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. The system can also be set to call you or another number on your contact list when the alarm is triggered.
You can even watch what’s happening inside your home or business through a live video feed. This feature gives you peace of mind and helps you feel more secure. It feels reassuring to see exactly when an alarm goes off and which zone it affects. Even better, you can confirm when everything is safe and there’s no reason for the alarm to sound. Many burglars turn away as soon as they see a security system in place.
However, self-monitoring comes with some important drawbacks. When you are the only one keeping an eye on your system, you might not be able to call the authorities in an emergency. For example, you could be staying in a cabin with no cell service. If the alarm goes off, you won’t receive any alerts. If your phone battery dies, you also won’t know anything is happening, and no one will contact help for you. This situation puts your home or business at serious risk.
24/7 Professional Alarm Monitoring
Professional alarm monitoring offers extra services that make life easier. You can still keep an eye on your system yourself, but now you have added support. With professional monitoring, someone is watching your property 24/7, no matter where you are or what you’re doing.
If you can’t call the authorities during an emergency, the monitoring center will handle it for you. Your home or business stays protected at all times. Even if you leave your phone in your hotel room while you relax at the beach, someone is always keeping watch.
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
You do pay a small monthly fee for professional monitoring, but having an extra set of eyes brings big advantages. You can still check your cameras and control your system from anywhere. With professional monitoring, you don’t have to worry about a weak cell signal or a dead phone battery stopping you from catching a break-in.
A live person watches to see if you turn off the alarm in time. If the alarm keeps sounding, they call the police right away. Officers arrive quickly to check your home or business. Many times, the burglar has already run off before they get there. By adding security cameras, you can help catch the burglar even 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.