Choosing The Right Commercial Security System For Your Abilene Texas Small Business

Whether you are protecting personnel, property, data, or inventory, it is crucial to select the right commercial security system for your small business needs. Modern security systems offer numerous features that can provide a solid layer of security that can protect you against everything from robbery and theft, to fires and floods. As you consider your options in Abilene TX, start by considering the threats your business might face.

A Commercial Security System Provides Asset Protection

If your Abilene business specializes in high-value assets such as gold, jewelry, electronics, etc., then theft and break-ins are prime threats you need to address. You will need a commercial security system that offers round the clock video monitoring and motion sensitive intrusion alarms. These features dispatch police quickly and efficiently which can stop a robber or a burglar cold in their tracks before they have time to exit the premises. As part of this, it’s also a good idea to select a fire suppression system such as those that disperse dry chemical or gaseous agents  that won’t harm inventory when deployed.

A Commercial Security System Provides Inventory & Data Protection

Whether you need to protect warehouse space or a server room containing computers loaded with client data, keypad access and individual access codes will go a long way towards keeping everything locked down tight. As part of this, your Abilene TX security monitoring company can also assist you with passcode management to ensure that your commercial security system remains secure even when employees leave the company or new employees are onboard.

A Commercial Security System Provides Personnel Protection

Fire and the threat of physical violence are considerable threats to safety that can exist in any Abilene small business whether it’s a medical office, retail shop, restaurant, etc. As such, you should select a commercial security system that is integrated with your fire alarm and suppression systems. Your system should also feature silent alarms, panic alarms, and other features that can trigger an immediate police response to the scene. These functions should also be integrated with video monitoring as this can provide real-time information to first responders. In turn, this improves the response and allows them to target their resources more effectively towards neutralizing the threat whether it is an intruder or a growing fire.

Further Narrowing Your Choices

Once you have determined the functionality of your commercial security system, it is advisable to compare the options that are available with the budget you are willing to spend. You will want to consider all the points that need to be protected, the cost of the equipment and the price per point, as well as any installation, monitoring, and maintenance fees associated with the system.

Moreover, it is not uncommon for small business owners in Abilene TX to rent the properties they are seeking to protect. In such situations, you will want to factor in installation cost and determine whether you want to buy/rent the system. If you are renting the property with no intent to stay there long-term, it is obviously best to seek a system that offers minimal installation and can be relocated when you move the business.

Ultimately, security is an investment in both physical security and peace of mind. It is an investment that can protect your business, personnel, and property when the unexpected happens. At 1st Alarm Abilene, we can help you choose the right commercial security system for your business.

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

If you are looking to install a new security system in your home or business, make sure to do your research on the best security companies in the Abilene, Texas area. Look for a professional that can get the job done right the first time, and ensure that your investment is protected all hours of the day.

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

The 1st Alarm Abilene professionals have the expertise and resources to help you secure your property quickly and affordably. To learn more about our residential services, request a quote online or visit us at our conveniently located office.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home or business, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm Abilene. We have the expertise and technology to help you secure your premises at an affordable price.  1st Alarm Abilene can help you with all of your security needs.  Call (325) 672-3224 today.  Request a Quote online or come by the office located at 4115 N 1st Street in Abilene, Texas.

Can Your Business Afford A Commercial Fire Alarm System

You have worked hard to build your business. Over the years, you have invested your time, savings, and energy into building something that can provide income for your family and employees, and goods and services for your customers. When it comes to protecting your business, the real question isn’t whether you can afford a commercial fire alarm system; it is whether you are willing to pay the price if you don’t have one.

Commercial fire alarms are a valuable asset to any business. They protect lives, physical inventory, equipment, and customers. Moreover, they are required by law and companies that don’t have functioning fire alarms on the premises can face stiff penalties that include loss of their business license. Even with obvious benefits and penalties, many companies fail to install sufficient fire protection.

The Cost in New Construction versus Remodels

Installing a commercial fire alarm system within a new building is often less expensive than installing one within an existing structure. The reason for this has to do with the wiring and the amount of effort it takes to retrofit and integrate the system into the building. For a new construction, the cost of installing a fire alarm can be as little as $2 per square foot of area protected. In a remodel, that cost may rise to $14. That may seem like a lot, but it is really minimal when you consider the average cost in damages from a commercial fire within a small business exceeds $35,000. That’s just structural damage and inventory loss; it doesn’t include downtime and lost business while the damage is repaired.   

What to Look For When Purchasing a Commercial Fire Alarm System

There are many options when it comes to commercial fire alarm systems. As technology has evolved, commercial fire alarm systems have become smart sentries that provide solid protection against smoke and fire. There are two main types of commercial fire alarms that include:

Conventional Systems – The tried and true fire alarm, these systems rely on zones that are connected via hardwire to a central control panel. These types of systems make it easy to put separate fire alarms throughout the structure. Because of the simplicity of these systems, they often cost less than other options.

Addressable Systems –  These smart systems work much like conventional systems, however, their big advantage is that they identify the point of fire when an alarm sounds. This makes it easier to direct emergency responders to the point of origin and extinguish the blaze faster. This can aid in evacuation and reduces property damage.

When choosing a commercial fire alarm, technology has truly raised the bar on the number of features and functions that are available. Naturally, systems can be easily connected to fire suppression systems such as sprinklers and halon dispensers. In fact, the combination of a fire alarm and a fire suppression system can cut a business’s insurance rates dramatically which helps the business quickly recoup the cost of purchase and installation.

Commercial fire alarm systems can also be connected to video monitoring systems. This provides real time information that can be relayed to first responders in the event a fire breaks out. It can also help reduce the number of false alarms.

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

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

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

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.

Commercial Security Cameras to secure your Amarillo Texas Business

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

 Commercial Security includes security cameras

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

Monitor your business with a commercial security system

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

Insure your investment with commercial security

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

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

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

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.

Why You Need a Commercial Video Surveillance System

Once upon a time, analog commercial security systems were so expensive that only big corporations could afford them. The video they produced was grainy and involved constant reviewing to ensure suspicious activity didn’t get missed. Digital technology has made video surveillance so affordable that it’s a viable option for virtually every business. The quality is picture perfect.  If you’ve been on the fence about investing in a commercial video surveillance system, consider the following benefits it offers.

A commercial video surveillance system can help decrease theft, loss, and vandalism

Modern digital commercial video surveillance systems produce high-definition, wide-angle video feed. You’re able to see and review everything that takes place on your premises in full detail. The mere presence of visible security cameras is enough to deter most potential thieves. In the event theft or vandalism takes place, you’ll be able to turn over the video footage to the law enforcement. Equipped with this high quality footage, it’s much more likely they’ll be able to catch the criminal.

Simpler, more affordable installation, maintenance, and upgrades

A professional security team will get your digital commercial video surveillance system up and running in a day’s time. It doesn’t involve any complex wiring or other invasive infrastructure. When you need to repair, replace, or upgrade a security camera or other components of your security system, it’s easy to complete the task without replacing the entire system. You can even make small adjustments with ease, such as changing the locations of several security cameras. Most modern security providers offer remote troubleshooting services, allowing a technician to diagnose and even fix problems with your security system from their base, eliminating the expense and hassle of an on-site repair.

Flexibility to scale

When you decide you need to upgrade or downgrade your analog video surveillance system, you must replace the entire system, which is expensive and inconvenient. When you decide you need to upgrade or downgrade your digital video surveillance system, you have the ability to swap out specific components. For example, if you want to upgrade your older cameras to the newest high-definition, wide-angle cameras, you can take out the cameras without replacing the entire system. Your surveillance system will always meet the current needs of your business without breaking the bank.

Remote monitoring

Digital commercial video surveillance systems have the capacity to view video footage from any location on any smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access. Install the software on the device of your choosing and then log into the system to access archived footage and view live streams. You’ll have peace of mind about the well being of your business from literally anywhere in the world.

Distributed intelligence

Analog security systems have gaps in video coverage. No one is able to watch every single hour of footage captured. Digital systems fill in these gaps with distributed intelligence. Software programs monitor the video feed to detect specific events and behavior through movement pattern recognition. When the software detects suspicious activity, it generates an alert and sends it to the security team who will respond appropriately in a timely fashion.

Nothing can keep your business safe 100% of the time, so it is important to do everything you can to protect your investments. Installing a commercial security system is the best way to decrease losses due to burglars, vandalism and intruders. Keeping an eye on your business with the help of a commercial security system will help you keep your property safe.

1st Alarm caters to busy professionals across the state of Texas. 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 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.

Does Your Midland Texas Church Need A Video Surveillance System?

A church or faith-based facility may seem like a delicate place to install a video surveillance system. You don’t want to take away from the atmosphere of your Midland TX church – but you want to have the safety and peace of mind that a security system and video surveillance system offer. It is just as important to install a video surveillance system in a church as it is to install one in a residence or business property. It is important to protect your congregation, assets of the church and priceless antiquities that grace many churches. A video surveillance system is an important way that Midland churches and other faith-based facilities have recently responded to the growing incidence of violence on church property. This includes theft, violence to individuals as well as vandalism.

Deterring – Detecting – Investigating crimes against your church with video surveillance systems

Church security has never been as important as it is at the present time. The use of a video surveillance system as a means of deterring, investigating and detecting crimes can be invaluable when protecting your Midland and Odessa area churches.

The technology behind the software and hardware in today’s video surveillance systems has become more advanced, smaller in size and even less expensive. It can be installed by professionals so that it is unobtrusive but still visible to potential criminals. A properly designed video surveillance system will provide your church with a deterrence to crimes – and also help in compiling needed evidence if a crime is committed.

Peace of mind for your congregation

Your congregation will feel safer when they know their church is being monitored with a video surveillance system. Many activities and meetings take place in the evening – and after dark. While your members are coming and going from church activities, security cameras will let them know if the parking lot is safe to enter. Security cameras should be placed in the entrances and exits, general areas of congregating, parking lots and any areas where valuable assets are kept. Many Midland churches have invested large amounts of money in audio-visual equipment which are especially coveted by criminals. Security systems – especially those with a video surveillance system will help protect these investments.

Installation of a video surveillance system

The installation of a video surveillance system is not a do-it-yourself project. Only a professional with experience is qualified to properly install video surveillance systems. It doesn’t take long, and soon your Midland TX facility will have the security system it needs. The members of your Midland and Odessa church or faith-based facility will gain peace of mind as they come to worship or attend activities.

If you are considering adding a security system or a security camera to your home, business or church 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.

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems: DOs and DON’Ts

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

Do have your fire alarm system professionally installed.

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

Don’t skip inspections of your fire alarm system.

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

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

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

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

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

Do keep a paper trail for your fire alarm system.

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

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

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

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

Small Businesses Gain Protection with Commercial Security Systems

You have a lot invested in your small business – time, money and work – not to mention your property and valuables that you keep there. One of the biggest threats to small business owners is theft. A commercial security system helps to safeguard your business against intruders, vandalism and can alert you and first responders in the case of a fire or other type of emergencies.

Commercial security systems and your budget

You may think that commercial security systems are overkill for small businesses – you may think they are meant for large companies only. This simply isn’t true. There are commercial security systems that will fit into most any budget and appropriate for businesses of every size. Truth be told, burglars are more likely to target small businesses because they are often the ones that are not protected by a commercial security system.

Vandalism is a nightmare for many small business owners. Oftentimes vandals repeat their handiwork over and over again. When there are security cameras on the premises, the culprits can be apprehended and the problem is solved.

Whether your business is small or large – what you own is valuable to you. You never know when a problem will present itself, and it is important for your livelihood to keep your business from being vulnerable.

Be aware of the area surrounding your business

Depending on the type of business you own, you have options when it comes to commercial security systems. Security cameras are becoming increasingly valuable in identifying intruders and even problems with theft from employees. Make sure you understand what is going on in your area. Stay informed about the crime statistics and criminal activity around your business. Talk to local police about their patrolling schedules.

You may find out that you need surveillance in your parking lot, a commonplace for criminal activity. This is especially true if you have employees coming and going in the dark. When you have a monitored commercial security system, your customers and employees will feel more confident going to their cars at night.

Understand your new commercial security system

It is important to understand commercial security systems, so you’ll choose the right one for your business. Most security cameras these days are wireless. This gives you the ability to see what’s going on at your business simply by using your mobile device. What better way to gain peace of mind while you’re away than to be able to see for yourself that your property and valuables are safe.

When you have your commercial security system installed, make sure you are careful with who you trust with the access codes and passwords. If your system is monitored, understand exactly who will respond and how long it will take.

Keeping an eye on your business

Nothing can keep your business safe 100% of the time, so it is important to do everything you can to protect your investments. Installing a commercial security system is the best way to decrease losses due to burglars, vandalism and intruders. Keeping an eye on your business with the help of a commercial security system will help you keep your property safe.

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 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.