If you’re like most shoppers, you tend to focus on product prices and features; customer service is only considered if problems arise. But when considering the protection of your home and family, customer service should be a top consideration.
Below are some things to consider (and what you deserve) from a security company’s customer care:
What is GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE?
When a home security company provides great customer service, it’s evident during the first phone call:
With a Sales Rep:
Sales representatives at the best companies avoid using high-pressure tactics. Instead of launching into sales pitches, they listen to callers’ concerns and attempt to provide helpful information. EMC Security’s sales team do not work on commission; therefore we do not do everything possible to get the sale.
The best full-service security companies provide in-home evaluations at no cost to the customer. This is the best way to customize a security system and extra (like camera and smart-devices) to the customer’s needs and wants. What works in one home, may not be the best device in another.
At the In-home Installation/Activation Appointment:
The technician should be clean and efficient while installing the system.
Many companies do not test pre-existing equipment. Best security companies, like EMC Security test all components even components that existed prior to installation and are part of the system.
The best security technicians do not leave the home without training the occupants to effectively use the system – AND help install and set-up the mobile app if applicable.
After Activation – Once You’re a Customer:
The best home security companies work to save customers money by offering technical support over the phone at no cost. EMC Security has 6-8 support technicians that provide technical service over the phone – saving customers money in service fees.
EMC Security continues to communicate with customers throughout their customer journey. Through monthly system communication testing (every system is tested every month – if we don’t receive a signal, the customer is notified), emails and texts when we received trouble signals such as low battery or power loss, and monthly customer newsletters to keep customers informed of new equipment and ways to enhance their protection.
Unlike many companies that lock customers into lengthy contracts, EMC Security understands that the customer is in charge. With this in mind, every interaction must exceed expectations.
What does POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE look like?
When a security company delivers low-quality customer service, that’s often evident during a potential customer’s first phone call. No one likes high pressure sales. If you get caught, beware that customer service will erode once you’re a customer.
A company with long term contracts by nature provides the worse customer service. Ask yourself, why should they provide good service? That customer can’t get out of the contract without paying it off. Either way, it’s a win FOR THE COMPANY.
Many alarm users in the area have been anxious because a major security company was acquired by a national brand, that does not install, and may not provide technical service for the type of system the original company sold. If the customer has a technical issue with the system, the new company may need to replace it with new equipment – which is quite costly for the customer. Additionally, the new company enrolls the customer into another lengthy contract upon activation. In case you had any questions, this is POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE.
EMC Security has been a no-contract service company since inception in 1998. In fact, our base monitoring rate of $16.95 has not changed in over 23 years.
Glass breaks can be an important addition to your home security system.
Glass breaks are sensors that detect the sound frequency and percussion of glass breaking and send the signal to your home security system to activate the alarm.So why would you need glass break sensors installed as a part of your security system if you already have door and window sensors?Door and window sensors are only effective if the door or window is opened. If an intruder instead decides to break the glass of the window to enter your home, the window sensor won’t trigger the alarm. A glass break sensor will trigger the alarm when it detects the sound and vibration of the glass breaking.
Should you add glass breaks to my security system?
It’s important to remember that glass break sensors are used to enhance the security system you already have in place to make it even more effective.We would suggest glass break sensors for any home that features:
Large windows
Sliding glass doors
Rooms with many windows, such as sun rooms
Exterior doors with windows or decorative window panes
Homes with windows that are painted shut
While homes with large windows provide extra sunlight and views, they’re also a potential target for would-be criminals. Glass break sensors can help protect you in the event a criminal tries to enter your home.
Halloween is a fun time for kids and adults, but it’s also a time when criminals take advantage of the fact that people are out of their homes and busy with Halloween activities. Here are 9 tips to help keep your home secure this Halloween season.
Keep your outside lights on – This will deter would-be criminals from approaching your home as they will be more visible to neighbors and other passersby.
Do not answer the door to strangers – If you don’t know the person, don’t open the door. This includes people dressed up in costumes. Ask them to leave a calling card so you can get back to them later.
Keep valuables out of sight – Don’t give thieves the temptation of an easy score by leaving valuables like laptops, jewelry, or cash in plain sight. Put them away in a safe place before you go out for the evening.
Lock all doors and windows – Even if you’re just going out for a short while, make sure all doors and windows are locked. An easy way for criminals to gain entry into your home is through an unlocked door or window.
Set your home security system – If you have a home security system, make sure it is set before you leave for the evening. This will help deter criminals and provide peace of mind while you’re out enjoying Halloween festivities.
Have someone watch your home – If you can, have a trusted friend or neighbor keep an eye on your home while you’re gone. This extra set of eyes can help identify any suspicious activity around your property.
Stop mail and newspaper delivery – Nothing says ” Nobody’s home” like a pile of newspapers or uncollected mail at the front door. Be sure to stop delivery or ask a trusted friend or neighbor to collect these items for you while you’re away.
Use motion sensor lights – These are great for deterring criminals as they will be illuminated if someone approaches your property. Motion sensor lights are also great for saving energy as they only come on when they sense movement.
9 . Bring in any outdoor furniture or decorations – Items like lawn chairs, garden gnomes, and Halloween decorations can be easy targets for thieves looking for something quick and easy to grab. Bring them inside or store them in a shed or garage until after Halloween is over .
By following these tips , you can help keep your family and possessions safe this Halloween season . Enjoy the holiday and happy haunting!
Security technology has gotten so advanced that pet owners don’t need to be too concerned about false alarms much these days.
You can design a security system with everyone in your home in mind, including your pets:
Pet-Friendly Motion Sensors
Nothing is more frustrating than leaving your house and arming your security system, only for your pet to set off the motion sensors. That’s why, if you have pets, it’s crucial to get a home security system with pet-friendly motion sensors. This way, your pet can roam freely through the house without triggering your alarm.
Security Cameras
Any camera can help you to monitor your pets, but who has time to watch a live stream all day? Make sure that the security system you choose has cameras with the mobile app so you can receive customized alerts regarding your pet. Wi-Fi cameras are great for this because you can move them around your home as needed. One time we left to go on vacation and placed the indoor camera right by our cat’s bed. We got to see him and talk to him any time we wanted.
24/7 Monitoring with Pets
If you have an EMC Security monitored system, you can add the details of your pets to your account. By doing so, you’re allowing emergency responders to automatically receive information about your pets’ presence when they respond to an alert about your home. This information makes a pet rescue that much more possible.
This is particularly important for fire monitoring. You want the responders to know where the pets are so they can get them to safety immediately upon entering a burning building.
Smart Door Lock
A smart door lock is a fantastic product for those who have a dog walker come to their house while away. Giving your dog walker a key to your home or leaving a key under the doormat is risky. The EMC Security Smart Door Lock allows you to create a unique code for your dog walker to use when they need to enter. You’ll receive alerts whenever they come and go.
DIY Installation
Have a pet that is anxious around strangers? When a professional installer comes into your home, your pet may get upset, so a home security system with DIY installation may be your best bet. With DIY installation, the equipment is easy to set up and does not require drilling. In fact, no tools are needed at all. Plus, you save money with a self-install system from EMC Security.
There are many reasons why security system users have false alarms. For instance, a large proportion can be blamed on homeowners forgetting to disarm the system prior to letting the dog out or empty the trash. Another aspect could be entering the wrong passcode.
Some municipalities in Georgia have cracked down on false alarms, with fees. EMC Security has implemented EMC Text-Alert, a text notification service that gives you the opportunity to chat with your emergency contacts when your alarm is triggered and respond appropriately from your phone. We’ve seen a significant reduction in false alarms when customer use Text-Alert. IT’S FREE! Sign up here >>
More ways to reduce false alarms:
Before you activate your system:
Lock all protected doors and windows.
Educate family members on alarm system and usage.
Contact EMC Security if you have any concerns about the proper functionality your system.
Notify EMC Security if you plan any renovating or remodeling your home.
Educate family members on what to do if your alarm is accidentally triggered.
Use the EMC Text Alert app to chat with your emergency contacts when your alarm is triggered and respond appropriately from your phone.
First, don’t panic, there is time. Enter your disarm code (carefully) to reset your system. Remember, if there were a burglar, he or she would not know your code. Do not write it on your keypad.
Call EMC Security at 1-888-745-4733 or wait for us to call you. Give your password — this is different from your disarm code.
Commercial False Alarm Prevention Guide
Be sure all employees are thoroughly trained before attempting to use the alarm system. Hold monthly training sessions.
Look for items that can move within the “view” of your motion detectors, causing false alarms fans, heaters, hanging signs, seasonal decorations, balloons, curtains, plants, etc.).
Confirm that special consideration has been given to the installation of motion detectors in high traffic areas with overhead doors, large exhaust fans or ceiling vents which allow the entry of birds.
Ensure all doors and windows are secure and locked before arming your system.
Don’t change pass-codes without advising EMC Security.
Train new users thoroughly, notifying EMC Security of new users.
Service and maintain your system (including batteries) regularly before false alarms occur.
Upgrade old alarm systems to current equipment conforming to Security Industry Association (SIA) false alarm prevention standards, further reducing false alarms.
Every municipality in Georgia has alarm registration requirements. Some have false alarm ordinances as well. Make sure you understand your ordinance and fee guidelines before installing a security system in your home or business.
So it’s a great time for us all to take the precautionary steps to prevent dangerous and life-threatening fires.
Maintain your heating source. Whether it’s a fireplace, wood stove, a furnace or electric heat, check the equipment before using.
Don’t store items near your heating source. Keep boxes, clothes, draperies, furniture and other combustible items away from a heating source.
Don’t leave burners or grills unattended. Keep dish towels, clothing and other items away from heating elements and open flame.
Never leave a burning candle unattended. For ambiance, consider battery powered candles.
Get a fire extinguisher. Place one on each floor of the house and in the garage.
Have an escape plan. Practice fire drills with your family and make sure everyone knows where to go depending on where the fire is in the home.
Add monitored smoke detectors . We monitor for fire at no additional monthly cost. Smoke detectors start at just $125. Call for details at 770-963-0305.
View the video above featuring EMC Security customers that are thankful they installed monitored smoke detectors in their home. A few months ago, their home was quickly overcome with smoke and fire while they were just a few yards away, in the backyard. If it wasn’t for EMC Security, the damage and loss would’ve been much greater.
Adding smoke or heat detectors to your home security system may very well be the best decision you make when it comes to the safety and security of your loved ones.
And, your monthly monitoring cost doesn’t change when you add fire monitoring to your security system.
Most Common Causes of Home Fires
In 2019, fire departments in the U.S. responded to an estimated 361,500 home fires. These fires caused roughly 2,870 deaths and 12,700 reported injuries. Property damage was estimated at $7.9 billion.
Smoking – #1 cause of deaths
Most smoking-related fires start inside the home, often originating from upholstered furniture, bedding, or mattresses. Always smoke outside, thoroughly extinguishing cigarettes in an ashtray when finished.
Cooking equipment – #1 cause of fire injuries.
If you leave the kitchen—even for a brief period of time—turn off the stove. Wear short, close-fitting, or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Always keep children away from active cooking areas.
Fireplace
To prevent an accident, install a spark screen or glass door in front of the firebox to protect the surrounding area from stray sparks and rolled logs. Check chimneys annually to ensure that creosote hasn’t built up, and never leave a fire unattended.
Portable space heaters
Portable space heaters, which cause more fires annually than central heating. Use space heaters only in well-ventilated spaces, and keep them at least three feet away from furniture, fabrics, draperies, and other combustible objects.
Candles
Never position a lit candle near flammable items like bedsheets and books, which may become engulfed in flame if they come in contact with the tiny fire. As a safer alternative, homeowners can purchase flameless, battery-powered candles with LEDs.
Worn and damaged cords
Replace all worn or damaged cords right away, never overload extension cords or wall sockets, and don’t position cords under furniture or rugs.
Grill
Position your grill or fire pit several feet from your house, safely away from trees, deck railings, and other structures. Routinely clean the grill, investigate signs of rust and corrosion, and check the gas connections.
Propane and gasoline
Gasoline, kerosene, and propane should be stored outside in their original containers. Kerosene and propane heaters, which have a constant open flame, should be kept in an isolated, well-ventilated area and used only with the proper type of fuel.
Did you register your alarm with your municipality?
Certain municipalities in Georgia require home security system users to obtain an alarm registration or permit. Alarm companies are not able to register your system (with the exception of Brookhaven City and Dekalb County) so it is your responsibility to comply with these requirements. If you fail to do so, the municipality could delay or refuse to dispatch emergency personnel and/or assess you with fines.
Additionally, some areas of Georgia have partnered with CryWolfe Services to monitor their alarm registration and false alarm program, requiring additional registration.
We compiled the requirements for some areas that require an alarm registration or permit on our website. This list is not comprehensive so you should confirm registration requirements with your municipality.
Please contact your local municipality with any questions regarding alarm registration and user permits.
Are you taking our DIY System with you when you move? Be sure to call us first.
On the call we’ll:
Suspend service at your existing home.
Transfer service to your new home.
Program your system components for your new home.
Add any components needed (additional doors, etc).
Upgrade to cellular or add cameras, etc.
EMC Security’s phones are ringing off the hook!
More people than ever before are looking to switch to EMC Security – a reliable local company – to provide home security service.
As you spend time with friends and family around Georgia this summer, remember our Referral Program. You’ll get two months free service for every new customer you refer.
Commercial & Industrial Security Solutions for Offices
Worker safety, fire protection, remaining code compliant, and securing important documents are key issues in office environments.
Below are the services provided by EMC Security for offices:
1. Intrusion Detection
A security system is a cost effective way to protect facilities without the need of manned on-site security. The latest in technology also allows managers to receive notifications when the system is armed or disarmed.
2. Fire Protection
EMC Security ensures businesses remain code compliant with NFPA standards with full-service design, installation, monitoring, and fire system inspections.
3. Access Control
Managing control allows managers to track and limit employee and visitor movement throughout the complex. Reports from the access control system can be used for determining who has accessed certain areas and at what time.
4. Video Surveillance
Well placed video surveillance systems allow owners to maintain a record of activities for later review as well as provide owners with real-time and recorded video on demand and notifications while off-site.
Learn more about protecting your office by contacting EMC Security or completing our Commercial Instant Quote below.
One of the most convenient features of modern security systems is the mobile app. Since the app has the ability to arm and disarm your system, view camera video, and control other home functions, it’s important to keep it secure with protection from hackers.
Below are ways to protect your privacy while using a home security app:
Connect to a trusted Wi-Fi network to keep your home security system information and events private from the public. If you’re not connected to a secure network, there’s a high risk of a stranger using public Wi-Fi to get your private home security information.
Most security apps allow you to share access with other family members. Consider limiting app access only to those who need it.
Change your password frequently. If your app allows, use two-factor authentication to log-in two ways to access your account. The extra layer of security helps prevent hackers from accessing your account with only a password and email.
Keep your mobile app up to date. Anytime your app has an update available make sure to download the latest as soon as possible. App updates often include bug fixes, security and privacy improvements.
Many alarm monitoring companies, including large national companies allow central alarm station operators to work from their homes, apartments or even college housing dorms to monitor customers for life safety events. Seems almost unbelievable, but it is a fact.
A recent article by security industry expert Jeff Zwirn, published in industry trade magazine Security Sales and Integration highlighted a change that was made to an important UL code made during the Covid 19 pandemic. The new UL-827 now allows operators to perform their life safety and property protection dispatch duties from anywhere they have an internet connection. This includes private homes, apartments, or other locations.
Any good central station operation will be backed up for power and will have redundant internet connectivity paths. Operators and their actions will be closely monitored for activity. Visitors, cell phones, TVs are generally not allowed in the facility, due to concerns about security, privacy, and distraction.
Zwirn warns, “Central Stations that have their operators working from their apartments, dormitories, or homes is a choice that is foreseeably dangerous and needlessly puts subscribers at an increased risk of the very things that the alarm system was intended to protect against as reliable and timely emergency dispatch.”
When this UL guideline change was made, EMC Security decided that remote alarm monitoring was not a practice that we would support. Distracted operators, lack of oversight and supervision, risk of a data breach and virtually no redundancies for the operators make the notion of remote monitoring very scary.
EMC Security’s central station operates 3 locations with in-facility alarm response, never compromised by security risks, distractions, or weather. All monitoring center locations are staffed with highly trained and certified response staff, in secured facilities, backed up by multiple generators and multiple communication paths. No alarm monitoring staff works from home. Ever. We do not put our customers at risk by allowing operators to monitor remotely.
We do not put our customers’ safety at risk for the comforts of working from home. We stand by our decision to utilize in-facility monitoring centers because we believe that upholds our dedication to providing the highest level of customer service in a distraction-free, secure environment.
In addition, EMC Security has a redundant monitoring location in a secured facility, on site at our office in Suwanee, backed up by multiple generators and multiple communication paths. Low priority signals (battery, power, etc) are handled from this location, but it is ready to handle all alarm conditions, if necessary. No operator handles any priority, high response life safety and property protection signal from anywhere outside of our facility.
