There is an influx of DIY home security systems on the market. This has resulted in more people having systems installed in their homes. However, the question is whether self-monitoring is as effective as 24/7 professional alarm monitoring?
To answer this question, we’re going to take a look at both.
Self-Monitored Security Alarm Systems
Monitoring your alarm system yourself is an option. You can check on system status from a smart phone app or a computer. You can also set the system to call you or another number on your contact list when the alarm is triggered.
It’s even possible to monitor activities happening inside your home or business. The video feed is live. Seeing what is going on brings comfort and a secure feeling. It’s nice knowing when the alarm is triggered and what zone is affected. what’s nicer is knowing when there is no reason for the alarm system to sound. Many burglars turn around when they see a security system.
However, there are downfalls to self-monitoring. With only you monitoring your system, you could be in a position where you are not capable of notifying the authorities. For instance, you could be staying in a cabin in the mountains where a cell signal isn’t available. If your alarm is triggered, you aren’t going to know about it. If your mobile device’s battery dies, you will be none the wiser and the authorities won’t be notified. This puts your home or business at serious risk.
24/7 Professional Alarm Monitoring
Professional alarm monitoring gives you additional services that are nice to have. You can still monitor the system on your own but with some help. Professional monitoring is 24/7 no matter where you are or what you are doing. If you are unable to contact the authorities, the monitoring center will.
Your home or business is being watched all of the time. Your home or business is still watched when you leave your phone in the hotel room at the beach.
Additionally, good professional alarm monitoring companies have exceptionally fast response times. This is important to the security and safety of your home or business. Studies have proven that 83 percent of burglars first look for an alarm system before attempting entry. However, 40 percent of them stick around and challenge it. Sixty percent know that the presence of an alarm carries a high possibility of it being connected to a monitoring center. The police is the last thing a burglar wants to see.
Approximately half of burglars target homes, while 31 percent target commercial locations.
Your Extra Set of Eyes
There is a small monthly fee for your system to be professionally monitored, but there are advantages to having an extra set of eyes watching your system. You can still access your surveillance system and remotely arm or disarm the system. With professional alarm monitoring, you don’t have to worry about a bad cell phone signal or a dead battery keeping you from noticing a break-in.
A live person checks to see if the alarm is turned off within a specific amount of time. If the alarm continues to sound, that person contacts the police to check on your home or business. The police arrive promptly. A lot of times, the burglar has already left. Add security cameras to your system to catch the burglar after they leave.
Another perk:
Most insurance companies give a discount when you have an operational and fully monitored security system. This alone offsets the cost of the security system.
Contact An Experienced Rochester Security Alarm Company
At SPS Fire & Security, we install affordable state-of-the-art systems that include 24/7 monitoring and the self-monitoring features you need. To learn more about our systems, services, and how we will give you the peace of mind you deserve, call 585-770-0348. We serve Rochester, Syracuse, Buffalo, and the surrounding areas.
I like how you mentioned that with 24/7 professional monitoring, the alarm system will alert the authorities even if you are not. This gives me some peace of mind, as you can’t text the police for help in America. Are there any other benefits of 24 hour alarm monitoring.
Hi Taylor,
Yes, there are additional benefits. For instance, many burglars will be deterred by the presence of a monitored security system. Many criminals are very savvy when it comes to security systems. They can tell the difference between a DIY system that is self-monitored and a system monitored by a monitoring station. That in itself trickles down to other benefits, such as the protection of assets, prevention of property damage, and preservation of one’s sense of safety.
Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving a comment! Have a great day!
I love the idea of knowing what area of your home or building is setting off the fire alarm. This would make finding the fire a lot easier. This would also let me plan an escape route to get my family to safety.
I’m glad you talked about monitoring services and how they help keep your property safe. In my opinion, any business or household could benefit from getting a security system. If I owned a company, I’d like it to be monitored at all times to prevent a major inconvenience. Thanks for the advice on alarm monitoring services and how they protect you.