FAQ's

Why you need a security system

There is an average loss of $2300 worth of property per burglary.

Burglars are more likely to break into your home between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm, while you and your family are at work or school.

Nearly half of all burglars enter through the front door. The rest choose back doors and windows at ground level.

You can see a significant savings (up to 22%) on your homeowners insurance with a monitored security and fire protection system with 1st Alarm Security.

Unfortunately, as the population in northeastern Pennsylvania grows, so too has the crime rate. Recent statistics point to a trend of increased crime activity, especially burglaries, in our region .

Security systems have proven to be the best deterrent to a potential burglary.

I've been thinking about buying a new security system for a while now, but I don't know much about them. How do they work?

A security system starts with a control panel. Usually located in closet or a basement, the control panel contains the brains of the security system, and essentially operates as a computer. Various sensors (window, door contacts, and motion detectors) connect to the control panel either by hard wire or wirelessly from locations throughout the home. If your security system is "armed" and the sensors detect a problem, they send signals to the control panel. The control panel automatically dials the central monitoring station, where the proper authorities are notified.

What does the keypad do?

You operate your security system by entering your security code at the keypad. Generally located at entry doors, keypads can arm and disarm the security system with push-button ease. Keypads vary in style. 1st Alarm Security offers a wide array of keypads, with features including English displays, illuminated buttons and easy to read one-touch buttons. 1st Alarm also offers wireless Key FOBS, similar to a remote car starter in size and configuration. These devices can arm and disarm the system remotely, and also contain a "panic" button in case of an emergency.

What is a PIR?

A passive infrared motion detector (PIR) is an electronic security device that detects intruders by sensing motion or body heat in the area being protected. Most PIRs are designed to be used when your family is away from the home or when no one will be passing through the area covered by the PIR.

I have a dog(s). Does that mean I can't install a PIR?

Absolutely not! Recent innovations in security technology have resulted in the creation of "pet immune" motion detectors, allowing dog and cat lovers to enjoy the same level of protection they would receive with a standard PIR. These state-of-the-art sensors provide "pet immunity" for animals weighing up to 60 pounds. Pet immune PIRs allow your pet to move about freely but can still detect an intruder's movement.

Speaking of sensors, how are the "glassbreak" kinds operated?

"Acoustic" glassbreak sensors, usually mounted on ceilings and walls, work by "listening" for the sound of breaking glass in a window. "Shock sensors" are mounted on the window and detect the "shock" of breaking glass. This kind of advanced wireless or hardwired technology can provide shatter and shock protection for your windows, so often intruders are sensed and the alarm sounded before they are able to gain access to your home.

I already have battery operated smoke detectors in my home, so why would I need one installed that is tied into a 1st Alarm Security system?

Since you already own smoke detectors in your home, you obviously realize what an important safety measure these devices are. That's good! However, there are differences between "stand alone" detectors and one installed by 1st Alarm Security. Our devices are tied directly into your security panel and are monitored through central station. If you do have a fire, central station notifies your fire department instantaneously, saving valuable time to prevent loss of property and/or lives.

How difficult is a 1st Alarm Security system to operate?

1st Alarm Security systems are the most "user friendly" systems available today. Children and senior adults that have never used a security system before have no problems using our systems. Our highly trained technicians walk customers through the operation of your security system the day it is installed. Our office staff is also available to answer your technical questions as your system needs change.

If we decide to buy a 1st Alarm Security system, how long should we expect to have the installation complete?

In the majority of cases, once you decide to purchase a 1st Alarm Security system, we can install it within 10 days. Most systems can be installed in a day.

What if the electricity in my home fails due to an outage? Will my security system still work?

With every 1st Alarm Security system we install, we include a battery back-up in the control panel that will keep your home protected during power outages.