Security Facts

A well-designed, properly installed security system can provide tremendous peace of mind for both homeowners and business owners. When we install your system, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to operate it. In the meantime, here are a few facts to help you better understand how the process works.

Why should I get a security system for my home or business?

A security system protects both people and possessions. In addition to acting as a crime deterrent, its biggest benefit is speed of response. In the event of a threat—such as fire, flood, carbon monoxide, forced entry/theft, system failure (e.g., loss of power) and medical emergencies—a monitored system can ensure that help arrives quickly.

Because having a security system reduces the risk of loss, many insurance companies offer a discount when a home or business is protected with a security system.

If someone really wants to break into my home or business, how will an alarm system help?

A monitored security system deters criminals in several ways. Firstly, the security signs/stickers indicating the presence of the system can often be enough to stop a break-in before it happens.

What many people don’t realize is that a burglary requires a stretch of uninterrupted time. A loud alarm going off means a burglar might take a few seconds to grab something but, generally, they won’t have time to steal a lot and will usually flee the scene quickly so they are not there when the police arrive.

An added benefit for business is increased productivity and reductions in employee theft, since employees realize the business owner and managers have access to more information about activities in the workplace when surveillance equipment is in use.

What is a “monitored” security system?

This type of system is connected to a monitoring station that operates around the clock, 365 days a year. In the event an alarm is triggered, personnel at the monitoring station are alerted and can take immediate action. That action may include calling you or another authorized key holder, or it can result in emergency responders being sent to your location immediately. The response will depend on your preferences and the type of alarm triggered.

For example, if a smoke detector that is connected to a monitored system goes off, the monitoring station will call you to make sure everything is OK. If no one answers, or if you say it is a true emergency, first responders will be contacted immediately.

A monitored system reduces false alarms and provides peace of mind because it ensures that someone is keeping an eye out, ensuring a faster response to incidents.

Can I have a monitored alarm system if I don’t have a telephone landline?

Yes! Security Connection offers a variety of security systems that send alarm signals to the monitoring station using the Internet or wireless cellular technology.

Many Security Connection customers are ditching their landlines and converting their existing systems to Internet/cellular monitoring, which can result in considerable monthly savings.

What is the difference between a telephone “landline-based” system and one that uses cellular telephone technology?

A landline system sends alarm signals to the monitoring station using a traditional telephone line, whereas a wireless system uses the cellular telephone network. Wireless cell systems are independent and do not use or affect your personal cell phone account in any way.

What if I trigger an alarm by mistake?

When your system is installed, we will provide you with the phone number of the monitoring station. If you accidently trigger an alarm, simply call the monitoring station immediately, provide your passphrase and let them know it is not an emergency.

Preventing false alarms is an important area of focus for us, and it’s where Security Connection’s expertise really shines through. Most false alarms are caused by poorly designed systems and improper selection or installation of the security equipment. For example, there are a number of environmental factors (e.g., temperature fluctuations, drafts, pets) that need to be taken into account at the outset to ensure the right equipment is installed and the system set up in the best way for your specific needs.

How do you ensure the person who answers my phone is an authorized keyholder?

To protect against unauthorized use, you will choose a special verbal password or phrase known only to you, other authorized keyholders, and the monitoring station. Whenever the monitoring station contacts you, you will be asked to provide this passphrase to confirm your identity.

What happens if an alarm is triggered and the monitoring station cannot reach a keyholder?

When your alarm system is installed, we will work with you to set up the specific procedures to be followed. These procedures will depend on the type of alarm (e.g., door/window intrusion, motion sensor, fire detection, medical emergency). You can provide a custom call order for each type of alarm with as many numbers as you wish.

Security Connection always encourages clients to provide at least two different phone numbers so that the monitoring station has a better chance of reaching a keyholder.

Can I have an alarm system in my home if I have pets?

Absolutely! Security Connection will help you determine the best approach to ensure pets don’t cause false alarms. For example, there are different types of detectors, including motion sensors designed specifically for homes with pets.

Are wireless door contacts and motion detectors better than wired ones?

Not necessarily. Wireless devices can be placed almost anywhere, since they do not require a cable to connect them to the control panel; however, they do require battery power. Because wired devices are powered by the cable that connects them to the control panel, Security Connection will generally try to use wired devices whenever it is possible to do so.

What is a duress code?

Many systems can be configured with a special PIN that will turn off an audible alarm or protected entry but will trigger a silent duress alarm. This tells the monitoring station that someone is being forced to turn off the system. In that event, the monitoring station will immediately contact police.

I already have a monitored security system. Can I switch my monitoring service to Security Connection?

Yes, provided you are not under contract with your current provider. We offer free switching and, because our monitoring fees are very reasonable, switching to Security Connection can mean more money in your pocket every month. Contact us to find out more.