What Does a Home Monitoring Service Do?
So what, exactly, does a home monitoring service do? Much more than you think! If you’re thinking about investing in a home security system and are weighing the pros and cons of the different types of alarm systems, we have some food for thought.
Before we jump into the benefits of a monitored alarm system, here’s a quick overview and description of three common types of home security systems.
Monitored Alarm Systems
These types of home security systems connect the alarm to a monitoring company that calls the appropriate authorities when an alarm is detected. These systems operate via landline phone connections or wirelessly.
Unmonitored Alarm Systems
An unmonitored system makes a loud audible sound both inside and outside your home. While it might scare a burglar away or cause them to spend less time in your home, the police will not be notified.
Wireless Camera Security Systems
A wireless camera system allows you to keep an eye on your property, no matter where you are. Like an unmonitored alarm system, however, contacting emergency responders is up to you.
Home Monitoring Systems Help Prevent Crime
We’ll start with the obvious: a home security system that’s connected to a home monitoring service helps deter crime. Overwhelming evidence indicates that home security systems prevent crime. A whopping 60% of convicted home burglars said they would look for security systems before attempting to break into a home. 40% said that the presence of cameras would motivate them to choose another home.
Monitored Services Make it Easier on You
A professionally monitored home security system gives you the peace of mind you need from your security system. In a nutshell, alarm monitoring is the communication between your home security system and your provider’s central station. Once the alarm has been triggered, a notification is sent to the central station. From there, the monitoring professionals call to check the veracity of the alarm. If it’s a false alarm, all you need to do is give them the code and the alarm is ended and the activity is logged. If it’s the real thing, the authorities are notified and your Emergency Call list is contacted and the activities are logged.
They’re More Than Burglar Alarms
Many systems detect not only unauthorized intrusions into your home, but the can also detect unsafe levels of carbon monoxide or fire.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 400 Americans die from carbon monoxide poisoning each year. The colorless and odorless gas can be released by home heating systems, fireplaces, gas ranges, and other common household appliances. When connected to your home security system, these sensors can even alert central station who will in turn alert emergency medical responders to the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning.
A monitored alarm system also protects your home from potentially devastating losses caused by fire, smoke, and the resulting water damage. A monitored alarm system serves as an alarm (whether or not you’re at home to detect the fire) and central station professionals will quickly contact your local fire department on your behalf.
What to Look for in an Alarm Monitoring Company
If you live in Tennessee, you’ll want to make sure that you choose a company that is licensed by the state (our license number is #645) and is a member of the Tennessee Electronic Security Association. Companies should also hold an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and hold membership in the National Fire Protection Association.
Ready to invest in an affordable home monitoring system? Contact the security experts at NCA for a free quote. We offer the highest-quality monitoring services starting at just $9.95/month. Call us at 615.777.7622.