How to Select the Right Alarm Company

There are major differences in security companies. When deciding between security companies, who you choose matters. There are a lot of companies out there offering security systems so why choose ATS?


With public interest in protection against fire and crime at an all-time high, it is no surprise that the alarm field is one of the country's fastest growing industries.


And while there are a good many experienced, reputable and reliable companies in almost every community, there are inevitably some people who are out to take advantage of the concerned home owner. So you must beware of the "fast buck operator" and be sure that what appears to be a bargain doesn't run out to be a costly mistake in the long run.


In addition, select a well-established company with a record of successful operation behind it. The failure rate among companies entering the field is high and you don't want to be left with a system that requires service with no one to do the job.


To help you make the right decision, there are a number of steps you can take. Don't wait until a salesman is in your home before you start thinking about the standing of his company. Check beforehand. Business and Trade Association are excellent places to check on a company BEFORE you invite anyone into your home. In this way, you can eliminate in advance the likelihood of being "pressured" by an unsavory or disreputable company.


Make sure any employees who have access to your home are bonded.


While it is possible today to obtain an alarm component for "do-it-yourself" installation, such systems can provide a false sense of security. They normally do not provide full coverage of the home, may not be of the same quality as a dealer-installed system, and be false alarm prone unless installed by a person of sufficient technical skill.


Here are some additional points to consider when choosing an alarm company:

  • Does the alarm company have errors and omissions insurance?
  • Are there any hidden costs?
  • Does the alarm company meet industry accepted standards? Underwriter's Laboratories of Canada certification is a quality assurance program that will ensure that your alarm and monitoring company are following standards in installation, equipment use and business practices.
  • Does the alarm company provide a 24 hour customer support/service number?
  • Does the alarm company have an adequate training program in use and operation of their alarm system?
  • Does the alarm monitoring company have access to a bonded and insured key holder service?
  • Is alternative first response service available?


A security system designed for your specific needs using today's technology and proper installation will give you piece of mind for years to come; and provide trouble free operation.

Source: Barrie Police Services

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By Jeremy Henderson • November 27, 2020
Solutions to Prevent False Alarms We at ATS enjoy working with our customers to prevent false alarms - we have designed this document to further educate our customers on the causes of false alarms, some of the effects they have, some solutions and guidelines to follow if you do happen to set off your ATS alarm system by accident. The most common causes of false alarms are: Unlocked or loose doors Users Children who lack proper instruction to utilize the alarm system such as: Neighbours, Relatives, Visitors, Repairmen, etc. Wandering pets What to do if you set off your alarm system by accident: Don't panic! Enter your code into the alarm system to turn it off and reset the system. Wait for our Monitoring Station Operator to contact you - we will always attempt to verify any alarm transmitted by calling your premises first. Remember if you are unable to disarm your system, your phone line is being used by the system, try to contact the monitoring station using a cellular phone. Do not leave your premises until you have spoken with an ATS Alarms representative. Make sure that all persons that have a key to your premises know how to operate the alarm system! And finally, other miscellaneous tips to prevent false alarms Have all users practice cancelling an accidental alarm. Call ahead to tell us you are practicing. Be very careful when entering the last number of your code. In some systems, if entered incorrectly, it can send a silent panic signal. Don't try to beat the system. If you need to re-enter your premises after arming your system, disarm and rearm again. Don't rely on the exit delay to give you enough time to get in and out again. Keep motion detectors clear of insects, spider webs and other contaminants. Check for drafts that can move plants, curtains, signs, holiday decorations, helium balloons and other things in motion sensor areas. Fans, heaters, air conditioners, open windows, etc. can all cause drafts and set off your motion detectors. Supervise or confine pets to areas without motion sensors. (Remember this when having a pet sitter come into your home) Check to make sure all protected doors and windows fit and latch securely before you activate your system, as loose fitting doors and windows can cause false alarms. Call our office if you are planning any remodelling projects, changing phone systems, installing skylights or ceiling fans, even spray painting or fumigating. Let us know if you get a pet, hire any domestic help or put your house up for sale. Keep your call list current; give us phone number changes of anyone on your list. Call us when you want to test your system. This should be done about once a month. Replace the main control panel battery every three to five years. Have us check your security system once a year. There is no additional charge if you have a service contract!! Don't have a service contract? Call us! Upgrade ageing or outdated equipment. Older systems are more prone to false alarms. If your keypad code doesn't seem to work, wait five seconds and try again carefully. Call us to discuss possible problems.
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