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WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON'T HAVE A PHONE LINE?

Are WIRELESS Alarm Systems Better Than Wired Ones? – Part 2

In my last blog, we took a look at why all-in-one, fully-wireless alarm systems are so popular, but also why they don’t hold up very well in extreme circumstances. There are other aspects of the system, however, where “wireless” can be a very good thing, including communication. Today we will take a look at how an alarm system communicates with the monitoring station, and the potential benefits to communicating wirelessly. 

There are essentially three different communication methods available to today’s alarm client, and we’ll look at the pro’s and con’s of each of them.


1. Phone Line

Since the inception of electronic alarm systems in the 1920’s, phone line has been the “traditional” method of communication. Every house and business always had a landline; therefore, it was cheap to implement for the Alarm companies. The technology currently in use hasn’t changed much in decades, and is essentially the same as that used by a fax machine.

The problems with this communication method are two fold: the signals are sent slowly (takes around 30-60 seconds for a single signal to be transmitted), and it relies entirely on your phone line. Should the line go down, or should a smart criminal cut the lines coming into the building (I’ve seen it happen), the alarm cannot communicate. Many phone systems also require power, so a power outage renders your system inoperable.

Not only that many people are cancelling their landlines. I cannot tell you the number of times a client has called me up saying “my alarm system isn’t working”, only to find out 30 seconds later that they cancelled the home phone line a month ago! There are cheaper, internet-based alternatives to phone lines (known as Voice Over Internet Protocol, or VOIP), but most alarm systems aren’t compatible with them.

Pros: cheapest option available

Cons: can be cut easily; relies on power; slow to send signals



2. Internet/Wi-Fi

In the case of internet communication, the alarm system is wired directly into your router provided for you by your Internet Service Provider, or ISP. Wi-Fi operation is a little simpler, as no physical connection to your router is required. Again, this is a cheap option, because the chances are you’re already paying for internet. However, like the land line before it, this method relies entirely on your internet. If the internet goes down, if there’s a power outage, or if your Wi-Fi drops, the Alarm System cannot talk to the monitoring station.

Pros: utilizes the internet you already have in the house; much faster than phone line

Cons: relies entirely on your internet connection; must be directly wired into your network



3. Cellular

These communicators are essentially a small cell phone, and use their own SIM card to communicate over the cell network. The signals are transmitted very fast, and the communicator itself can make use of the Alarm System’s backup battery, meaning that you never lose connectivity, even during a lengthy power outage. Of course, these are still dependent on cell towers, and in rural settings or in deep basements there can be issues getting a signal; but for reliability, these are the best option currently available, and will only improve as the cell coverage and signal type improve. Right now, most use the 3G network, but as things most into 4G, LTE, and beyond, expect these communicators to keep getting smarter and smarter.

Pros: completely stand-alone (does not rely on your phone or internet); much faster than phone line; no wiring required

Cons: more expensive monthly

 

Note: I should point out that most internet/Wi-Fi/cellular communicators now offer (at an added cost) the ability to use “Crash and Smash” technology. This means that if someone breaks into the property intent on finding and disabling the communicator before the alarm goes off, the system now sends an “Alarm Pending” signal to the servers, which is then forwarded on to the monitoring station 4 minutes later if no other signals are received. This is a great backup, but 4 minutes is still a lot of free time for someone to have roaming around your property unchecked!


Bottom Line

The bottom line when it comes to communicators is that again, you want something that will ALWAYS send a signal, no matter what the situation or who is trying to compromise your system. There is no one option that is completely flawless, but it’s pretty obvious to me that the Cellular option has the lowest risk-to-benefit ratio. Unfortunately, it is usually the most expensive option, so you have to decide for yourself whether the reliability and speed is worth the extra money. I should also note that any of the non-landline options also open up the door to use smartphone and tablet apps to monitor your system, and send you notifications via text or e-mail if something goes wrong. In todays connected world, having that functionality is almost a no-brainer.

My recommendation: pay the extra few bucks every month and get a cellular communicator that you can not only trust, but offers you the benefit of being able to check in on your system when you’re away.

Dave Schlegel
Owner
Oxford Security Systems
Reed Security Authorized Dealer

  

TOP 5 HOME SECURITY TRENDS 2016

Home Security:
The 5 BIGGEST Trends

For 16 Years Reed Security has helped Families Feel Safe and Businesses Grow Their Bottom Line. We're industry leaders and pride ourselves in making sure our clients stay informed and have access to the latest cutting-edge technology. Here's what you need to know: 

1. BREAK-INS ARE INCREASING

  • Many Police Departments have on-line Crime Mapping Tools that shows you where all the crime is.
  • Over the past year Calgary had 9077 Break & Enters.
  • Over the past year Saskatoon had 2290 Break & Enters.
  • Over the past year Regina had 1599 Break & Enters.
  • Over the past year Prince Albert had 505 Break & Enters.

2. NO PHONE LINES

  • Due to the popularity of smartphones and affordability of high speed internet, Home Owners are choosing to drop their home phone lines.
  • In fact, 1 in 3 homes no longer have a phone line and nearly 70% of Reed Security's new subscribers use Alarm.com 3G/4G cellular and I.P. signalling instead.
  • Drop your home phone line today and save between $20 and $30 a month with your phone company.

3. HUGE WIRELESS RANGE

  • The majority of home security systems are now wireless.
  • No more drill holes, damaged electrical wires and pipes or cracked base-boards.
  • The DSC Power Series NEO has a wireless range (between sensors and wireless transceiver) of 1.6 KM's and a battery life of 5 to 7 years.

4. ALARM.COM SMART SECURITY

  • View system status, monitor activity at your property, watch live and recorded video, arm and disarm your system, set up user codes - all from easy-to-use web and mobile apps.
  • Geo-Services uses your smartphone's location to take useful actions on your behalf. Imagine pulling up to your home on a dark night...and the lights were automatically turned on a few minutes before you arrive.
  • HD Wi-Fi Doorbell. See your visitors in 1080p HD and 5x zoom. Check live view video feed from the app, or record clips automatically when the doorbell is pressed or motion is detected. Hear, and speak to the visitor at your door whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go. Replaces your existing wired doorbell. Requires Wi-Fi Connection.
  • Automatic Door Locks. Lock or unlock your doors from a built-in keypad - a perfect solution for kids that keep losing house keys. Lock or unlock your doors and control the garage door from anywhere with our mobile app. Check on the status of your doors and garage and know if they’re secured or not. Get a reminder if you leave home and forget to close the garage door.

5. DOOR TO DOOR SCAMS

  • Several alarm companies only have SUMMER PROGRAMS. Large crews of university students are hired and offered large commissions ($400 to $500 per contract) to get you to sign up.
  • There's always a limited time offer and you are pressured to sign up right away.
  • They target big cities and small towns and especially like senior citizens.
  • Sales person won't leave even when you tell them to "Leave"
  • Sales person won't leave when you tell them "No Thanks"
  • Sales person won't leave when you say "I Already Have Your Products or Service"
  • Sales person name drops the name of your neighbor and makes it sound like "they signed up" or "they bought one" or "they referred me to you"
  • Sales person comes to the house several times and won't leave you alone
  • These companies often don't have proper licensing or local service offices. LEARN MORE by Googling "door to door alarm scam".
  • Always Get 3 Quotes from local security companies. Here's a comparison of current offers.


If you are having a problem with THEFT or MOVING TO A NEW HOME, we can Help!

Contact Us today for a
FREE Security Evaluation


SASKATOON
Call 306.653.3200
PRINCE ALBERT
Call 306.922.7200
CALGARY
Call 587.393.2800
REGINA
Coming Soon
LLOYDMINSTER

Coming Soon

TOP 5 SUMMER SECURITY TIPS


1. USE COMMON SENSE
  • If you lose a key, get the locks changed.
  • Ask all strangers for identification.
  • Never hide an extra key outdoor - especially underneath a mat or on top of a light fixture. This is the first place the bad guys look. Leave an extra house key with a friend or a neighbor.
  • DO NOT advertise on Facebook or other social media that you are on vacation. If you like to post photos - post them after you get back.
  • For insurance purposes take photos of the contents of your home.
  • Keep all receipts in a safe and easy to find location.
  • Write down the model and serial number of all electronics.
2. MAKE IT DIFFICULT
  • Door chains are easy to bypass. Install deadbolts.
  • Install a stopper or stick on all sliding doors and windows.
  • Install window bars on all basement windows.
  • Make sure all doors and windows are properly locked.
  • Keep your premises well lit at night.
3. MAKE IT LOOK LIKE YOU ARE AT HOME
  • Install timers that turn lights on at different times. This gives the appearance that someone is home.
  • Cancel the paper.
  • Have someone pick-up the mail.
  • Park a vehicle in the drive-way.
4. INSTALL A MONITORED HOME OR CABIN SECURITY SYSTEM
  • 400% less likely to have a break-in.
  • up to 25% insurance discount.
  • optional ALARM.COM - automatic lights, locks, and thermostat control
  • optional ReedHD™ Wi-Fi Doorbell - Know Who's at the front door, records onto the cloud
5. IN CASE YOU DO HAVE A BREAK-IN:
  • If it looks like a door or window was forced open, DO NOT go inside. The Burglar may still be on site.
  • Call the Police from your cellular phone or from a neighbor's house and wait.


If you would like more information on any product or service please

Click Here

or call us today for a FREE Estimate

SASKATOON
Call 306.653.3200
PRINCE ALBERT
Call 306.922.7200
CALGARY
Call 587.393.2800


KNOW WHO'S AT THE FRONT DOOR

New! ReedHD™ WI-FI Doorbell


The ReedHD Wi-Fi Doorbell Camera is a doorbell with an integrated 1080p camera, PIR motion sensor, digital microphone and speaker, enabling homeowners to answer the door, speak to visitors via two-way audio, record doorbell triggered clips, and set motion triggered automation rules – all right from their Alarm.com app.


Integration with Home Automation Devices
Unlock the door right from the app when you receive a doorbell notification.

On-Demand Video & Recorded Clips
Check live view video feed from the app, or record clips automatically when the doorbell is pressed or motion is detected.

Two-Way Audio
Have a two-way conversation with visitors from your mobile device. Motion Sensor Get alerts when a visitor is in front of the door, even if they don't press the doorbell.

Full Color Night Vision
Feel safer knowing visitors can be seen even at night.

Silent Mode
Remotely turn off the indoor chime when someone is asleep in the house.
Receive notifications on your mobile device instead of ringing the chime.

Intelligent Lighting Automation
Set up rules to automatically turn on the porch lights when motion is detected at night.

Multiple User Capability
When the doorbell rings, alerts can be sent to multiple users on multiple devices.

only $19.95/mo.

Professional Installation included.

For more information please contact us today:

SASKATOON...Call 306.653.3200
PRINCE ALBERT...Call 306.922.7200
CALGARY...COMING SOON


The Fine Print:
*Some conditions apply.
*This unit replaces your existing wired doorbell - must be in good working condition.
*This unit connects to your existing Wi-FI - we need a quality connection at the front door exterior.
*36 month video agreement required.
*Does not require an alarm system.
*Integration with home automation devices requires additional purchase.






DID YOU KNOW SASKATOON HAD 2290 BREAK & ENTERS LAST YEAR?

SASKATOON HAS SOME OF THE HIGHEST CRIME RATES IN CANADA
The Saskatoon Police Service has an on-line Crime Mapping Tool that shows where all the crime is. Over the past year we had 1099 Residential B&Es, 814 Business B&Es and 377 Other B&Es for a total of 2290 Break & Enters.

How to Feel Safe


Use Common Sense:

  • If you lose a key, get the locks changed.
  • Ask all strangers for identification.
  • Never hide an extra key outdoor - especially underneath a mat or on top of a light fixture. This is the first place the bad guys look. Leave an extra house key with a friend or a neighbor.
  • DO NOT advertise on Facebook or other social media that you are on vacation.
  • For insurance purposes take photos of the contents of your home.
  • Keep all receipts in a safe and easy to find location.
  • Write down the model and serial number of all electronics.

Make it Difficult:

  • Door chains are easy to bypass. Install deadbolts. Even better, install an ALARM.COM Smart Lock.
  • Install a stopper or stick on all sliding doors and windows.
  • Install window bars on all basement windows.
  • Make sure all doors and windows are properly locked.
  • Keep your premises well lit at night.
  • Install timers that turn lights on at different times. This gives the appearance that someone is home. Even better, install ALARM.COM Light and Lamp Modules.

Install a monitored Smart Security system:

  • 400% less likely to have a break-in.
  • up to 25% insurance discount.
  • No Phone Line required when you have ALARM.COM
  • optional ALARM.COM e-mail notifications.
  • optional ALARM.COM automatic lights, locks and thermostat control from your smartphone.
  • optional ReedHD Hi-Def Video Cameras - 10x more detail

In case you do have a Break-in:

  • If it looks like a door or window was forced open, DO NOT go inside. The Burglar may still be on site.
  • Call the Police from your cell phone or from a neighbor's house and wait.

Source: Department of Justice, Statistics Canada, Saskatoon Police Service, FBI, Insurance Institute of Canada
Note: Data range is May 2015 to May 2016.



FREE QUOTES IN SASKATOON...306.653.3200
FREE QUOTES IN PRINCE ALBERT...306.922.7200
FREE QUOTES IN CALGARY...COMING SOON
FREE ONLINE QUOTES...CLICK HERE





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LOCATIONS

SASKATOON SECURITY
Reed Security Group (HEADQUARTERS)
14-1724 Quebec Avenue
Saskatoon, SK S7K 1V9
Ph: 306.653.3200
1.844.384.SAFE (7233)

Sure Innovations
1701 Saskatchewan Avenue
Saskatoon, SK S7K 1P7
Ph: 306.974.0888

Nine Yards Technologies Inc.
Ph: 306.341.2477

 

REGINA SECURITY
ViboPulse Services
Ph: 306.206.0700

WINNIPEG SECURITY
Guardian Advanced Solutions
Ph: 204.250.7510 or 204.878.0061

PRINCE ALBERT SECURITY
Thor Security Ltd.
1-243 South Industrial Drive
Prince Albert, SK S6V 7L9
Ph: 306.922.7200

 

NIAGARA REGION SECURITY
Alltech Smart Security
Ph: 289.990.3234

KAWARTHA LAKES REGION SECURITY
Dot Communications
232 Kent St W Unit 4
Lindsay, ON K9V 6A4
Ph: 1.833.368.2666

 

CALGARY SECURITY
Oxford Security Systems
#501, 2903 Kingsview Blvd SE
Airdrie, AB T4A 0C4
Ph: 587.393.2800

EDMONTON SECURITY
Ph: 1.844.384.7233