FALSE ALARM PREVENTION INFORMATION

WHAT IS YOUR PASSWORD?

When an alarm occurs and the alarm company calls, theoperator will ask, "What is your password?"   You should give the operator your secret code that only you and other authorized users of your alam system know.  When your alarm system was installed, the installer asked you to select a secret code that can be used for identification purposes.  Also, you were assigned a PIN # which you enter into a keypad to arm and disarm your alarm system.  the purpose of the secret code is to identify you and other authorized users, who can either verify or cancel an alarm.  If you don't remember your secret code, contact your alarm company and establish a new one that you will always remember in an emergency.

 Here's Why You Should Own an Alarm System

For now at least, crime is decreasing - especially property crimes like burglary.  Crime experts have cited a number of reasons for the lower burglary rate, one of which is that now more homes than ever have electronic alarm systems.  A study conducted by Security Distributing & Marketing magazine shows that 14 percent of U.S. households now have a home burglar alarms.

Monitoring adds value to your security system by ensuring that someone at a central station is always ready to respond to emergencies, even if you're not there.  Monitoring can provide other services as well.  Homes without security systems are nearly three times more likely to be burglarized as compared to electronically secured homes.

This growth in home alarm sales is fueled by a desire of people, like you, to provide safety and security for their families.

Ownership of an alarm system has economical benefits as well.  SDM magazine identified 12 homeowners' insurance companies offer permium discounts for having a security system.
HOW SECURE IS YOUR HOME?

More than ever, people want to feel safe in their homes.  Some security measures are better than others.  Here is are a few suggestions for your home security:

  • According to the National Crime Prevention Council, front doors should have a peep hole and a strong double cylinder deadbolt lock.   The door leading from the ktichen to the garage also needs a deadbolt lock, just in case an intruder makes his way into the garage.
  • Homeowners can use gardening to improve security by using a type of rock mulch around the shurbs and the house.   If someone tries to come around the residence, they can be heard.
  • Go around your home with a camcorder and get  shots of all your valuable items, including serial numbers.  Then place the photo tape in a safe or safety deposit box.


 News regarding Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) with Electronic Security/Life Safety Systems

TotalCom Management would like to inform you about the potential impact that installing Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) could have on your electronic security/life safety system.  VoIP is a technology that allows you to make telephone calls via the broadband Internet instead of using a traditional land-line telephone.

We realize VoIP may be a useful technology for you, but we want to make sure you are aware of the affects it could have on your electronic security/life safety system.  If you decide to install VoIP, please make sure the company you are working with knows that you have an alarm system.

The following are things to consider before installing VoIP:

                If a phone number change is required when switching to VoIP, make sure to notify us about this change.  The monitoring station has no way to contact you should an alarm be activated if we do not have your new number.

                  It may be difficult for you to connect with a local 911 - dispatch  center or for the dispatch center to identify the location of the Internet based 911 call.

                  In addition to alarm system battery back-up equipment, VoIP may need additional battery backup to maintain communications in the event of a power outage.

                  If your panel has fire devices, ie., smoke detectors, the National Fire Protection Association and the Texas State Fire Marshal Ofrfice, say VoIP lines DO NOT meet the fire regulations.

                There could be costs and modifications for your alarm system to communicate through VoIP.

We encourage you to check with us or your existing alarm company, before making any changes to your existing telephone service.  Through proper communication, we will be able to continue to provide monitoring services for your electronic security/life safety system.

If you have questions regarding VoIP and how it may affect your electronic security/life safety system, please contact our office.

TotalCom Management, Inc.
Office:  (210) 366-1116

 Tips On How To Select A Security  and Fire Alarm Company


The Texas Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (TBFAA) recommend that consumers take steps BEFORE selecting a security or fire alarm systems contractor:

  • Check to see if the contractor is a member of the TBFAA.
  • Call several companies and ask if their employees are trained and certified by the TBFAA.
  • Ask the companies if they have appropriate state and/or local licenses.
  • Ask if the company conducts any pre-employment screening.
  • Contact your local police department's Crime Prevention Department, State licensing agencies, Consumer Protection Agencies and the Better Business Bureau.
  • Ask your insurance agent, friends, family, or neighbors for referrals.
  • After selecting your contractor, ask to see company identification when they visit.
  • Ask the contractor for an inspection, recommendation and a quote in writing.


 Choosing A Security System

Here are a few tips on how to select a security systems right for you:

  • Make sure the company and technicians are licensed through the state.
  • Alarm systems should have an audible siren or speaker to be effective.
  • Alarm systems rely on phone lines, long-range radios or integrated cell phone transmitters.  If it's a phone line, have the phone company  install the network interface device inside the building or home and run the wire at a high elevation.
  • Learn how to use your alarm properly so you can avoid false alarms.  That way, when it does go off, everyone will know it is serious.
  • Use highly visible alarm decals on windows or doors.
  • Interior protection is safe, but window protection is more secure.  This can get expensive with multiple windows.
  • Make sure your contact call list for response, is up to date.
  • The most effective alarm systems are passive infra-red sensors that detect when a person enters by detecting a change in air currents.  Pets often set of these devices unless the device is specifically designed to be pet immune.
  • Installing several panic buttons around can be effective.
  • Some alarm systems allow you to have a different pass codes to arm and disarm the system.
  • Test your alarm system with the alarm company weekly to ensure it is working properly.
  • If your alarm system is wireless, make sure it gives a warning when the battery is low.
  • Your security should offer fire protection with several smoke detectors.
  • Check with your property insurance policy to see if you can get a discount by having an alarm system including fire.