Security System FAQ
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We've tried our best to anticipate any questions a visitor to our site may have concerning the modern security system and it's individual components. Here are a few of the more common ones we've encountered in the past. You can also email us or telephone (778) 863-7147 if you have a question that’s not covered here.
How much security do I really need? The average residential application, on the other hand, has far less stringent requirements (but some home insurers will still insist on a certificate from the alarm company before they reward you with a premium reduction). Again, you should discuss the matter with your agent or broker first, to find out how to qualify for the alarm discount. The short answer is: How much security do you want? The decision to install an alarm system is only a first step. Familiarize yourself with your product choices (this site is a good place to start), your general neighbourhood, your home's layout and then contact a couple of local alarm companies (we'd suggest three). Listen to what each representative has to say. Ask for references and check out the companies track record. Be prepared for a good sales rep to try and close a deal with you on the first visit (they wouldn’t be good if they didn’t). Just remind them that at this point in time you are gathering information and want to make an informed decision based on what each one has to say. Do I need a monitored system? Monitored systems offer many advantages over unmonitored (or local) ones. System troubles are reported promptly and in most instances your dealer will respond just as promptly. Additional emergency responses can involve the dispatch of a security guard or runner service, and is often a major advantage when it comes to dealing with your insurance company. What about if the telephone line is cut? DVAC's or an IP based active communicator are popular means of transmitting alarm signals over a secure line. In this instance the telephone line from Telus (or your local phone network provider) can be supervised by the monitoring station. A special receiver at the central monitoring station polls (queries) all the transponders the company monitors every three to nine seconds. Polled communication results in the transmission of several status events among which include whether your system is armed or disarmed, and its current condition (i.e. Is it in alarm? In trouble?). If the line is cut or interfered with, the transponder can no longer respond to these queries and a special alarm is generated at the monitoring station commonly resulting in emergency services (Police) dispatch. What about systems that use a voice response system? How do they compare over systems that don't?
Do the Police respond to panic alarms faster than if I call them myself dialling "911"? |
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Building Life Safety, Security, and CCTV Systems |
ULC Fire Alarm Monitoring |
Building Life Safety Audits |