What to do with security system?

Question

My condo is pre-wired for security monitoring (like ADT, brinks), but the service isn't actually included in the association fees (meaning I'd have to pay for it myself).

What else can I do with the system? I'd like to be able to get some level of security out of the system. Is there a free service I could use? Or can I buy something that would automatically do the 911 call if the alarm goes off?

Answer 1

If the place is pre-wired installing an alarm system is generally less expensive. If you call around some companies are willing to install "local" alarm systems (Meaning not monitored, only a siren will sound). This is not something I would recommend however it is can be an option if you are on a budget. Just be prepared to pay a little more for the installation as alarm companies make money from the re-curring revenues of monitoring.

As for the system calling 911 on it's own. This is no longer an option in any location I know of. The reason being, police are busy enough that dealing with nuisance false alarms is too much for them to handle without passing the costs on via increased taxes. Hence the need for third party monitoring stations.

I have written a number of articles on home protection, both electronic and otherwise. Please feel free to check them out on my website at http://www.keepsafesystems.ca. Protection 101 and False alarms may be of particular interest to you. There are also some others in the archive, which involve abit of reading.

Obviously, being in the security alarm industry I would recommend a monitored security system. First of all you will get a discount on your home insurance, secondly, if something does happen, at least you can be comfortable in knowing your home is secure when you unlock the front door. You can also add life safety detectors such as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors which will more than pay for themselves in the added piece of mind. I know this may sound like ad-speak, but as you are probably not in my service area, I have nothing to gain by this recommendation.

In addition, your place is pre-wired, if a sales person comes in there trying to sell you a wireless system saying the technology is "superior" it is a good sign to send them on their way back to the toy company.

Answer 2

I believe you need to purchase a security monitoring system. When you contract with someone and your alarm goes off you or a contact is notified that the alarm is sounding. Also many have buttons you can push if you need police, ambulance or fire department. You alarm calls do not go to 911 they go to the company that you have hired and if there is a need for 911 they can be disbatched.
The alarm is a safety also if you are home and the alarm is set and someone tried to get in.
If you don't want to pay and have the safety then don't. We wouldn't be without our system.

Answer 3

There are three major components to any alarm system: sensors, controls and response. In your case you own the first two and contract for the latter. Elsewhere, the response is a local bell or siren (not very effective and often disallowed in condos or apts). The response can also include an "encoder" or an "auto-dialer" that you program with a list of phone numbers. When the alarm controls trigger the unit, an encoder dials (or radio signals) a computer code to a monitoring center that relays the message to you and the authorities. An auto-dialr, on the other hand, begins working through a list, calling each one, playing a pre-recorded message ("fire alarm at ___, enter your code to acknowledge"). It is up to you to build a reliable list, with hopes that someone will answer and take care of the situation.

Some cities (or 911 centers) have rules on auto-dialers and prohibit programming machines to call them directly; you would need to pay someone for the monitoring service, or have the autodialer call someone who will call 911. There are local and nationwide services that only charge a few dollars a month to allow you to call them (toll-free) and report something automatically so that a human will determine what to do next. Consumer protection laws also require that the alarm company give the installation codes to whichever monitoring center you select (so your new monitoring center knows which action to take for intruder, fire, water, freeze, tamper, etc types of alarm sensors). Good luck.

Answer 4

From the reasearch I've done, A neighborhood watch is the most effective crime deterrant. A nosy neighbor calling the police when unfamiliar folks are in the area works better than the security monitor. Install good lighting and get to know the neighbors.

Answer 5

I dont know of a way to use the system without paying for the service.
Eventually, I'm sure someone will come up w a way to pirate the equipment for non paying use.
And then, the fees for ppl like me, who pay for a legitimate sevice, will increase.