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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.

How To Stop An Alarm On A Home Security System When The Power Is Off

Turning off a security system alarm during a power outage may seem impossible, but there are ways to accomplish this on your own. The steps to powering down an alarm without a keypad available include locating the main source of power and removing and the backup battery. Next, the system must be reset and the battery replaced.

Find and disconnect the main source of power for the home security system

Your home security system likely has a main source of power, which is a box that is secured to the wall with an outlet. This box is the key to turning off the alarm while there is no electricity. Simply disconnect the box from the outlet by unplugging it.

Remove the battery from the security system

Although the main source of power has been disconnected from the home security system, the backup battery is still providing power to the alarm. A screwdriver may be required to access the battery box and you will need pliers to remove the battery. Carefully use the pliers to remove the plugs and wires from the battery. Take note of where each plug should be reattached once everything in the system is reset.

Reset the home security system

Even though you can turn the alarm off on your home security system without assistance, you cannot reset it on your own. Contacting the security company will allow you to have the system reset, although this may mean creating a new security code or pin number.

Replace the battery on the security system

Now that the home security system has been reset, you can use the pliers to replace the backup battery as it was before. Use a new battery for the alarm if the old one exhibits any signs of leakage or if the low battery light is on.

At 1st Alarm, we offer all types of home security systems and alarms. If you would like to know more about our services or products call us at 1 (800) 276-5559. You can also contact us by email or receive 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.

Video Surveillance And Home Security

Adding video surveillance to your home security system in Lubbock, Texas is a great way to enhance protection. Video surveillance was once an expensive option for home security. The cost for this type of surveillance has decreased as the technology has advanced. Video surveillance home security is now an affordable option to add to your home security. It is important to consider the reasons to add video surveillance as a security measure, as well as what types of camera systems are available.

Reasons to add video to your home security system

Video surveillance serves several purposes when it comes to home security, including acting as a deterrent to would-be intruders. A visible video camera on the exterior of your home can deter some thieves and intruders from committing a crime.

Video surveillance captures evidence. If a security camera does not deter a criminal, it will capture video evidence of any crime being committed. The footage can help identify the intruder, aiding any police investigation. Video surveillance can also stand as evidence of a crime in court.

Although video surveillance is a great addition to a home security system outdoors, it can also be used to monitor the interior of a home. If you have a housekeeper or a nanny, there may be times when you need to monitor their presence within your house. Hidden surveillance cameras, also known as “Nanny Cams,” can give you eyes inside the home when you are not there. These hidden cameras also serve as additional evidence if someone breaks into your home in LUbbock, Texas.

Video surveillance enables you to see who is outside of your house, without the need to open a door. You can have the cameras feed into a central monitor that allows you to see what is going on outside your home. These options offer a safe way to identify who might be outside and if it is safe to open your door for them.

Types of camera systems for your home security

An open camera video surveillance security system displays the cameras in an obvious manner. This system includes having cameras above entry doors, on the corner of the house, and along the main walkways and driveways going towards the house. Cameras are mounted in conspicuous places to deter criminal activity.

Hidden camera surveillance systems can be used both inside and outside of the house in Lubbock, Texas. There are numerous reasons to use hidden video surveillance. Video can be recorded of anyone inside the home, whether they are supposed to be there or not. Outside the residence, video surveillance can be used to monitor who might be coming onto the property, without being conspicuous.

Fake cameras are also commonly used in home security systems. There may be one or more live working cameras in the security system, but they are supplemented with fake identical cameras. Fake cameras keep the cost of system installation down, while providing a similar level of deterrence.

Wired camera surveillance systems are those which use cable to transmit their signal back to a video capture or monitoring system. This type of video surveillance within a home security system requires running cable and power to each camera. Wireless camera systems do not use cabling, however. These cameras send their signals through a wireless network connection and often run on long-life batteries, making them completely portable. Wireless cameras are very popular for video surveillance in a home security system in Lubbock, Texas.

At 1st Alarm, we offer all types of home security systems and alarms. If you would like to know more about our services or products call us 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.

Tips For Finding The Home Alarm System That Best Meets Your Needs

Choosing the right home alarm system for your family’s needs requires research. Choosing a reputable company in Lubbock, Texas is the first step in finding an alarm system, but you should also determine the features that you will want. When choosing a home alarm system, it is important to consider installation and service costs, as well as monitoring options and cost.

Choose a reputable company for your home alarm system

Not every home alarm system company is the same. Some companies have been in business for years with a solid reputation, while other companies have been around a few months and have few references. Always choose a reputable company when installing a security system into your home in Lubbock, Texas. Look online for professional reviews to see what others think of the company. You can also check with your local Better Business Bureau to see if the company has any complaints lodged against it.

Determine what features you want in a home alarm system

Once you start talking to a company representative, they will give you an entire list of features that you can add to your home alarm system. Think about the way you and your family live and decide if you need all of the options. You may have pets to consider or you may or may not want cameras inside or outside of the home. By taking the time to figure out what features you want, you will save yourself time and money.

Consider the installation and service costs for a home alarm system

Look at the installation and ongoing service costs of the home alarm system. Besides the system features, also consider the installation costs. Do it yourself security kits may fail when you need them or cause false alarms that drive you and Lubbock emergency services crazy. Professional installation of the system should be a priority. You should also consider the monthly fees of running your alarm system and what services you receive for the fees.

Consider the monitoring options and cost with a home alarm system

There are many monitoring options available for your home alarm system in Lubbock, Texas. These options include 24 hour monitoring, which can be expensive. There are less expensive options like audible alarms or a feature that dials a preset number in case the alarm is triggered. The problem with these cheaper options is that they may not work. Neighbors may not be at home to hear your alarm sound and calling the preset number may not result in reaching anyone. With a 24 hour monitoring service, you get someone responding to the home alarm system immediately.

If you are unsure what you want or need in a home alarm system, start small with a basic system. You will get sensors for the door, a central console, 24-hour monitoring, and panic buttons. A basic alarm will give you a basic layer of protection. Later, if you feel like you want more protection, you can always upgrade the package or install further security options yourself.

Let the experts at 1st Alarm guide you to the right home alarm system for your needs. Call us today at 1 (800) 276-5559. You can also connect with us via email with your questions and to get a price quote, or visit us in person. We provide 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.

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.

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.