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Category: EMC Security News
What To Expect With Professional Installation
EMC Security’s professional installation, you get white-glove service from start to finish.
While in your home, the technician will:
- Install your customized security system and any optional equipment ordered
- Test all devices to ensure the system works properly and communicates with EMC Security’s monitoring centers.
- Assist you with app download and set-up if applicable
- Conduct training on the use of the system. Now is a great time to ask questions.
- Provide EMC Security yard signs and window stickers
- Obtain your signature on the EMC Security professional monitoring agreement
- Complete the Certificate of Professional Monitoring for burglary (and fire as needed) for insurance discounts
What to Expect from EMC Security This Year
As with most important electronic products, giving your alarm occasional “check-ups” goes a long way.
Based on the length of service, click below for a list to make sure things continue to work properly down the road.
Choose how long you’ve been a customer from the images below:
EMC Security Saved Our Home From Fire
Most Common Causes of Home Fires
In 2019, fire departments in the U.S. responded to an estimated 361,500 home fires. These fires caused roughly 2,870 deaths and 12,700 reported injuries. Property damage was estimated at $7.9 billion.
Smoking – #1 cause of deaths
Most smoking-related fires start inside the home, often originating from upholstered furniture, bedding, or mattresses. Always smoke outside, thoroughly extinguishing cigarettes in an ashtray when finished.
Cooking equipment – #1 cause of fire injuries.
If you leave the kitchen—even for a brief period of time—turn off the stove. Wear short, close-fitting, or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Always keep children away from active cooking areas.
Fireplace
To prevent an accident, install a spark screen or glass door in front of the firebox to protect the surrounding area from stray sparks and rolled logs. Check chimneys annually to ensure that creosote hasn’t built up, and never leave a fire unattended.
Portable space heaters
Portable space heaters, which cause more fires annually than central heating. Use space heaters only in well-ventilated spaces, and keep them at least three feet away from furniture, fabrics, draperies, and other combustible objects.
Candles
Never position a lit candle near flammable items like bedsheets and books, which may become engulfed in flame if they come in contact with the tiny fire. As a safer alternative, homeowners can purchase flameless, battery-powered candles with LEDs.
Worn and damaged cords
Replace all worn or damaged cords right away, never overload extension cords or wall sockets, and don’t position cords under furniture or rugs.
Grill
Position your grill or fire pit several feet from your house, safely away from trees, deck railings, and other structures. Routinely clean the grill, investigate signs of rust and corrosion, and check the gas connections.
Propane and gasoline
Gasoline, kerosene, and propane should be stored outside in their original containers. Kerosene and propane heaters, which have a constant open flame, should be kept in an isolated, well-ventilated area and used only with the proper type of fuel.
Source: 2020 National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)
View the video below featuring EMC Security customers that are thankful they installed monitored smoke detectors in their home. A few months ago, their home was quickly overcome with smoke and fire while they were just a few yards away, in the backyard. If it wasn’t for EMC Security, the damage and loss would’ve been much greater.
Adding smoke or heat detectors to your home security system may very well be the best decision you make when it comes to the safety and security of your loved ones.
And, your monthly monitoring cost doesn’t change when you add fire monitoring to your security system.
Riverside Military School Case Study
Advanced, cost effective video surveillance solution.
Chosen for providing the most advanced, cost effective solution, EMC Security designed and installed a video surveillance solution for Riverside Military Academy with artificial intelligence video analytics search capabilities that can save valuable time and effort, ultimately making the campus a safer place for cadets and staff.
Riverside Military Academy (RMA), located in Gainesville, GA, is a leading private, military college preparatory and boarding school for boys in grades 7-12. Founded in 1907, the beautiful campus sprawls over 200 acres and is home to over 500 cadets from 30 nations and 30 states. Every aspect of life as a cadet at RMA is designed to encourage exceptional academic achievement and personal growth. With increased safety risks to the cadets that not only go to school but live on campus, quality video surveillance is a vital part of the overall security posture.
Awarded the project with the most advanced, cost effective solution, EMC Security provided a complete video surveillance solution with self-learning video analytics, network video recorders, and video management software with appearance search technology. Installed across 8 buildings including fields and dormitories, the school has future plans to integrate access control systems to secure physical access points, providing an integrated security solution campus-wide.
The Challenge:
RMA had a legacy analog surveillance system in place, but it had no intelligent or proactive capabilities. As such, trying to locate incident footage was a time-consuming process that involved scrutinizing hours of video footage.
The older system also had gaps in coverage and offered little reliability.
The Process:
EMC Security was one of six integrators considered during the open, Public RFP, selected as the providing the best equipment, best sound design, and best value. Once EMC Security introduced AI capabilities, RMA realized they’d save money and time with our solution.
- References and reputation. As a trusted security provider for many schools in Georgia, including Gwinnett, Forsyth and Hall County schools, EMC Security’s reputation was solid.
- More coverage with less cameras. EMC Security engineers designed an efficient and cost- effective solution that provided more field of vision and higher resolution with less cameras than other companies.
- Artificial Intelligence capabilities. Sorts through hours of video in minutes to identify specific people or vehicles.
- Non-proprietary equipment. No annual license fees.
- Future-proof. The solution allows for expansion of the AI capabilities and integration with access control.
The EMC Security Solution:
EMC Security was able to replace the system’s 62 analog cameras with 168 non-proprietary Avigilon AI cameras and integrate across one network with video management software. The Avigilon cameras offered much higher image quality, better coverage and video analytics than the legacy system.
With video from the large network of security cameras, the system leverages advanced artificial intelligence and video analytic capabilities to sort through hours of video with ease, to quickly locate a specific person or vehicle of interest across school grounds, in near real-time. The advanced video pattern detection technology can accurately recognize the movements of people and vehicles while ignoring motion not relevant to a scene. Embedded into cameras, the system’s ability to constantly learn what typical activity in a scene looks like, the camera can then detect and flag unusual motion, revealing events that may have otherwise been missed.
The installation also included a video wall where two 50-inch screens provided security personnel with an interactive visual matrix. Utilizing intuitive software, a School Security Officer can operate and manage the system, access the video real-time, and view the new campus wide analytic cameras locally or remotely. This native and browser-based software has evolving advanced upgrades without the on-going licensing fees. The software can be pushed to all servers in the site and upgraded automatically.
The Future:
By integrating an access control system, RMA will have a fully integrated security solution with real-time event management. When the access control system is activated, a camera will record video footage of the event. If someone is falsely entering, you can easily view who it is real-time. By quickly and easily identifying an incident, a campus-wide lock down can be accomplished as needed.
Conclusion:
- EMC Security proposed a solution for 20% less cost than the competition.
- The competition presented 30% more cameras for the similar coverage resulting in higher installation and equipment costs – without analytics or expansion for access control.
- EMC Security completed the project in two months, over a month ahead of schedule.
- RMA has experienced an enormous amount of time savings. In reviewing a recent incident, it took 1/8 of the time to find the video footage with the new system vs old system. As a result, RMA now employs a more effective incident prevention and risk mitigation strategy.
“I have been impressed with EMC Security’s quickness and professional assistance throughout the process.” Bill O’Brien; Safety and Security Director
Learn more about EMC Security’s enterprise security solutions here.
The EMC Security Difference
The number 1 question people ask is: What makes EMC Security different than other companies?
1. No Contracts!
It should be no surprise that the biggest difference is that we don’t require a monthly service contract. You can cancel anytime for any reason.
You can’t purchase another professionally installed security system without agreeing to at least a 36-month contract. This practice has been the standard for years so the providers can offer low up-front installation and equipment fees. The problem with this is once the equipment costs would be paid off, the high monthly fee (absorbing the equipment costs) does not reduce.
Since our inception in 1998, EMC Security has offered no-contract monitoring service. You pay for your equipment upfront with monitoring and communication charges paid on a month to month basis, with the option to cancel any time. If you need to finance the equipment, we have an interest-free option for that as well.
2. Security Technology
EMC Security sells a variety of security equipment . All the equipment is non-proprietary which means that other companies can reprogram it for their monitoring system. Some well-known, national companies do not sell this type of technology, preferring instead to use their own proprietary equipment, blocking other companies from monitoring the systems. This trend is unfortunately one that locks customers in as well, because the system is worthless if you are not happy with the monitoring service.
3. Takeovers
We can also takeover and monitor pre-existing systems. So, if you have a system in your home, we should be able to reprogramme it, provide any updates or upgrades needed, and start monitoring. This service can save a customer alot of money.
4. Alarm Monitoring
EMC Security’s monitoring cost of $16.95 per month and has not changed since 1999. We believe everyone should be able to afford to be safe at home, so we keep costs low. Most notably though is our Secure Path Technology. No matter what extra features a home security system offers, the bottom line is whether someone is monitoring your home 24/7 and can get help to you fast when you need it most.
EMC Security pioneered a monitoring architecture that sends a signal simultaneously to two, separately staffed, UL listed, CSAA Five-Diamond Certified command centers, which means a highly trained operator will always be available to answer the call. With an average response time of 14 seconds, homeowners have the added peace of mind that comes with rapid response.
Most security providers utilize a single command center that requires rerouting in the event the first center is busy or otherwise disabled, wasting time and creating unnecessary risk.
Additionally, security technology is built with an “alarm signal delay” of at least 45 seconds. EMC Security overrides this delay so the signal is transferred to our monitoring centers immediately. A lot can happen in 45 seconds and we don’t want to take that chance when lives are at stake.
5. Customer Service
Finally, what separates EMC Security from the rest is our ownership and values. Because we are owned by three of the largest non-profit power companies in Georgia, we are able to keep costs down and focus on service.
Like our parent companies, we put customer satisfaction above everything else because we know that happy customers are key to maintaining a successful business. By endorsing highly ethical business practices, both within our organization and across our customer and potential customer base, we send our message as a standard, not as a fallback.
This is very important when the lives of our customers are at stake.
Your Guide to Buying Home Security
Purchasing a security system to protect your home and family can be confusing. There are many options. Every home is different and individual needs vary. It’s not easy to sort through the information to get a clear idea of what you need to get up and running.
This guide can help.
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 with a new security system
- Fine-tuning the current system in your home
- Powering up the current system in your home
STARTING FROM SCRATCH?
OPTION 1: PROFESSIONAL INSTALLED SYSTEM
No security equipment? Do you prefer a professional to install the equipment? Are you considering the addition of home-automation or security cameras?
KICK BACK AND LET EMC SECURITY INSTALL IT FOR 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 & Automation. Interactive controls, cameras and home automation can be added to most security systems for a complete smart-security system, controlled from your mobile device.
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 phone and Wi-Fi connection, $23.95 for cellular.
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.
OPTION 2: DIY SELF-INSTALLED SYSTEM
No security equipment? Do you want the latest, most advanced wireless/portable technology? Do you want to use interactive mobile controls and home-automation? IS THE 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 & 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. Is done. 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.
HAVE A SYSTEM? FINE TUNE AND UPGRADE
SECURITY SYSTEM CONVERSION
Is your security system looking a little worn-out? Does it need special treatment or updating?
REPLACE OR MODIFY YOUR EXISTING SYSTEM COMPONENTS
What’s a Conversion? Replacing or modifying the control panel and keypad(s) of an existing security system. Door/window sensors, 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 ertain 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.
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 the security system and determine your needs. Monthly monitoring is $16.95 for phone and Wi-Fi connection, $23.95 for cellular connection.
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.
HAVE A SYSTEM? POWER-UP WHAT YOU’VE GOT
SECURITY SYSTEM TAKEOVER
Is your security system ready to go? Is it in crime-fighting shape and just needs to be activated?REPROGRAM YOUR SYSTEM SO EMC SECURITY CAN GET TO WORK
What’s a Takeover? Reprogramming an existing functional security system to allow for a change in monitoring companies.
Why Do a Takeover? A takeover is the most affordable way to switch monitoring companies. If you are searching for a great value you aren’t getting now, switching to EMC Security may be the answer.
What’s Included?
- A full system diagnostic
- Reprogamming & testing
- Battery replacement if needed
- Training on system operation
- EMC Security yard signs and stickers
What’s the Process? Just give us a call at 770.963.0305. We’ll determine if your system can be reprogrammed, go over the details, and schedule the takeover appointment.
EMC Security Difference.
- Monthly monitoring is $16.95 for phone and Wi-Fi , $23.95 for cellular connection.
- No-Contract option
- Response averaging 14 seconds
- New EMC Group Chat Notification
Contact EMC Security. 770.963.0305 | emcsecurity.com
EMC Security Referral Program
We understand the importance of having a company you can rely on and would like the opportunity to offer the same level of protection and professional service to your friends and family.
And now, refer a friend between now and February 29 and get 2 months free if they become a customer. We’ll also give your friend 2 months free to get started.
Complete the form below to refer your friend now:
EMC Security’s Dispatch Procedures
EMC Security monitors for the following Residential emergency conditions:
- Burglary
- Fire Alarm
- Carbon Monoxide
- Medical Emergencies
- Panic/Duress/Hold-Up/Keyfob
EMC Security’s response from the time we receive the alarm signal is received by the customer in an average of less than 14 seconds. It is important to note that if dispatch of authorities is required, EMC Security can’t control how timely the authorities will arrive at the property.
Dispatch procedures are outlined below for each emergency signal.
Burglar Alarm Signal
Once EMC Security receives a Burglar Alarm Signal that has not been canceled in the home on the keypad, one of two things occur:
1. Optional EMC Text-Alert
- All emergency contacts enrolled in EMC Text-Alert will receive an automatic text notification of the alarm.
- The contact can dismiss/cancel or dispatch authorities directly from the platform.
- If no one responds within 90 seconds, or is unable to provide a correct password to dismiss the alarm, the phone call procedure below will begin.
2. Phone Call Procedure – 2-call verification
- The EMC Security monitoring center operator will attempt to reach the emergency contacts to notify of the alarm. If the emergency contact requests to dismiss the active alarm signal, the password will be required.
- If two emergency contacts are unable to be reached and/or unable to provide the correct password, dispatch will be made to the Law Enforcement agency listed.
- Remaining emergency contacts will then be attempted and their instructions will be followed including cancellation of dispatched agencies if they are able to provide a valid password.
Burglar Alarm Signal with Abort/Cancellation from the Keypad
If you are unsure if the alarm is a false alarm, do not silence the alarm at the keypad until you receive a call from EMC Security.If you opted into EMC Text-Alerts, a free text notification platform, and the alarm is cancelled at the keypad, indicating a false alarm, a text message will be sent to the first 2 phone numbers on the account with a notification that the alarm cancellation signal was received, and confirming no further action will be taken.
Fire Alarms
- The EMC Security monitoring center operator will attempt to reach the emergency contacts to notify of the fire alarm. If the emergency contact requests to dismiss the active alarm signal, the password will be required.
- If the first two emergency contacts are unable to be reached and/or unable to provide the correct password, dispatch will be made to the Fire Department. Remaining emergency contacts will then be attempted and their instructions will be followed including cancellation of dispatched agencies if they are able to provide a valid password.
- Voice mails are not left when calling on fire alarms due to keeping the time spent verifying to a minimum in the event of an actual emergency.
- Remaining emergency contacts will then be attempted and their instructions will be followed including cancellation of dispatched agencies if they are able to provide a valid password.
- EMC Text-Alert and the abort/cancel at the keypad procedure do not apply for fire alarms.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
- The EMC Security monitoring center operator will attempt to reach the emergency contacts and advise that the premise should be vacated until the Fire Department arrives.
- Dispatch will be made to the Fire Department regardless of any password verification and instructions received from any person(s) on site.
- In the event of a request to cancel dispatch, the operator will update the responding agency with new information. Cancellation will be at the discretion of the responding agency and cannot be guaranteed.
Medical Emergencies: The medical emergency button is pressed on the keypad
- If applicable, the monitoring center operator will attempt to verify the situation via the two-way keypad device.
- If a valid password cannot be obtained from person(s) on site, or the keypad is not a two-way device, the operator will attempt to reach emergency contacts and follow their instructions.
- If the first two emergency contacts can’t be reached, dispatch will be made to the EMS agency listed then an attempt to notify additional emergency contacts will be made.
Panic/Duress/Hold-Up/Keyfob
- Dispatch to the Law Enforcement agency listed will be made immediately and will be the sole action taken.
- No further calls will be made to premise, responsible parties or other contacts listed to avoid complicating a potentially dangerous situation.
Text/Email Notifications: System signals such as Low Battery, Power Loss, Communication or Sensor Trouble
If we receive a trouble signal from your system indicating possible battery or power loss, you will receive a text and phone call from 833-700-0294 with a link to request EMC Security technical support.
Contact EMC Security at 770.963.0305 with any questions regarding the dispatch procedures.
EMC Security’s Got Your Back
Real Incident Reports
EMC Security has always believed that alarm systems provide peace of mind and are an excellent way to deter burglars, detect fire, and help with medical emergencies. The actual response stories below show how the security systems of EMC Security customers work to protect the lives and property of our customers here in Georgia.
Always be sure to arm your system every day and test your system regularly.
Residential Burglary
Confirmed Break-In, Losses Avoided – Stone Mountain:
EMC Security central monitoring station received an alarm from the home of an EMC Security customer in Stone Mountain. The hall motion detector and kitchen door sensor had detected movement. EMC Security called the customer and dispatched Dekalb County Police. The customer called back and advised that someone did break into her home. A glass pane in the kitchen door was broken out, the beds in two bedrooms had the sheets stripped off of them and dresser drawers had been gone through. At this time she is not aware of anything missing. The customer had a new laptop on the dining room table with some cash that was untouched.
Burglary Attempt, Suspect Apprehended – Atlanta:
EMC Security received an alarm from the front door of an EMC Security customer in Atlanta. After attempts were made to contact the premises the monitoring representative attempted to dispatch the Police Dept. The operator at Fulton County Police Department stated that the officers are already on scene from an unknown caller who called in about someone attempting to steal the homeowner’s AC unit. The monitoring representative inquired about the alarm and if the burglar ever entered the premise, the operator stated that according to the notes from the officers on scene entrance was never made to the location. The operator stated that the suspect was apprehended by the Police Dept and is in custody.
Small Business Intrusion
Small Business Burglary Avoided, DNA Evidence Left at Crime Scene – Athens:
EMC Security Monitoring Center received an alarm from a business customer in Athens. When contacted, the business owners stated that perpetrators smashed the front window and smashed a glass showcase. When they smashed the glass showcase, it appeared that the perpetrators had badly cut themselves and there is blood going all the way to the parking lot. The owners determined that nothing was taken, possibly because the perpetrators injured themselves. The customer sounded very happy that nothing was taken and sounded content about his alarm system.
Small Business Break-in Thwarted – Gainesville:
EMC Security central monitoring station received an alarm from the business of a commercial customer. After calling and speaking with the customer, it was determined that nothing was stolen from business. The customer believes that security system scared the perpetrator away. Customer was very happy with response and performance of security system
Medical Alert
Medical Emergency Response Within Minutes – Duluth:
EMC Security central monitoring station received an alarm from the residence of an EMC Security customer in Duluth. EMC Security immediately called the home and a neighbor answered phone requesting paramedics to the location. The EMC Security customer had fallen and was unable to move the entire right side of her body. The paramedics were dispatched to residence and were able to get to the customer in time. The monitoring center representative remained on the phone with the customer until the paramedics arrived.
Fire
Smoke Detected, House Fire Prevented – Snellville:
EMC Security monitoring received a Smoke / Heat Detector Alarm. The monitoring station immediately contacted the homeowner and dispatched the fire department and they found that someone in the home had left a pot on the stove where all of the liquid had boiled out of it. If they had not gotten back to the home when they did, the home could have caught fire. The customer is very happy with the way the alarm was handled by EMC Security.
Smoking – #1 cause of deaths
Fireplace
Portable space heaters
Candles
Worn and damaged cords
Grill
Propane and gasoline
Is your security system looking a little worn-out? Does it need special treatment or updating?