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Keep Valentine's Day stress-free. Deliveries are nice, but balloons left unattended often trigger motion detectors. Prevent False Alarms tonight and throughout the year with these quick tips.

The Holiday with the Most False Alarms

Valentine’s Day is consistently the holiday where false alarm activity spikes. Check out our quick tips to keep you out of the dog house this Valentine’s Day.

False Alarm Tips

  1. Take any deliveries home and ask your team to do the same. Don’t leave balloons in any room with motion detection where the alarm will be set to Away.
  2. Planning to pan-sear those steaks or kick it up a notch with flambé for your Valentine date? You may trigger your smoke detectors. Check out these cooking safety tips here and call us at 410.546-2210 to put your system on Test or declare a false alarm.

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About Alarm Engineering

Locally owned Alarm Engineering has been securing Delmarva since 1985. In that time, we have earned our reputation for integrity, reliability, and quality with our emphasis on superior service to our customers. We know you have choices when it comes to your security system, so here are some things you should know about our team.

Alarm Engineering is leading provider of electronic security systems and services in Delaware and the Eastern Shores of Maryland and Virginia. From integrated home security systems with home automation and video to large enterprise-level integrated systems and small business solutions, our highly trained and professional staff will get the job done right. As an Authorized Alarm.com dealer, we offer exclusive Crash and Smash technology, Geo-Fencing and LiftMaster Garage Control, and the Doorbell Camera as part of our Home Automation offerings.

For more about what sets us apart from the crowd, click here or give us a call at 410-546-2210. But don’t just take our word for it: check out our five star Google Reviews.

 

Smarter Security Cancel Verify Alarm App

Cancel and Verify Alarms…Right from your App

Smart Signal enhances your system’s professional monitoring with a set of clear, simple emergency buttons in your Alarm Engineering app powered by alarm.com.

These Buttons Let You:

  • Quickly verify an alarm at your property to expedite emergency response,
  • Cancel a false alarm easily, or
  • Send a panic signal from your home or business if you discover an emergency yourself.

Why Cancel/Verify?

False alarms are a common concern and accidental dispatches ties up important resources, potentially distracting from real emergencies. Now with the press of a button and without needing to wait for a call from our central monitoring station, an entire situation can be resolved saving headaches, time and money.

Are These Buttons Always Visible?

Alarm events and emergencies are stressful. These features were designed to be easily accessible while also safeguarding against accidental alarm events. For this reason, Cancel and Verify buttons only appear in the app during alarm events. To confirm or verify the alarm, just press and hold the relevant button for three seconds.

Act Quickly

Since we pride ourselves on dispatching the authorities to you quickly, you’ll need to cancel any false alarms almost immediately to stop the process. For this reason, the Cancel/Verify buttons in your app are only available for two minutes. If you aren’t sure whether an alarm signal has been triggered or whether you correctly declared a false alarm, we can always help at 410-546-2210.

Are Alarm signals Held until a Cancel/Verify Button is Pressed?

NO! All alarm signals still send as they always have.

Available Now

This new feature is in your app now at no additional cost to you. 

Don’t have the App Yet?

Anywhere access is easy and affordable with our Customer Loyalty Rewards upgrade. See and control your security system, cameras, garage door, HVAC system, lights, locks and more…right from your smartphone and tablet. Get started now and save up to $500 on your Smart Home upgrade.

About Alarm Engineering

Locally owned Alarm Engineering has been securing Delmarva since 1985. In that time, we have developed a reputation for integrity, reliability, and quality with our emphasis on superior service to our customers. We know you have many choices when it comes to your security system, so here are some things you should know about us. 

Alarm Engineering is leading provider of electronic security systems and services in Delaware and the Eastern Shores of Maryland and Virginia. From integrated home security systems with home automation and video to large enterprise-level integrated systems and small business solutions, our highly trained and professional staff will get the job done right. As an Authorized Alarm.com dealer, we offer exclusive Crash and Smash technology, Geo-Fencing and LiftMaster Garage Control, and the Doorbell Camera as part of our Home Automation offerings.

For more about what sets us apart from the crowd, click here or give us a call at 410.546.2210. But don’t just take our word for it: read what our customers are saying.

 

Just like medical professionals suggest you get a periodic physical to identify possible issues with your health, we recommend periodic testing of your alarm system, at least annually but even as often as monthly.

Tested Your Alarm System Lately?

The Importance of Testing your Alarm System

Just like medical professionals suggest you get a periodic physical to identify possible issues with your health, we recommend periodic testing of your alarm system, at least annually but even as often as monthly. 

We highly recommend testing your system immediately if you have:

  1. Recently changed phone service or had any phone service done on your home.
  2. Switched to an internet phone service like Vonage or Magic Jack.
  3. Cancelled your landline to use only your cell phone.
  4. Haven’t tested your security system in the last year.

This test will cover two important system communication checks:

  1. Make sure that the alarm hardware in your home or office is communicating to the panel properly.
  2. Make sure that your alarm system communication to the Central Monitoring Station is working properly.

Testing Your System is Easy

Before you test your system, make sure to let us know you plan on testing it.

  1. Call our office at 410-546-2210 and listen for the prompt to test your system. Be ready with your Account ID or passcode.
  2. The operator will ask you for your address and the Account ID. Next, the operator will ask how long you would like the system on test. You can either tell them a span of time (like one hour, for example) where the system will automatically send signals again after that span of time or tell them you’ll call back when you’re done to put the system live again.
  3. Now that your system is set to test mode your alarm will sound and Central Monitoring Station will get the signals, but they will NOT contact the authorities since they know this is just a test.
  4. Arm your system.
  5. Walk around your home or office and test each device and let the alarm sound for about one minute. So, open the window and make sure the system goes into alarm using the keypad display and/or your siren. Reset the alarm and move to the next device.
  6. Once your testing is complete, call the Central Monitoring Station back and make sure the signals were received.

You have now tested your system! As always, our service professionals are here 24/7 to answer any questions you may have.

Who is on your Security System Call List?

This is a great time to think about who is contacted when your alarm sounds. You created your call list when we initially installed your system. Do you remember who is on your call list?

Many of our customers set their call list more than twenty years ago! We recommend checking your call list at least every couple of years to be sure the information is up to date. Remember to have your Account ID or Passcode handy when you call our office, or complete this online form so we can validate your identity. 

Best Practices 

We recommend listing yourself and any close neighbors or family you trust to be able to check on your property at any time or the day or night. 

Each person on your call list should:

  • Be trained in the operation of your system.
  • Be able to access the protected building(s) on your property.
  • Know the code to arm and disarm your system.
  • Know the system Passcode or Account ID.

Passcode vs. Account ID

Your passcode is a single word designated by you that is able to declare a false alarm. Your Account ID is a unique series of numbers and letters provided to you on installation day on black and white cards the size of a business card. Keep this Account ID safe as knowledge of this ID will allow the bearer to make any changes or updates to your account by calling our office or completing this online form. If you haven’t assigned an account passcode or if you don’t remember what it is, just call our office with your Account ID and we can either remind you or change it: 410-546-2210.

If you aren’t yet an Alarm Engineering customer, experience the customer service difference a local, expert team offers. We’ve been serving your friends and neighbors since 1985.

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Been thinking about upgrading your alarm system? Take advantage of savings with our customer loyalty program.

Are you unhappy with your current alarm company or looking for a no-charge, no hassle security assessment? Tell us a little about yourself and remember to use the FIRSTMONTHFREE promo code to save even more.

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About Alarm Engineering

Locally owned Alarm Engineering has been securing Delmarva since 1985. In that time, we have earned our reputation for integrity, reliability, and quality with our emphasis on superior service to our customers. We know you have choices when it comes to your security system, so here are some things you should know about our team.

Alarm Engineering is leading provider of electronic security systems and services in Delaware and the Eastern Shores of Maryland and Virginia. From integrated home security systems with home automation and video to large enterprise-level integrated systems and small business solutions, our highly trained and professional staff will get the job done right. As an Authorized Alarm.com dealer, we offer exclusive Crash and Smash technology, Geo-Fencing and LiftMaster Garage Control, and the Doorbell Camera as part of our Home Automation offerings.

For more about what sets us apart from the crowd, click here or give us a call at 410.546.2210. But don’t just take our word for it: check out our five star Google Reviews.

 

What is Enhanced Call Verification (ECV)?
Luckily, most false alarms are easily prevented, here are some quick steps you can take to limit or eliminate those pesky false alarms

Legislation was recently passed by the City of Salisbury with the purpose of lowering the penalties for false alarms and reducing false dispatches. Ordinance 2326 requires alarm companies to use Enhanced Call Verification (ECV), which is simply the process of calling two contacts prior to police dispatch. ECV is already in place in many other jurisdictions (including Delaware and Virginia) and is statistically proven to significantly reduce false dispatches without compromising service or increasing costs to security customers.

8.04.140 Enhanced Call Verification

A. All central monitoring stations that handle residential or commercial intrusion and/or burglar alarm activations shall make two (2) phone calls in an attempt to verify the validity of any monitored alarm activation prior to calling the Salisbury Police Department to request a dispatch.

B. Alarm users have the option to opt out of the Enhanced Call Verification (ECV) Program. If an alarm company or alarm agent has received a written request from a verified alarm user to Opt Out of ECV, the alarm company or alarm agent is not required by this Chapter to provide ECV to any such alarm user.

Going forward, the central monitoring station will attempt to contact you at the first two phone numbers we have on file (typically the premise, and the first person on your call list) prior to dispatching the Salisbury Police. This requirement DOES NOT apply to fire alarm, hold-up, panic button, or duress code alarms. If we do NOT reach someone with the proper password at either of the two phone numbers, the police will then be dispatched.

If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to update your call list or other account information, please call us at 410-546-2210.

More information on this and other related ordinances is available here:

http://www.ci.salisbury.md.us/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Ord2326.pdf

http://www.ci.salisbury.md.us/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Ord2233.pdf

http://www.ci.salisbury.md.us/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Ord2230.pdf

About Alarm Engineering

Locally owned Alarm Engineering has been securing Delmarva since 1985. In that time, we have earned our reputation for integrity, reliability, and quality with our emphasis on superior service to our customers. We know you have choices when it comes to your security system, so here are some things you should know about our team.

Alarm Engineering is leading provider of electronic security systems and services in Delaware and the Eastern Shores of Maryland and Virginia. From integrated home security systems with home automation and video to large enterprise-level integrated systems and small business solutions, our highly trained and professional staff will get the job done right. As an Authorized Alarm.com dealer, we offer exclusive Crash and Smash technology, Geo-Fencing and LiftMaster Garage Control, and the Doorbell Camera as part of our Home Automation offerings.

For more about what sets us apart from the crowd, click here or give us a call at 410-546-2210. But don’t just take our word for it: check out our five star Google Reviews.

 

Salisbury’s False Alarm Penalty Rates – 2nd Update

March 28, 2013

Salisbury, MD – SECOND UPDATE – False Alarm Fines/Fees

We have just been informed that reconsideration of the new false alarm ordinances has been scheduled for 4:30PM, Monday, April 1st in room 306 of the Government Office Building.

Please attend and show your opposition to the significantly increased costs, and your support for those council members who want to fix the issue.

About Alarm Engineering

Locally owned Alarm Engineering has been securing Delmarva since 1985. In that time, we have earned our reputation for integrity, reliability, and quality with our emphasis on superior service to our customers. We know you have choices when it comes to your security system, so here are some things you should know about our team.

Alarm Engineering is leading provider of electronic security systems and services in Delaware and the Eastern Shores of Maryland and Virginia. From integrated home security systems with home automation and video to large enterprise-level integrated systems and small business solutions, our highly trained and professional staff will get the job done right. As an Authorized Alarm.com dealer, we offer exclusive Crash and Smash technology, Geo-Fencing and LiftMaster Garage Control, and the Doorbell Camera as part of our Home Automation offerings.

For more about what sets us apart from the crowd, click here or give us a call at 410-546-2210. But don’t just take our word for it: check out our five star Google Reviews.

 

Salisbury’s False Alarm Penalty Rates Increasing

March 27, 2013 Salisbury, MD – The City of Salisbury has passed an ordinance changing the fees/fines charged for false alarms. Council members are on record stating to the news media that they have reduced the false alarm fees, however this is incorrect. Not only are the new fees higher, but they are also higher than virtually any other jurisdiction in the country.

The Comparison

82% of those subject to the fees will see a 155% increase in costs on average.

As shown below, the home or business that experiences a third false alarm sees a 392% increase in the fee/fine. Any location experiencing 3-10 false alarms will pay a higher fee than before. On the other end of the spectrum, those using/abusing the city’s resources the most, with 14 false alarms, receive a 42% discount.

The Issue

In summation, the vast majority of those affected by a false alarm fee will pay more, significantly more. The very small number of people experiencing 11 or more false alarms in a year, are the only ones benefiting from a fee reduction, yet they are the ones putting the most strain on the city’s limited resources.

Giving “frequent flyer discounts” to those who have the most calls for service is totally contrary to the purpose of the fee/fine.

Escalating fee/fine structures like the one Salisbury had in place prior to this change, are in use in almost all jurisdictions across the country, are proven to significantly reduce the number of false alarms, and have been successfully defended in many courts.

Voice your opposition to the new “False Alarm Fee Schedule for Police Response”:

 

False Alarm Increases

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

False Alarm Increase Table

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About Alarm Engineering

Locally owned Alarm Engineering has been securing Delmarva since 1985. In that time, we have earned our reputation for integrity, reliability, and quality with our emphasis on superior service to our customers. We know you have choices when it comes to your security system, so here are some things you should know about our team.

Alarm Engineering is leading provider of electronic security systems and services in Delaware and the Eastern Shores of Maryland and Virginia. From integrated home security systems with home automation and video to large enterprise-level integrated systems and small business solutions, our highly trained and professional staff will get the job done right. As an Authorized Alarm.com dealer, we offer exclusive Crash and Smash technology, Geo-Fencing and LiftMaster Garage Control, and the Doorbell Camera as part of our Home Automation offerings.

For more about what sets us apart from the crowd, click here or give us a call at 410-546-2210. But don’t just take our word for it: check out our five star Google Reviews.

 

 

 


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