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Home Automation and Home Security Systems in Amarillo Texas

Modern home security systems offer a wide range of home automation features. Thanks to wireless technology, it’s possible to control virtually any home system via your home security system from a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access. From making sure that your kids have locked the door after themselves while you’re still at work to turning the lights off and on while you’re on vacation to deter potential burglars, you have the control you need to ensure your home stays safe at all times. Consider the following home automation features you’ll have with your new digital home alarm system from 1st Alarm in Amarillo TX.

Window and door sensors and controls

Window and door sensors let you know when a window or door is opened or left open via a text message or email alert. Whether your son took the dog for a walk and simply didn’t close the front door all the way behind him or a burglar has let himself in through the sliding glass kitchen door, you’ll know exactly what’s happening at all of the entrances to your home around the clock. You’ll also have the ability to lock and unlock your doors remotely, which may prove critical if one of your kids or a caretaker has misplaced their keys or locked themselves out of the house.

Alarm controls

When you’re dashing off for work in the morning or trying to get the whole family to the airport, it’s easy to forget about arming the home security system. With home automation, you can arm or disarm the system from any location whether you are in Amarillo, across the state or across the globe.

Climate controls

Adjusting the thermostat temperature remotely reduces your energy bills and keeps the home more comfortable. You may also equip your security system to alert you in the event of an unusual temperature change in the house. While the house may simply warm up more than usual on a hot summer day, a sudden temperature change may indicate a more serious issue, such as a fire. An alert can mean the difference between rapid emergency response and significant damage. Be sure to get the help you need from Amarillo’s first responders quickly and reliably.

Light controls

Turning the lights on and off periodically while you’re on vacation gives the appearance of activity, decreasing the risk of theft or vandalism. You can also make sure that your lights are turned off while everyone is at school or work to save money.

If you are considering adding a security system, a security camera or simply want to take advantage of the many home automation features for your home or business, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm Amarillo. We have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price and give you the automated control features you desire. 1st Alarm Amarillo can help you with all of your security needs. Call (800) 276-5559 today. Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 3501 S. Georgia Street in Amarillo, Texas.

Why Security Cameras Are Important

For many years, video surveillance was reserved for government use and protection of wealthy companies. Thanks to wireless technology, it is simple and inexpensive to install security cameras in virtually any modern home or business security system. If you’ve been on the fence about installing video cameras for your residential or commercial alarm system, consider the following benefits of video surveillance.

Security cameras help deter crime

The mere presence of security cameras is enough to send most burglars in the other direction. If a criminal is thinking about robbing a particular neighborhood or business district, he’s more likely to pass over buildings with security cameras. Some people don’t believe that the ability to deter burglars is worth the tradeoff of visible security cameras. If you don’t like the look of security cameras on your home or business, think about concealing the majority of the cameras, leaving one or two visible for any passerby. It’s a small sacrifice to make for a lot of protection.

Security cameras can help apprehend suspects

In the rare event that a crime does occur, having video footage makes it much easier to track down a suspect and recover stolen belongings. From preventing major theft to avoiding being sued, video footage proves to be a major asset for homeowners and business owners alike. Capturing crooks on camera doesn’t necessarily lead to catching them, but it greatly increases the odds. When police aren’t able to identify the suspect right way, they can publish the video publicly, raising the chances of a viewer identifying the subject. Public viewing also heightens exposure for petty crime, which deters many people from attempting it.

Security cameras can help improve accountability and productivity

For most business owners, the threat of employees stealing from the company is much greater than the the threat of an outside party robbing the business. The average employee isn’t likely to steal company property. However, “stealing” is quite common in the workplace. Installing security cameras significantly reduces the incidence of employees taking extra long lunch breaks, playing games on their computers, and talking or texting with family and friends during work hours. Video surveillance doesn’t help the bottom line at home, but it can help you keep an eye on your kids. Similarly, most children won’t throw wild parties while their parents are at work or on vacation. However, they are more likely to put off doing their homework, watch inappropriate TV shows, or eat junk food.

Security cameras allow for remote monitoring

Wireless video camera footage can be viewed from virtually any computer, smartphone, or tablet with internet capability. This feature gives homeowners and business owners the ability to keep tabs on their properties even when they’re away. From checking on your house while you’re at work to monitoring your business during a week long vacation, you know what’s going on at all times whether or not you’re there physically.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera 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.

10 Benefits of Home Alarm Systems

In a digital age where wireless technology is prevalent, home alarm systems have become more affordable than ever. A basic system is attainable for the average homeowner or renter. If you’ve been thinking about investing in a home alarm system, consider the following benefits these systems have to offer.

Home alarm systems deter crime

Homes without home alarm systems are nearly three times more likely to be targeted by a burglar. Knowing that a home is equipped with an alarm system is enough to deter many burglars. When there are multiple homes in a neighborhood with alarms, most thieves will steer clear of it completely.

Home alarm systems help protect valuables

We all know fellow homeowners who have experienced a home invasion and lost expensive jewelry, electronics (like those from Custom Audio Video), and other pricey items. The theft is that much worse when you lose items of personal value that can’t be replaced such as family china or wedding photos.

Home alarm systems can enable remote access

Modern home alarm systems allow remote access via virtually any computer, smartphone, or tablet with internet capability. You can view the video surveillance and control a wide range of home systems remotely including arming and disarming the alarm system and locking and unlocking the doors.

Home alarm systems can help improve home energy management

Many home alarm systems boast smart thermostats and outlets. You can adjust the temperature and turn devices off and on as needed to keep your home safe and save on energy bills.

Home alarm systems can help reduce homeowner and renters insurance

For most homeowners, homeowners’ insurance is required. Installing a home alarm system often reduces the cost of the insurance as much as 10-20%. If you are reading from New Zealand and are looking for a new home insurance policy, check out Home Insurance with State NZ for a competitive rate.

Home alarm systems can alert you of fire and smoke

Every homeowner dreads returning home from a week long vacation to discover detrimental fire or smoke damage. A monitored home alarm system will warn occupants of the presence of fire or smoke and then alert the proper authorities automatically, greatly reducing the response time.

Home alarm systems can alert you of carbon monoxide gas buildup

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that may be released from gas ranges, heating systems, and stoves. As the human senses can’t detect it, people are often unaware of carbon monoxide buildup. Similar to the presence of fire or smoke, the alarm system will alert the authorities to carbon monoxide leaks automatically.

Home alarm systems can help summon medical assistance as needed

Many home alarm systems feature add-on medical alert pendants or emergency pulls so seniors, sick individuals, and people with disabilities get the help they need right away in the event of a fall, seizure, or other emergency. Or alternatively if you have seniors in the household, or they are living by themselves still, just a simple alarm won’t suffice, you should take the time to look into aarp medical alert systems and how they can greatly benefit your senior relatives.

Home alarm systems can help you keep tabs on kids and pets

When you’re at work or out of town, you can monitor your children and pets via video surveillance to ensure everyone is safe and behaving appropriately. From locking the doors at night to confirming that the cat didn’t get locked in the pantry, you’ll know that the household is running smoothly even when you’re not there.

Home alarm systems provide peace of mind

Arguably the greatest benefit of a home alarm system is the sense of security and general peace of mind that it offers. When you’re not concerned about your valuable possessions and loved ones, you have more energy to focus on other tasks, allowing you to be a more productive, healthy, and focused individual.

The Positive Effect of Security Cameras on Crime in Midland Texas and Odessa Texas

Have you been contemplating having security cameras installed in your Midland TX or Odessa TX home or business? It stands to reason that security cameras have a positive effect on crime. Security cameras discourage opportunistic crimes and make criminals take a second thought before they risk having their face set to a permanent record. Knowing there are security cameras on the premises helps clients, customers and family members feel more secure, and gives you – the property owner – a certain peace of mind.

Fighting crime with security cameras

Security cameras can be a cost-effective method to deter, document and reduce crime – and, they have been proven to help solve crimes. Images on surveillance cameras helped identify the Boston Marathon bombing suspects. They assist law enforcement by having an accurate and indisputable record of criminal activity. Witness descriptions of lawbreakers are not always reliable due to the stress of the situations – but images taken from security footage gives law enforcement the edge they need to find the culprits. In court proceedings, video footage can act as a complement to the evidence presented by eyewitnesses.

Crime deterrence

If you have ever been in a dark parking lot in Midland TX or Odessa TX, you know how nervous it can make you feel. When properly lit and with security cameras installed – you, your customers and employees will be able to walk to their cars more confident in their safety. When criminals see that the area they are ‘casing’ is equipped with security cameras, they are more likely to take their criminal activity elsewhere. Having security cameras and other types of security in and around your premises should mean that there is a considerable decrease in the amount of criminal activity that takes place in the area. It is unfortunate that sometimes a camera could get broken or stop working and this could eventually lead to incidents happening. So that’s why if you or someone you know has been injured on a premises with no adequate security, you could be eligible to make a claim through a professional like premises liability lawyer Jeffrey Mehalic to help you receive what you are entitled too. For business owners, it should always be a good idea to make sure that you have security installed just in case something like this happens on your property.

Reduce crime in the workplace with security cameras

No one likes to think that their employees would do anything to negatively affect their business. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Security cameras inside your Midland or Odessa TX business can help to keep your honest employees honest and identify those who are not.

Prevent shoplifting with security cameras

Losses from shoplifting are one of the biggest problems that businesses face today. It not only affects businesses, but overburdens law enforcement, courts and adds costs to consumers. Equipping your Midland or Odessa TX business with security cameras can deter and prevent shoplifting by those sneaky individuals who always think they can get away with stealing from businesses.

We all want to live in a crime-free community – but, for most of us that is just a dream. If you are worried about crime in your Midland and Odessa, Texas community – security cameras may be what you need to make those who enter your residence or business safer. There are many types of security cameras and systems that you can choose from. Make sure you call or visit your trusted security company for information on the latest video surveillance options.

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 8818 West Highway 80 near the airport in Midland Texas.

Benefits of Installing Security Cameras in Your Midland TX or Odessa TX Workplace

There are many benefits of installing security cameras in the your Midland TX or Odessa TX workplace – one of the obvious reasons being to reduce theft – but there are other reasons.

Security cameras equal deterrence

Criminals are naturally deterred when they see that a Midland TX or Odessa TX business is equipped with security cameras. Security cameras may not discourage all criminals, but they certainly can reduce the risk of unauthorized entry into your business. You can be more confident that only authorized employees enter your business site.

Security cameras can help improve employee performance

Business owners try to keep an eye on every aspect of their company – but you can’t watch everything that is going on. When security cameras are installed inside your Midland or Odessa TX business, you will be able to observe your employee’s performance, creating a more secure work environment. People tend to appreciate being held accountable for their actions, and knowing their work is being monitored may give them a higher level of commitment to their job. Customer service is one of the most important aspects of every business. With security cameras, you will be able to see how your employees interact with your customers.

Security cameras can give you a safe feeling

It is important for your employees and customers to feel safe. Those who work for you will have a more secure feeling when they know they are in the presence of security cameras. Employees will feel safer knowing that criminals may be deterred from stealing or assaulting staff when they see the presence of security cameras. Customers are the bread and butter of any business, but sometimes they are also a problem. You will have evidence of any interactions with unruly customers.

Security cameras provide visual documentation

We see it on TV shows – police requesting video footage from security cameras. It’s true, documentation is one of the leading avenues for criminals being caught. As a Midland TX or Odessa TX business owner, you don’t want to think this will happen to you – but it can happen to anyone, anywhere. If your business should be threatened by a criminal, you will have the documentation needed to help identify the culprit. Documentation can also benefit you and your employees in the case of sexual or workplace harassment. Instead of he-said, she-said – you will have documentation that’s difficult to dispute.

Wireless Home Security Systems to Keep You and Your Family Safe in Lubbock Texas

If you are looking for a wireless home security systems to keep you and your family safe, it is important to do your research and discover the best types available in the Lubbock, Texas region. From security systems to fire detection and medical alert systems, you can find numerous ways to monitor your home and increase the safety for you and your family. Depending on the needs of your home and family, you can control and monitor anything from burglary detection to smoke detection. If you own your own business in Lubbock TX, you may also need an wireless security systems to monitor your office building or retail shop. Here is a bit more information about different wireless security systems.

Wireless home security systems and security

Security is always a top priority for wireless home security systems, and is essential for keeping you and your family safe. Not only can you monitor for unwanted intruders, but also you can protect your home and your belongings from theft. Wireless home security systems can be installed with video monitoring systems, wireless security systems, 24-hour surveillance, and remote access. Monitor your home when you are away for work or vacation. If something is missing, check your security recordings for unusual activity. Keep your family safe with wireless home security systems and protect your most valuable assets.

Wireless home security systems, fire prevention and carbon monoxide

When installing wireless home security systems to protect your house and family, fire prevention and detection are a necessity. Fire security services are available to monitor your home for smoke and fire, and to alert the appropriate response team in the case of an emergency. Fire detection systems can alert you of smoke in any part of your house, and will alert the Lubbock TX fire department if you are not at home. Carbon monoxide detection is also an important part of wireless home security systems. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer, and without proper detection systems you will not be able to protect your family.

Wireless home security systems and emergency response

If you or a member of your family has a medical problem or concern, a home medical alert system could be the difference between life and death. Residential security systems that include medical alert features and 24-hour monitoring are great for those with medical problems. At just the touch of a button, help can be on the way. Fall-detection monitoring is also important for seniors and those with decreased mobility.

Wireless security systems for small and large businesses

Wireless security systems can be used not only in your family Lubbock TX home, but also in your Lubbock business. Commercial security systems with video surveillance are great for monitoring offices and places of business after hours. Keep tabs on your employees, monitor for theft or vandalism, and be ready in the case of flooding or fire at your retail shop.

No matter the type of house, building or structure – wireless home security systems are great for protecting your property, as well as the things inside. Your most valuable assets – your family – are of course of highest priority. Keep them safe by installing the best wireless home security systems available in Lubbock, Texas.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business in Lubbock Texas, contact 1st Alarm of Lubbock Texas today. Having a wireless home security system that includes wireless home security cameras is one of the best ways you can protect what is important to you. 1st Alarm Lubbock has the best security alarm professionals in the region and has the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price. We can help you with all of your security needs for your business and your home. Call (806) 792-3510 today. Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 7212 Joliet Ave. #3 in Lubbock Texas.

Benefits of Wireless Home Security Cameras in Lubbock Texas

When looking to install a wireless home security cameras in your Lubbock TX home or small business, it is important to do your research. Lots of great home security systems are available in the Lubbock, Texas region. There are many benefits to installing wireless security cameras in your home or business. From keeping your family safe to preventing theft, it is important to protect your most valuable assets with home security cameras.

Wireless home security cameras for safety

Keeping you and your family safe in your Lubbock TX home is of course the best benefit of installing security cameras. Safety should be your top priority. If you are looking to install security cameras in your retail shop, business or office building, you will benefit by keeping your employees safe as well. Feel confident that your house and your business are safe from break-ins and vandalism. Keep emergency personnel on standby with a security system that alerts the appropriate response team of any suspicious activity. Wireless home security systems are easy to monitor and can even be accessed remotely.

Residential surveillance systems to prevent theft

Another benefit of installing security cameras is preventing theft in your home or business. Monitor activity in your home when you are away, or detect for unusual movement in your Lubbock TX business after working hours. Protecting your belongings and your assets is key to maintaining a stable household and/or business. Surveillance systems are easy to install, simple to monitor, and a no-brainer for the smart homeowner or business owner.

Easy to install wireless home security cameras

One of the best benefits of wireless home security cameras is that they are easy to install. Many models can be installed on your own, and more advanced systems can be taken care of by a professional quickly. Depending on your needs and the size of your Lubbock TX home or business, you can have wireless security cameras installed by the end of the day. Start monitoring activity in your home while you’re on vacation, or keep tabs on your retail business after working hours.

Wireless home security benefits

There are many benefits to installing wireless home security cameras, including increased safety, theft prevention and ease of installation. Easy to use, wireless home security systems are consistently increasing in technology and features. For the smart homeowner, keeping their family and belongings safe and sound is the highest priority. For the conscientious Lubbock TX business owner, security cameras are their smartest investment. Read over these benefits, then start looking for the best wireless home security systems available in the Lubbock, Texas region.

The Benefits of Installing Video Surveillance Systems in Amarillo Texas

Wireless technology has made video surveillance systems more affordable and easier to install than ever. Once upon a time, setting up a security system involved hours of drilling holes and running wires through the walls, only to have to do it all over again when you wanted to move or upgrade your system. Now an Amarillo TX home or business can get a security system with video surveillance up and running in a matter of hours without breaking the bank. If you’ve been on the fence about installingvideo surveillance systems in your residential or commercial setting, consider the following benefits that video cameras offer.

Reduced loss, theft, and vandalism

The mere presence of security cameras is enough to detract most burglars from attempting to vandalize or break into a property. When an Amarillo TX neighborhood or business park has multiple locations with security systems, thieves will start avoiding it altogether. Digitalvideo surveillance systems capture and store more video than their analog counterparts. The video that they do capture is high definition with wide viewing angles. These clear images make it easier to capture burglars and locate stolen property. Many law enforcement services use video tape from residential and commercial cameras to prosecute suspects and return stolen items.

Remote monitoring

Digital video surveillance systems with wireless capability allow anyone to view the surveillance feed from anywhere in the world. As long as you have a viable internet connection, you can use virtually any computer, tablet, or smartphone to view footage. Simply log into the security system from the device of your choosing and then view a live stream or access archived footage.

Distributed intelligence

It is inevitable that analog systems have gaps in security footage. While it’s still impossible to view every single second of captured security footage from a digital surveillance system, distributed intelligence will fill in the gaps. Software programs monitor video feeds using movement pattern recognition to pick up certain types of behavior, activities, and events. When your system in Amarillo picks up something suspicious, it generates an alert and sends it to the security team.

Improved productivity

While most employees aren’t going to steal physical items from a company, they may take long lunch breaks, text with friends, or play games on their work computers. When employees know that there are surveillance cameras in their Amarillo workplace, they’re more likely to stay on task and take their breaks efficiently. The presence of video surveillance systems also provide peace of mind about security in the workplace, allowing employees to maintain full focus on their work.

Cost effective with scalability

Digital video surveillance systems require minimal physical infrastructure. Since digital cameras produce high quality images with wide viewing angles, you won’t have to install as many cameras as you would with an analog system. Digital feed can be compressed and stored, which takes up less space than analog, also saving you money. As the needs of your Amarillo TX home or business change, you can scale your video camera system up or down with ease. Remove cameras that are no longer needed or add new cameras and integrate them into the network seamlessly.

Choosing a video surveillance system can be overwhelming. Talk to fellow home or business owners about the systems they use and why they do or don’t like them. When researching systems online, look for comprehensive unbiased reviews. Finally, request a free consultation from a video surveillance provider to learn more about their services and whether or not they’ll be a good fit for your budget and security needs.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm Amarillo. We have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price. 1st Alarm Amarillo can help you with all of your security needs. Call (800) 276-5559 today. Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 3501 S. Georgia Street in Amarillo, Texas.

Five Essential Home Security Measures You Cannot Do Without in Amarillo Texas

Did you know that there were over 2 million home burglaries last year? If you do the math, you would find that is a break-in occurring every 15 seconds. Four times a minute! With numbers like that, no wonder more and more people in Amarillo TX are looking to secure their homes. Fortunately, there are several low-cost measures anyone can take to keep burglaries from happening.

Here are five essential home security measures you cannot do without

Install good locks on all windows and doors…and use them. Most burglaries are crimes of convenience. A burglar canvasses an Amarillo neighborhood looking for targets. He by-passes the homes with solid doors and Grade 1 locks. Instead, he targets the house with 20-year-old locks that are loose and easily jimmied. Make sure all of your deadbolts meet ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 standards. Ensure your window locks are also in good repair.

Eliminate hiding spots. Breaking into a place is much easier if the criminal has someplace out of sight to work. Tall shrubs or dark corners are ideal hiding spots. To secure your Amarillo TX home, you need to eliminate those hiding places. Trim or relocate the shrubs. Add lighting to illuminate dark corners. If you still have vulnerable areas, consider adding strategic plantings. A few rose bushes or a briar patch under a window will keep burglars away.

Add motion sensors to your outdoor lights. Most burglaries occur in the daytime when people are away. However, there is still enough occurring at night to take precautions. Lights that turn on when someone walks in front of the sensor does two things. First, It illuminates the potential intruder, making him or her easier to see. Secondly, It also alerts you and your neighbors that something is moving.

Don’t advertise. You just got the sports car of your dreams. You upgraded your TV to the latest technology and added 20″ to its width. You are just the kind of mark a burglar is looking for. You don’t want to advertise what you have to the outside world. Keep your blinds and drapes drawn. Close the garage door. Don’t put empty boxes on the curb. Don’t brag where people might overhear.

Install a wireless home security system. The days of hardwired home security systems is rapidly fading away. Wireless home security systems have made securing your home much easier and affordable. It is possible for both homeowners and renters in Amarillo TX to have wireless home security systems connected to 24/7 monitoring services.

Wireless home security systems are very affordable these days. They can be installed into homes and apartments without making wired connections. They can be as simple or as complicated as the residents want or need. How are you securing your home?

Why Security Cameras Are Important In Midland Texas

Wireless technology has made it easier and more affordable than ever to include video surveillance in a security system. As such, more Midland TX homeowners and business owners include video surveillance in their security systems each year. If you’ve been on the fence about installing a security system and aren’t sure whether or not you should include security cameras, consider the following benefits that they offer.

Security Cameras act as a crime deterrent

When a burglar is intent on robbing homes or businesses in a Midland TX or Odessa TX, the mere presence of a security system may make a burglar pass up a building altogether. While video cameras won’t guarantee full elimination of crime, they will greatly reduce the incidence. If you like the idea of having hidden cameras that don’t deter from the aesthetic of your home or office, think about placing at least one or two small visible cameras as well so the system still serves as a deterrent.

Security Cameras can help identify and apprehend a suspect in the event of a crime

On the isolated occasion that a crime does occur even with a security system in place, having video footage gives you the ability to capture the criminal. If you do get robbed or have another serious incident take place on your premises, the best outcome is to catch the responsible party as quickly as possible. You never know when your video system will help prevent a large theft or be instrumental in apprehending the thief.

Security Cameras create a record of stolen goods

When a burglar does complete a successful break in and walks away with valuable possessions, there isn’t always much that Midland homeowners or company owners can do to track down their items or receive compensation. Video footage creates a clear record of everything that got taken during a robbery. With footage of the suspect and the goods that he took, there’s a high likelihood that you’ll get your possessions back. In the rare event that you aren’t able to reclaim your belongings, you can use the footage to file a claim with your insurance company and receive funds to replace the items.

Security Cameras increase accountability

From keeping an eye on your kids at home while you’re at work or on vacation to monitoring employee performance during the average workday, increased accountability often results in increased productivity. While your teenagers may not be throwing wild parties, they may be eating junk food and watching TV instead of doing their homework. Similarly, most employees won’t steal from a company, but they will think twice about playing games on their computers and taking extra long lunch breaks when they know that the video cameras are running.

Once you’ve decided to install a security system with video surveillance or add security cameras to your existing alarm system, you must get the best system from the best security company in your region. Read comprehensive, unbiased reviews of different security companies and talk to fellow homeowners or business owners who use video surveillance about what they do and don’t like about their provider.