Set Up Service 770-963-0305

|

55 Satellite Blvd NW Suwanee, GA 30024-2166

GET A FREE QUOTE

Category: EMC Security News

  • Arm Your System with Google or Alexa

    Arm Your System with Google or Alexa

    EMC Security’s newest wireless systems, Connect+, give customers the convenience to arm and disarm the system using Alexa or Google Home.

    How to use Amazon Alexa with Connect+

    The Alula Alexa Security Skill allows users to operate theConnect+ securitysystem with voice commands through their Alexa-enabled devices.

    To get started first add Alula to your Alexa by installing the Alula Skill.

    1. Download and Open the Alexa application on your smartphone.

    2. Select “Skills & Games” from the slide out menu on the left of the screen (tap the 3 parallel lines on the top left corner to expose menu)

    3. Search for “alula” without quotes. Tap the Alula app from the list that appear then tap “Enable” to add the Alula Skill to your Alexa.

    4. Sign in with your Username and Password that you use with the Alula app.

    Once Skill is added Alexa will now be able to react to the “My Security System” command. The basic pattern is to say “Alexa, ask/tell My Security System to…” Some specific example as are as follows.

      • Alexa, ask My Security System to arm to stay.
      • Alexa, tell My Security System to arm to away.
      • Alexa, tell My Security System to arm to night.
      • Alexa, ask My Security System for status.
      • Alexa, ask My Security System to disarm using 1,2,3,4 (you may use any valid code for your panel).
    How to use Google Home with Connect+

    Install the Google Home app for iPhone or Android

    Press the “+” symbol in the upper left

    Click “Set up a device”

    Choose “Set up new device”

    Choose “Have something already set up?”

    Scroll down to “Alula Security” and click it

    Sign into your Alula account with your Username and Password

    You’ll see a list of all your Smart Home devices.

    Click on all of the Smart Home devices you want to add.

    Navigate back to the home screen and find the microphone button in the bottom middle of the screen.

    Press the microphone button and speak to enter Google Home commands for your Smart Home devices.

    You can say phrases such as:

    • “Set my Connect Plus to stay”
    • “Set my security system to stay”
    • “Set my security system to away”
    • “Set my security system to night”
    • “Disarm my security system” (Google will ask you for the pin)
    • “Disarm my Connect Plus” (Google will ask you for the pin)
    • “Is my system armed?”
    • “Is my Connect Plus armed?”
    • “Is my front door open?”
    • “Are my doors open?”

    You can give other household members access to the connect plus in two steps

    1. Make sure connect plus and sensors are added to a “home” in the Google Home App
    2. Use the Google Home App toinvite home member to the “home”

  • Monitoring Enhancements

    EMC Security is upgrading our monitoring procedures to provide the best customer experience possible. Below are two important changes to note:

    As of January 12, 2022:

    1. Monitoring Center Caller ID Number Change:

    Any calls or texts you receive from the monitoring center (in regards to an alarm signal) will be received from our new toll-free number.

    833-700-0294

    Save this number to your contact list as “EMC Security Monitoring”Due to the expansion of our customer service areas, establishing an 800 number allows our customers in all service areas to reach us toll free.The corporate office number 770-963-0305 has not changed (use this for anything non-alarm incident related).phone call

    2. No Cost Enhanced Text-Alert:

    In addition to receiving a call from the monitoring center upon an alarm incident, you may opt-in to also receive an immediate text.This no-cost enhancement will provide even more information and flexibility when an alarm or system service notification is received, including– Canceling an alarm– Faster dispatch of authorities– Requesting a service call directly from the text– No App download is required, and it is free for EMC Security customers.a text alert from EMC

    Learn More & Opt-In to EMC Text Alert >

    View a demo from your phone >

  • Text Alert

    Text Alert

    EMC Security is dedicated to providing the most reliable security systems that not only protect Georgia families and businesses, but also simplify our customers’ lives through remote services, home automation, video cameras, and more.

    We are also committed to providing choices and options that make it easier for our customers to utilize their security systems and for potential customers to feel safe at home.

    In that spirit of convenience, we’re now offering EMC Text-Alert, an innovative chat notification option you won’t see anywhere else. With EMC Text-Alert, you and everyone on your emergency contact list will receive a group chat notification in the event that an alarm is triggered. If someone knows what’s going on, he or she can respond appropriately.

    View a demo from your smart-phone: text “Demo” to 315-284-6062

    OPT-IN HERE >>

    How It Works:

    1. When an alarm is triggered at your home or business, everyone on your emergency contact list will receive a text with a link to enter the group chat.

    2. Upon entering the group chat, participants can discuss the situation.

    3. Users can dispatch or dismiss the alarm from the group chat using a verification code.

    4. From the time the notification is sent, participants have 60 seconds to respond. After this time, normal call procedures will be followed.

    Why It Works:

    1. Convenience: Sometimes taking a call isn’t convenient. Think about it you’re at work, out to dinner, at a movie, on a business trip, or somewhere else where you may not be immediately available to take a call. A discreet text notification can be much more accessible.

    2. Efficient Communication: Everyone in your emergency contact list is notified at once, and can use the chat function to determine what triggered the alarm. Based on what’s discussed in the chat, appropriate action can then be taken.

    3. Reduced False Alarms: Many things can happen to accidentally trigger an alarm — save time and money by dismissing the alarm directly from the chat notification.

    4. Reliable Security: EMC Text-Alert is the first line of notification. Participants have 60 seconds to respond to the initial notification before normal call procedures are followed. So even if you aren’t immediately available to answer the notification, you’ll still be protected.

    In addition to the same level of protection from EMC Security you know and trust, the new EMC Text-Alert feature not only offers yet another level of security and convenience, but it’s also provided at no additional cost.

    SIGN UP >>

    To learn more about EMC Text-Alert, contact EMC at 770-963-0305.

  • EMC Security – Retail Services

    EMC Security – Retail Services

    Get an Instant Quote

    Business Security Solutions for Retail Establishments

    Frequent challenges in a retail environment include theft and shrinkage, employee safety, and maintaining high work standards while the owner is away from the business.

    Below are the retail services provided by EMC Security:

    1. Video Surveillance

    Effectively utilizing a video camera system allows owners to maintain a record of activities for later review. It also provides owners with real-time and recorded video on demand and notifications while off-site.

    2. Intrusion Detection

    Intrusion or burglary protection gives owners the peace of mind that when their business is closed, they are still being protected. Pairing panic devices with a security system allow workers to immediately and discreetly alert authorities if they are being threatened or in need of help.

    3. Fire Protection

    EMC Security ensures businesses remain code compliant with NFPA standards with full- service design, installation, monitoring, and fire system inspections.

    4. Access Control

    With virtually unlimited access control options, retail owners can limit access to key areas like storage, business offices, and critical IT rooms.

    Learn more about protecting your business by contacting EMC Security or completing our Commercial Instant Quote below.

  • No Contract Required

    No Contract Required

    What’s the big deal about a security contract?

    Think about this scenario:

    You hired a company to provide you service on a monthly basis. You have technology in your home that needs to work, and you are placing your trust in fellow human beings to do what they are paid to do in an emergency situation.

    What if you get bad service? What if your system fails and you weren’t notified? What if the company is unresponsive, or slow to help you when you need it?

    Unlike other monthly home services like trash service, or pest control, home security service could be extremely costly if something goes wrong (and I’m not just talking about monetary costs). It is really important to understand WHO you hire to provide monitoring service – especially if they lock you into a contract.

    The fact is, you can’t purchase most professionally installed security systems on the market 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.

    EMC Security puts 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.

  • How to Prevent a False Alarm

    How to Prevent a False Alarm

    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.

  • Gwinnett County Alarm Ordinance

    Gwinnett County Alarm Ordinance

    Gwinnett County has partnered with CryWolf Technologies to administer a new false alarm reduction program.

    As a reminder, Gwinnett County requires home security system users to obtain an alarm registration/user permit. It is your responsibility to comply with these requirements.If you fail to do so, the municipality could delay or refuse to dispatch emergency personnel and/or assess you with fines.

    The Gwinnett County Code of Ordinances requires security alarm systems to be registered with the Gwinnett County Police Department, by obtaining an alarm permit for each alarm site (address).

    Additionally, the Gwinnett County Police Department must be notified of any change that alters any information listed on the previous alarm registration application, within thirty (30) business days of the change.EMC Security monitoring service will not be interrupted by this change.

    Register on CryWolf Services >>

    View Gwinnett County Ordinance >>

    Appeal Guidelines >>

    If you have any questions or need assistance, please call (833) 281-8743.

    Gwinnett County Alarm Ordinance

  • What To Expect With Professional Installation

    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:

    1. Install your customized security system and any optional equipment ordered
    2. Test all devices to ensure the system works properly and communicates with EMC Security’s monitoring centers.
    3. Assist you with app download and set-up if applicable
    4. Conduct training on the use of the system. Now is a great time to ask questions.
    5. Provide EMC Security yard signs and window stickers
    6. Obtain your signature on the EMC Security professional monitoring agreement
    7. Complete the Certificate of Professional Monitoring for burglary (and fire as needed) for insurance discounts
  • What to Expect from EMC Security This Year

    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:

    what to expect from your home security system 6-9 yearswhat to expect from your home security system 1-2 yearswhat to expect from your home security system 10 yearswhat to expect from your home security system 3-5 years

  • EMC Security Saved Our Home From Fire

    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.

    a person ashes their cigarette in an ashtraySmoking – #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.

    a stove fire

    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.

    a fire in a fireplaceFireplace

    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.

    a portable space heaterPortable 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.

    two lit candlesCandles

    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 cordsWorn 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.

    food cooking on a grillGrill

    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.

    a propane tankPropane 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.