Are you defeating your own security service?!
As a business owner, you took a great deal of time in this investment. You had a choose a security company that would work for you. You probably negotiated some pricing. You paid for equipment and now a monthly fee to have the system monitored. The last thing you want to do is make your system worthless!
Where are your codes?
If you have something similar to the picture below, you might need to make some changes:
With this little post-it, every one that passes will know how to disarm your system without causing an alarm. Just because the keypad may not be visible to the public, doesn’t mean this is a good idea. By posting these instructions, you give disarming rights to every vendor, contractor, delivery person and visitor that passes this area. Best practice:
- Do not write the code on the wall, keypad or any where around the keypad
- Choose a code that you do not have to write.
- If you have to write it down, make sure it is kept on your person in a secure location. When you disarm the system, have it out and ready to use . This will prevent you from causing an alarm and having the police dispatched unnecessarily.
- TRAIN YOUR PEOPLE to properly use the system.
If you feel uneasy about disarming the system using a code, talk to your security service provider about other items that can be added to your integrated security system. Some systems can be disarmed with the simple swipe of a card or fob.
Not arming your security system
You paid for it, please use it. The only thing worse than a burglary would be a burglary where someone didn’t arm the system and the police weren’t dispatched. Sometimes it’s just plain forgetfulness after a long day at work. If you have an older system, see if your provider can give you a call at a certain time if the system isn’t armed. OR, see about getting an app for your phone so if someone does accidentally leave the system disarmed, you can arm the system from your smart phone.
Let users be their own person
Is everyone using the same code to arm and disarm the system? By issuing everyone their own code, your provider will be able to tell you who disarmed the system and when. Here at Sonitrol of Evansville, we send free reports to you via email when requested if you need to review activity. Of course, if you have the app, not only can you see who arms and disarms, but some systems will instantly notify you on your phone.
For more tips on how to maximize the use of your security service, contact us.
