Choosing Between Commercial Alarm Systems
Commercial alarm systems are typically installed in businesses that are in need of fire and burglar monitoring. They consist of many different aspects from motion sensors and surveillance up to smoke detectors and sprinklers.
Monitored alarm systems are systems that are usually monitored by an off site third party that will be notified immediately when the alarm is triggered. That third party will then notify authorities as well as a person that is authorized by the business.
A basic business security alarm system setup will include motion sensors, door and window sensors to detect if they are opened, glass breakage sensors, and a keypad. To get an idea of how these items tie together, let's run through a normal entry by an authorized person (AP):
- First, the AP will have a key to gain entrance to the business and they usually have a specified door that they will enter through.
- Once they have the door unlocked and walk in, most commercial security alarm systems will have a delay feature that will give the AP about sixty seconds to make their way from the door to the keypad.
- They then key in their authorization code to prevent the alarm system from firing off.
If any of the previous steps are not conducted in that order, or if entry is gained through a window, the alarm will trigger. Once that happens, a notification is immediately sent to the commercial alarm monitoring company, who in turn notifies the proper authorities and the business owner, or authorized person. There may also be an internal alarm that sounds to ward off the intruder before they can cause any damage to the business, either vandalism or theft.
What To Look For In Commercial Alarm Systems
The type of service you need is going to depend on the type of business you have. Many businesses only need an alarm for unauthorized access, maybe something that isn't monitored remotely. But, most businesses are going to need most of the services these companies offer. You will definitely need to make sure they offer around the clock monitoring. Most break-ins happen in the middle of the night, and you want somebody available to notify the police if this is the case. Another thing to inquire about is the cost of the equipment. A lot of companies will offer the equipment extremely cheap, or even free, when you sign a commitment for a certain amount of time. Do your due diligence though, there are many scam monitoring companies out there that are willing to prey on people's fears. Check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure that you are dealing with an upstanding company with a good track record.
Costs
If you are willing to sign a contract, many companies will install their commercial security alarm systems for free. You will then be responsible for paying a monthly bill to them. The monthly amount will typically range from around $45 to $100 (US) per month, depending on the level of service you require. 24/7 monitoring is included in this price.
A Wise Decision
The need for commercial alarm systems is sometimes not realized until it is too late. With the cost of having a system installed and the cost of monthly service being relatively cheap, it is wise to make the investment early, before you are the victim of a break-in. Waiting too long could potentially cost you many thousands of dollars.
