1st Alarm Amarillo Home Security Systems Archives - Page 16 of 21

A Commercial Fire Alarm System Is Essential To The Security Of Your Business

Your business needs a commercial fire alarm system to ensure early warning can be given if a fire breaks out in your complex. Fire alarms are able to be installed in almost any location within a commercial building and will give you more cost effective smoke and fire protection. With greater detection and early warnings, your business is more secure not only for your employees but for your customers as well.

Why a commercial fire alarm system is essential to the security of your commercial business

When you connect your business to a commercial fire alarm system, you can be assured of an early warning when or if a fire breaks out in your building. Early warning is important so evacuation of your employees can be completed before the fire spreads. These systems are able to notify emergency teams in case there are any injuries. The Fire Department will also be notified immediately for a faster response time.

Types of commercial fire alarm system detectors

You can use a particular kind of detector or a combination of them. The different detectors work by sensing one or more elements associated with a fire. The most common include the smoke detector, heat detector, and flame detector.

The smoke detector will alert you if there is evidence of smoke particles present. They are able to respond quickly to even the smallest particle of smoke resulting from flames or hot fires.

The heat detectors are generally used in businesses that generate a dense smoke during their normal operation process. These sensors react to a broad temperature change or at a predetermined temperature you’ve set for them.

The flame detector looks for specific types of infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light which are emitted by flames. When this kind of light is detected, it sends a signal to your alarm.

Why you should install a commercial fire alarm system

The best way to minimize a disaster is prevention. A commercial fire alarm system is essential to preventing a disastrous fire. The top reason and benefit of the system is that it can save the lives of you, your employees, and in some cases your customers.

Early detection of a fire is also your key to preventing expensive property damage. Fire can spread quickly and depending on the age of your structure just a tiny flame can quickly become a full building burn. With early detection, you can receive quicker response time from the Fire Department, so you do not experience a complete loss of your structure.

A commercial fire alarm system is also on the job 24/7, so you can focus on the operation of your business and not worry about fires in the middle of the night. The right fire system not only sends an emergency alert to the Fire Department, but it will also send a message to you regarding the emergency.

Importance of fire detection in your workplace

It doesn’t matter what type or size of business you operate. Any business in any sector needs to be aware of their fire risks. Fire Departments advise that in a fire emergency, seconds count in saving lives. A commercial fire alarm system provides those needed seconds for alerting persons in your building of the danger and giving them the added seconds to reach safety.

Prevent commercial fire emergencies and install a fire alarm system in your building. Fire alarm service companies are available to help you determine the system that will work best for you.

Contact the professionals at 1st Alarm

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. We invite you to contact us to learn more about the alarms we recommend and the monitoring services we offer that can cover your business beneath a blanket of protection.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well. We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs. To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.

Proper Positioning of Video Surveillance Cameras

Proper Positioning of Video Surveillance Cameras There are different reasons for businesses to decide it’s time to install video surveillance cameras in their buildings or outside on the property. One big reason is to reduce and prevent theft, and some want to monitor employee behaviors. Some businesses have been able to improve productivity by installing video surveillance cameras, especially factories. In the retail sector, video surveillance cameras have resolved many disputes that arise between employees and the public. Whatever the reason is for your need in putting video surveillance in your business, the first decision is where to position them.

Conduct an Analysis

To determine the best place to install your video surveillance cameras, begin by performing an analysis. Choosing which security camera works best takes the same consideration as where you are going to place one. The security cameras that ‘pan’ from side to side are not the best choice as they can be pointing to the left, while an incident occurs on the left. The best financial sense is to use two Megapixel video surveillance cameras versus the ‘pan’ style.

Choosing a Location for Video Surveillance Cameras

If you are changing your video surveillance camera to a newer model, you may want to look around the environment and see if there have been any changes. Look to see if trees have grown any taller or any other structures added that might obstruct the view of the surveillance camera. If you are purchasing a new video surveillance system, check the surface of the area you intend to mount the camera as it may require an additional bracket to hold it in place, depending on the camera you’ve chosen.

Night Vision and Orientation

Will your video surveillance be required through the evening hours? If you are going to need the ability to see in reduced light or even no light, you will need a security camera with infrared illuminators. To determine where to place these cameras, use your smartphone and use the compass app to find which hallways or views are Westerly or Easterly. These are the areas that will be backlit during the early morning hours and in the afternoon. These areas will need a Wide Dynamic Range camera to tone down the backlight and increase the darker area, so you are able to make out more details and not just silhouettes.

Height of the Location

If you are going to place your video surveillance cameras higher than 12 feet they will need to be a remote focus model; otherwise, you’ll need a scissor lift to reach the camera. Being able to adjust any settings on your camera remotely is a great advantage.

Entrances

Most times when a person decides to enter a business illegally, they begin by checking the front and back doors first to see if they were accidentally left open. They will also check the surrounding area to see if any key has been left and knock on the door to see if anyone opens or if a dog is on the property. A video surveillance camera over the entries will capture anyone attempting to enter.

Positioning of Video Surveillance Cameras

You will save a lot of money and produce a more efficient system if your video surveillance system contains the right number of cameras and they are in the right place. Security cameras are an investment in safety and protection that offers significant dividends. They are an integral component of a security system you can depend on. Easy to set-up and operate, no business or homeowner can afford to ignore the features and flexibility they offer.

Choosing 1st Alarm to install your video surveillance system will give you the protection your business needs. 1st Alarm has trained technicians with the experience and knowledge to protect any size business for any reason. Call 1st Alarm today to receive the proper security your business needs on a budget that works for you.

If you are considering adding a security system or security cameras to your home or business, contact 1st Alarm today. We are conveniently located in Abilene TX, Amarillo TX, El Paso TX, Lubbock TX, Midland TX / Odessa TX and San Angelo TX. We have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price. Let us help you with all of your security needs for your business and your home. Call 800-276-5559 today. Request a Quote online or come by our office nearest you.

A Video Surveillance System Can Protect More than just Gas Stations

Crimes are often committed when the opportunity is there, and the risk is low. When a criminal sees an opportunity of breaking into a business with little or no danger of being caught, that business becomes vulnerable. Gas stations are known for placing video surveillance around their pumps and inside near their registers and are becoming known for this form of security. This knowledge is sending criminals towards other, less protected businesses. Video surveillance is not just for gas stations; it is now affordable for even modest shop owners to protect their businesses with proper monitoring.

A Video Surveillance System Helps Deter the Criminals

Criminals are discouraged from committing illegal activities at businesses where they know their movements are being recorded. When they decide to rob a place they generally check if a video surveillance system is installed and how many customers frequent the store. When they see your business has a lot of foot traffic and no surveillance to protect it, you are opened up as a target. This scenario refers even to the stores that are located in what are deemed ‘good’ neighborhoods. If you want to deter the criminals from targeting your business, you need a video surveillance system.

A Video Surveillance System Helps Protect Your and Your Employees

During a robbery, circumstances can often become uncontrolled, and the risk of you or one of the employees becoming seriously injured is high. The best protection against this threat is to deter the robbery from ever happening. Most criminals will not commit a crime if they know they are being watched. Since criminals look for businesses easier to rob than gas stations and convenience stores, it’s in your best interest to install a video surveillance system.

How Does a Video Surveillance System Protect You?

There is a multitude of concerns for business owners where security is concerned. A video surveillance system gives you the peace of mind you and your management needs to run your business successfully. This security can be effective if there are only a few employees or there are hundreds. A video surveillance system can be effective in deterring criminals from robbing a business, track employee performance, secure high-security areas, and prevent employee theft.

Choose the Right Video Surveillance System for Your Business

Whether you are the sole owner of a small business or own a large warehouse or campus, 1st Alarm has trained technicians and the experience to protect you. The knowledgeable security team with 1st Alarm will help you choose the video surveillance system that will work for your needs. They will work with you to design a commercial security system that not only works for your business but also with your budget. Call 1st Alarm today and secure your peace of mind and your business.

Choosing 1st Alarm to install your video surveillance system will give you the protection your business needs. If you are considering adding a security system or security cameras to your home or business, contact 1st Alarm today. We are conveniently located in Abilene TX, Amarillo TX, El Paso TX, Lubbock TX, Midland TX / Odessa TX and San Angelo TX. We have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price. Let us help you with all of your security needs for your business and your home. Call 800-276-5559 today. Request a Quote online or come by our office nearest you.

What Type of Fire Alarm System Do I Need and Where Should I Put It?

What Type of Fire Alarm System Do I Need and Where Should I Put It? Choosing a fire alarm system isn’t a very exciting activity, but it can save you from plenty of unpleasant excitement down the road. The right fire alarm system in the right position can save property and lives so it’s something that you want to give considerable thought to. When choosing a fire alarm system, we advise clients to keep the following things at the forefront of their decision-making process.

Selecting a Fire Alarm System

There are two primary types of fire alarm sensors; Ionization and Photoelectric. Ionization alarm sensors detect invisible particles generated by fast moving fires, while photoelectric sensors detect visible fire particles generated by fires that smolder before erupting into flames. Each of these types of fire alarms will provide strong protection against fire, however, many manufacturers and fire professionals recommend installing both types of sensors within the home or office for maximum protection.

You may also consider installing a fixed temperature heat detectors or carbon monoxide detectors for use within areas such as kitchens or garages where engine fumes and burned dinners can sometimes trigger false alarms. The downside to using these devices is that they don’t trigger until after combustion has taken place which reduces the warning time and protective benefits.

If you have a “smart” home, you may want to consider installation of a wifi enabled smoke detector. This can provide a considerable blanket of protection and also makes it easier to respond to alarms that may trigger while you are away from the home or business. These interconnected fire alarm systems can be controlled from a smartphone, tablet, pc, etc. Some devices can even collect audio recordings that can be stored and used as evidence to show fire progression and events that occur prior to and during the evacuation of the structure.

Positioning & Maintaining Your Fire Alarm System

Fire alarm systems should be positioned so that they provide as much warning time as possible of an imminent threat. Maintaining a fire alarm system is simple and requires little more than replacing the batteries when they lose their charge and die, and replacing the fire alarm system every ten years as they typically lose their effectiveness around this time. It is also important to place fire alarm systems in positions where airflow is not restricted or unduly affected by air currents generated by fans or ventilation systems.

Residential Structures

Within residential structures, fire alarm systems should be installed in each bedroom and within the corridors of every level of the home including the basement and garage. It is also a good idea to install a fire alarm system in the kitchen and laundry room as these areas typically contain a host of flammable materials. When placing your fire alarms in these rooms, it’s advisable to place them no closer than 10 feet from cooking surfaces and washers/dryers. This will minimize “false alarms” caused by burnt steaks and vent exhaust.

Commercial Structures

Fire alarm systems should be placed in corridors and within any areas that contain flammable materials. Local fire codes related to your industry and building function will most certainly vary so it is important that you discuss placement with the Fire Marshall prior to making a final decision regarding where, how many, and the necessary functionality of your devices.

The team at 1st Alarm Home Security understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right fire alarm system to protect your property.

Things to Keep in Mind When Installing Video Surveillance Systems in your Amarillo Texas Home or Business

Things to Keep in Mind When Installing Video Surveillance Systems in your Amarillo Texas Home or Business When installing new video surveillance systems for your Amarillo, Texas residence or small business, there are many things that you want to keep in mind before hiring a professional to install your system.

Consider the type of video surveillance you need

Not all video surveillance systems are created equal. Depending on if you are installing a residential system or a system for your business, your needs will be different. The size of your property will make a great difference as well, not to mention potential hazards and any areas of concern.

Make a list of the places you feel most vulnerable, such as back entryways, alleyways, fenced gates, etc. and schedule a consultation with a professional video surveillance company. Not only will a professional security company be able to assess your property, but also they will be able to give you advice on the best methods to protect your investment.

Inform your security company of any past break-ins

If you’ve had a break-in or burglary in your Amarillo, Texas home or business, make sure to tell your professional security company about the incident. They will want to know when the break-in happened, where it happened and the damage that was caused. With more information, they will be able to assess why your home or office was vulnerable to an attack.

By placing a video surveillance system in a visible, well-lit area, you will help to deter criminals from coming back to your property. Also, if a break-in were to reoccur, then you’ll be able to playback your video feed and submit the recording to the proper authorities. Also, a professional video surveillance company that provides around-the-clock monitoring will be able to watch your property for you while you’re away on business or vacation.

Be aware of local and state laws about video surveillance systems

By hiring a professional security company to install your video surveillance system, you’ll be assured that you are following all the laws of your city and state. Each city is different when it comes to the placement of security cameras, both inside and outside your property. Make sure that your professional installer is up to date on the latest rules and knows exactly where your video surveillance cameras should go. Especially as a business owner, you don’t want to deal with any fines or warnings about a poorly installed or badly placed surveillance system. Keep your security updated and in the best condition by hiring a professional to do the installation for you.

If you are looking to install a new security system in your home or business, make sure to do your research on the best security companies in the Amarillo, Texas area. Look for a professional that can get the job done right the first time, and ensure that your investment is protected all hours of the day. 1st Alarm Amarillo boasts the best security alarm team and is the best video surveillance company in the greater West Texas region.

At 1st Alarm Amarillo, security is our #1 priority

We’re sure that after you speak with us that 1st Alarm will be your 1st choice to protect your home, business, family, and the people and property that matter most to you.

The 1st Alarm Amarillo professionals have the expertise and resources to help you secure your property quickly and affordably. To learn more about our residential services, request a quote online or visit us at our conveniently located office. If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm Amarillo. We have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price. 1st Alarm Amarillo can help you with all of your security needs. Call 800-276-5559 today. Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 800 SW 7th Avenue in Amarillo, Texas.

How To Choose The Best Video Surveillance System Company In Amarillo Texas

How To Choose The Best Video Surveillance System Company In Amarillo Texas Life is about choices, and the choices you make in regard to your video surveillance systems and company that monitors them will have a significant impact on the quality of your protection. Even with a top of the line system in place, you need to have a top of the line video surveillance company in Amarillo TX monitoring the video feed around the clock. Before making your decision, it is advisable to consider the following:

Dig into the Cost of a Video Surveillance System

The most expensive video surveillance system may not be the best, and the cheapest may not be the most effective. When considering cost, make sure to read the contract carefully to understand what services will be provided and what charges you can expect for setup and monthly monitoring.

To ensure that you are getting the best deal for the level of monitoring you require, it is a good idea to secure multiple detailed quotes from Amarillo TX video surveillance companies that specifically address your needs and requirements.

Read into the Reputation of each Video Surveillance System Company

There is a lot to be said about what others have to say about a video surveillance company’s services. For this reason, you should pay close attention to the reviews and commentary you find online. When considering an Amarillo company’s reputation, one of the most important things to do is to read what existing clients have to say to get their opinion. This will give you an idea of what you can expect once you sign the contract.

You should also ask the company about licensing, awards, and specialized training that members of their teams have achieved. This will give you a good understanding of the company’s commitment to excellence and ability to utilize and adhere with the latest standards within the security industry.

Finally, you should search local legal records and contact the BBB to determine the company’s history of complaints and whether there are any pending claims or lawsuits against the company.

Schedule a Video Surveillance System Demonstration

It is always a good idea to schedule at least two meetings with representatives of the Amarillo security monitoring service. The first meeting should take place in the company’s office. This allows you to see their facilities and get a better understanding of how they monitor the video feeds, and who is doing the monitoring.

Your second meeting should take place within your Amarillo TX home, office, business, etc. This will give the company’s representatives an opportunity to provide advice and recommendations regarding security features and camera placement. These meetings will ensure that both sides are familiar with the other’s capabilities and security needs.

In this regard, it’s important to select a video surveillance company that is located near your home, office, or place of business. Close proximity is invaluable as it can reduce response time and minimize potential pitfalls such as faltering internet connections.

Weighing Your Options

It is 100% natural that you will want to select a video surveillance system and a monitoring service that you are most comfortable with. Once you have considered all the options and weighed them against one another, select the one that is most capable of providing the security you desire at a price that fits within your budget.

1st Alarm Amarillo boasts the best security alarm team and is the best video surveillance company in the greater West Texas region.

At 1st Alarm Amarillo, security is our #1 priority and we’re sure that after you speak with us that 1st Alarm will be your 1st choice to protect your home, business, family, and the people and property that matter most to you.

Home Video Surveillance Systems In Amarillo Texas – How Do They Work?

Home video surveillance systems give you the ability to be two or more places at the same time. They provide peace of mind and give you the ability to monitor everything from sleeping babies to the patio door. There are many kinds of systems, but the basic premise is the same; to allow you to see whatever is going on within your Amarillo TX home.

Crime and Security Camera Statistics

It is estimated that there are 18 million home security systems installed in homes from coast to coast. Of these, 20% of homes in the United States have security cameras connected with their systems. Each year, nearly 2.5 million burglaries and break-ins occur throughout the country costing homeowners, renters, and landlords nearly $4.5 billion in lost property. That’s one home intrusion every 13 seconds, and a median loss of $3,000 per theft.

Of these crimes, only 13.6% end up with an arrest. In polls with criminals who have been caught for their crimes, up to 60% indicate that they avoid homes with security cameras because it increases the likelihood that they will be caught. Indeed, studies conducted by the Department of Homeland Security have shown that security cameras are highly effective at deterring crime and causing criminals to pause before they commit either violent or property crimes.

Overt Video Surveillance Systems

An overt system is one that’s designed to be seen. The visible presence of the security camera is often enough to serve as a deterrent and make a criminal think twice. Visible systems are popular choices for monitoring the outside of an Amarillo home where a deterrent effect is created that can prevent a break in or vandalism from occurring.

Covert Video Surveillance Systems

Often called hidden cameras, covert video surveillance systems are designed to see everything while staying out of sight. Because the presence of visible cameras can add a dystopian chill inside the home, many people choose to install small, unobtrusive cameras that see without being seen.

Wired or Wireless Video Surveillance Systems

Security cameras can be wired or wireless. In the past, wired systems tended to deliver a higher resolution picture, but they are harder to install and once installed they are permanently fixed in place. Moreover, their signal won’t be interrupted by other devices such as cell phones, computers, cordless phones, etc.

Conversely, wireless systems can be moved about as your monitoring needs evolve and change. This gives plenty of monitoring flexibility. Today’s technology allows for high resolution images comparable to that of wired systems. Thus, it is important to determine which type of system is best for your need prior to installation.

How Cameras Operate

Cameras are connected to a central system that collects and digitally stores the footage for review. This footage can be stored for as long as it is necessary. The footage can also be live streamed to a television, computer, or phone for real-time monitoring or playback. This allows you to monitor situations in real-time and to initiate the appropriate response to any incident.

There are many options available when choosing security cameras and it is important to select a system that offers the resolution, sound recording, and monitoring capabilities that are best suited for your needs.

Things Cameras Don’t Do

Cameras don’t stop crime and they don’t dial 911 when something happens. While motion sensors attached to the camera can notify you when something is moving about, it is still up to you to review the video feed and make a determination as to whether or not police, fire, ambulance need to be contacted.

1st Alarm Amarillo boasts the best security alarm team in the greater West Texas region.

Commercial Security Cameras to secure your Amarillo Texas Business

Commercial Security Cameras to secure your Amarillo Texas Business Securing your Amarillo TX business, including your employees and property, should be of top priority when you’re a business owner. Using commercial security cameras and a connected monitoring system, you’ll be able to consistently check on your investment. Stay on top of security concerns, and be quick to respond to any potential threats. With a commercial security system and security cameras, your business will be secure and your employees and building will be protected.

Commercial Security includes security cameras

When you think commercial security, you probably think of alarm systems, fire alarms, and emergency response; plus of course, security cameras. Having high quality security cameras installed throughout your Amarillo business will ensure that you can keep track of employees and customers that are coming and going, as well as check on your business during after-hours. If a break-in happens, you’ll want to be able to review your security camera images to submit to the police department. Plus, having the latest technology in security cameras can also make your job easier. Keep a look-out for special deliveries, or make sure things around your property look like they should. With commercial security cameras, you’ll keep your eye on everything.

Monitor your business with a commercial security system

With a commercial security system and connected security cameras; you’ll be able to monitor your business all hours of the day. For small business owners in Amarillo TX, this is a great feature. Connect your business security camera directly to your mobile device. Use your smartphone or tablet to view the entryways and exits to your business during after hours. If you’re on vacation, check out your property while you’re away. Have peace of mind knowing that you can check on your investment at any time. Also, you’ll have 24-hour monitoring from your commercial security company. If an alarm sounds in your business, your security company will contact the right emergency responders to check out what has happened. Be contacted immediately in the case of any threat.

Insure your investment with commercial security

Not only is a commercial security system a great asset for protecting and securing your business, but also you will likely save on your business insurance by having a top of the line security system. Many insurance companies appreciate an Amarillo business owner that is on top of their security. Some insurance companies offer a certain percentage discount for installed security cameras, commercial security monitoring, and updated fire alarm systems. Insurance is essential for any business owner, large or small, and any time you can save on that insurance means you can invest more in your company.

1st Alarm Amarillo boasts the best security alarm team in the greater West Texas region. Our professionals have the expertise and resources to help you secure your property quickly and affordably. To learn more about our residential services, request a quote online or visit us at our conveniently located office.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm Amarillo. We have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price. 1st Alarm Amarillo can help you with all of your security needs.Call 800-276-5559 today. Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 800 SW 7th Avenue in Amarillo, Texas.

The Importance of Functioning Fire Alarm Systems Within Your Home

The Importance of Functioning Fire Alarm Systems Within Your Home Moments matter when a fire begins to consume a residential structure. As the fire engulfs the home it will consume precious oxygen, make corridors impassable and block routes of escape. Often, it is mere seconds that separate survivors from fire victims. A fire alarm system gives homeowners the moments and seconds they need to get everyone in the family out of the home and away from danger.

Fires Have Voracious Appetites

Many people are surprised to learn that fires can double in size every minute. Depending on the fuel sources available, a fire can go from smoldering to free burning in seconds. The heat and smoke generated during the combustion process can ignite confusion, fear, and make it impossible to evacuate.

The typical house fire burns at temperatures exceeding 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit. Fire alarm systems equipped with heat detectors are designed to detect the growth of a fire. When the heat detector and sensors determine a rapid rise in temperature is occurring within the home, they trigger the alarm. This trigger point is usually set somewhere between 117 and 136 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, fire alarm systems are designed to detect fire early before it has had a chance to engulf rooms and passageways in flame.

Fire Alarm Systems Save the Day

Fire alarm systems are designed to sound when they detect the slightest whiffs of smoke and heat. This alerts you, your family, and those in the immediate vicinity to the presence of a fire.

The National Fire Protection Association estimates that the fatality rate within homes that do not have a properly functioning fire alarm system is more than twice as high as for those that do. Without question, a fire alarm gives homeowners the immediate warning and precious seconds needed to evacuate the home.

Fire Alarm Systems Provide Peace of Mind

When everyone’s tucked in for the night and drifting off to dream, the whole family can rest easy knowing that the fire alarm system is keeping a vigilant guard over the home. As visions of sugarplums and sheep waft through your minds, you can relax knowing that the fire alarm system is making sure puffs of smoke aren’t wafting through the home.

This peace of mind is even greater when your fire alarm system is connected to a home automation system or a home security system. Doing so makes it possible to monitor your home and keep it safe from fire when you are out of town on business or enjoying a relaxing vacation.

Fire Alarm Systems are Affordable Investments

Fire alarm systems are inexpensive investments in protection. Thus, alarms can be placed in every room within the home without burning a hole in your wallet. Moreover, insurance companies love homeowners who install fire alarm systems. These companies offer discounted premiums and deductibles to homeowners who install fire alarm systems in key positions within the home such as the kitchen, laundry room, bedrooms, garage, etc.

Moreover, monitored fire alarm systems that trigger an immediate response from the fire department can also help protect property. Because fires grow rapidly, the minutes a monitored system saves can help protect personal possessions and the structure. This can make it easier and less expensive to recover and rebuild from the ashes.

No one ever expects to have a house fire. It is a tragic experience that happens to “someone else” until the day it happens to you. Homeowners who install and maintain fire alarm systems within their home will be ready when and if that day ever comes.

Benefits of Installing Security Cameras in the Workplace

Benefits of Installing Security Cameras in the Workplace Modern digital technology has made commercial security cameras affordable and easy to install. Once upon a time, it only made sense for major corporations to invest in surveillance cameras. Now companies of all sizes can purchase a security camera system without breaking the bank. If you’ve been on the fence about purchasing surveillance video security cameras for your business, consider the following benefits they offer.

Deter criminal behavior with 24/7 video surveillance

The mere presence of security cameras is enough to prevent most criminal behavior before it ever occurs. Potential criminals consider robbing or vandalizing a local business will skip right over a company as soon as they learn there’s a security system running. It’s important to place a security system sign and several video cameras in prominent locations so anyone approaching the premises will be aware of the alarm system. The presence of security cameras also deters theft and vandalism within the company. An employee will think twice about spray painting the parking garage or stealing breakroom supplies, knowing the cameras are capturing the criminal activity.

Prevent other workplace issues by using security cameras

In addition to robbery and vandalism, there is a host of other issues that may occur in the workplace, such as bullying and sexual harassment. It’s all too easy for an off comment to escalate quickly, turning into a major problem between two employees. When employees know the security cameras are watching, they’re much less likely to engage in sordid behaviors in the workplace. In the event an incident does take place, you’ll have the entire encounter on record. Instead of having to take one employee’s word over the other, you’ll be able to make a sound decision based on hard evidence.

Improve employee productivity with helpful video oversight

Most employees won’t steal outright from their company, but they won’t think twice about engaging in minor offenses, such as spending long stretches of the workday playing games on their computers or taking social phone calls. When there are multiple employees exhibiting time stealing behaviors, the company’s bottom line suffers significantly. Installing security cameras in the workplace greatly reduces this issue. The presence of security cameras also discourages employees who are considering more major offenses, such as outright theft.

Before you install a security camera system in the office, notify employees of the new development. If you don’t let employees know about the cameras, you run the risk of an employee filing a lawsuit. Notifying employees about the new system doesn’t mean you have to disclose the locations of the security cameras or even the areas of the office that you’ll be monitoring. It’s unlawful to monitor any areas of the office reserved for employee personal needs, such as restrooms. Some states also prohibit video surveillance in employee break rooms and lunchrooms.

Some employers don’t want to install visible video cameras because they think the cameras detract from the appearance in the workplace. Modern video surveillance cameras come in all sizes and shapes, many of which are very small and blend right into the office or can be hidden behind small objects. Leaving a few visible cameras and concealing the remainder of the system is sufficient for deterring criminal activity and won’t compromise the company’s aesthetic.

Reputable security camera providers are happy to offer a complimentary on-site consultation to assess your company’s security needs and discuss video surveillance solutions that best fit your workplace. You should feel confident about the system you’re investing in before you put down any money. Make sure you get your questions answered so there are no surprises.

1st Alarm caters to busy professionals across the state of Texas. With offices in Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland/Odessa, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo, it’s easy to set up an appointment at your earliest convenience. Call us today to learn more about our commercial security solutions.