Proper Positioning of Video Surveillance Cameras

Proper Positioning of Video Surveillance CamerasThere 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

A Video Surveillance System Can Protect More than just Gas StationsCrimes 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.

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.

Video Surveillance Keeps an Eye on Your Midland Texas Business Even When You Are Not Around

Video Surveillance Keeps an Eye on Your Midland Texas Business Even When You Are Not AroundModern wireless technology has made video surveillance an affordable, convenient security solution for Midland TX and Odessa TX businesses of all sizes. Once upon a time, business video camera systems were reserved for government buildings and big corporations. Now it’s possible to protect small and large businesses alike around the clock with video surveillance without breaking the bank. If you’ve been on the fence about installing video surveillance on your Midland, TX company premises, consider the following benefits video security camera systems offer for businesses.

Video surveillance deters potential criminals

Most burglars will steer clear of a building with video surveillance. When you install a new security system, place a security system sign in a high traffic area and make sure at least one video camera is visible. When a burglar is considering a robbery in a given area, he’ll be more likely to skip over your Midland TX property completely, as the security system isn’t worth the hassle. If you don’t like the aesthetic of security cameras, select one or two visible cameras and then conceal the remainder of the system.

Video surveillance keeps employees accountable

Similarly, video surveillance also deters your own employees from criminal activity. Many employees don’t think twice about taking a long lunch break or playing games on their work computers. They’re less likely to engage in this type of behavior when they know video surveillance cameras are running. Increased productivity in the office drives more business and consequently, more revenue. A video surveillance security system helps a Midland or Odessa company handle minor offenses as soon as they occur. An employee may attempt a small financial theft before planning a larger theft. When you can head off the minor issue right away, you’ll prevent a much more serious crime.

Video surveillance protects the company against lawsuits and other claims

Even under the best circumstances in a great work environment, you never know when issues may occur. An employee will accuse another employee of sexual harassment, and suddenly, the accusation escalates quickly. Without video surveillance, you’re at the mercy of one employee’s word against another employee’s word. Video footage provides a clear record of exactly what has happened, which is critical for clearing up problems within the workplace and serving as evidence in a courtroom. Keep archived footage for a minimum of one year. An employee may not come forward with an issue until months after it’s happened. Retaining the video footage ensures you’re covering your bases.

Video surveillance can be scaled up or down to meet the needs of your business

Wireless video surveillance systems offer the flexibility you need to tailor the system for your specific business. Your Midland TX and Odessa TX commercial video surveillance provider will work with you to determine your security needs and design a system to address those needs within your budget. As your security or business needs change, you can increase or decrease the number of cameras on the premises. You can also change the location of the cameras or upgrade certain components without having to replace the entire system. When you are ready to make a larger upgrade, the process is simple and non-intrusive, ensuring your new system will be up and running in a matter of hours. No matter what kind of business you have or how large (or small) your property is, video surveillance systems are great options for commercial security. Keep an eye on your property when you’re away, monitor your property and prevent theft with a video surveillance system.

Choosing a video surveillance system is the best choice in commercial security and home security.

If your business is in the Midland or Odessa, Texas area it is time to contact a professional commercial video surveillance company to protect yourself, your property, and your employees. They can provide you invaluable protection for what’s most important in your life.

1st Alarm is one of the largest regional security companies offering both residential and commercial alarm systems to West Texas. We pride ourselves on being locally owned and operated and offering reliable service with friendly, professional customer relations. Contact us today to learn more about our Midland and Odessa, TX video surveillance security solutions.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business in Midland Texas or Odessa Texas, contact 1st Alarm of Midland Texas today. They are the best security alarm professionals in the region and have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price.  They can help you with all of your security needs for your business and your home.Call (432) 530-3535 today.  Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 1308 S Midkiff Rd #306, Midland, TX.

Top 5 Reasons For Installing Video Surveillance Systems In Midland Texas

Top 5 Reasons For Installing Video Surveillance Systems In Midland TexasIn a perfect world, theft, violence, and other crime don’t exist. The reality is that we don’t live in a perfect world and it is necessary to take proactive steps to keep crime at bay. Installing video surveillance systems is an effective step that homeowners and business owners in Midland TX and Odessa TX can take to protect themselves, their families, their employees, and their property. Video surveillance systems are an unblinking eye that provides protection from a variety of threats and the following are the top five reasons why everyone should consider installing a video surveillance system on their property.

Video Surveillance Systems are a Strong Deterrent

Whether a criminal is considering committing a robbery, a burglary, or a violent act, they prefer to go for a “soft” target that is not protected by a video surveillance system. A video of the crime can provide the evidence that can put them on ice for a few years and they would rather not take the risk.

This deterrent factor also applies when the security cameras are protecting an office from employee theft, a store from shoplifters, or a home from a sticky-fingered visitor. Moreover, in the event a crime does take place, you will have the video evidence that can be used to help recover your Midland TX property or pursue damages against the responsible party.

Video Surveillance Systems can Reduce Insurance Premiums

Insurance companies love video cameras because they can help deter crimes and hasten the response time of emergency personnel. This helps protect them from having to pay out claims for damage and destruction. As such, many reward Midland TX homeowners and business owners who install video surveillance systems with lower premiums and deductibles.

Video Surveillance Systems Allow for Remote Monitoring

With a video surveillance system, you don’t need to be present in order to monitor the property. If an alarm goes off at the store, you can simply check on things via your smartphone, tablet, or computer. If you hear a bump in the middle of the night, you don’t have to put on your slippers and stumble through the home searching for the cause; you can simply pull up the monitor and see what is going on.

Video Surveillance Systems Hasten and Improve Emergency Response

If there is a fire, a break-in, or a violent event, you can assess the situation quickly and summon the appropriate Midland or Odessa emergency response. When you make the call to the fire department, police department, or ambulance, you can give them real-time information that can help them provide the most effective and appropriate response to the threat.

Video Surveillance Systems See & Respond to Threats When You Cannot

Perhaps you are on vacation or sleeping soundly in your bed after a long day, or in a worst case scenario, you are incapacitated or otherwise prevented from contacting emergency responders. Whatever the reason that you can’t monitor your feed or summon a response, a video monitoring service provides an added layer of protection you can depend on. If a situation arises, your alarm monitoring company in Midland, TX or Odessa, TX can summon first responders on your behalf. This can save your life in the event of a home invasion, fire, flood, or other common hazards of modern life.

There are many reasons to install video surveillance systems to monitor and protect your property, family, and personnel. We invite you to contact 1st Alarm Midland at (432) 530-3535 to discuss the ways our video systems can provide the protection you desire in Midland or Odessa, Texas. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine which system and security package meets your needs and security objectives.

If your business is in the Midland or Odessa, Texas area it is time to contact a professional commercial video surveillance company to protect yourself, your property, and your employees. They can provide you invaluable protection for what’s most important in your life.

No matter what kind of business you have or how large (or small) your property is, video surveillance systems are great options for commercial security. Keep an eye on your property when you’re away, monitor your property and prevent theft with a video surveillance system.

Choosing a video surveillance system is the best choice in commercial security and home security.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business in Midland Texas or Odessa Texas, contact 1st Alarm of Midland Texas today. They are the best security alarm professionals in the region and have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price.  They can help you with all of your security needs for your business and your home. Call (432) 530-3535 today.  Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 1308 S Midkiff Rd #306, Midland, TX.

Protect Your Midland Texas Business, Yourself and Your Employees with Commercial Video Surveillance Systems

Protect Your Midland Texas Business, Yourself and Your Employees with Commercial Video Surveillance SystemsWhen you own a business, no matter how big or small, you need a monitoring system. There are great benefits in having a commercial video surveillance system that includes invaluable protection. You can choose a system from a number of different options and ensure you, your business, and your employees are protected.

Start With Peace Of Mind

With today’s technology, you can protect your Midland or Odessa TX business and employees with analog, digital and even infrared surveillance systems. Some system providers will ensure your property is monitored around the clock. Other systems will use a hard drive to record and save data of all events for specific times you feel the information is needed. A commercial video surveillance system will provide you peace of mind knowing your property is being watched over.

Protect Your Property With Commercial Video Surveillance Systems

Protecting your property against expensive vandalism or theft is one of the top benefits of installing a surveillance system. Security cameras can be placed inside and out to record any criminal activity that could be occurring within your Midland business or on the outside of your structure or grounds. Knowing a property is under surveillance is a great deterrent from criminals targeting your business. The information gained from the surveillance can be turned over to law officials to aid them in arresting and prosecuting anyone caught damaging your property.

Protect Your Employees With Commercial Video Surveillance Systems

It is important to provide a safe environment for your employees. Having a surveillance system monitoring your Midland or Odessa TX parking areas and outside break areas will provide them a sense of safety. Employees gain a better sense of importance in their job when they know their employer cares enough to ensure their safety. This sense of importance will reflect in their work performance for your business. Monitoring the work environment will also alert you to any inappropriate work habits or harassment that could be occurring within your workforce. Monitoring will provide you with the evidence should these situations happen or assist you in stopping any potential incidences.

Protect Your Productivity With Commercial Video Surveillance Systems

Commercial video surveillance systems placed throughout your business can ensure you that your employees are performing their jobs properly. It can alert you to any problems within your employees work habits and show you areas that may need attention to help employees produce better. These systems can also alert you to any potential safety issues that could save your Midland business money by addressing them before they become a hazard.

Different Needs for Different Businesses

There are significant differences in security needs between different types of businesses. If you are located in the Midland or Odessa, Texas area, you should schedule on on-site inspection by a professional surveillance company. They will evaluate your property and business needs along with employee concerns. They can discuss sensitive customer data and discuss what your priorities are to create the best tailored commercial video surveillance system for your protection.

Connect Your Protection With Commercial Video Surveillance Systems

A traditional alarm system runs through a phone line. This is the first thing a criminal will disable when they decide to target your property. With the phone line disabled, your whole security system is disabled. Commercial video surveillance systems can now be connected to a satellite or wireless monitor. This system allows your protection to remain connected even if phone wire is cut, or there is a power outage.

If your business is in the Midland or Odessa, Texas area it is time to contact a professional commercial video surveillance company to protect yourself, your property, and your employees. They can provide you invaluable protection for what’s most important in your life.

No matter what kind of business you have or how large (or small) your property is, a video surveillance system is a great option for commercial security. Keep an eye on your property when you’re away, monitor your property and prevent theft with a video surveillance system. For your business in the Midland, Texas or Odessa, Texas areas, choosing a video surveillance system is the best choice in commercial security.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business in Midland Texas or Odessa Texas, contact 1st Alarm of Midland Texas today. They are the best security alarm professionals in the region and have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price.  They can help you with all of your security needs for your business and your home.Call (432) 530-3535 today.  Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 1308 S Midkiff Rd #306, Midland, TX.

Are Video Surveillance Cameras Really Effective In Midland Texas?

Are Video Surveillance Cameras Really Effective In Midland Texas?Digital technology has made video surveillance camera systems affordable and easy to install. For many years, the systems were reserved for big corporations, government buildings, and wealthy homeowners, due to their high cost. Now a video camera system is a simple, cost-effective way for virtually any Midland or Odessa TX homeowner or business owner to protect property. However, many people still doubt whether it’s worth investing in video surveillance cameras because they don’t think the technology is really effective. If you’ve been on the fence about having a video surveillance system installed, consider the following benefits they offer.

Video surveillance cameras deter crime

Nine times out of ten, criminals will attempt robbery on a residential or commercial property when they don’t see evidence of security cameras. After you install an alarm system, place the Midland TX security system provider sign prominently on the premises. Make sure at least one or two of the video surveillance cameras are placed prominently as well. Modern video surveillance cameras come in all shapes and sizes. You can have visible video cameras without compromising the aesthetic of the property. If you don’t like the look of the cameras, conceal the remainder of the system.

In the workplace setting, people behave differently when they know there is a video surveillance system in place. Most employees aren’t going to steal outright from the company or engage in sordid behavior in the office setting. However, many employees don’t think twice about taking a long lunch hour, playing games on their work computers, or making the occasional raunchy joke. Installing video surveillance significantly decreases time theft and other minor workplace offenses.

When there is an incident in the office, video surveillance cameras allow you to see exactly what happened, eliminating the stress of being at the mercy of one employee’s word against another. It also enables you to take care of a minor problem before it becomes a major issue. When an employee makes an inappropriate sexual remark to another employee or steals a few office supplies, you can speak with the employee before the situation escalates, greatly minimizing the damage.

In the home setting, video surveillance cameras make family members more accountable to one another. Similarly, most kids aren’t going to steal valuable belongings or set the house on fire while their parents are at work or out of town for the weekend. However, they are more likely to eat lots of junk food and watch inappropriate movies. The presence of surveillance cameras will limit this type of behavior dramatically.

Video surveillance cameras are a critical component of a larger security system

Many video surveillance camera surveys are inconclusive because most homeowners and business owners have multiple security measures in place. Typically, a video camera system is one security component alongside a privacy fence, exterior lighting, gated entry, motion detectors, and other security devices. As such, it’s hard to measure the effectiveness of the security camera system alone. However, there’s no question that the use of security devices does deter criminal activity on Midland and Odessa properties, particularly when some or all of the devices are visible.

Most importantly, a video surveillance camera system is effective because it gives Midland homeowners and business owners peace of mind about their valuable property and belongings. You deserve to sleep well at night knowing that your home or office is fully protected. If you ever have reason to believe there’s suspicious activity taking place or you’re worried about what’s happening while you’re away from the building, you can pull up the video feed at any time or access archived footage.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business in Midland Texas or Odessa Texas, contact 1st Alarm of Midland Texas today. They are the best security alarm professionals in the region and have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price.  They can help you with all of your security needs for your business and your home. Call (432) 530-3535 today.  Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 1308 S Midkiff Rd #306, Midland, TX.

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.

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.

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.