Category: 1st Alarm Commercial Fire Protection Alarm Systems

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Fundamental Configuration Of A Commercial Fire Alarm System

A commercial fire alarm system is crucial to saving lives when tragedy strikes or accidents happen. With a system in place, you and your employees are alerted immediately when a fire or smoke is detected, so everyone has an early warning and a chance to reach safety. The main benefit of a commercial fire alarm system is the early warning advantage; however, they are also cost effective for your smoke and fire protection. Even though these systems are necessary and beneficial to have installed, you don’t need to understand their design, but you should have a fundamental idea of their configuration.

Why it’s important to understand your commercial fire alarm system’s fundamental configuration

A commercial fire alarm system installed in your building is connected to a remote monitoring station, so help is called immediately. You are aware of the danger right away and are able to evacuate your premises quickly before the fire spreads. The system will also ensure medical help is notified in case of emergency and notify the fire department, so they are able to reach your business and hopefully reduce your loss. These systems are life-savers, and you should be aware of their fundamental operation in case you need to perform emergency work.

Basics to understand for your commercial fire alarm system

The basics for you to learn include knowing how to disarm the control panel, troubleshoot the horns and pull stations so your system goes back online as quickly as possible. Problems with these areas can occur, and you want to understand how to restore them, so fire protection is back in place right away.

How detection occurs

The commercial fire alarm system works through a control panel that connects devices such as your smoke detector and heat detector. The panel’s function is to notify of impending danger posed by a fire and to create an alarm. There are different types of systems with elements varying on how they work together. Understanding those systems will help you understand their fundamental operation.

Conventional systems

The Conventional System only has two states, alarm and normal. This method is able to provide information to the necessary personnel alerting them to the fire’s location and what type of device started the fire.

Intelligent systems

An Intelligent System has the alerting devices using a two-way communication method to send messages to the control panel and provides more detailed information than the conventional method. Not only does it provide exact location and device responsible, but it can also determine the sensitivity of the detector and if it’s dirty.

Other systems

There are other systems available that do not rely on software and some that use microprocessors to control the outputs of the system including notification appliances.

Control panel

The control panel is the heart of the system. Understanding how the panel contains the power supplying your entire system and the circuits for the initiating devices will enable you to make sure your commercial fire alarm system is functioning properly and able to keep you protected.

You are not required to understand the fire alarm design or how to install a system, but fundamental information is needed to keep your system functioning properly. Learn the basics of your system before tragedy strikes and make sure you and your business stay protected.

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.

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Commercial Fire Alarm Systems For The Office

Fires can happen at anytime. A spark from an industrial machine, an overheating copier, a lit cigarette in a trashcan, and any one of a thousand other causes can start a fire that can spread quickly throughout the building. A commercial fire alarm system can’t prevent the causes of fires, but it can provide employees and customers with sufficient warning to evacuate the area. It takes mere moments for a fire to grow in size, and these moments can make all the difference in saving lives and property.

Moments Matter

The typical office fire doubles in size every minute. The more fuel that is present, the faster the fire will grow and the typical office has plenty of fuel to fan the flames. While some pieces of office furniture may be made from fire retardant materials, the vast majority of furniture, clothing, and of course, paper and plastics are not. That is why, when you buy from Brisbane’s leader in high quality office furniture, you have to treat all of your new furniture with care and respect. When a fire breaks out, it is often these common materials that fuel the fire and give it the ability to travel throughout the office. In Amarillo, the average response time is 4 and 1/2 minutes. In El Paso, it is about 4 minutes. Most other fire departments in the area respond within these ranges. Fire is becoming an increasing problem in the area and fire departments in the area are bracing for a continued increase in calls over the next five years as the region grows and more and more businesses open their doors. The faster an alarm goes out from a fire alarm system, the sooner the fire trucks will arrive at the front door. Moreover, modern commercial fire alarm systems can gather information regarding where the fire started which can help in fighting and extinguishing the blaze. The moments a fire alarm saves can provide sufficient opportunity to evacuate and help blunt the damage that a fire can cause.

Where to Install a Commercial Fire Alarm System

Each business is different, and every office has needs that vary depending on the size, layout, and tasks conducted within the space. At a minimum, fire alarms should be installed within storerooms containing combustibles such as cleaning agents, paper, and wood. Fire alarms should also be installed in kitchen areas, break rooms, and any area where machines such as copiers, computers, and industrial machinery are present. Should something start to smolder in any of these areas, the alarm will trigger and alert everyone in the building that there is a threat present.

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems are Worth the Investment

In addition to the cost to lives and property, a fire can put a business out of business until the damage is repaired. It’s also important to remember to hire an effective commercial cleaning service to deal with anything that’s left behind after a fire! A commercial fire alarm system coupled with fire suppression systems including sprinklers or clean agent fire suppression systems, and handheld fire extinguishers can minimize the downtime and the overall cost of repairing the damage. Dollar for dollar, the cost of installing and maintaining a high quality commercial fire alarm system is far less than the cost of remediation following a fire. Fires can happen for any number of reasons, and no amount of planning can completely remove the possibility that a fire will break out. However, if a fire breaks out, a fire alarm can provide the timely warning employees need to evacuate and fire departments need to respond. We invite you to contact 1st Alarm to discover more about the fire alarms we install and the steps we take to ensure our clients have the highest degree of protection against fire within their commercial properties.

The 1st Alarm Team Understands your Commercial Fire Alarm System needs

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. 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.

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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.

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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.

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 today.  You can even visit our office near you.

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The Importance of Functioning Fire Alarm Systems Within Your Home

The Importance of Functioning Fire Alarm Systems Within Your HomeMoments 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.

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 today.  You can even visit our office near you.

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Benefits of Installing Security Cameras in the Workplace

Benefits of Installing Security Cameras in the WorkplaceModern 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.

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.

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Wireless Security Cameras For Home and Business

Wireless Security Cameras For Home and BusinessWireless security cameras can cover your home or business in a layer of protection. Once installed, they provide an unflinching eye that can help protect people and property from thieves, violence, vandalism, and corporate espionage. Inexpensive to maintain and easy to operate, wireless security cameras offer protection that your family, your employees, and your customers can depend on.

Wireless Security Cameras are Easy to Install

Because there are no wires, a wireless security system can be installed without having to tear into the guts of the building. This makes it easy to install cameras at the best vantage points with minimal disruption to your family or your staff. A typical wireless system can be set up and connected in just a few hours.

The ease of installation also reduces the cost of installing a camera system. This savings can be used to invest in a higher quality camera system that will provide a higher degree of protection than antiquated hardwired systems.

Wireless Security Cameras are Easily Camouflaged

Wireless cameras can be positioned in areas that are not easily discovered without negatively impacting their field of view. This allows you to maximize surveillance capabilities while camouflaging the camera from the viewpoint of intruders. Whether within an entryway, warehouse, or loading dock, your security cameras can see the intruder long before the intruder realizes they are being watched.

Evidence Collection is Easy with HD Wireless Security Systems

While the presence of cameras can deter crime, they can’t prevent it. It’s true that motion sensors that trigger recording and alarm systems that notify police of an intruder’s presence can disrupt a crime. However, security cameras’ primary function is to collect evidence that can be used to capture and prosecute criminals.

Receivers for HD wireless security cameras can be set up at ranges up to 10 miles from the camera. This allows you to position the receiver in a safe and secure location where the recording can’t be destroyed or tampered with. The better your camera, the better the recording and the greater the likelihood that you will capture the intruder quickly.

Flexibility is Enhanced with Wireless Security Cameras

A bush may grow, or a building addition may be invested in. A neighboring business may install signage that blocks your camera’s field of vision. As conditions change around the property, you can easily adjust the positioning of your wireless security camera. This allows you to maintain full coverage and protection without having to rip out wires and remodel your structure to maintain security on the property.

Enhances Interactive Monitoring

Wireless security systems are easily connected to cellphones, tablets, and laptops via home automation systems. This allows you to see the video feed whether you are sitting in the living room or lounging on a beach a thousand miles away. The connectivity a wireless system offers gives you real-time access to your property that can make it easier to coordinate an emergency response should the need arise.

Wireless Security Systems Save You Money

Insurance companies reward businesses and homeowners with lower premiums and deductibles for installing wireless security cameras. The savings can exceed 20% per month which adds up quickly. In many cases, the installation costs can be recouped within a single year of operation. Without question, installing a wireless system keeps money in your pocket right where it belongs.

Wireless 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.

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.

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Cyber Monday Brought Great Deals But With It Comes Package Theft – You Need Ring™ Video Doorbell

Ring™ Video Doorbell From 1st Alarm

SPECIAL  SALE
PRICE
$189.99

A Great Christmas Gift Option

PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION BY 1ST ALARM
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In the past, Black Friday lead the way among retail success stories. However, in today’s high tech world, Cyber Monday has emerged as the new leader.  In fact, Cyber Monday 2016 was one of the biggest success stories ever.  For many people, this convenience comes with a lot of anxiety and loss.  The culprit, PACKAGE THEFT.  Thieves are targeting homes in the hopes of intercepting deliveries.

Ring™ Video Doorbell From 1st Alarm
Ring™ Video Doorbell From 1st Alarm

So How Do You Protect Yourself??? The Answer: A Professionally Installed Ring™ Video Doorbell From 1st Alarm

The Ring™ Video Doorbell lets you answer the door from anywhere using your smartphone.  The Ring™ Video Doorbell features MOBILE ACCESS which lets you see and speak with visitors at your door from anywhere using the Free Ring™ App on your smartphone.  The HD CAMERA ensures you will always have a clear view of your home’s entrance.  It doesn’t matter whether it is daylight or night, the NIGHT VISIONcapabilities let you see what is going on.  You can seamlessly speak with anyone at you door with TWO-WAY TALK and the built in MOTION DETECTION means the motion sensors activate the camera when any movement occurs at or near your door. Every Ring™ Video Doorbell unit is CERTIFIED FOR OUTDOOR USAGE meaning you never have to worry about your unit being damaged by heat, humidity, rain, sleet, or snow.

1st Alarm is your best local choice when it comes to getting your very own Ring™ Video Doorbell system professionally installed.

Contact 1st Alarm (800) 276-5559 TODAY.  We are offering a great deal makingRing™ Video Doorbell systems available to you today for the low price of $189.99.  Be sure to get yours professionally installed by 1st Alarm for only $99.00.  Protect yourself and your deliveries with a professionally installed Ring™ Video Doorbell system from 1st Alarm TODAY!!!!!  Check out our complete line of Home Security Systems. Contact us to Request a quote and compare our security plans and pricing to our leading competitors and you will see why we are your best choice for all of your home security needs.

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Five Reasons Why You Should Install A Commercial Fire Alarm System In Your Warehouse Or Business

If you own a large office building or warehouse, installing a commercial fire alarm system is imperative to keeping your employees and your property safe from fire, smoke damage and possible injuries. Here are five reasons why you should install a commercial fire alarm system in your warehouse or business.

A Commercial Fire Alarm System Can Help Prevent Property Damage

The main reason to install a commercial fire alarm system is of course to prevent fires from happening. An advanced, commercial system should detect even the slightest amount of smoke, allowing you and the fire department to respond as soon as possible so that smoke does not turn into a large, damaging fire. With a professionally installed commercial fire alarm system, you’ll be able to stop the spread of a fire in your building. With advanced features such as automatic-closing doors, illuminated exits and high-tech sprinkler systems, you can better prevent property damage in your business.

Reach the Fire Department Quickly With A Commercial Fire Alarm System

With a commercial fire alarm system, your smoke and fire detection system will connect automatically to the local fire department. In the case of an emergency, authorities will be notified immediately. This will reduce the amount of stress on you and your employees during a smoke or fire emergency. Instead of worrying about calling and reporting the fire, people can focus on evacuating the building and helping those in need.

Get 24-Hour Protection

Instead of fire alarms that may only warn you of smoke when you are present in the building, a professionally installed commercial fire alarm system will provide around-the-clock protection for your building and property. Access your alarm system remotely to check for any alarms, and have peace of mind knowing that your fire alarm system will automatically contact the fire department in the case of an after-hours emergency.

Keep Employees Safe

With a professionally installed fire alarm system, you can easily train your employees on how to operate and monitor the system. In the case of smoke or fire, they should be able to safely exit the building and know that the alarm system will connect with the fire department. An alarm system with automatic sprinklers or self-closing doors will protect further damage or injury from occurring.

Integrate an Alarm System

Another reason to install a commercial fire alarm system is to have the ability to integrate a security alarm system. A professionally installed, monitored system normally provides the option to integrate a security alarm system complete with video surveillance and motion detectors alongside your fire alarm system. Control all of your security devices from the same place and be able to access these systems remotely with advanced features.

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.

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Commercial Fire Alarm Systems: DOs and DON’Ts

When your business is looking to install a commercial fire alarm system in your retail store, office building or warehouse, there are many “Dos” and “Don’ts” one should follow.

Do have your fire alarm system professionally installed.

A commercial fire alarm system is important to the safety of your employees and your business property. Make sure to have the system installed professionally and inspected to make sure it is up to industry and manufacturer’s standards.

Don’t skip inspections of your fire alarm system.

Commercial fire alarm systems need to be inspected on a routine basis. Make sure that you don’t skip these scheduled inspections. Problems are easier to fix if they are spotted early on. Routine maintenance is key to preventing any system malfunctions.

Do train yourself and your staff on fire alarm system operation.

After your new commercial fire alarm system installed in your business, make sure you understand how it functions and how to contact someone for repairs if things aren’t working right. Also, train your staff on how to operate the system. In the case of an emergency, your employees should know the protocol. In case of a false alarm, staff should be able to disarm the system and contact authorities.

Don’t let unqualified people perform maintenance on your fire alarm system.

When following the routine maintenance for your fire alarm system, make sure to have repairs and maintenance completed by certified professionals. It’s best to contact your installation company with any concerns. They can send a certified repair person to your business or recommend another qualified maintenance company.

Do keep a paper trail for your fire alarm system.

Record keeping is very important for your commercial fire alarm system. A good record should display the last date of maintenance, as well as the next scheduled inspection. You as the owner of the system should be on top of these records, as well as train a member of your staff to double check paperwork. Make sure any false alarms; malfunctions or incidents are recorded in your record book.

Don’t let staff and guests ignore fire alarm systems.

If false alarms or accidental discharges are common in your building, it’s time to put a stop to them. Make sure to train your staff on the importance of the fire alarm system and how important it is to follow emergency protocol even when they “know” that it is a false alarm. Make sure your entire team knows to take every fire alarm seriously to better protect themselves, their coworkers, their customers and business property.

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.