When used in conjunction with other security measures, the commercial alarm system is an integral part in the security of a business. There are two major types of commercial alarm systems:
1. Monitored Alarm System – this is a system that will call for assistance based on the programming of the alarm system. It will either call a personal contact number, or in most cases, it will call the authorities (police, fire, medical) based on the alarm condition. Ninety-nine percent of the time we recommend a monitored alarm system.
2. Non-Monitored Alarm System – a non-monitored alarm system is a local only alarm. This type of system will not call anyone, it will only present an alarm locally. There are certain circumstances where this type of system is preferred, but in most cases a monitored system is recommended.
The goal of any alarm system is to alert you to an unwanted presence. In order to accomplish this the alarm system will use various sensors to detect intrusion. Alarm systems are not a one size fits all application, they must be tailored specifically to the space you are trying to protect. Typical alarm systems will include:
* main control panel
* centrally located keypad(s)
* window and/or door sensors
* motion detectors
* glass break sensors
* smoke and/or heat sensors
In addition to the most popular alarm options there are some other sensors/features which are becoming increasingly popular. They include:
* CO2 detectors
* water sensors to detect flooding
* panic alarms (hard wired buttons or mobile buttons you wear)
* cellular back-up
To recap, alarms are an integral part of business security. When used in conjunction with other security features they greatly increase the security of both personnel and property. I’ve included a few tips on purchasing an alarm system below:
* Do not sign a contract when purchasing an alarm. You will pay a little more up front for your equipment costs when not signing a contract, but in the long run you will spend less by getting a better monthly monitoring rate.
* Make sure training on your system is included in the price. Knowing how to properly use your system will help prevent false alarms. Constant false alarms will lead to fines imposed on you by the county.
* Make sure the alarm installation company takes the time to understand what you are trying to accomplish with your alarm system. A poorly designed and implemented system may actually compromise your security.
* Register your alarm system with your county/city once it has been installed.