of the false alarms generated by alarm systems. User training can only help to reduce that number. For more information on any of the above information, please contact one of the following:
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