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What if your 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.
Are Your Cameras Secure?
Contrary to what some may think, EMC Security cameras are not a part of your monitored security system. The video is not accessible by EMC Security employees or anyone other than you and those you assign access with a password. Please keep your password in a safe location and change it frequently.
Below are ways to ensure your cameras are safe from hackers:
1. Purchase cameras from a company you trust. EMC Security offers camera technology that employs multiple security techniques at different layers of our network(s) and ecosystem to maintain the integrity of services, such as:
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- The devices do not have an external addressable/reachable interface from the Internet and are accessible only via a private network that is extended into and through a cellular carrier.
- All information between the communicators to and through the service platform is encrypted using either 128 or 256-bit encryption keys.
- Data traversing the cellular network is segregated (private) within the carrier traffic group and is routed via VPN connection to the network and service platform.
- The devices attach to a mesh network where traffic is decrypted, analyzed, and routed accordingly.
- We employ both industry standard and proprietary mechanisms (firewalls, proxies, port redirects, secure ports and sockets, etc.) to isolate traffic and/or data from public networks at the physical and logical network boundaries and demarcations.
- Additionally, EMC Security offers personalized service with professionally trained security consultants and technicians that coach and counsel customers through the sales and installation process. This will help them prevent hacking.
2. Change your password. In many cases, hacks are indeed a result of poor management on the part of the user. One of the biggest things you can do to prevent home security camera hacks is to educate yourself about malware, password security, and Wi-Fi network security. And change your password. Frequently.
3. Instead of giving your Wi-Fi password to friends and guests in your home, create a “guest” network. This way, no one but you will have access to your computers or personal data. Many Wi-Fi routers allow you to configure a guest access for this purpose.
4. Never use the same password across different accounts. Many of us are guilty of this because of the convenience. If your security camera password the same as your email, Facebook, or online banking password, you’re greatly increasing your risk of a security breach. For your security camera (and all of your accounts), use a password that’s different from the one you use for any other account. View more tips.
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- Use 12 characters minimum.
- Avoid any personal info in your password, like birthdays, kids’ names, anniversaries, etc.
- Your password should be completely random.
- Include upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols.
5. If available, always use two-factor or a biometric authentication to secure your account. When two of these factors are required for authentication, the security becomes much more entrenched, making it more difficult to hack. EMC Security’s cameras use biometric authentication for viewing video on the mobile app.
6. Consider using a secure password manager such as LastPass (offers free credit monitoring, two-factor authentication, a password generator, and a secure master password). These programs use a digital vault that lock up your passwords and other login credentials. The information is also stored on remote servers and encrypted on a local machine so there’s no way for a middle-man to compromise your credentials.
7. Double-check who has access to your cameras. Your video app has a location where you can check all users on your account. If you have questions, give us a call.
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Protecting Your Home During Summer Vacation
Summer-time is fast-approaching which usually means that millions of families are gearing up for their traditional summer vacation.
If you are among those who are planning to travel away from home for a summer vacation, here are a few tips to help guarantee that your home security remains in tip-top shape during your time away from home.
Ask A Friend or Neighbor to Perform Daily Checks of Your Home
One thing that you could do is to ask close friends and family to either house sit while you are away, routinely check for mail, water the plants and to make the house appear as active as possible during your time away.
Stage Your Home to Look Occupied
If you leave blinds open at the front of the house when you are living there, stick to that routine when you are away. It is a good trick to alternate between rooms in the front and the back in case any potential burglars are looking to see if anyone is home. Use fake TV switches to activate your television as night arrives to give the perfect appearance of a working television set behind the blinds and curtains.
Upgrade Your Alarm System
Lastly, just before departing for a summer holiday where you’ll be away from home for a week or two, take time to conduct a thorough review of your home security system, including the strength of all doors and windows, locks and your current alarm system.
The last thing you want when going away on holiday is to worry about your home. Put in place a strict check of your home before setting off for vacation, and upgrade alarm systems and other home security processes if necessary.
EMC Security has a range of products and advice that can help you. To learn more about our smart tech security and other solutions, contact us today. We will be glad to answer your questions!
The Future is Here: Your Guide to the Smart Home Ecosystem
In the Beginning
Back in the 1980s the most advanced technology in smart home devices was a gadget called The Clapper, which allowed homeowners to turn their lights on and off by simply clapping their hands twice. Clap. Clap.
Fast-forward to more than thirty years later and the advancements in smart home technology are obvious and easy to see..
In many cases, these advancements have made simple tasks such as staying in touch with our friends and family much simpler but perhaps the best examples can be found among the many ways modern advances have helped us live safer, smarter, and more efficient lives at home. In fact, research shows that more than 9 out of every 10 homes in the United States own a smart home device. Smart home technology transforms your home into a comprehensive system that all works together to make your home a more secure, convenient place to live.
Benefits of a Smart Home Security
Convenience
It goes without saying that every home is different… Some homes are big with many rooms, windows, doors and large gardens. Some homes are small, some have many floors and some just have one. That’s what makes our homes great. With EMC Security, you can customize your smart home security system to focus on all the features you find important to meet your needs.
For example, let’s say you want to design a home security system that extends itself beyond intrusion detection. You can personalize your security system by adding features like a smart doorbell, outdoor security cameras, and smart thermostats.
Just because buying a home is a major investment, it doesn’t mean updating your home with smart devices has to be costly or unaffordable. EMC smart home technology delivers hundreds of features that help make our lives more convenient while transforming your home into everything you want it to be.
Always in the Know
Many people rarely ever think about the dangers associated with a normal doorbell until they find a viable alternative. Traditional doorbells come with some serious weaknesses. For instance, the home’s front door happens to be the most popular when entering or leaving the house.
As such, it is common for homeowners to forget to lock the door properly. Also, whenever someone rings your doorbell, you have to physically go to the door to see who is outside. This inherently increases your exposure to potential risks in the event that you open the door to an unfamiliar and dangerous person. Video doorbells help you eradicate these risks.
Today’s doorbell incorporates two-way audio, HD camera, and a Wi-Fi connection. These are features that can easily be accessed from your smartphone, thereby helping you to enhance convenience and safety.
Security
Smart devices can improve access and security around the home, such as through motion sensors, smart locks, doorbells and smart windows and doors. However, there have been issues of smart homes being compromised through security breaches so always be mindful of how your personal data is used.
LOCKS. Be confident your home is secure with smart lock control at your fingertips.
LIGHTS. Control lights remotely or program them to turn on and off on a schedule or when you arrive home.
THERMOSTATS. Home or away – monitor the temperature of your home with thermostat control.
VIDEO. Keep an eye on the most important people in your life. From kids to packages to four-legged family members—be in-the-know at all times.
Is a smart home worth it?
If you avoid gimmicks and choose smart devices that individually, practically make your life easier, with an eye on the bigger picture of how they all fit into a smart home ecosystem, we think a smart home can be well worth it.
Thieves Never Check These Hiding Places
No one ever expects to get robbed, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to be prepared. Your home is actually full of secret hiding spots thieves will never consider looking.
Let’s just admit that we all have the habit of stashing our most valued possessions in common places that are easy to spot. In fact, burglars are experts who have years of experience and know exactly where to find these items. Avoid keeping your items in the prime spots like your master bedroom, bedroom closet, desk drawer in your study room, your jewelry box, or the cabinet in the hallway. These are the most common places where burglars search for these items. However, there are plenty of creative ways to hide your valuables and trick burglars — after all, they are humans too!
Here are 6 clever places to hide your valuables in your home:
1) Library or a Study Room
Home library or office room with bookshelves. This is an excellent spot to stash your valuables, especially if you have lots of books. It becomes a tedious task for thieves to search between the books, especially when they only have a short amount of time to pull off the theft.
2) Garage
Most homeowners have a garage or a storage room as a part of their houses. And while most homeowners tend to dump old stuff in these areas, such as spare boxes and paint cans. However, you can empty and clean some of the discarded boxes and hide your valuable items inside them. Research shows that this is one of the least expected places to find valuables, so burglars won’t suspect it.
3) Safe or a Locker
Keeping a personal safe or a lock box in your home is a fantastic idea. You can store your important documents, your expensive jewelry or any other valuable item inside it. Make sure that it meets insurance standards. If possible, keep it in a less obvious place, other than your bedroom.
4) Kitchen cabinets and appliances
Have you ever thought of choosing kitchen cabinets or appliances as a hiding place? It’s a clever idea to use food boxes as a secret cash stack. Considering the fact that your kitchen is full of food boxes and other containers, you can randomly pick and select somewhere to stash your cash to keep it safe from thieves. Burglars won’t even think of checking these boxes.
5) Kid’s room
There are other unsuspecting rooms that you can use to keep your valuable possessions. Although the bedroom is the most expected room burglars go for, a kid’s room is usually not considered, and therefore, never searched. Try to find clever spots within your kid’s room and hide your valuables creatively.
Conclusion
Unless you invest in a home security system (and sometimes even if you do), it’s not possible to protect every item in your home. In short, do what you can to make your home a difficult, inconvenient, and time-consuming target that will deter a would-be burglar.
EMC Security is a home security installer based in Georgia that specializes in home automation security solutions. If you are looking for a complete smart security solution for your home, you can schedule a consultation call with one of our experts. We are happy to discuss your needs and provide you with the best solutions.
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Monitored Smoke Detector vs. Other Smoke Detectors
When considering your smoke detector, sometimes it’s challenging identifying the difference between smoke alarms.
It’s our goal to clear any questions you may have when it comes to which way you should go when it comes to smoke alarms within your home.
A fire can happen in an instant.
A spark ignites into a flame; a flame erupts into a blaze; a lifetime of memories and hard work goes up in smoke; literally.
Unfortunately, EMC Security knows all too well that fire happens – even to those who think it won’t happen to them. Countless fires around Georgia start in ways home and business owners weren’t prepared for or didn’t guard against. And the result of an unchecked blaze raging through a structure is most often devastating, even with insurance.
Ask anyone who has dealt with the aftermath of a fire and they will tell you of hardship, heartache and, many times, regret. One of the biggest regrets for most is not having proper fire detection methods installed or having no one to monitor those methods.
Fire Detection Systems
Fire protection through EMC Security is a simple addition to your comprehensive alarm monitoring service.
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. If your monitored smoke alarm detects smoke or fire, it will send a signal to your security panel, which will then send an alert to our 24/7 monitoring center. Our team is technically trained to handle the detection of a fire in a way that minimizes its effect. Faster detection results in faster emergency response times.
A monitored smoke detector gives you the security in knowing that the central station knows instantly that an alarm has been triggered and that it came from your master bedroom, for instance. Now as the monitoring company, we can provide proper and accurate information to the fire department when dispatching them to your home. This in turn helps them to save your home and belongings.
On the contrary, if the smoke detector is local only (not monitored), it will sound the alarm, alerting the occupants of the presence of smoke. It is up to the occupants to contact authorities, which could take up valuable time.
The best part about our fire alert service is that your monthly monitoring cost doesn’t change when you add it to your security system with EMC Security. Our home alarm monitoring rates start as low as $16.95 a month.
Contact EMC Security to protect your home and everything you love inside, from the threat of fire today.
What Are the Most Dangerous Cities in Georgia?
Most Dangerous Cities in Georgia [2025]
Georgia is filled with scenic views, rich culture, and small-town charm. But not every city shares the same level of safety. While many places are great for families and travelers, others struggle with rising crime.
Below is a list of Georgia’s most dangerous cities in 2025. These places show high rates of violent or property crimes. Many people in these areas are now turning to security cameras and smart home security systems to help keep their homes and loved ones safe.
Georgia’s Most Violent and Unsafe Cities
City Crime Concerns Atlanta High violent crime, with risks in some downtown and southwest areas. College Park Close to Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, high rates of robbery and theft. East Point Gang activity drives up assault and theft rates. Macon Drug crimes lead to high violent crime numbers. Brunswick Tourists visit often, but theft and break-ins are common. Griffin High assault rates. Needs better local police response. Douglasville A suburb with surprising levels of break-ins and assault. Hapeville Small, but sees lots of property crime. Albany Historic city with a growing violent crime rate. Jesup Crime driven by poverty and limited job options. These cities aren’t without hope. Many are working on solutions. But for those who live or work there, staying alert is key.
Smart Security for Peace of Mind
If you live in or near one of these cities, now is the time to take action. A smart home security system can help you:
- Monitor your home at all hours
- Watch live video through security cameras
- Get alerts if someone enters your space
- Lock and unlock doors from your phone
Even in high-risk areas, you can lower your chance of being a victim. It’s all about making smart choices and staying prepared.
If you’re not sure where to begin, EMC Security offers custom plans that fit your home and your needs. Reach out today to learn how to stay safe—no matter where you live.
Understanding Crime in Georgia
Georgia is a state known for its scenic landscapes, rich history, and Southern charm. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the coastal plains, it’s a place that draws in visitors and new residents alike. But not every corner of the Peach State offers the same level of safety. While many communities are peaceful and family-friendly, others face higher crime rates that raise real concerns. Understanding which cities are considered the most dangerous in Georgia for 2025 is a crucial step for anyone thinking about moving, traveling, or simply staying informed.
Safety starts with awareness—and that’s where EMC Security comes in. Whether you’re settling into a new neighborhood or reevaluating your current home’s protection, knowing the risks can help you take smart steps to stay secure. As you explore this list of Georgia’s most dangerous cities, remember that you don’t have to face those risks alone. Contact EMC Security to learn how we can help protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.
What Makes a City Dangerous?
When people ask what makes a city “dangerous,” it’s not always a simple answer. Many things play a part. Crime rate is the most common way people measure how safe a city is. But not all crime is the same.
Here are the two main types of crime used to rank a city’s safety:
- Violent Crimes
- Murder
- Robbery
- Aggravated assault
- Rape
- Property Crimes
- Burglary
- Theft
- Motor vehicle theft
- Vandalism
These crimes affect how safe people feel. They also shape how a city is seen by others.
Crime Rates and Population Size
Crime rates are often measured per 1,000 people. This helps compare large cities to smaller towns in a fair way. A city with fewer people but more crime per person can seem more dangerous than a big city with more total crimes.
Georgia’s Crime Numbers in 2025
In 2025, Georgia’s overall crime rate is higher than the national average. Based on recent reports:
- The violent crime rate in Georgia is about 4.0 per 1,000 people
- The national average is closer to 3.6 per 1,000
- For property crime, Georgia sees about 20.4 per 1,000, compared to the national rate of 18.9
While these numbers may not seem far apart, small differences matter. A few extra crimes per 1,000 people can mean a lot when you’re trying to keep your family safe.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
Feeling safe at home starts with smart planning. Whether you live in a quiet town or a busy city, it’s important to take steps that help protect your space and the people you love. EMC Security provides a full range of tools and services to help you stay secure—day and night.
Smart Home Security Systems
A smart home security system gives you peace of mind. You can watch over your home from your phone or tablet. EMC Security’s systems are easy to use and offer:
- 24/7 professional monitoring
- No contracts required
- Local service and support
- Custom programming to fit your home
- Color touchscreen keypads
- Remote control via Alexa
- Integration with lights, locks, and thermostats
- Fire and carbon monoxide alerts
Alarm Systems That Work With You
A smart alarm system can scare off crime before it happens. It also calls for help fast when needed. EMC Security offers:
- Door and window sensors
- Motion detectors
- Alarms that alert local responders
- Systems that keep working during power outages
Security Cameras Add Extra Protection
Cameras help keep an eye on what matters most. They stop crime before it starts—and help solve it when needed. EMC Security has:
- Doorbell cameras
- High-definition webcams
- Night vision
- NVR camera systems
- Cloud video storage
- AI video surveillance
These tools work together to keep your home safe. You can build a system that fits your home, your needs, and your budget. EMC Security even offers professional install or easy DIY options.
A safer home starts with smart choices—and EMC Security makes it simple.
Is Atlanta, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Atlanta has areas with higher crime rates, particularly in certain neighborhoods. However, many areas in the city are considered safe, and crime rates are generally higher in comparison to national averages.
Is Augusta, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Augusta experiences a mix of crime rates. While some areas are safe, others see higher rates of violent and property crimes. It’s important to research specific neighborhoods.
Is Macon, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Macon has a high violent crime rate, often driven by drug-related offenses. Residents should take caution and prioritize safety measures.
Is Savannah, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Savannah is known for its beautiful, historic areas, but it also has neighborhoods with higher crime rates. As with most cities, safety varies by neighborhood.
Is Athens, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Athens is generally safe, with some areas being safer than others. Violent crime rates are lower compared to larger cities like Atlanta.
Is Sandy Springs, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Sandy Springs is a safer area within the metro Atlanta region. It has relatively low crime rates, making it a desirable place for families and professionals.
Is South Fulton, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
South Fulton has seen rising crime rates in recent years, but it varies by area. Some neighborhoods are safer than others, so local knowledge is important.
Is Roswell, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Roswell is considered a safe city, with low crime rates compared to the national average. It’s a popular area for families due to its good schools and peaceful neighborhoods.
Is Johns Creek, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Johns Creek is known for being one of the safest cities in Georgia. It has very low crime rates, particularly when it comes to violent crime.
Is Warner Robins, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Warner Robins experiences moderate crime rates, with some areas seeing more property crimes. Overall, it is a relatively safe city compared to larger urban centers.
Is Alpharetta, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Alpharetta is known for its safety and family-friendly atmosphere. The crime rate is low, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the metro Atlanta area.
Is Marietta, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Marietta has areas that are safe and well-regarded, but certain parts of the city may experience higher crime rates. As with most cities, safety depends on the neighborhood.
Is Smyrna, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Smyrna is generally safe, with crime rates lower than those of Atlanta. It has a mix of residential and commercial areas, making it attractive for families and professionals.
Is Valdosta, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Valdosta has higher property crime rates compared to some other cities in Georgia. It’s important to stay informed about local crime trends when considering relocation.
Is Brookhaven, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Brookhaven is a relatively safe area in the northern part of Atlanta. The crime rate is lower than that of surrounding areas, making it popular with families and young professionals.
Is Peachtree, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Peachtree City is known for its low crime rates and family-friendly environment. It is one of the safer cities in Georgia.
Is Newnan, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Newnan is considered a safe city, though some areas experience higher property crimes. It has a tight-knit community and generally lower violent crime rates.
Is Peachtree City, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Peachtree City is a well-regarded area with low crime rates, especially when compared to urban regions in Georgia. It’s a safe choice for families.
Is East Point, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
East Point has higher crime rates, particularly with violent crimes. It is essential to research specific neighborhoods in the city to determine safety levels.
Is Cornelia, Georgia a safe place to live in 2025?
Cornelia is a small city with relatively low crime rates. It is generally considered a safe place to live, though as with any location, safety may vary by area.
Stay Safe in Georgia
As crime rates rise in some of Georgia’s most dangerous cities, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect your home and family. A home security system, smart home technology, and surveillance cameras can help reduce the risk and provide peace of mind. With tools like smart residential alarm systems, you can stay informed and in control, even when you’re not home.
At EMC Security, we offer a wide range of security options, tailored to meet your needs. Whether you’re in Marietta, Gainesville, Athens, or Atlanta, we are here to help you feel safe and secure. Our solutions are designed to provide protection where you need it most.
Reach out to EMC Security today. Let us help you find the best security system for your home and family in Georgia’s most dangerous cities. We’ll work with you to find the right solution for your peace of mind. Stay safe with EMC Security.
What Makes a Security Company Great?
Whether on the Phone or on Website Chat, You’ll Speak to a Live Person
Phone Technicians Available
Going Great Lengths
EMC Security has customer service that goes the extra mile. Our sales representatives and technicians pay attention to the details and listen to what the customer wants. Our technicians are subject to a background check and drug tests and are fully trained on our technology and elevating the customer experience.
While in your home, the technician will always be mindful of your home (wearing shoe pads) and will clean up after themselves. Before leaving your home, you will learn how to use your system and your mobile app if applicable. Read customer reviews on Google and Facebook to see what real customers have to say. If you are a current customer, we would greatly appreciate you leaving your honest feedback.
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 Secure Path™ , 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.
Ownership
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.
We employ 6-8 service technicians that work with customers on the phone each and every day. These technicians help the customer test their system and/or troubleshoot any minor issues over the phone. Many issues can be easily solved by remotely logging into the system from our end, lessening the need for an in-home service call.
Emergencies don’t always stay in the usual workday of 8AM-6PM. We have after-hours and on-call technicians ready to help at a moment’s notice.
At EMC Security, the only recording you will hear is the department call-tree. We have the phone system in place to make it easier to talk directly to who you need to.
We understand that phone calls are not always convenient, so our website, emcsecurity.com , has answers to common system issues, payment questions, and purchasing a security system.
When it comes to safety and security, we want the best. To get the best, you need to know what to look for when looking for a security system to protect what you value most.
What separates the best from the rest is customer service. Have you noticed that the customer service bar is pretty low lately? We’ve been trained as a society to expect bad service – so we are pleasantly surprised when we receive decent or good service. EMC Security gives the highest level of service as a norm. We work hard to EARN your business every day.
Home Security Equipment
As soon as you purchase your gorgeous new smart-phone, a new version goes on the market. It’s just the way of life these days. And it’s the same for security technology. Every day, innovators bring advanced products to make us safer, while simplifying our lives with convenient apps and remote controls.
Buzzwords are everywhere and it can be confusing. It’s important to educate yourself before purchasing a security system so you don’t get taken advantage of buying useless components.
Here’s a list of security equipment you should know:
Central Station
The term “central station” is used interchangeably with the term “monitoring center.” This refers to the location that alarm monitoring companies use to monitor alarm systems. The central monitoring station is responsible for contacting the correct emergency services in a timely manner in case of an alarm.
Wireless Monitoring
Another term for cellular monitoring, where your security system connects to the monitoring center via cellular towers.
24-Hour Monitoring
How many hours a day our monitoring stations monitor your home.
Hardwired System
A system that is installed using physical wires, often hidden mostly behind the walls of the home. Most older home alarm systems rely on hard wiring where most new systems are gravitating towards wireless alarm systems.
Wireless Alarm System
These types of systems are easier to install and generally preferred by homeowners because they do not involve running wires in the home.
Key Pad
The
key pad of a home alarm system is the numbered pad on the system that allows for the homeowner to arm, disarm and otherwise communicate with the alarm system.Master Code
A master code is the main code used for an alarm system that the homeowner uses to arm and disarm the home security system.Sensors
Devices that detect motion, break-ins, flooding, freezing, fire, and carbon monoxide. Usually placed on doors and windows for intrusion detection.
Chime
This refers to the sound that home security systems can be programmed to make whenever a door or window within the home is opened or closed. This type of sound allows for homeowners to monitor comings and goings in the home.
Communicator
A module within the home security system that digitally dials
in to the central station. The communicator is responsible for relaying information about the home that is ascertained by the home security system.Contacts
These are the small sensors that are placed on doors and windows of the home so that the home security system can monitor whether a door or window is open or closed.
Zone
An area of the home as it is “seen” by the home alarm system. This type of area is generally determined by numbers and is mapped out by alarm components like the sensors in a particular area of the home.
Smoke Detector
Detects the presence of smoke in the home. Many smoke detectors are used without being connected to the alarm system. It is important for at least one smoke detector to be connected to the security system and professionally monitored to avoid a tragedy. Monitoring for fire is included in our basic monitoring cost.
Heat Sensor
Detects the rapid increase of temperature so you know if there’s a fire threat.
Flood Sensor
This is a sensor that detects water levels to ensure your home doesn’t flood. Monitoring for
flood is included in our basic monitoring cost.Door/Window Sensors
Sensors that detect if a door or window is opened.
Glass Break Sensor
A sensor that detects the sound frequency of glass breaking so you’ll know if your window breaks.
Motion Detector
A device that prompts the alarm signal when it detects motion. Typically inside the home and within a certain radius of security cameras.
Backup Battery
A rechargeable battery that provides power to the home security system in the event that the AC power is no longer functioning.
Bypass
Bypassing allows for certain areas of the home to be unmonitored while the rest of the home is monitored.
Entry Delay
A time delay that allows the homeowner a period of time before the alarm triggers due to an event. This is most commonly the period of time that allows for homeowners to get into the home to turn off the alarm system before it sounds.
Exit Delay
This is the delay after an alarm is armed which allows the homeowner to exit the home before the system becomes active.
Remote Access or Interactive Services
This feature lets you access and
control your home alarm system through a smartphone or web-enabled device.Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector
A sensor that warns you if your house reaches a dangerous level of CO. We monitor for CO at no additional monitoring cost.
2-Way Voice
Many types of home security systems, cameras, and emergency alert devices us two-way voice and audio through the equipment to speak to another person directly.
Where to Put Security Cameras
Security cameras are the most popular form of home security. There are many to choose from so it’s important to know where to place your cameras for optimal protection (and ease of use).
OUTSIDE CAMERAS:
By the Front Door
Whether you have a doorbell camera at eye-level, or an outdoor camera mounted above the door-frame, having a security camera near your front door allows you to:
- See when the kids get home from school
- Tell if that person at the door is a solicitor, a neighbor, a friend, or someone you just don’t want to talk to
- Keep an eye on your packages to make sure they arrive on time and safe
- And get a headstart on the dogs when you have visitors
By the Back or Side Door
Especially if your back entrance faces the woods, it’s important to keep an eye on what’s going on behind your house. After all, a woody backyard makes the perfect cover for someone trying to break into your home unseen. You can also watch what the kids or pets are up to from a much more comfortable location, like your couch.
On the Gate or Fence-Line
If your property is gated, and especially if your fence-line is out of sight of the house itself, posting a camera on or near the main and side entrances will ensure that you and EMC Security can see your whole yard, including where intruders are likely to enter. And in the case of an emergency like a fallen tree, wildfire, or other unexpected damage, you’ll be able to spot the danger before it causes serious harm.
In First Floor Windows
Windows on the ground floor are one of the most common entrances for burglars, so a visible security camera will go a long way in deterring criminals…and catching them if they do attempt to break in.
Up HighWherever you place your cameras outside your house, try to mount them at least 10 feet above ground level. That way, they will be much harder for burglars to tamper with, disable, or cover up.
INSIDE CAMERAS:
In the Foyer
Even if you have outdoor security cameras, having an extra set of eyes in the entrance to your home will let you see who comes in, when, and what they do when they get there.
In the Living RoomThe living room is the heart of the home, and that makes it the perfect place for you to place an indoor camera to watch the comings and goings of your house. Children, spouses, pets, and criminals will all pass through here at some point or another.
In the Garage
If you don’t have a door sensor on your garage entrance, it is especially crucial that you keep an eye on the area. Plus, your garage houses what is likely your most expensive possession: your car.
Facing Medicine and Liquor Cabinets
Prescription drug theft is extremely common in not just burglaries, but also
friend and family theft. In fact, medicine cabinets are overwhelmingly more likely to be raided by someone you know than a stranger. That’s why it’s important to have all drugs, whether over-the-counter or prescription, securely locked away and monitored. The same is true for alcohol.Facing Basement Stairs
Because basement entrances and windows are often not as well maintained or secured as the rest of the house, basements can be the perfect entry point for a would-be criminal.
To learn more about purchasing security cameras for your home, visit this page or talk to an EMC Security Customer Representative at 770-963-0305.