News

The latest news and updates from Alarm Systems about security systems, smart home automation, business security, and alarm monitoring & safety.

July 10 2024

How to Keep Your System in Tip-Top Shape

admin Commercial Security, News, Smart Home Security

A well-maintained security system is crucial for ensuring continuous protection and efficiency. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to system failures, leaving your home or business vulnerable. Here are essential tips for keeping your security system in top condition.

1. Regularly Test Your System

Routine testing is one of the most important steps in maintaining your security system. Set a schedule to test all components, including sensors, cameras, alarms, and motion detectors, to ensure they are functioning correctly. This can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems.

Step-by-Step Testing Guide:

- Test sensors and detectors by opening doors and windows or walking in monitored areas to ensure alarms trigger correctly.

- Check camera feeds to make sure they are clear and unobstructed.

- Test backups and power supplies to ensure your system will remain active during a power outage.

2. Keep Software and Firmware Updated

Manufacturers often release software updates to fix bugs, patch security vulnerabilities, and improve functionality. Keeping your system’s software and firmware up to date ensures you have the latest protections and features.

Update Process:

- Enable automatic updates if available.

- Regularly check the manufacturer’s website for updates.

- Schedule downtime for updates to minimize disruption to your security coverage.

3. Clean and Maintain Hardware

Dust, debris, and weather conditions can impair the performance of cameras and sensors. Regular cleaning and physical inspections can prevent this.

Maintenance Checklist:

- Clean camera lenses with a soft, dry cloth to ensure clear video quality.

- Inspect all outdoor equipment for corrosion or weather damage.

- Ensure all sensors and devices are securely mounted and have not been tampered with.

4. Replace Outdated Components

Security technology evolves rapidly. Regularly review your system’s components to determine if they need upgrading. Replacing outdated cameras, sensors, and other hardware can significantly enhance system reliability and functionality.

Upgrade Considerations:

- Upgrade to higher resolution cameras for better image quality.

- Consider adding more sensors in critical areas for better coverage.

- Look into newer features like AI detection or cloud storage solutions.

5. Monitor System Alerts and Logs

Keep an eye on system logs and alerts. Frequent false alarms or error messages can indicate problems that need addressing. Analyzing these logs can help you understand your system’s performance and spot irregularities.

Log Monitoring Tips:

- Set up notifications for system errors or malfunctions.

- Review logs regularly to spot trends or recurring issues.

- Consult with security professionals if you notice unusual patterns.

6. Professional Inspections

While many aspects of security system maintenance can be handled on your own, annual inspections by a professional can provide deeper insights and more thorough maintenance. A security expert can assess your system’s overall health and make recommendations for improvements.

Is your security system overdue for a check-up?

Contact Alarm Systems today to schedule a professional inspection and ensure your security system is at peak performance.

feature image for home security blog showing secuirty devices (Camera, thermostat, lock, and app)

August 1 2023

Safeguarding Your Home in a Dangerous World

Laura Thurston News, Smart Home Security

In today’s rapidly changing world, ensuring the safety and security of our homes and loved ones has become more crucial than ever. Recent statistics from Statistics Canada have shed light on the alarming increase in police-reported crimes, indicating a concerning four percent rise in 2022 alone. Violent crimes have also reached their highest levels since 2007, emphasizing the urgent need for effective security measures to safeguard what matters most.

At Alarm Systems, we are committed to providing comprehensive and reliable security solutions that empower homeowners to proactively address these challenges. With over 50 years of industry experience, our dedication to protecting communities remains unwavering. This blog post will explore how our advanced home security systems can offer you the peace of mind you deserve.

Effective Solutions for Optimal Protection:

As the leading provider of cutting-edge security alarm systems, Alarm Systems offers a wide array of tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. Our state-of-the-art security technology is designed not only to deter criminals but also to provide swift responses in case of emergencies, ensuring a safe environment for you and your family.

Smart Home Security

With our Smart Home Security packages, we combine advanced technology with user-friendly features, allowing you to have complete control over your home’s security right at your fingertips. Real-time alerts and remote monitoring capabilities keep you informed about any unusual activities, even when you’re away from home.

24/7 Professional Monitoring

Rest easy knowing that your home is under round-the-clock protection with our professional monitoring services. In the event of a security breach, our dedicated team will respond promptly, notifying both you and the authorities to take immediate action.

Video Surveillance

Enhance the security of your property with our top-notch video surveillance solutions. High-definition cameras provide clear visuals, enabling you to monitor your home from anywhere, at any time. The mere presence of visible cameras acts as a strong deterrent to potential intruders targeting your home.

Access Control

Our access control systems put you in charge of who enters your home. From smart locks to personalized access codes, you can regulate entry points, ensuring that only authorized individuals can gain access.

As crime rates continue to rise, prioritizing the safety of your home and loved ones becomes paramount. The recent data from Statistics Canada emphasizes the need for robust security measures to protect your property from potential threats.

At Alarm Systems, we remain committed to providing personalized security solutions to suit your unique requirements. Our advanced technology, combined with 24/7 professional monitoring, empowers homeowners to stay one step ahead in safeguarding their homes.

Don’t wait for unfortunate incidents to occur. Take control of your home’s security today with Alarm Systems, your trusted partner in creating a safer living environment. Reach out to our security experts to discuss the perfect security solution for your home!

March 21 2023

Changes to Your Fire Alarm Inspection & Service

Laura Thurston Alarm Systems, News, Press Release

As we enter our 50th year, Alarm Systems is moving forward with a sharp focus on our strengths in all life safety monitoring, and commercial & residential security (service and installations).

This will lead to a transition of our Fire Alarm Inspection and service business to our new partner in fire; Drapeau Automatic Sprinkler Corp. (DASC).

Like Alarm Systems, DASC is a family-owned company with a trusted commitment to quality, reliable protection, and life safety services. Together with DASC, Alarm Systems will offer 24-hour fire alarm service throughout Southeastern Ontario.

We have spoken with several of DASC’s current clients to ensure this partnership is the right fit to meet the needs of our customers.

“A large Procter & Gamble facility brings with it an extensive and complicated fire alarm system. Drapeau’s highly skilled team of programmers coupled with their Customer Service makes them the best Fire Alarm company I have ever worked with.”

Jamie Vandenburg – Fire Protection Leader (P&G, Belleville)

“Drapeau is a family company, as such you get an opportunity to truly know who you are dealing with. They are always great to deal with and take responsibility to get it right. I have utilized Drapeau from a construction standpoint for commercial, industrial & institutional fire protection & detection systems and have had no problems in over 25 years.”

Tom Gunsinger – Co-Owner (Bel-Con Design-Builders)

As of May 1st, 2023, we will be collaborating with DASC on the transition of fire service and inspection work. They are fully certified and capable of assisting you with any/all fire alarm work.

Rest assured this transition will not impact Alarm Systems’ ability to monitor fire alarm systems.

All previously scheduled Fire Alarm inspections and/or service will be completed as expected; however, DASC will accommodate new service requests or inspections after 30 days from this notification.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and are working closely with DASC to ensure a smooth transition; however, some customers may experience pricing adjustments during this change.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for Residential or Commercial Security installations, service, and any/all life safety monitoring via our ULC Listed, fully redundant, 5 Diamond-Certified monitoring stations in Belleville, Sarnia, and London, ON.

We look forward to continuing to provide you with Peace of Mind.

November 22 2022

A Toy Under Every Tree 2022

Laura Thurston News

We are happy to announce our second annual “A Toy Under Every Tree” campaign, in support of the Belleville Professional Firefighters Association Toy Drive.

The Belleville Professional Fire Fighters Association Toy Drive has been collecting gifts for local children every year since the 1940s. They support over 1500 children with this program and we want to help them this season.

We are inviting employees and customers to participate. Simply drop a new, unwrapped toy to be dropped off under our tree in reception by Dec 19th. We will be delivering them to the Fire Hall on December 21st.

Last year we collected dozens of toys for families in need, with your help we can collect even more this season.

Let’s make sure every child in the city has a magical Christmas this year!

QBAA Specialized Service Business of the Year- Alarm Systems

October 25 2022

2022 Quinte Business Achievement Awards

Laura Thurston Alarm Systems, News

We are honoured to have received a Quinte Business Achievement Award in the Specialized Services category. Thank you Quinte, for placing your trust in us for 50 years. We wouldn’t be here without you.

Ryan Williams, Walsh McPherson, Kristin Crowe, Todd Smith, QBAA Last week we attended the 2022 Quinte Business Achievement Awards. For 25 years they have recognized outstanding local businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and business leaders in areas such as entrepreneurship, business growth, company practices, innovation, customer service, stewardship, marketing success, and community service.

It was a great privilege to be recognized for our work in this community. We have been locally owned and operated since 1972 and continue to be the region’s leading local security provider. Thank you to our incredible team that is at the core of our success. We also are grateful for the support we have received from the community for decades and are looking forward to delivering that same peace of mind for the next 50 years.

Our heart and soul is security and life safety. Our success is a direct result of the incredible people and partners who make up our team and the fabulous customers who have placed trust in us to protect the people and things they love.

Community is one of our core values. As we continue to expand to better meet the needs of our customers, we look forward to another 50 years serving our region.” – Kristin Crowe, President, Alarm Systems

There were many outstanding organizations nominated across several categories and Alarm Systems’ takes great pride to be in such company. Congratulations to all nominees in all categories.

Feature Image-spot the van. Alarm Systems 50th anniversary van parked outside our Belleville Building

October 3 2022

Spot Our New Vans & Enter To Win!

Laura Thurston Alarm Systems, News

Alarm Systems has proudly been a part of this community for 50 years, and as part of our 50th anniversary celebration we are updating our fleet of vans. Our security technicians are on the roads from Quinte to the Thousand Island Region and now they are sporting a new look.

We want to thank you for being part of our success and now is your chance to join in the celebration. We are going to be giving away a Free Smart Home Security System or System upgrade to one lucky household.

Two Ways to Enter

Spot the Van!

We want everyone to see our new vans. Be on the look out for them snap a picture, post it to your Facebook, Twitter feed or Instagram Story, and tag us! Every time you do you will earn one entry to our draw.

Tell Us How Alarm Systems Has Impacted you in the last 50 years

Our customers are at the center of what we do. Our success is thanks to the thousands of homeowners and businesses that trust us to protect them, some for decades now.

We are calling on our community to share their experiences with Alarm Systems. Take a moment to contribute your Alarm Systems story with us. Post on social media, leave us a review, or send us an email.

Follow Us Now to Stay Informed

Instagram

Facebook

Terms & Conditions

Eligibility

You must be following us on at least one of our social networks: Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.
You must be in our Service area. Click here to view.
Share your post before December 31, 2022.
Monthly monitoring fees are the responsibility of the winner**
Prize cannot be redeemed for cash & is non-transferable**
Free system does not include Smartphone, Smart Thermostat, smart locks, or smart lighting accessories. The system can be expanded at the expense of the winner**

Your Smart Home Security System Includes (A $1000 value)

1 x Qolsys 7” touchscreen all-in-one unit
3 x wireless door/window sensors
1 x wireless motion sensor
Complete Installation

May 26 2022

Your Smart Home Starts with Smart Security

Laura Thurston News, Smart Home Security

31% of homes in Canada already have Smart Home devices, a number that is expected to rise above 53% by 2026. There are thousands of devices on the market making lives easier and turning our everyday household items into Smart Devices. The challenge comes in finding better ways to integrate these devices, so you don’t have to juggle a dozen different apps.

Your security system should be the foundation of your Smart Home. A Smart Home Security system not only protects your home but allows you to control it entirely.

One App, Total Control

A Smart Home Security System is no longer simply intrusion detection. Your system can integrate with systems throughout your home such as: smart thermostats, water sensors for flood detection, smart locks, lighting, and a host of other network-connected devices in your home.

This allows you to control all aspects of your Smart Home from one app. You can program “scenes” that simplify it even further, activating or deactivating multiple devices with a single click. Activate lights and thermostats when you come home, lock up and turn off lights for the night from bed, or turn down your lighting to set the mood for date night.

More Devices, More Control

The internet of things (IOT) is one of the biggest driving factors in Smart Home Adoption. More and more devices can connect to our networks and be controlled remotely.

Water Sensors

Security Cameras

Thermostats

Home Irrigation

Smoke & CO Detectors

Lights & Light Switches

Locks

Power Sockets

Smart Vacuums

TVs

Garage Doors

Appliances

A.I. Driven Control

Controlling your home is only the beginning of Smart Home Automation. Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) is helping smart homes manage themselves. Your system can improve the energy efficiency of your home by automatically adjusting for weather conditions, when you leave, and in anticipation of your return home.

A.I. is also making your home safer. The software in your video doorbell or security camera can detect the difference between people, animals, and vehicles and respond appropriately. A critter visiting in the backyard doesn’t warrant much attention at 2 am, but a person could trigger lights and an alert to your phone. That means fewer false alarms and better awareness of what is happening around your home.

Control, Even When You’re Away

Remotely controlling the devices in your home is about more than turning off the lights with your phone because you’re already comfortable on the couch. With a Smart Home Security System, you can easily check in on your home from anywhere with an internet connection.

Checking home security cameras while away camping

Your Smart Home can automatically adjust your lights to give the impression someone is home even if you are on a beach in a different country. It can also help you stay aware of what is going on, when children arrive home from school or when packages are delivered. Your system can send real-time notifications for unexpected activity, you can remotely view your cameras, see who is at the door, or even grant access to your home through the app.

A Smart Home Security System not only protects your home but allows you to control it from one app. Making your life more convenient and safer. Speak to a security consultant today about upgrading your home to a Smart Home.

May 5 2022

Alarm Systems Brockville Community Fundraiser

Laura Thurston Alarm Systems, News

Thank you to everyone who joined us Tuesday to celebrate the rebranding of our Brockville location. The team grilled up hot dogs and handed out goodie bags for visitors, before unveiling our new signage.

It was fantastic to feel the support of the Brockville community while raising funds for Leeds & Grenville Interval House.

See Highlights For the Event

Alarm Systems Brockville Cyndi, Chris, with Brockville Radios Bruce Wylie at BBQ

Alarm Systems Brockville's Laura Good with the Brockville Chamber

Alarm System Brockville Goodie bags lined up on a table

Alarm Systems Brockville's Laura Good with Brockville Fire Dep

Alarm Systems Brockville's Laura Good with Interval House

For our legacy Falcon Security clients, we are and always will be committed to protecting lives and property. Thank you for your support. Moving forward Alarm Systems will be providing you with the PEACE of MIND you’ve come to expect. Read more on our Brockville page.

June 9 2021

CAMSafe: The Next Generation of Your Neighborhood Watch

Laura Thurston News

We have partnered with the Belleville Police Service in a community safety initiative. CAMSafe is a new program aimed at creating a volunteer registry of private security cameras in the city. It will act as a resource for police when investigating criminal offenses.

CAMSafe Launch Event, Jeremy Ashley, Kristin Crowe, Chief Callaghan, Mayor Panciuk, Gabe Boisvert — Sgt. Jeremy Ashley, Kristin Crowe of Alarm Systems, Chief Callaghan, Mayor Panciuk, & Gabe Boisvert of Floating-Point at a CAMSafe launch.

Studies have shown security cameras have not only reduced crime rates but also act as an extra set of eyes to help police identify and apprehend criminals. This program establishes a community network that will help protect our neighbourhoods. Think of it like Neighbourhood Watch 2.0

What is CAMSafe?

CAMSafe is a registry of camera locations only – only you will ever have direct access to your security system and account information. The program is a resource that allows police to know the location of cameras within a geographic area when investigating crime. If police require access to your footage, they will reach out to you and make a request directly.

Volunteer registry of security cameras, CCTV systems & doorbell cameras

Delete your information or account at any time

CAMSafe does not have access to footage or cameras

Only basic contact information & address required to sign up

Only police have access to the registry information

How Does CAMSafe Work?

Register any security cameras with as many or as few details as you wish: the direction the camera captures, footage retention, and even screenshots. If a crime is committed and officers believe the footage may benefit the investigation, an officer will contact you to request footage. You can delete your account and change your information at any time. And you are under no obligation to share your footage with police.

How can registering my camera help?

Having a resource with real-time maps of camera locations in the city will not only reduce the time officers spend searching for footage but will play a pivotal role in a fast-moving investigation such as a potential kidnapping or robbery.

Who has access to my cameras?

Only you. The Belleville Police Service never directly accesses your security system. If your footage would be beneficial, an officer will reach out. You can choose whether to provide your security camera footage. Only police officers have access to the CAMSafe registry.

We all play a vital part in keeping our community safe. Join us in providing greater community security by registering your security cameras today.

May 12 2021

Introducing Connected Car

Laura Thurston News

Smart Home Security systems are integrated into every part of your home. Making homes more efficient, secure, and convenient. Now your car can be part of your smart home.

We now offer Connected Car. The device easily plugs into your car and sends you updates about your vehicle’s performance and health. You can stay one step ahead of emergencies, and feel more confident that your vehicle, and the people driving it, are safe.

Keep an Eye on New Drivers

Does your teen’s driving make you nervous? Connected Car let’s you know about dangerous driving activity even when you weren’t in the car yourself. Keep a safety-conscious eye on new drivers when they’re on the road without you. Connected Car sends real-time alerts for sudden acceleration, hard braking and speeding.

The GPS tracking feature also allows you to see previous routes the vehicle has taken and stats on fuel usage, engine efficiency, and top speed.

Get Maintenance Updates

Connected Car allows you to monitor your car’s diagnostic health and stay one step ahead of emergency repairs and rescues. Whether your fuel tank is nearly empty, you need to get your engine checked or your battery is low, you’ll be forewarned to fix the issue before it turns into a surprise expense.

Know Your Car is Secure

The device can detect unexpected movement, even if the car is not turned on you’ll receive an alert. If you’re towed—or if you forget where you parked—you’ll know exactly where to go, thanks to Connected Car’s location tracking.

Its backup battery and cellular signal mean that Connected Car is always alert and working, even when your engine is off.

Connects to Your Existing Security System

You can now integrate seamlessly with your smart home through one app. Program custom alerts, check your vehicle’s status and location from the same app you manage your security system with. Use it as a geo-fence-enabled device to remotely disarm your security system when you arrive home or activate your lights.

Connected Car device installed on a car and the app

Smart home security isn’t just for your home anymore. With Connected Car, you can extend your protection far beyond its walls to wherever your car and family happen to be. Speak to a security consultant today to learn how to easily add Connected Car to your smart home security ecosystem.