Having a security system in your home is a great way to feel safer in many situations. Having a central station monitoring system to back up this security adds even more peace of mind.

What is Central Station Monitoring

A central monitoring station (CMS) monitors customer alarm systems and calls the appropriate authorities when notified an alarm has been triggered. For instance, when the smoke alarms go off in your home, the monitoring system you have set up will notify the central station who will then contact the fire department. This could prove to be extremely helpful, especially if there’s no one home at the time.

There is a fee for central station monitoring, and it varies depending on company and range of services. You’ll want to choose the features that best fit your situation. For example, if you’re frequently out of the house, you can depend on someone consistently monitoring your home through your alarm system.

What Systems are Available

There are different ways to monitor your alarm system:

1. Stand-along home alarm systems. Everyone should have a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm in their home. It sets off a siren when it detects a threat—it may even light up—but it will not notify the authorities unless someone notices the alarm going off and calls them.
2. Home security camera systems. Monitoring what goes on in and around your home is becoming easier with cameras and other CCTV devices. You can set up multiple cameras and monitor them all from a computer or mobile device. Some systems allow users to set up sound or motion-sensor alerts that will notify them of any such activity. After checking the camera, the user decides if authorities need to be contacted.
3. Central station alarm. An alarm company monitors the security system 24/7, and notifies you or specific emergency services if it is activated.

Central Station Monitoring Services

When choosing a central station monitoring company, make sure you’re aware of what exactly they offer. They should provide people who monitor your system, call the appropriate department, and offer customer support.

Then there are the companies that provide the proper software for arming and disarming your alarm system remotely. These companies can also integrate wireless support through smartphone apps and user management systems online.

Some monitoring companies are only an authorized reseller of another online service, and they only provide customer support when it comes to account monitoring, web portal use, and smartphone app integration.

Do your research to understand what the company you want to work with provides. Having a home security system is only secure if installed and monitored properly. Call Security Five at 610-323-9511 with any further questions about central station monitoring. Stay safe out there!

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