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Panic Button Protects Customer and Stops Home Invasion!
Home intruders strike homes whether people are at home or away.
Statistics show someone is home in three out of every ten burglaries.
The EMC Security monitoring center received a panic alarm from the keyfob of the security system customer in Gainesville, Georgia. Once the panic button is pressed, the alarm sounds in the home and EMC Security immediately dispatches the police. The woman that pressed the panic button told us that she thought she could hear someone breaking into her home through one of the windows.
She heard noise on the outside of her home for a few minutes but did not think someone was trying to enter the home. Soon after she could hear the sounds of a person inside the home. The customer was fortunate enough to have a key fob with a panic button to manually set off the system when she heard sounds of a break-in and noises of someone in the home.
The system activation – and alarm – scared off the potential intruder.
Though we do not know what the intruder’s intentions were, we know that the security system potentially saved the customer’s life and valuables.
Please inquire about including a panic button key fob as a part of your home security system. The EMC Security panic button key fob will always operate whether your security system is armed or not. It is a valuable addition to your security system.
Best Places to Put Your Outdoor Camera
A home without a security system is 3 times as likely to get broken into than one with a security system.
Video cameras add even more protection because they often deter criminals before attempting to get into a home.
According to the survey, “Understanding Decisions to Burglarize from the Offender’s Perspective,” conducted by the University of North Carolina, 60% of burglars would consider the presence of security cameras when selecting a target, and more than 40% said that cameras are a factor in choosing another target.
Law abiding people don’t tend to consider the mind of a burglar. But the fact is, most thieves know more about home security than the average
home owner . So it’s important to know the best place to put a security camera so they skip your home and move on, away from your property.We’ve uncovered the best places to install security cameras around the outside of your home to help deter burglars.
Front Door
- Because most burglars try the front door first, installing a security camera here is a great way to deter them before they try to get in.
- Place your camera above the door, about 7 feet up, at a downward angle to best record facial images.
Side and Back Doors
- If the front door isn’t an option, the burglar will most likely try a side or back door. Reports show that 22% of burglars enter through the back door because they know that in most homes the back door is not as secure as the front.
- If there is a window at the door, position the camera so that it covers them both.
- It’s also a good idea to position a camera to cover your entire backyard and any out-building you may have.
Windows
- Approximately 23% of burglars will break into a home from a
first floor window if they can’t get in through a door. Windows at the back or side of the house are the most vulnerable. - This is also a good place for an indoor camera placed on a table focusing on the window and anything that might crawl through.
Garage
- Approximately 9% of burglars get in the house through the garage so consider pointing a security camera at your garage doors.
It’s important to remember that security cameras are not a replacement for monitored home security systems. They are to simply add an extra layer of security. If you want to feel safe and secure inside your home, you should purchase a security system with professional monitoring so if an intruder gets inside, you will have help – quickly.
Below are more stats that may help you decide where to place your outdoor security cameras:
- 81% of break-ins occur on the first floor
- 4% of burglars will enter a residence via a basement
- 12% walk in casually through unlocked entrances
Check out EMC Security’s selection of video cameras including our indoor camera priced at just $79.
What Makes EMC Security Different Than the Others?
The biggest difference: No Contracts!
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.
Security Technology
EMC Security sells a variety of security equipment including Honeywell security technology. Honeywell is the largest manufacturer of security technology in the world. 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.
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.
What EMC Security Can Do For You That Others Can’t
Custom System vs Package Deals
The reason why buying home security can be so confusing is that companies offer security “packages”. The packages start at a base price, often with “free equipment” included, and go up to what is often an astronomical price. EMC Security does not offer package pricing. Our systems are customized for your home and lifestyle so your system is the perfect blend of technology that fits your needs.
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.
Professionally Installed vs. Self-Installed Security
With the introduction of advanced technology, there are many home security options available.
Most of them fall into two categories: professionally installed, and
self installed /DIY systems.Below we will provide the benefits of each to ensure you get the system right for you.
Professionally Installed Systems
When you purchase a professionally installed security system, like one from Atlanta’s own EMC Security, a security expert assesses your home and lifestyle to determine the security solution that is right for your needs. Once the system is customized for your home, a professional security technician will install and test the system. This includes installing the panel, keypad, sensors, and integrating remotes services on your mobile devices. A wireless system takes 2-4 hours to install and test every sensor to ensure it’s working properly.
Some homeowners decide to install a pre-wired system. Pre-wired security systems have wires connecting each device to the control panel (or hub of the system) and operate on electricity in the home. Installation could take a full day, depending on the size of the home and type of system.
There are some companies that make outrageous offers for free security systems with professional monitoring. If you choose to evaluate these companies for your home security, pay attention to the fine print and contract terms. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. A reputable security company will charge a fair price for equipment, offer payment terms, and keep monthly monitoring costs affordable.
Is a Professionally Installed Security System right for you? Find out here.
Self-Install/DIY systems
A home security system you install yourself, like EMC Security’s Self-Install System, can be a more affordable, convenient option for many people looking to secure their homes. With this type of system, you can install it when it’s most convenient for you – without taking off work or scheduling appointments. It’s also typically more cost effective since you are not paying for installation.
It’s important to note that not all DIY security systems are the same. EMC Security cautions against systems from the “big box” stores. We believe no one should trust their home and family’s safety to anyone other than a professional security company.
Here’s why:
1. You are on your own when purchasing a system at a retail store. If you don’t know what you need for complete protection, how are you going to “build” your DIY system? EMC Security’s consultants work with you to determine exactly what you need according to your home specifications and safety concerns.
2. A system built for self-monitoring gives a false sense of security. A lot of the DIY home security systems on the market are built specifically for self-monitoring. While we are big fans of interactive technology that sends alerts and notifications to your smart-phone, we do not think you should rely on alerts alone when it comes to the protection of your home and family. EMC Security’s
self install systems are designed for professional monitoring by EMC Security’s central monitoring stations. If an alarm is triggered, EMC Security will notify you, and if you can’t be reached the authorities will be dispatched….within seconds.3. Some are Poor “cheap” equipment. One of the number one consumer complaints about DIY security systems on the market is
the cheap , unreliable equipment. There’s something to be said for equipment manufactured by a leader in the industry. EMC Security sells Honeywell Security equipment. Honeywell is the #1 security equipment provider in the world and you can count on this technologybeing the most advanced, best quality in the world.4. Lack of technological support. If you have an issue with the installation, who can you call? What if something goes wrong with one of the sensors or the keypad? Does the company have service reps that can swing by your house to assist you? Even though our DIY system is fast and easy to install, EMC Security has local,
award winning service representatives available with just a simple phone call.5. Who is testing the system? EMC Security runs alarm signal tests on every customer every month. If we don’t get a signal, the customer is notified and a service technician is sent out if necessary. A DIY system purchased from a retail store will most likely not provide any customer support after the purchase.
Hard-Wired vs. Wireless Home Security: Which is Right for You
When purchasing home security, most people don’t realize there are many options currently available to them: from choosing between a wireless and hard-wired system, to deciding if you want that system to communicate via landline, Wi-Fi or cellular network, there’s a lot to consider. Want to control everything on an app? We’ve got that, too!But first things first: You’ll need to decide if a wireless or hard-wired system is the right choice for your home. The distinction may seem obvious at first, but there’s actually a lot to consider.
Hard-Wired Security System
In a hard-wired security system, the contacts on the doors, windows and motion sensors communicate with the control panel via powered lines that are wired throughout the home. It relies on electricity to operate (with a battery backup).
Pros
Because it works off a power source, a wired home security system is considered very reliable. In addition, the signal from the system to the control panel is more consistent due to the hard-wired system.
Cons
All of the equipment (contacts and motion sensors) in a wired system are connected via wires that run through the walls of the home, so in most cases this type of system requires that the home have a basement or unfinished area for the wires to connect together. Because of all the wiring, these systems are more expensive than a wireless system to install. Hard-wired systems are permanent and cannot be easily uninstalled or moved.
Reasons to choose a hard-wired system
- If you want a more hands-off system: If home automation isn’t as important to you, and you will require your security company to install the system, a hard-wired system might be best for you.
- If it’s already in place: If you move into a home with a hard-wired system already installed, count yourself lucky and stick with what you have. Contact EMC Security to see if you’ll need a takeover (simply reprogramming the existing system to allow EMC to take over) or a conversion (replacing or modifying the existing equipment, such as the control panel, keypad and sensors).
Wireless Security System
Wireless security system components communicate with the control panel via Wi-Fi or cell towers.
Many confuse the term “wireless” with “cellular communication”. A wireless system refers to the way the security components communicate with the brains of the system. A cellular communicator allows the system to communicate with the monitoring service provider via cellular towers.
With all of the advancements in technologies, wireless systems are becoming just as reliable as hard-wired systems — if not more. Due to the easier and quicker installation, a wireless system is commonly the more practical choice for most homeowners.
Pros
It is quicker and less expensive to install a wireless system since there isn’t as much equipment (i.e., wires) to install. And because there are no wires, this type of system is portable and easily uninstalled. It’s also more technologically advanced and offers features such as home automation (keyless door lock, surveillance camera monitoring, thermostat controls, etc.).
Cons
While it’s uncommon, wireless systems can be vulnerable to interference. They are also battery operated, so the batteries will need to be replaced from time to time.
Reasons to choose a wireless system
- If flexibility matters: A wireless system is easier to install and uninstall, so you can take your wireless system with you in the event you relocate to a new home. Because of their portability, they can also be easily adapted to remodels.
- If you’re a techie: If home automation and controlling your system through an app are on the top of your list, then a wireless system is your best bet.
If you’re ready to purchase home security but aren’t sure which system is best for you, download our Free Guide to Buying Home Security to learn more about the available options.
Security Terminology You Should Know
Technology is changing so quickly.
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 terms 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.
5 Security Risks Homeowners Overlook
We know no one would intentionally put their family or home in danger, but they might do so without knowing it.
Common Security Risks Homeowners Overlook & how to Correct Them:
1. Not Closing the Curtains. Most burglars peer through windows to look for things to steal and to detect occupancy. Always keep curtains closed when you’re not home and use caution leaving them open when you’re inside. It’s also a good idea to close them at night because interior lights make it especially easy for burglars to see indoors.
2. No Security Camera at the Front Door. You may not realize it but many burglars break in through the front door. But when faced with security cameras, intruders are apt to think twice. Choose a security camera that is monitored with a mobile app so you always know who is at your doorstep. Consult our security camera webpage for information about camera types and which would be best for you.
3. Leaving Doors Unlocked. Even if your neighborhood is considered safe, leaving your door unlocked puts your home and family in jeopardy. Before going to the trouble of breaking in, burglars will often check if your home’s doors are unlocked. Keep your doors locked at all times, even when you’re inside, and don’t leave a spare key in an obvious location. If you’re worried about your family getting locked out or just want to make locking and unlocking the door less of a hassle, consider buying an auto-lock system so you can control your locks from your mobile phone.
4. Not Having a Home Security System. Some burglars case neighborhoods looking for the easiest homes to break into. If you don’t have a home security system, your house may be more attractive to criminals because they think there’s less chance they’ll get caught. A home security system can help reduce the risk of a break-in and better protect your home and family. As an added benefit, EMC Security systems can also monitor you home for fire, carbon monoxide, and other potential hazards. EMC Security can help you choose the best security system for your needs and budget. Once you get a home security system, don’t forget to post the yard signs that came with it to warn burglars your home is protected.
5. No Outdoor Lighting. Burglars don’t want to be seen. That makes a dark entryway and yard a security risk. Illuminate your yard with auto-lights that are motion activated and can be set up to turn on at dusk and turn off whenever you want. You will want to put auto-lights around sheds and outbuildings and other places that store items that a burglar would want.
In addition to implementing the five security solutions above, don’t make the mistake of thinking crime won’t happen to you or your family. While some communities are safer than others, it’s important to remember that crime happens in every neighborhood. Don’t assume your home and family are safe.
Contact EMC Security to secure your home today at 770.963.0305.
3 Reasons to Choose a Cellular Home Security Connection
Your home security system has three options to communicate with your monitoring service provider, such as EMC Security.
Those options are
landline , Wi-Fi, and cellular. While each connection type will provide you with reliable home security monitoring, there are a few things to consider when deciding which is right for you.In this post we’ll examine the reasons we believe a cellular connection is a great choice for most homes today, especially considering most households don’t have an operational landline as more and more people opt for cell phones.
But first, let’s discuss the differences between each connection:
Landline
Connecting your home security system through your phone line is the most cost-effective option as there’s no equipment to buy and no charge to transmit the alarm other than the monthly monitoring rate. However, if your phone line is cut, there’s no way for the alarm to communicate with the service provider’s central station. In addition, if you opt for the landline connection, there is no way to access the security system using a smartphone, which is a feature most customers are looking for.
Wi-Fi
This type of connection communicates with the monitoring service via an internet connection. The benefit of this type of connection is that there is no transmission cost — as long as you have an internet connection, the service provider will only need to put a module in to allow it to communicate over the internet. There is a cost for the module, but it will also give you the ability to control the security system through a smartphone. It’s important to note that this type of connection relies on your IP connection, so if your internet goes down, the system won’t be able to communicate.
Cellular
A cellular connection communicates with the monitoring service provider via cellular towers and is considered the most secure because there are no lines that can be cut to prevent the system from communicating with the provider. There are equipment costs, however, as you’ll need to purchase a cellular communicator, and the cell carriers will charge a small monthly transmission cost for the cellular communicator. Because the technology will advance over time, you will need to upgrade your cellular communicator from time to time.
Now that you know the difference between each of the connections, let’s discuss three reasons a cellular connection is the best choice for most home:
It’s the Most Secure: Both landline and Wi-Fi communication are susceptible to disruption: landlines can be cut, and Wi-Fi relies on an active internet connection. A cellular connection communicates through cellular towers and is less vulnerable.
Convenient: A cellular connection can be controlled from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet or computer. Perks include real-time alerts and monitoring.
More Control: A cellular connection offers more interactive services, such as
virtual keypad, live video, door lock, lighting and thermostat controls. You can also arm and disarm from your phone and have access tolive-streaming video.If you’re ready to purchase home security but aren’t sure which system is best for you, download our Free Guide to Buying Home Security to learn more about the available options.
Guide to Purchasing Home Security
In a world full of options purchasing home security can be confusing.
- “I have a system but I don’t know what to do with it…”
- “I need something but I’m not sure what…”
- “Do I need a full system or can I just get cameras?”
- “And more…”
We’ll help you cut through the clutter so you can make a good home security purchasing decision.
Click below to download our Guide to Buying Security now.
Top 10 Places to Put Security Cameras
Security cameras seem to be the way of the future for home security, but just buying a camera isn’t enough to keep you, your family, and your home safe.
OUTSIDE
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 High
Wherever 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
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 Room
The 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.
