Security and Alarm Systems Blog

In a case that will likely change the face of the security industry (in a good way), a settlement by a nationwide alarm company will offer refunds to over 1,200 customers who bought security systems from unlicensed salespeople. Attention was drawn to the sales force for this security company when Washington county was flooded with complaints of “pushy” salespeople.

This is the first time I have heard of any refunds being offered to customers based on a company not being licensed, and some experts have even claimed that any contract signed by an unlicensed alarm salesperson could be void.

What does it mean to be licensed? Well, the security industry is one which is obligated to exclude people with a felony, misdemeanor or any questionable judgments in their past. This is for obvious reasons. An Alarm license involves a background check. Most companies (i hope) get their state’s proper alarm licenses for their installers and managers, but there are some companies that choose to bypass this procedure.

In my own experience, it costs about $100 per employee, and takes as long as 6-9 months. But, California is not known for having a speedy administration.

Many City and County police departments now fine households when the police are dispatched due to a false alarm. The cause of the false alarm can be from faulty equipment, operator error, pets set off security system, or a number of other causes. All will lead to a fine. This makes it so much more important to do business with a reputable security installation company. Ask to see their state license, and ask for a clients list.

After the system is installed, false alarms can be prevented by putting time and thought into your call list. If the central station only has your cell phone, and the line is busy, then the next step is to send the police. But, if your list includes your home phone number, spouse’s cell phone, your cell phone, and several neighbors or friends, then there’s a much better chance that a false alarm will be caught by someone before the police are sent. The video below is definitely worth watching if you wish to learn more about false alarms.

I recently came across a page on the San Diego Police website which outlined some very thoughtful ideas on theft prevention. These ideas relate to how the police operate in keeping citizens and their property well protected. Here are the tips, and below is a summary of each.

Controlling Access
Providing Visibility
Maintaining Your Property
Protecting Your Home and Property When You Are Away
Making Sure the Police Can Find Your Home
Identifying Your Property

Controlling Access
Use good Locking Hardware, and install it properly
Change the locks in a new home
Secure your yard with solid gates, and keep them locked
Keep trees trimmed, so they don’t allow easy access to the upstairs
Put “neighborhood watch” and Security stickers on your windows
Install a quality Security System
Monitor your Alarm System, so Police are notified
Make sure your Alarm company is licensed in California
Your Security System should have a battery back-up

Providing Visibility
Leave outside lights on after dark
Keep trees trimmed for good visibility across your property
Install a wide-angle peephole in your front door

Maintaining Your Property
Replace broken windows or screens
Repair broken fences or gate locks
Keep property in good condition, neglect will advertise “loose” security

Protecting Your Home and Property When You Are Away
Notify your Security Company, and update your call list
Use timers on lights when you leave town
Leave your itinerary with a friend or neighbor, so you can be contacted
Stop mail and newspaper deliveries

Making Sure the Police Can Find Your Home
Your street address number should be visible
If you live in a gated community, give Police the entry code

Identifying Your Property
Etch your drivers license number on anything that could be stolen
Photograph valuables that cannot be etched
Keep a detailed up-to-date record of your valuables

For more information: San Diego Police Website