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Month: April 2019
How to Choose a Home Security System (Part 3)
There’s a wide range of home security systems from various brands, each of which comes in different shapes, sizes, and have various functions and capabilities.
As the list of alarm systems continues to grow, so does the way in which each system differs from the next.
As a good rule of measure, alarm systems that were manufactured after the millennium are usually prime candidates for reuse. This means that homeowners whose security systems were installed after the year 2000, can switch to a new security company without having to reinvest in a new security system.
In general, home security panels from the
90’s and beyond, are more difficult to program and their capabilities are limited.Additionally, older systems usually lack up-to-date features, such as smartphone control, cell communication, wi-fi connectivity
and home.Ultimately, it is best to consult an EMC Security professional about your system. We will let you know what your system is capable of doing. But in the meanwhile, here are a few things to help you determine whether a takeover of your existing security system is right for you:
What a Conversion?
Replacing or modifying the control panel and keypad(s) of an existing security system. Door/window sensor, motion detectors, wiring, and smoke detectors may or may not need to be replaced.
Why Do I Need This?
Some systems do not accept a simple reprogramming because of proprietary equipment specific to a certain alarm company. Therefore, it’s necessary to replace the control panel and keypad(s).
What About Updates?
Some systems may not necessarily require
a conversion , but the customer chooses a conversion to upgrade to newer technology (keypad) or communication method (replace phone connection with Wi-Fi or cellular).Examples and Ideas
- Upgrade to a touchscreen keypad
- Revise
communication method - Integrate security cameras
- Add home-automation and interactive services
What’s the Process?
Contact us at 770.963.0305 to schedule an in-home appointment to inspect your existing home security system and determine your needs. Monthly monitoring is $16.95 for Wi-Fi, $23.95 for
cellular option.In-Home Technician
At this appointment, the conversion will be completed and tested, interactive services will be applied, and the homeowner will be fully trained on system operation.
Finally, the last option to consider
on your search for home security is the Takeover option. Let’s take a look at what this means and which buyers are better suited for this option.
How to Choose a Home Security System (Part 2)
Consumers who are in the market for home security can choose between two options, DIY or professional installation.
Professional installation is required with all hardwired home alarm systems but not necessarily with wireless systems. Here are points to consider when choosing pro installation.
BENEFITS OF PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION
Pro installation is required with high-level, hardwired security systems but
are considered optional with wireless systems. One of the key benefits to having your home security systems installed by a trained technician is having an extra sense of security and peace of mind knowing that the work was done by a professional. Of course, DIY wireless security systems are easy to set up, but an experienced security professional can help guarantee the best possible use of the equipment by positioning it in ideal locations around your home. Another benefit is that you get to conserve your own time and energy as it relates to setting up the system! These benefits are extremely beneficial for people with larger properties and/or security systems with many components.Still not sure if the pro-install option is right for you? Here are a few additional items of consideration to help inform you:
What Do I Need?
The type of system and components will depend on the construction of your home, your particular needs (security, fire, cameras, automation, etc.) and lifestyle (children, pets, etc.)
Hard-Wired vs Wireless
A hard-wired system connects all devices to the control panel via wires. Wireless systems connect via radio frequency, using minimum wiring.
Communication Method
You can connect to our monitoring centers via phone line, internet, or cell towers. Cellular is the most reliable since it does not rely on a power source to communicate.
Cameras and Automation
Interactive controls, cameras
and home-automation can be added to most security systems for a complete smart-system, controlled from your mobile device.In-Home Technician
At this appointment, the system will be installed and tested, interactive services will be applied, and the homeowner will be fully trained on system operation.
What’s the Process?
Contact us at 770.963.0305 to schedule an in-home evaluation to determine what equipment is needed. Monthly monitoring is $16.95 for Wi-Fi, $23.95 for
cellular option.Next, we’ll take a look at replacing or modifying an existing system with EMC Security.
How to Choose a Home Security System (Series)
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re shopping for a home security system.
That’s because it’s a massive, growing category that covers everything from standalone DIY devices like cameras and video doorbells to smart locks and motion sensors.
Yes, the home security market is an absolute assortment of options. That’s great because there’s bound to be something that’s right for you, but it’s also a challenge to sort through the mess of stuff on shelves today to find that perfect device or comprehensive system. It can be difficult to sort through the information to get a clear idea of what you need to get up and running.
This blog series will help you get started.
We’ll outline the different ways in which you can purchase home security with EMC Security, depending on your home and what security equipment currently exists, including:
STARTING FROM SCRATCH
- Option 1: Self-Install Security System
- Option 2: Professional Installed Security System
FINE-TUNE WHAT YOU’VE GOT
- Conversion
POWER-UP YOUR PRE-EXISTING SYSTEM
- Takeover
Each of these options
have their benefits and can be more or less ideal depending on the individual needs of individual homeowners or renters. Let’s begin our assessment of each option by starting with those who do not currently own a home security system, and therefore need to start from scratch.Up first is the Self-Install option, better known as the DIY Home Security System.
Option 1: DIY Home Security
DIY smart-home security systems, do not requires professional installation, and allow homeowners and renters to bypass the need to hardwire their homes due to innovations in wireless connectivity.
Here are a few things to help you determine whether a Do-It-Yourself security system right for you:
Advanced Technology
Wireless DIY security is the hottest security product on the market. Everyone loves its ease of use, convenience, affordability, effortless home-automation, and interactive features.
Wi-Fi Communication
DIY Self-Install systems communicate to our monitoring centers via Wi-Fi technology with a cellular option.
Cameras and Automation
The DIY system is the hub for home-automation devices and cameras that integrate to your security and are controlled via one mobile app.
All the Heavy Lifting
We’ll program and label each device specifically for your home, so all you have to do is open the box, peel and stick the equipment in place, plug it in, connect to your Wi-Fi, and go.
Where to Buy
The DIY system can be purchased either by visiting emcsecurity.com or by contacting us at 770.963.0305. Monthly monitoring is $16.95 for Wi-Fi, $23.95 for
cellular option.Beware of Imitations
Don’t be led into a false sense of security. Never purchase a system from a company that does not require 24/7 professional monitoring, nor provide technical support.
Up next, we’ll take a look at the option for a Professional Installation.
5 Devices to Help You Feel Safe When You’re Alone
Living alone is becoming more and more popular among Americans.
In fact, there were almost thirty-six million Americans in 2018 living in single-person households, ascompared with the thirty million single-person residences in 2008 — so as you can see, this is a trend that is clearly on the rise.
The freedom that comes with living alone allows you to be the king or queen of your castle. However, the absence of a housemate means you have
lock up or call for help in the event that an intruder enters your home, which means it would be a good idea for you to have a reliable backup security plan.Minimize unfortunate surprises with these five innovative solutions to help make your single-person household as safe as possible.
1. SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM
Despite having double-checked all the doors and windows, sometimes, your mind plays tricks on you. Was that bump in the night your cat or something more concerning? A security alarm system can help put your mind at ease by activating in the “
arm stay” mode. Rest easy knowing that the perimeter of your home cannot be breached without setting off your alarm and alerting the police.2. INDOOR SECURITY CAMERA
Need an extra pair of eyes watching over your home? There’s no better way than to install a smart indoor security camera. As seen on local
new channels across the country, more and more criminals are caught thanks to indoor security cameras. Order here for just $79.3. VIDEO DOORBELL
Believe it or not, most burglaries happen during the day time. but a doorbell camera can give the impression you’re at home even when you’re not. These nifty home security additions are usually easy to install and highly affordable. Doorbell cameras come with live video streaming, remote viewing apps, and two-way communication that lets you see and talk to whoever is at your door. This provides extra security as a break-in deterrent, and it also helps you protect yourself from a home invasion or other violent attack when you are home. Forget having to get up and look through the peephole—these doorbells allow you to see who’s at the door from wherever you feel safest. Purchase here for just $149.
4. OUTDOOR MOTION LIGHTS
Another great way to spook a burglar is to put them under the spotlight. Motion sensor lights provide extra safety when you’re walking around your property, and they also illuminate potential bad deeds before they even get started. For best results, install motion sensor lights near every entry point and in any area outside your home where a burglar could hide or break in without the prying eyes of neighbors. Even dark, hard-to-see sections of your yard and home are impossible to miss when a floodlight is triggered by a motion sensor.
5. PERSONAL EMERGENCY ALERT
For home-bound folks, a medical alert device is essential, especially if living alone. EMC Security can help.
We understand the risks associated with living alone, and we want to help you enjoy every minute by remaining safe and keeping your home secure. Use the resources provided in this article to create the perfect personal security plan for your lifestyle, instead of leaving your well-being up to chance.
How to Reduce False Alarms in the Home
Statistics show that home alarms have been proven to reduce the likelihood of home intrusions.
Savvy burglars know to choose homes with the course of least resistance, thereby avoiding homes with security measures such as outdoor cameras, motion activated security lights, and burglar alarms — all of which, work in unison to keep your property safe. Home security alarms alert you and your security monitoring company that your home has been breached, reducing the risk of further damage. Despite all of the good things alarms do for us as homeowners, it can be annoying when your security system is set off accidentally.
There are many reasons why false alarms. For instance, a large proportion can be blamed on homeowners forgetting to disarm the system prior to letting the dog out or empty the trash. Another aspect could be entering the wrong passcode.
So, how can we minimize these occurrences and prevent the frustration which usually accompanies falsely activated alarms?
Residential False Alarm Prevention Guide
Before you activate your system:
- Lock all protected doors and windows.
- Educate family members on
alarm system and usage. - Contact EMC Security if you have any concerns about the proper
functionality your system. - Notify EMC Security if you plan any renovating or remodeling your home.
- Educate family members on what to do if your alarm is accidentally triggered.
- Use the EMC Text Alert app to chat with your emergency contacts when your alarm is triggered and respond appropriately from your phone.
- First, don’t panic, there is time. Enter your disarm code (carefully) to reset your system. Remember, if there were a burglar, he or she would not know your code. Do not write it on your keypad.
- Call EMC Security at 1-888-745-4733 or wait for us to call you. Give your password — this is different from your disarm code.
Make sure that anyone who has keys to your home KNOWS how to operate the alarm.
Commercial False Alarm Prevention Guide
Tips for Commercial Businesses
- Be sure all employees are thoroughly trained before attempting to use the alarm system. Hold monthly training sessions.
- Look for items that can move within the “view” of your motion detectors, causing false alarms fans, heaters, hanging signs, seasonal decorations, balloons, curtains, plants, etc.).
- Confirm that special consideration has been given to the installation of motion detectors in high traffic areas with overhead doors, large exhaust fans or ceiling vents which allow the entry of birds.
- Ensure all doors and windows are secure and locked before arming your system.
- Don’t change pass-codes without advising EMC Security.
- Train new users thoroughly, notifying EMC Security of new users.
- Service and maintain your system (including batteries) regularly before false alarms occur.
- Upgrade old alarm systems to current equipment conforming to Security Industry Association (SIA) false alarm prevention standards, further reducing false alarms.
Every municipality in Georgia has alarm registration requirements. Some have false alarm ordinances as well. Make sure you understand your ordinance and fee guidelines before installing a security system in your home or business.
Did you know your DRYER can start a fire?
When a fire started in the home of a customer in Jefferson, Georgia, EMC Security immediately received an alert and contacted the customer — who was on her way AWAY from the house.
While on the line with her, the EMC Security operator immediately dispatched the fire department to her home. By the time she got back, they were there and in the process of extinguishing the fire, which had been started by her dryer. Thankfully, the fire was put out before any substantial damage was done, and, most importantly, no one was hurt.
New Homes Are at Greater Risk
Please always consider fire monitoring for you home as a part of your security system. While many think only old homes are at high risk of fast-moving, high-damage fires, that is not true. It is actually NEW homes that are at more risk!
Why? Many new home are designed with an open floor plan, which provides refreshing air circulation and great sight-lines BUT also gives fire plenty of oxygen and a clear path to travel. There’s also more stuff in newer homes — more technology means more computers, televisions, tablets, and phones that are very susceptible to fire. And all this stuff is now being made with new synthetic materials that burn quickly. That’s right, your iPad could help bur your house down.
Protect Yourself with a Fire Monitoring System
The NUMBER ONE thing you can do to protect your home is install a fire monitoring system. EMC Security includes fire monitoring for NO ADDITIONAL COST on all of its security systems. Having adequate fire monitoring can mean the difference between minimal loss and fire damage and total loss of your home to a fire. More importantly, it can mean the difference between life and death.
Contact us to add fire monitoring to your system!
Do I Need a Security System if I Have a Dog?
How reliably do dogs alert you to trouble?
Dogs have amazing senses, with their sharp ears and superior scents-ability. Much like a security system, a dog can alert you right away to an intruder on your property. The downside of this is, to your dog, many everyday visitors count as intruders.
A smart home security system does it better. Like a dog, it’s proactive when an intruder is detected—but it’s far better at discerning a genuine intruder from a harmless everyday event, thanks to its use of intelligence from all around the home. Equally important, if there’s a break-in, a security system can alert a 24-7 monitoring station for professional help.
How well do dogs keep burglars out?
Burglars avoid homes with security systems. In fact, 60% will go elsewhere if they see one. Add a smart security camera and you have a formidable deterrent. Of course, most burglars don’t want to meet your dog, either. Should they spot dog toys in the yard or hear muffled barking, many will move along.
Deterrence aside, though, there are some things a dog can’t help with. For example, 1/3 of all burglaries are cases of unlawful entry—a burglar entering through an unlocked door or window. With proactive reminders and remote locking, security system powered with home automation can save the day when you’re in a rush and forget to secure the house.
How does canine security hold up if an experienced burglar targets your home?
It’s not unknown for a burglar to arrive with food to distract a dog, for example. While a specially trained dog may hold his ground, most dogs will scamper off down the basement stairs after their prize.
Meanwhile, a lawbreaker will need more than a steak to defeat a smart home security system. Even if they take a hammer to your security panel, your security technology can still alert your home’s 24-7 monitoring station.
Want to improve your canine-based home security by installing a smart home security system?
Contact EMC Security today at 770-963-0305 or visit our website.
5 Tips to Discourage the Spread of Fire in Your Home
The room was fully ablaze in 3 minutes.
A recent Good Morning America investigation demonstrated how much more vulnerable today’s modern home is to fire than its older counterparts.
A group of researchers set a fully furnished 12×16 foot room (similar to one found in a modern, open floor plan) on fire to see how long it took for the room to reach a “flash point,” or the moment in a room where everything is engaged in a fire. The result? The room was fully ablaze in 3 minutes.
Why New Homes are More Susceptible
Why are newer-build homes more susceptible to fast-moving fires? Many residences are now designed with an open floor plan, which provides refreshing air circulation and great sightlines, but also fuels flames with oxygen and a clear path for flames. There’s also more “stuff” in newer homes—more technology means more computers, televisions and other personal electronics that are susceptible to fire. And all this “stuff” is now being made with new synthetic materials that burn quickly. Even energy-efficient thermo-pane windows work against homeowners in a fire, trapping heat and causing fire and smoke to circulate.
How to Protect Your Home from Rapidly Spreading Fires
1. The first safety tip is a simple one that many homeowners forget—close the interior doors. When each room is compartmentalized, fire has less room and oxygen and grows more slowly, giving the family more time to get out safely. Get into the habit of closing doors (especially bedroom doors) at bedtime.
What about your “stuff?”
2. When you’re shopping for new furniture or appliances, check the manufacturer’s label to see if the item has been tested for its resistance to fire.
3. Dense, heavy, solid materials will burn more slowly, so consider the heft of building materials if you’re building or remodeling a home. Heavier doors, handles, and non-synthetic construction materials will slow the spread of flames.
4. As the safety window for escaping a home fire shrinks, it’s more important that ever to create a fire escape plan for your family that includes two exit points for every room, and a plan for meeting up outside.
5. The NUMBER ONE thing you can do to protect your home: install a fire monitoring system. EMC Security includes fire monitoring on all of its security systems, starting at $16.95 per month. Call 770-963-0305 and schedule a free consultation to find the fire monitoring and intrusion alarm system that fits your home and your family.
5 Things You Should Do if Your Home Security Alarm Goes Off
When your home alarm goes off, it can be a frightening and sometimes confusing experience.
Your first instinct might be to immediately disable the alarm siren. But, if you do this, how do you know you didn’t just disable an alarm for a burglar that might have just broken in? The fact is, most of us are not sure what we’d do in this case. The key is to be prepared.
Below are 5 things you should do if your home security alarm goes off:
- Stay Calm
It is natural for us to panic in emergency situations. As a result, we tend to react rather than think. However, when your home alarm goes off, you should take a moment to calm your senses before doing something rash. It’s easier to think about your options when you’re calm.
A home security system is designed with an extremely loud alarm siren to scare off an intruder. And depending on your system and neighborhood, it could also alert a neighbor. Keeping this in mind could help your anxiety level.
- Verify It’s Not a False Alarm
The next thing to do is to verify whether the alarm is false. Read any notifications or messages appearing on the keypad display (if it’s nearby) and then investigate, however don’t put yourself in danger to do so. If you suspect that there is an actual threat in the house, find a safe place to wait for the authorities.
- Keep Your Phone Nearby
This is a must, for a couple of reasons. First, your home security company is instantly notified when the alarm is triggered and will immediately be contacting you to assess the situation. They will also notify the authorities.
Second, you can call someone outside of your home in order to get help. Contact a friend or relative as soon as you get the chance and let them know what’s going on.
- Know Your Password
When your home security company calls your home, they will ask for your password. If you know it’s a false alarm and don’t want to notify the police, you must have your password.
If you don’t know your password, the authorities will be dispatched. This is because the security company has no way of knowing that you are who you say you are, or if you might be speaking under duress.
- Have a Plan
An effective plan can help you remain calm and could potentially save lives. The best plan is to designate a safe area to wait for authorities to clear your home of danger. The safe area (or room) should ideally be as far away as possible from any potential break-in areas (such as windows and doors). It’s also a good idea to have a dead bolt installed on the door.
Although security systems can help make your home and family more secure and safe, you will still need to practice vigilance and awareness in case of an emergency. Never put yourself or your family members in danger. The best option is to let your security system do what it is designed to do – and that’s to help you.
Don’t have a home security system? Contact EMC Security to protect your home and family today.
9 Things to Do if You’re Home During A Break-In Infographic
9 Things to Do if You’re Home During a Burglary
