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Pet Friendly Home Alarm Systems

In the past, pets created complications for home alarm systems. A dog or a cat would walk through a room or through the pet door, triggering the alarm. Often, the situation would cause homeowners to choose between confining their pets or getting rid of the home alarm system because it was not pet friendly. However, modern home alarm systems allow pets to move freely in the home, without triggering the system. It is important to understand how older systems and modern systems relate to being pet friendly. Understanding alarm technology can help you know what to do if you have pets and need an alarm system.

Why home alarm systems were not pet friendly

Motion detectors were often the cause of the false alarms due to pet motion. Motion detectors work by sensing the movement of warm objects through a space. The movement of a warm-blooded animal, like a cat or dog, could trip the detectors in the alarm systems.

False alarms triggered by pets end up being a problem for homeowners, the security company, and the police. The monitoring service will call the police any time an unexplained alarm goes off. Police do not like being called out multiple times for false alarms and the situation could cause the police to fine homeowners for false alarms. In many cases, monitoring services will cut off service if the cause of false alarms cannot be eliminated.

Why modern home alarm systems are pet friendly

The technology behind motion detectors has gotten more sophisticated in recent years. Instead of being triggered by the simple motion of a warm object, modern detectors look for both warm objects and the way they move. Motion detectors are now specifically designed to eliminate objects that are animal sized and that move like animals. This alarm system technology advancement has practically eliminated the possibility of false alarms triggered by household pets.

What should you do if you have pets and want a home alarm system?

Don’t be tempted to install a do-it-yourself alarm system, especially if you have pets. Most of the do-it-yourself kits include the lowest cost motion detectors on the market. These detectors are often older technology, which is not pet friendly. If you want an alarm system for your home, and you have pets, contact a professional home security company. Security companies have access to a wide assortment of detectors and alarms that are pet-friendly. The companies can configure your system to give you the protection you need, without the need to confine your pets.

If you would like more information about pet friendly home alarm systems, give the security experts at 1st Alarm a call. You can reach us at 1 (800) 276-5559 or send us an email with your questions and concerns, or to get a price quote. We provide services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

Alarm Systems Are Not Just For The Wealthy Anymore

Do you think that an alarm system is out of your price range? Twenty-five years ago, home security systems would have been too expensive for the average homeowner. Before the 1990’s, security companies mainly served the commercial market. The only residences that had alarm systems were the wealthy and upper middle class. The good news is that home alarm systems are no longer just for the wealthy. The price of home alarm systems changed during the 1990’s, so they are now affordable. Due to the affordability of alarm systems, you should consider whether you need one for your home.

The price of home alarm systems changed during the 1990’s

In the early 1990’s, security companies started to look for new customers, because they had covered most of the business and the wealthy residential market. The problem was that security products were too expensive for typical homeowners.

Residential property owners in middle and working class neighborhoods could not justify paying thousands of dollars for an alarm system, even to protect their property. Homeowners took their chances and hoped that criminals would bypass their properties, even when property crimes were on the increase. Many homeowners found their homes burglarized and vandalized.

Security companies started to realize that there was a vast market of residential properties that were being left vulnerable, because they had no affordable security options. This realization triggered one of the biggest changes in the security industry.

Affordable alarm systems

To tap into the middle-class residential market, security companies began innovating and making their products and services more affordable. Within a short time, homeowners found that the cost of alarm systems started to decrease. Lower costs made it possible for many homeowners to add security systems to their homes.

As technology has advanced, alarm systems have remained affordable, while offering more and more options. Today’s systems no longer depend on a hard-wired phone line, using wireless capabilities instead. Homeowners can start with a simple alarm system and expand it as needed. Video cameras, motion detectors, and window or door detectors are a part of many home alarm systems. Almost all systems come with 24/7 monitoring services.

Do you need an alarm system?

With affordable alarm systems available, you need to assess whether you require one for your home security.

Consider if anyone in your neighborhood has been burglarized recently or if you live in one of the safest areas of your city. Even if you do live in a safe area, property crimes can occur. Most police departments can help you find out if your neighborhood is vulnerable to crime.

Do you have valuables that you would like to keep safe, like electronics, antiques, or valuable collections? These items are all things you need to protect from burglars and other intruders. A small monthly monitoring fee is a low price to pay for protecting your high-value items. You should also consider that home alarm systems protect your family from intruders. An alarm system offers a protective barrier between your family and an criminal. If someone tries to break in, you can contact the monitoring service without alerting the intruder, which can help keep your family safe.

Investing in an alarm system is now an affordable option for many households and can help you protect your home, your possessions, and your family. At 1st Alarm, we offer a wide range of alarm systems and services to help protect what’s important to you. You can call us at 1 (800) 276-5559 or send us an email with your questions and concerns, or to get a price quote.

Home Alarm Systems Are Kid Friendly

There is a misconception that home alarm systems are not kid friendly. Many years ago, home security systems were often too complex for children to arm or disarm, making it very easy for them to trigger the alarm. This vulnerability made many parents hesitant to add a security system to their homes, even when their children were home alone. Today’s technological advances in home alarm systems have made them very kid-friendly. These advanced alarm systems offer kid friendly security, as well as other benefits to parents other than protection from intruders.

Home alarm systems offer kid friendly security

Many households in Lubbock, Texas have kids who are home alone on occasion. The kids get out of school before a parent gets off from work. Maybe a child does not require a babysitter, but the parents need reassurance that their child is safe. Another instance in which children are more secure with a security system is when teenagers need to stay home while their parents are away.

Modern home alarm systems offer protection to children who are home alone in Lubbock Texas. Instead of requiring a child to run to the alarm pad to enter a disarming code, they can use a keychain pad. The keychain pad drastically reduces the chances of false alarms and is more kid friendly. Door and window sensors can send an automatic notification if someone tries to get in and smoke detectors can alert the child if a fire breaks out. Cameras offer a way to view entry ways, the backyard, or the pool, without ever leaving the home.

Having a security system in place is beneficial for both parents and their kids. Parents get peace of mind knowing that their kids are safe at home. The monitoring service is just an alarm away if a problem occurs, which reassures children that they are safe until their parents get home.

Home alarm systems offer more to parents than protection from intruders

Besides protecting your kids when they are home alone, alarm systems offer many more benefits to parents. Using interior cameras tied to the alarm system, and viewable online, a parent can monitor when a child enters or exits the property in Lubbock, Texas. Video monitoring is one way to unobtrusively ensure that a kid is where he or she is supposed to be at the right time.

Home alarm systems offer the child a way to call for emergency services in Lubbock. Accidents can happen at any time, including sudden illnesses. Being able to contact the monitoring service via the alarm system means the kids can get emergency help as quickly as possible. Home alarm systems can be set up to monitor for carbon dioxide, which protects the child from dangers that cannot be seen.

Protect your kids with a kid-friendly home alarm system. The security experts at 1st Alarm can help you set-up a security system that will protect your kids, yourself, and emergencies. You can call us at 1-800-276-5559 or send us an email with your questions or concerns, or to get a price quote. We provide alarm services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

8 Ways To Maximize Your Home Security

Studies have found that the majority of burglars actively avoid homes that look well looked after, so take a look at https://reelrollers.com/swardman-reel-mowers/ for the latest in landscaping tools. They also avoid homes which have an alarm system. These findings show why installing a home security system is an essential part of keeping your family and home safe. However, having an alarm system is not the only step you need to take if you want to maximize your home security in Lubbock, Texas. You can add lighting to the perimeter of your home, use landscaping for security, and use heavy-duty locks. You should also repair broken entryways, work with others to maximize your security, use noise as a deterrent to criminals, and change your daily routine. Finally, remember to use your alarm system as part of your home security in order to maximize safety for your family.

Use lighting to maximize your home security

Add lighting around the perimeter of your property in Lubbock, Texas to deter criminals. Burglars love to use the cover of darkness and deep shadows to mask their approach and intrusion. When you have enough lighting, the advantage of darkness is not available. In a similar vein to visibility and the point after this, Roanoke tree removal is a great idea to make sure you can see anyone attempting to break into your property.

Use landscaping to maximize your home security

You can use landscaping to your advantage by keeping bushes and trees trimmed around your Lubbock property. Make sure there nothing in your landscaping that could conceal an intruder. Cut tree branches so that intruders cannot use them to climb through second floor windows. You should also add thorny vines and shrubs to key points of your landscaping as a deterrent. It is quite difficult to get your landscaping exactly like this to improve safety so if you think you need help doing correctly then check out this Landscaping Company Kennesaw

Use heavy-duty locks to maximize your home security

Invest in heavy-duty locks for your doors, gates, and outbuildings. Light-duty locks are easy for an experienced burglar to get through. A heavy duty lock is harder to penetrate and will at least delay the intruder’s entry into your home.

Repair broken entryways to maximize your home security

Repair broken windows and other potential entry points to your home. A cracked window, a broken lock, and even a hole in the roof are all issues that should be repaired. Intruders can use broken entryways to gain access to your home, so repairing all issues can help maximize your security.

Working with others to maximize your home security

Work with your neighbors in Lubbock, Texas to secure your neighborhood. You can ask your neighbors to help keep an eye on your property, especially when you are away. You might even ask your neighbors to park an extra car in your driveway, to make it seem like someone is home.

You can also ask a friend or family member to check your property when you are away, or ask a friend stay over while you’re gone. An occupied home is far less attractive than an empty one, so working with others to maximize security is a great option.

Using noise to maximize your home security

Leave a radio or TV playing when you are away to maximize your home security. Silence is one sign your home in Lubbock, Texas is not occupied, so any sounds of occupancy make your property less attractive to potential intruders. Consider adding a large, loud dog to your family as well. You don’t need a trained guard dog to get additional protection. A dog that barks when a stranger approaches is a good addition to your home security system.

Change your daily routine to maximize your home security

Change your daily routine to help protect your home and family. It is easy to fall into routines in daily life. However, holding to a strict schedule makes it easier for burglars to know when you will be home and when you won’t. Changing your daily schedule will help keep intruders from knowing when you are away.

Using your alarm system to maximize your home security

Remember to use your alarm system as part of your home security. Although using the system may seem logical, many homeowners in Lubbock, Texas who have alarm systems don’t use them. Get into the habit of using the alarm system so that it is there when you need security. You can also enhance your alarm system with additional components. Add exterior cameras and sensors to your windows and doors and add a siren or a strobe light to your system.

If you are interested in securing your home with an alarm system, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm. You can call us at 1 (800) 276-5559 or send us an email with your questions and concerns, or to get a quote. We provide alarm services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

Video Surveillance Camera Placement Guide

After purchasing a video surveillance system, an installation technician is going to ask you where to place your video surveillance cameras. This is a question you should start thinking about before the technician arrives to do the installation. Common types of video surveillance cameras include outdoor and indoor cameras, built-in cameras, cameras for entryways, garages or warehouse entrances as well as other areas.

Outdoor video surveillance cameras

People are more likely to be dishonest if they think they are alone and unobserved. When you are putting video surveillance equipment outside, you should make some of them obvious. This obvious placement will act as a deterrent for would-be burglars, thieves, and vandals.

Hiding video surveillance equipment in inconspicuous places is also a good idea. Some criminals will take extra steps to avoid a video surveillance camera or may damage equipment to hide their identities. With a few hidden cameras, there is a better chance of recording activities and identifying suspects.

Indoor video surveillance cameras

How you use an indoor video surveillance camera depends upon what you need to secure. If you are trying to see what your nanny or housekeeper is doing when you are away, a hidden camera is the best option. This indoor placement will allow you to capture footage and review it when that person is not in the house.

For retail establishments, a combination of hidden and obvious equipment may be the best choice. Obvious cameras are good for deterring thefts, while hidden cameras can capture shoplifters and employees doing dishonest things.

Built-in video surveillance cameras

When you are remodeling, consider adding equipment into the walls. Instead of trying to mount a video surveillance camera in an inconspicuous location, you can hide everything but the lens. With the proper decoration on the wall surrounding the lens opening, no one will be able to tell that the equipment is even there.

Video surveillance cameras for entryways, garages, or warehouse access doors as well as other areas

All entry points to your business need to have a video surveillance camera. This placement allows you to track who is entering and exiting the business, and at what times. Ideally, you should have a video surveillance camera on both the inside and the outside of the door, especially if it is a solid door.

If your office or business is attached to a warehouse or garage, make sure the door in between is monitored by a video surveillance camera. You may not want customers in the warehouse or warehouse employees in the office. The video surveillance camera can tell you who is coming and going through the door.

If your office has windows on a side of the building that is not easily seen from the street, you need surveillance on those windows. This video surveillance will allow you to see if someone is trying to access the premises from a hidden spot. You can add the security equipment inside or outside of the building.

You may also have ongoing issues with vandals spray painting your back wall, or someone burglarizing employee cars in the parking lot. If you have one area where problems keep occurring, you should place a video surveillance camera in that area.

Keep your business and home secure by adding video surveillance equipment in the right spots. Let the experts at 1st Alarm guide you to the right system for your needs. Call us today at 1(800) 276-5559. You can also connect with us via email or visit us in person. We provide alarm services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

5 Questions You Must Answer Before Choosing A Security Camera

Having a home security system is great for keeping your family safe and adding video surveillance can increase your level of protection. However, you must consider these five questions before you choose your security cameras: Where do you want to install security cameras and what level of video quality do you need? Do you need night vision and do you want hidden or visible security cameras? Do you want to be able to see video footage from anywhere or just from one location? Answering these questions can help you decide what type of security cameras you need for your home video surveillance system.

Where do you want to install security cameras?

Consider where you need the protection of home video surveillance the most. Exterior security cameras are a good option for monitoring people who are on your property and can allow you to identify possible thieves and criminals. If outdoor cameras do not deter a break in, interior security cameras can record the criminal activities. Hidden interior cameras are also an option for your surveillance system. These security cameras can monitor nannies and other household employees as well as unwelcome guests.

What level of video quality do you need?

Video quality for home video surveillance improves each year. Today, you can choose from three levels in home security video quality: General, forensic and high detail.

General detail video is very low resolution and can only give you shapes and colors. Forensic detail video offers higher quality and can help identify faces and license plates. High detail video has very high quality resolution, offering the ability to see fine printing and logos on shirts.

Do you need night vision security cameras?

Night vision security cameras are more expensive than their daylight only counterparts, but they offer the assurance of recording events even during the nighttime. If you have proper lighting around your home, night vision is usually not needed.

Do you want hidden or visible security cameras?

Most people want visible security cameras on the exterior of their home. These cameras act as a deterrent to criminals and make it obvious to everyone that they are being observed.

Inside the home, hidden cameras are often chosen. You probably do not want your guests in your home knowing that you have security cameras. Plus, if you want to monitor the nanny or the housekeeper, you want to do it in secret.

Do you want to be able to see video footage from anywhere?

With modern home video surveillance cameras, you have the option of being able to see footage through your cell phone. You can monitor when the kids get home or if a package is dropped off at the door by having an internet connection to the feed. However, adding an internet video feed may increase costs to your monthly monitoring charges from the security company.

If you are looking for home video surveillance or a home security system, let the experts at 1st Alarm guide you to the right system for your needs. Call us today at 1(800) 276-5559. You can also connect with us via email or visit us in person. We provide alarm services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

Why Every Business Needs An Integrated Security System

You may see a security system as an option for your business, but really, it’s more of a necessity. Some business owners may not want to invest. However, the installation of this product can pay off in the long run and provide many benefits. Take these access control benefits into consideration while you are weighing the possibility of purchasing an integrated security system.

Access control benefits from integrated security systems

Want to know who’s going in and out of your business and when? Keep track of employees as well as potential criminals with an integrated security system. The access control benefits feature allows business owners to note where people are at all times inside their premises. Having a sophisticated turnstile system – such as the ones showcased on the Daosafe manufacturing home page – at the entry of your premises can help to prevent access to people outside of the business, regulate the flow of those entering and monitor throughput.

CCTV allows motion sensors to deploy and video comings and goings of employees or intruders. Business owners can even track a particular individual’s movements. If anything suspicious happens, this is the best way to capture it for the police so business owners have proof of any criminal event.

Many people don’t realize that a perk of having an integrated security system includes fire safety. If or when an emergency happens, the security system can help by opening doors so employees can safely exit. Notify the police and fire department in seconds through your integrated security system, and protect your business assets.

Other integrated security system benefits

You can upgrade this product as you see fit and easily add to it. You can even use the integrated security system as the universal base for your business’s security plan. Having one singular point of contact is a definite benefit of using an integrated security system. Have peace of mind, keep track of employees, and know exactly what’s going on in your business, so you’ll be aware when something happens that shouldn’t. That peace of mind is worth every penny.

For more information about integrated security systems

Contact 1st Alarm today at 1(800) 276-5559 to get more information about purchasing and installing a security system at your home or business. You can also contact us via email. Browse our website to find out more about the services and products we offer, or get a quote for your alarm right away. Find a location near you and let us help you arm your business so you can breathe easy. We have locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo./

Types Of Home Video Surveillance Cameras

You might think that one home video surveillance camera is just like the next one. The fact is that there are many different kinds of wireless home security systems. Knowing what each type is will help you choose the best one for your home or business. Types of home video surveillance cameras include hidden or visible, wireless, closed circuit television, domed, and fake.

Hidden or visible video surveillance cameras

You can mount home video surveillance cameras where they are easily seen or make them blend into the surroundings. Whether you want a hidden or visible type depends upon what you want to accomplish with your security system.

There are plenty of reasons why you would want to hide a camera. You might want to see what your nanny or housekeeper is doing when you are away. There are also plenty of reasons to make one visible. Criminals are less likely to target your home if they see home video surveillance cameras on the outside. Hidden types also allow you to mount recording devices where you need them, instead of only where they can’t be seen.

Wireless video surveillance cameras

Today, wireless security cameras are the most common type found in video surveillance systems. These recording devices can be mounted or set anywhere. Wireless types run off of battery power and can send their signals to the central unit via a wireless signal. These devices can also have on-board memory to capture video without sending it out. Because they are not tied to physical cables or wires, wireless video surveillance cameras can be moved as needed. Most wireless devices are mounted inside. However, there are models that are weatherproof that can be used outside.

Closed circuit television

Closed circuit television, or CCTV, is the classic choice when it comes to home video surveillance cameras. The CCTV system uses wired cameras that are cabled back to a central DVR and offers the ability to watch the feeds live on a monitor. A camera can be installed both inside and outside. This kind of home video surveillance system requires professional installation to work properly.

Domed video surveillance cameras

A domed camera usually mounts on the ceiling and offers a protected 360-degree view. This type is most often used in offices and retail establishments and can be hardened to prevent damage from vandalism. A domed camera is often blended into the background to make it less obvious. This way of disguising makes it easier to capture useful footage of dishonest activity.

Fake video surveillance cameras

These replicas do not record video. However, just the appearance of a fake camera can have the same deterrence level as a real one. This security product is affordable and simple to install.

These camera types are a few of the video surveillance options available for your home or business. You can use one kind or a mixture of types that work for your security needs. To get more information, contact us here at 1st Alarm. Give us a call at 1(800) 276-5559 or send us a message via email. We have locations in the following Texas cities: Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

The Benefits Of Installing Video Surveillance Systems At Work

Are you unsure about adding a video surveillance system to your business’s security? While adding video surveillance does cost money, there are certain benefits to having it as part of your security system. These benefits include the ability to monitor customers and employees. This system also helps prevent theft, break-ins, and vandalism. Above all, video surveillance systems provide the ability to protect your business with the highest efficiency.

Video surveillance systems give you the ability to monitor customers and employees

A video surveillance system allows you to see what is going on all around your business. Cameras on the outside give you a view of who is entering and exiting your property at any given time. Cameras can also show you if someone that is not supposed to be on the property is there. Cameras on the inside can tell you if your employees or customers are being dishonest. With a video surveillance system, you can monitor your customers and employees to make sure no one is stealing money or merchandise. The images can be recorded and reviewed later. You can also use captured video as evidence of wrongdoing for the police.

Video surveillance systems help preventing theft, break-ins, and vandalism

Obvious cameras act as a deterrent to theft and break-ins. The threat of being recorded on a video surveillance system often makes criminals think twice before breaking in or stealing something. If burglars decide to continue with their activities, the video will show what they are doing.

Hidden cameras can also have a deterrent effect. If a store becomes known for using hidden cameras to monitor customers and prosecute thieves, the criminal element may start going elsewhere.

Criminal activity is not limited to theft and burglary. Vandalism costs businesses billions of dollars every year. A video surveillance system can also prevent vandalism from occurring by deterring some acts or recording others. If you aim a camera towards a wall that is continually painted with graffiti, you can capture images of who is doing the damage. That is evidence that you can give to the police to find and prosecute those doing the damage.

Video surveillance systems provide the ability to protect your business with the highest efficiency

A video surveillance system is on duty all the time. Unlike employees, a security system takes no vacations and never gets distracted. Cameras can capture everything within their view 24/7, cutting down on your personnel costs without compromising security. A video surveillance system can also monitor areas that are not easily checked by security guards.

Crime is always a concern for any business. Adding a video surveillance system to your business can help you deter criminal activity and keep your premises safe. If you want to speak to someone about adding a video surveillance system to your business, contact us here at 1st Alarm. You can reach us at 1(800) 276-5559 or send us an email. We have locations in the following Texas cities: Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

Tax Deduction For A Security System

You are interested in a residential or commercial security system, but you aren’t sure about the cost. Is it possible that you could claim a tax deduction for a security system? The overall answer would be no. However, there are special circumstances. There are tax deductions for working from home and you can use your security system as part of these deductions. When doing your taxes for a home office, just use the maintenance or installation of the product as a deduction like you would other utilities. There are many financial benefits of installing a security system even if you can’t claim a tax deduction. This product increases your home’s tax basis, which can increase the value of your house if you choose to sell it. A security system can also reduce your homeowners’ insurance premium and prevent burglars from stealing your valuables, saving you money.

Tax deductions for working from home

The only way your wireless home security system could be tax-deductible is if a portion of your house is used for work. If you have a home office, you can use this product as a tax deduction. When you do your taxes, use the system and maintenance, or installation, as a deduction just as you do other home office deductions, such as utilities.

Another way you could use your security system as a tax deduction is if you run a home daycare center. Also, only a portion of your expenses are tax-deductible, since you are only using a part of your home for work purposes.

Financial benefits of installing a security system

Even if you can’t claim a tax deduction, there are financial benefits to having a wireless home security system. This product increases your home’s tax basis, which means it can increase the value of your house if you choose to sell it.

Another financial benefit of having a wireless home security system is the fact that it can reduce your homeowners’ insurance premiums. Since your house is less likely to be burglarized, it can reduce your monthly insurance costs when you install a home alarm system.

Having an alarm system prevents criminals from taking your valuables, which could be costly to replace. This is another ironclad financial benefit of having this product in place. It’s a worthwhile investment to put one into your home for the present and for the future. You can’t put a price on your safety and peace of mind.

For more information about security systems

If you are interested in a wireless home security system but you need more information before installing, contact 1st Alarm. Give us a call today at 1(800) 276-5559 or contact us via email with your questions about residential or commercial security. We have locations in the following Texas cities: Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.