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Important Differences Between DIY And Professionally Installed Security Systems

4 Important Differences Between DIY And Professionally Installed Security Systems

Important Differences Between DIY And Professionally Installed Security Systems The mode of installation is a big factor when it comes to choosing the best home security system that fits your needs. Homeowners are faced with the decision of choosing between a DIY security system and a professionally installed security system. There are many key differences between them and you must consider a lot of different factors when making your decision.

Following are 4 important differences between DIY and professionally installed security systems:

1. Cost
A DIY security system may seem like your best bet when you are trying to save money. DIY security systems are often sold at relatively lower prices, making them ideal for homeowners that have a limited budget. And since there are no extra installation charges, this option can be appealing to most homeowners. Professionally installed security systems on the other hand, require a contract or installation fees. So, they are relatively more expensive than DIY security systems.

2. Monitoring
Another key difference between DIY and professionally installed security systems is quality monitoring service. When you purchase a DIY security system, you are basically purchasing a security system that will alert you and your family to break-ins and other dangers. Unfortunately, that’s all a DIY security system is able to do, aside from possibly being able to purchase some kind of a cheap monitoring program. Professionally installed security systems on the other hand, are connected with a highly rated professional security monitoring company. So, when the alarm is triggered, not only does the security system alert you and your family, it also be trusted to immediately alert the monitoring center that will then send the proper authorities. Because of this, a professionally installed security system helps the family feel more secure when they are at home, but also when they are not.

3. Tech Support
If you choose a DIY security system, then you are pretty much on your own. The company may be able to answer simple questions, but you won’t have access to equipment replacement options and tech support. Apart from this, if something goes wrong with your DIY security system, it will be you out on the lawn in the middle of the night trying to figure out the cause of the problem. As opposed to this, professionally installed security system has many advantages. With it, you will have access to professional support. The installer will make sure that the equipment is set up properly and will be available any time to answer your questions. Furthermore, if something goes wrong, you will know who to call. The professional installer will be more than happy to walk you through the diagnosis of your security system or come to your house and fix it if necessary.

4. Security System Grading
DIY security systems generally tend to not be graded. Because of this, these security systems often don’t meet the requirements of insurance companies. So, your valuables may not be covered if you experience a break in. On the other hand, professionally installed security systems are graded and they are also connected with a monitoring center. Because of this, these systems satisfy the requirements of insurance companies.

For your further consideration, here is an actual story of a situation that recently occurred with one of our customers, as told by the owner of our company:

We had a commercial customer, for whom we installed and monitored a very good alarm system with glassbreak and motion detectors, etc. A little less than a year ago they switched their phones to IP so they needed another way for the alarm to communicate. We told them it would be $150 to install a cellular communicator for alarm communication and $10 a month for the cell service charges. That is pretty standard and the install cost is just about the price of parts. So anyway, they cancelled and went to a DIY system. They put that system in and got some cheap monitoring. About two weeks ago they had a break-in. It just so happens that our new office location is right around the corner from their office and I didn’t even realize it. One of their employees came out the next morning and told one of our techs that they had been broken into and the alarm never went off. The person broke the glass out of the front door (which is why glassbreak detectors are important) and left and then went back two hours later and busted up file cabinets, took a cash box and some stuff out of the refrigerator. It was likely a homeless person who hangs out around the train tracks right behind the industrial park we are in. But the alarm did not go off either time. One of our employees went by and just talked to them about what happened and at that point they still had no idea why the alarm didn’t go off. They had cameras that did work and that is how they knew the guy left for two hours and then returned. However, he had his face covered so the video is useless.

Final Word
Choosing between DIY and a professionally installed security system is not easy and you have to consider many factors. However, whatever your decision may be, you should know that you are making the right choice by having a security system to secure your home and protect your family.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

Top Security Threats at Retail Businesses

Beware of These 6 Top Security Threats at Retail Businesses

Top Security Threats at Retail BusinessesThere is no shortage of security threats for retail businesses. As if running a retail store wasn’t challenging enough, there is a daily threat of various security risks that will take their toll on even the most successful retail businesses.

Nobody is free from these threats – businesses small and large face constant security threats that they must be prepared for.
It’s why the retail industry relies so heavily on various security processes and equipment, which can help to minimize the risks they face. However, knowing about the threats is also important as it gives you a better chance of preventing them.

Shoplifting
It’s one of the most common form of thefts that retail businesses face, with shoplifters stealing billions of dollars’ worth of products every year. While security processes like CCTV, creating few blind spots, training employees to spot these threats can minimize the risks, the threat of shoplifters is an ever-present one in retail.

Employee Theft
A lot of theft in retail is internal, with employees taking advantage of their inside knowledge to exploit security weaknesses and steal from their employer. This could be anything from stock to cash from the register, which is why its important to keep detailed inventory and bookkeeping so any theft is noticed quickly.

Security cameras and controlled access are another few methods that can help reduce these risks, allowing employers to see what their employees are doing and who is entering and leaving stock rooms etc.

Break-Ins
After hours break-ins are less common thanks to strong security measures in many retail businesses, although smaller retailers often face increased threats of after hour break ins due to less robust security systems.

Break-ins can be significantly damaging, espiecally when hold high volume and high value inventory, so always take appropriate measures such as increased CCTV, reinforced doors and locks, gates and fences around the premises etc.

Lawsuits
Many criminals target retail businesses with fake lawsuits, claiming on-site injuries in the hopes of suing for compensation. Cameras mostly negate these risks, although not every criminal is aware of security cameras so they may attempt a fake lawsuit anyway.

Robbery
Holding retail businesses at gunpoint is far less prominent thanks to increased presence of cameras that make it difficult to get away with it, but the sad truth is the threat of armed robbery remains for many businesses.

Scams
From fake cash bills and coupons to fraudulent refunds, there are various scams that savvy criminals use to steal from unwitting retail businesses. These scams typically occur during point of sale processing, so educating employees on common scams and providing equipment such as counterfeit note detectors should help minimize the threats.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

home and business security alarms

5 Differences Between Home and Business Security Alarm Systems

home and business security alarmsThere are two types of alarms systems, home and business. Over the last few years, the features of both home and business security alarms have started to merge. Many of the advanced features that were initially available in business security alarms are nowadays offered in home security alarms as well. However, there are still many differences between the two.

Following are 5 differences between home and business security alarm systems:

1. Business Security Alarms Are Generally More Complex
When it comes to security, there is no doubt that businesses have more complex needs as compared to homes. Commercial buildings are usually in high-traffic areas and depending on the services a business offers, it could be a lot more attractive to burglars than a home. That’s why businesses require more safety measures in order to maintain safety and security.

Since the needs of businesses are complex when it comes to security, business security alarms are more advanced and comprehensive as compared to home security alarms. They are equipped with relatively more features such as controlled access cards to allow employees to move throughout the facility, relatively more surveillance cameras, imposing limitss to where people can go, etc.

2. Certification

Being certified and non-certified is a key difference between a home and a business security alarm system. Certified alarm systems are those that are suited for small applications such as retail stores or small offices to high high-end applications such as airports and banks. Home alarm systems are not certified but business security alarms are.

3. Home Security Alarms Can Be Placed Anywhere

Home security alarms are designed in such a way that allows the homeowners to place them anywhere in the house. They feature small size and discreet design that fits-in well with the overall home décor. These features are not really a concern when it comes to business security.

4. Business Security Alarms Offer Relatively More Data Storage

You cannot always predict when an important piece of information will be needed. Unfortunate and unexpected things can occur at any time and you want to know that you have the ability to easily find and view the information that you need. Businesses especially, require their video surveillance system to store a lot of data because of the 24/7 high-traffic and activity in the facility. That’s why most security alarm companies design alarm systems to have relatively more storage, allowing businesses to keep a lot of important data with ease. Homeowners don’t need that much data storage, unless the home is empty for a long period of time, which doesn’t happen very often.

5. Business Security Alarms Are Relatively Costlier

Since business security alarms are a lot more complex and are also equipped with more features, it is not surprising that they are relatively costlier as compared to home security alarms. The cost of a security alarm system depends on the specific areas being monitored as well as the required number of features. Businesses require additional monitoring features such as panic button monitoring, access control monitoring, video monitoring, water monitoring, temperature monitoring, etc. so the cost of a business security alarm is relatively higher.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

protect-your-business-from-these-4-problems-with-a-proper-commercial-security-system

Protect Your Business from These 4 Problems with a Proper Commercial Security System

protect-your-business-from-these-4-problems-with-a-proper-commercial-security-systemRunning your own business is one of the most fulfilling things in life, yet it is not without its risks. There are various security problems that a small business faces, from vandalism to robbery, and while not everyone faces such threats many unfortunate business owners do.

One of the best ways to prevent problems for your business is to install a proper security system. This provides protection from a variety of risks that your business may encounter, helping to minimize or even prevent problems from occurring.

Here are four problems that a good commercial security system protects your business from:

1. Break-Ins

If your business holds valuable goods or large sums of money, then there is always the risk of break-in. The sad truth is that many criminals are happy to break into the premises of a small business to see if there is anything worth stealing.

A robust security system offers great protection from such risks. Not only does it act as a preventative – criminals always hate the sight of security cameras and alarms – it will provide evidence of any thefts should they occur, which may help with matters like prosecution and making an insurance claim.

2. Internal Theft

Unfortunately, not all thefts occur because of an on-site break-in. Many businesses suffer from internal theft, where employees steal goods or money as they work. This is often more damaging as employees know the inner workings of your business, so they can use that knowledge to steal things without getting caught.

A proper security system helps to greatly reduce this risk. When staff know they are under surveillance, they are less likely to consider stealing anything, and those that do will likely be caught thanks to effective security measures such as CCTV, alarm systems, and anti-theft devices.

3. Vandalism

Nothing can be worse than having your business premises vandalized. While some acts of vandalism are minor, there are instances where significant damage is caused, requiring you to fork out large sums of money to repair anything.

Security systems make people re-think acts of vandalism, as the chances of getting caught are massive. Anyone that chooses to damage your business will suffer the full consequences of their actions should you have a security system, providing concrete evidence through recorded footage.

4. Acts of Violence

A business faces various security threats, and the best way to avoid them is by installing a quality security system. For example, someone could walk into your business and attack an employee or customer, in which case a security camera would provide a deterrent to help protect you and your employees.

Similarly, there may be an issue that arises between employees, resulting in physical confrontation. A security system provides protection against this, acting mostly as a deterrent, but also allows you to properly analyze the situation and make the right decisions when addressing the problem.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

4-reasons-why-you-need-a-security-camera-for-your-business

4 Reasons Why You Need A Security Camera For Your Business

4-reasons-why-you-need-a-security-camera-for-your-businessThere are many buildings and business components that can be included in the security system of a business and the business environment. The important business sections should be under video surveillance, such as sections like side and back entrances, vaults, and cash register areas, among others. The majority of security camera installation companies also provide intercom systems and motion detectors to enhance inter-company communication for security and in a case of emergency. Some other companies also provide certified teams that can install all the systems and provide maintenance. It is advisable to do some research about the most cost-effective and secured set-up for your business and consider the benefits of having a security camera in your business.

1. A Good Defense Is The Best Form Of Attack

The fact that potential burglars can find security cameras on the spot will quickly deter them from targeting your establishment. Armed robbers will always prefer to rob a business with no obvious security camera because of the lower chance of being caught and subsequently prosecuted. The security camera should offer recorded footage that often offers unquestionable testimony in regards to those involved in the crime.

2. Defense After The Attack

In the unfortunate scenario where a business becomes a victim of criminal activity or is otherwise burglarized, the business’s security camera will help the process of investigating such circumstance. When this happens, the business can be compensated for the losses and damages. Anyone killed or injured, including their families, is more likely to receive the peace of mind and justice they deserve. Some of the information provided by the footage will surely be needed by the law enforcement agencies. This information includes the physical profile of the criminals, the weaponry used for the act, and many more. It also prevents an inappropriate prosecution of the innocent people.

3. Professional Appearance

In today’s business environment, a security camera is becoming more and more popular for many legitimate business establishments. Over the years, some clients have associated the business’s security camera with professionalism, and not just safety. As might be expected, this has increased the client’s involvement and participation in all the business’s aspects, products and services, when and if cameras are involved. This is because they believe that their security is prioritized.

4. Employee Integrity

Although every employer hopes that the people they employed are committed to protecting the company’s integrity and keeping the business’s interests at heart, sometimes, especially in a large organization, bad eggs slip through the cracks. An employee would think twice before committing any inside crime, knowing that there are security cameras within the premises. Depending on the type of business in question, a security camera system can also be used to cut down on the “slacking off” of your staff.

If you have a business in The Coachella Valley, and are concerned about the overall security, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system. Then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for your business. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

importance of business security alarm systems

7 Reasons Why Security Alarms Are Important for Businesses

importance of business security alarm systemsA professional security system is a must for every business because it not only prevents thefts and robberies but also saves you time and money. No one wants to put their business in jeopardy. Many homeowners are already using security alarms to protect their homes and families. It is a profitable investment for businesses as well.

An act of theft can cost your business a lot of money. Following are 7 reasons why you should invest in a security alarm system for your business:

1. Protecting Business Assets and Investments

By spending a few hundred dollars on an advanced security alarm system you will save thousands of dollars. You don’t want some thieves to run away with thousands of dollars of data and technology just because you ignored the need to protect your information.

2. Real-Time Security Updates

Business security technology these days is more specific, sensitive, and affordable than ever. Nowadays you can have security updates sent to your mobile phone via email and even your home if you prefer to keep an eye on your business from home.

3. Encouraging Safe Cash Flow Practices

Thanks to modern technology in business security alarm systems, you can now set up safer cash flow practices and prevent hundreds of dollars in lost income from unethical employees.

4. Offering a Safer Working Environment

With a security alarm system in place, you can offer your employees a safer working environment, particularly if they work late shifts or odd hours, when thieves are most likely to make a move. Furthermore, by installing a security system you will make your employees feel safe on the job.

5. Focus on What Matters the Most

A security system is continuously monitored by a security agency, so you can concentrate your time and effort on your business and not on security measures. Hence, a professional security alarm system set up in your business helps you spend time where you need it the most – on maintaining your customer base and building your business. Install a security alarm system today and let the security professionals take care of protecting your business investments.

6. Added Protection When You Are Away

With a security alarm system in place, you can rest easy when taking extended vacations knowing that the security of your businesses is on auto-pilot. You won’t need to worry about internal or external burglary; you can secure your exclusive business information with a multifaceted security alarm system. Thanks to modern technology,varying access levels and complex coding systems are possible. Professionally trained security alarm experts will work with you to create the access levels you need to ensure extra safety and protection when you are away.

7. A Smart Decision

A business security alarm system is a necessity nowadays. It is the best decision a business owner can make in a society where robbery and burglary are on the rise. A security alarm system is one of the first new purchases all business owners should make.

In conclusion, it pays to get professional help when it comes to protecting your business assets and investments from brazen thieves. It is recommended to get the help of a professional security alarm company that has sufficient experience in business security systems.

If you have a business in The Coachella Valley, and want to increase your safety and security, then you need to contact the professional security consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for business security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

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