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Dog vs Security System
One of the reasons why people think they don’t need or want a security system is because they have a dog.
It’s hard to defend against a beloved dog, especially one that looks like the one in the photo above. But there are many benefits to a security system that you just don’t get with a dog.
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.
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.
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.
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Lawn Care Safety
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In the warm weather months, many Saturday mornings in Atlanta are heralded with the drone of the lawnmower. How many of these lawnmower owners have taken the time to make sure their machine has been stored safely? And how many know the fire hazards surrounding lawnmower storage and repair?
Be informed! Here’s what you need to know about storage, handling the gasoline, and operating your lawnmower safely this spring.
Before the first mow:
- If you don’t do maintenance yourself, take your lawnmower to a shop for tune-ups and repairs.
- Make sure the blades are sharp and not damaged.
- Make sure the blade guards are in place
- Make sure your lawn is dry before mowing. Damp grass can damage the mower.
- Check the gas and oil. If there is gasoline left over from last summer and you didn’t use a fuel stabilizer, it will need to be changed.
- Make sure the emergency shut off valve is working and not damaged.
- Check the wheels and make sure they roll easily and aren’t loose enough to come off while you’re mowing.
- Replace the fuel line at least every other year to prevent the hazard caused by rotten fuel lines leaking or sending rubber bits into the carburetor.
While you mow:
- If the blade or grasses chute needs to be cleaned, stop the mower engine. Never
adjust, clear obstructions, or place any part of your body under a running lawn mower. - Disconnect the spark plug before reaching under the mower or before turning it up to look under it.
- Don’t use the trick of taping the
shut off handle down so you can run the mower without holding it. You’ll lose control of your mower. - Cut across hills and slopes, not up and down.
- If you need to add gas in the middle of a mow, stop the lawnmower and let it cool for at least 20 minutes—longer is preferable. A hot engine can ignite the gas fumes or any gasoline that spills.
- Empty the grass catcher device often so the mower won’t tip over—with you!
- Watch your oil level. If the level of your gas tank drops while the engine is at rest or you see the level of your engine oil has risen, or if you smell gas on your dipstick, do not use the machine until it can be repaired.
- If your engine spews liquid out of the muffler at
startup, or begins to falter or smoke when running, your carburetor may have failed and needs to be inspected or repaired. If the gas has mixed with the oil, you may think it is just oil leaking, but it can be the oil and gas has mixed. Do not use until you’ve’ identified and corrected the problem.
Cleanup:
- Allow the mower to cool for at least 20 minutes. Take this time to rake or clean up the yard.
- After disconnecting the spark plug wire, clean off any buildup of dirt or grass from the mower. It only gets harder to do that later.
- Once the mower is cooled, fill the oil and gas levels to the recommended marks.
- Make sure you close the lid tightly on the gas can before you put it away.
Safe Storage between uses, and in the off-season:
- Don’t store gas or other flammables in a storage shed that’s connected to your house.
- Remove old fuel from the gas tank.
- Drain the carburetor fuel bowl.
- Disconnect the battery.
- Change the oil.
- Read the owner’s manual for your brand’s exact recommendations.
- Add fuel stabilizer to your gas can at each fill up at the gas station. It prevents water from forming in the gasoline.
- Smell for fresh gasoline. If you smell fresh gas on your machine or storage area, roll the machine outside. Empty the gas, or call a pro for service.
- If you suspect any problems with your lawnmower, or you smell gas after using it, do not store it indoors. Call an expert for help.
- Call EMC Security to make sure your home is protected with fire detection devices.
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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.
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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
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Teach Your Kids About Your Security System
A home security system provides you and your family with additional protection in the event of an emergency.
Ideally, adults should be the only people operating a home security system; however, what better way is there for children to learn how to keep safe than by learning how to work the home security system by themselves?
How to Teach Your Kids about Your Security System
- Review your home’s access points, such as doors and windows, discussing how the alarm system is triggered and the process that follows.
- Provide instruction on how to turn the system on and off. Review the password with them and express the importance of keeping it secure by not telling others. This is particularly important if your child has friends over while you’re not at home. To be on the safe side, consider changing the password periodically.
- Practice! Set up times to perform practice drills and review security measures. This is a great time to teach children what to do in the event of a false alarm.
- Consider a mobile security app for additional peace of mind and convenience. With the mobile app, you’re able to view, arm, and disarm the security system from anywhere.
- Establish a family safety plan, such as a fire escape plan and what to do if your alarm goes off. Review the plans often to ensure your children know how to stay safe.
Contact EMC Security at 770.963.0305 to learn more about the mobile app and other smart-security services.
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Is Your Home Being Targeted For Burglary?
Many burglars are smarter than you’d think. In fact, there are articles that feature career burglars giving homeowners advice to avoid being a target in the future.
While that information is in another article, below will feature ways you can spot when your home has become a target, and what you can do to prevent an intrusion.
1. Do you see a questionable car parked near your home that you know doesn’t belong to your neighbors or anyone visiting?
What to do:
- Use security cameras to keep an eye on traffic near your home to identify patterns and unusual behavior. Statistics show a criminal will most likely pass up your home if a camera is visible. They simply don’t want to get caught on video.
- Take notes: vehicle description, time of day, etc.
- Talk to your neighbors.
- Alert the police.
2. Do you notice strangers walking past your home more often? Do they appear to be lingering or scoping out the house and property? While not everyone that walk the neighborhood is a potential criminal, strange, unusual behavior could be suspect.
What to do:
- Use your security cameras to video foot traffic around your home. Again, place cameras where people can see them because they help deter criminals.
- Talk to your neighbors.
3. Do you see strangers going door to door from a “legitimate business or government agency”? Crafty burglars use this as a way to gain access to the home, discover your habits, ask questions about what systems you have in the house, see if there’s a dog, etc.
What to do:
- Never let anyone in your house that doesn’t have an appointment that you’ve confirmed previously. Not only is it a personal safety risk but it gives the stranger a chance to scope out your home for a future break-in.
- Ask for a business card and references. Call the business or references to ensure the person is legitimate.
- You aren’t obligated to open your door to a stranger. A better solution is to answer the door through your video doorbell. You can have a full conversation (and video it) from your kitchen or across town.
When it comes to protecting your home and family from danger, it’s always a good idea to be extra careful. While not every stranger you see is a threat, suspicious behavior can be a cause for concern. By being vigilant, and maybe a little paranoid, you can help deter potential break-ins.
For maximum protection, install a security system and integrate security cameras. Learn more here.
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How to Reuse Your Current Security Equipment
Switching to a better home security monitoring service is called a system takeover.
The benefit is that—if it’s relatively modern and compatible—you can keep the equipment you already own rather than buy a completely new system.
How does a system takeover work?
In most cases, it’s fairly straightforward to use your existing security system and switch to a new alarm monitoring company.
It’s important to speak with your new alarm monitoring company to determine if your current system is compatible with their monitoring center.
- For example, when you call EMC Security, the main details we’ll review the type of equipment currently in place (and may ask you to text an image of your keypad) and discover if you want to add or upgrade any components. This might be a good time to upgrade to a touchscreen keypad or add security cameras.
- Once we get a good sense of your situation, we’ll send one of our trained technicians to your home to reprogram your system and make any changes requested or required.
If your system is not currently compatible with EMC Security, but is not locked out due to proprietary equipment, we’ll suggest a conversion to replace the “brains of the system” so it can communicate reliably with our central monitoring station.
- While this option is not as inexpensive as a takeover, it can be quite less expensive than replacing the entire system.
If you want the best security company in your area, we encourage you to shop around and ask your sales rep the right questions. Spending those few extra minutes to understand your security company will save you a lot of headache and disappointment down the line.
Want to learn more about security systems before you make a decision? Contact us at 770-963-0305 and we’ll answer any questions you have.
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Why a proprietary alarm is a thumbs down
Would you be happy purchasing security equipment from a company and being stuck using their service exclusively, even if the service is poor or the price keeps increasing?
It could happen, especially if you purchase ADT, Xfinity (Comcast), or Simplisafe security equipment. Simplisafe and Xfinity even claim a benefit of not requiring a monthly contract. But the fact is, if you aren’t happy with their service, you’ll need to throw the equipment in the trash – because no other company can take it over and monitor it. Their technology is proprietary.
These companies make their proprietary equipment quite attractive with huge sales or “free” equipment.
But that comes at a cost:
- A lengthy contract that rolls the equipment cost into the monthly payment
- No way out because no other company can take it over
Let me ask the obvious question:
If the company locks you into a monthly contract or locks other companies out of monitoring the equipment, what incentive do they have to offer you good service once the sale is complete?
The answer is simple – They have no incentive.
For these reasons, EMC Security gives proprietary equipment a thumbs down. We want our customers to CHOOSE to do business with us. That’s why we give them the freedom to cancel at anytime for any reason – with no penalty. The equipment is non-proprietary so many companies can monitor it.
Click here to schedule a quick, easy takeover today.
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Key features of a good home security camera
With a lot of choices available for you, it can often be tough to find the ideal home security system that can keep your home and family feeling safe from harm.
Security cameras come with a lot of features that make one different and often better for you than others.
We’ve put together our list of key features you should look for when choosing your home security cameras.
High Resolution Camera
This is the most important feature because the camera is useless if the image isn’t clear. The higher the resolution, the sharper the image. A full HD resolution of 1080p is best, but HD 720p is OK if you are on a tight budget.
Field of View
A higher viewing angle will give you the most recording coverage but depending on your needs, you may not need something so expansive. Field of view ranges widely by the camera so check this specification to make sure it’ll work properly in the chosen location.
Recording/Storage
There are a few types of recording that are common for home security cameras.
The most popular cameras use cloud storage. This option makes it easy to view video anytime. The length of time or amount of storage varies by camera so make sure you understand what you are getting so you aren’t surprised when you need to access video that might have been deleted. Some cameras include a memory card space for additional storage.
Alternately, DVR/NVR camera systems record on-site. The footage lives on the DVR/NVR in your home to be viewed at any time.
Infrared Night Vision
Make sure your camera has IR night vision. Even if your camera can capture footage hundreds of feet away during daylight, if it can’t capture video at night, it’s doing half its job. IR lights can capture crystal clear video, even in total darkness.
Two-way Audio
Camera with two-way audio allow you to speak through the camera and can capture background noise. This is a great feature because it allows you to be at two places at once. You can communicate with anyone around your home – pets, infants, aging parents – without the need for a phone.
Integration with Your Security System
Get the most out of your security cameras with integration to the security system. For example, if a camera detects motion in a specific area, your camera can activate the alarm or a light. Integration is the best way to stop crime as it’s happening.
Mobile App
The reason why security cameras have become so popular is because of the convenience of viewing video from anywhere through a mobile app. Many cameras provide real-time access so you can answer your front door from your kitchen or across town.
Keep in mind that not all security cameras are made equal, so it’s important to research to make sure you get the best for your needs.
Take a look at EMC Security’s line of wi-fi based IP cameras that are both advanced and affordable starting at $79.
Is your security system looking a little worn-out? Does it need special treatment or updating?