Helpful hints before buying an alarm system 

 Consumer information

• Obtain bids from more than one company. Compare prices, warranty and service.
• BEWARE if the alarm company representative uses high pressure sales or scare tactics.
• Ask if you are buying the equipment or leasing.
• Don't overdo it! More is not necessarily better.

The alarm company

• How long have they been in business?
• Do they have 24 hour a day service?
• Are they bonded and insured?
• Do they monitor their own accounts or contract with a third party?
• Where is their central station located?
• Are they a member of the Better Business Bureau?

The equipment

• Is the equipment approved by Underwriters Laboratory?
• Is the system tamper resistant (i.e., wires and sensor protected from the elements)?

Reminders

• A false alarm is like calling 911 for help!
• Human error is the most common cause of false alarms!

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