Prior to that, there were offline or stand-alone systems that would sound for the immediate location with the intent of scaring off burglars or potential intruders. However, these days it seems many common tools won’t work without the internet and there are more options available thanks to the ever-expanding technology in the home security industry. A careful shopper would be wise to ask: does a home alarm system require internet?

What Can You Expect with a Stand-Alone Alarm System?

Burglars, and potential intruders are terrified by the sound of an alarm. Generally speaking, that’s all it takes to wreck their attention and seek an immediate way out of or away from a home or business. A sounding alarm quickly suggests that law enforcement has already been notified, and help is on the way. It also implies that anyone within the home or business has also been alerted, and is likely prepared to engage or defend. 

A stand-alone system is an effective scare tactic. Unless an intruder is already aware of the design and function of your home security alarm, it will generate a fast and compelling doubt in one’s mind. Most of the time that is all that’s needed. 

If you choose a stand-alone system, it might not hurt to provide signage that alludes to the fact that your security system is actually connected to the internet. Signs or stickers that indicate a police or security monitoring service is an effective way to imply that your stand-alone system is not actually alone. 

What is the Benefit of a Stand-alone Alarm System?

The benefit is cost. Stand-alone systems are usually preferred if there is no actual internet or if the want is to avoid paying for monitoring services or you otherwise have old technology you do not want to replace. The question then becomes why do homeowners sometimes choose against monitoring? 

Depending on your local code, false alarms can become costly. In other words, if your alarm trips by accident and the police are dispatched, you could face a fine for each accidental incident. Generally speaking, most cities, and outlying areas forgive a false alarm or two. However, if the police routinely arrive, and find no suspicious activity or if another cause is attributed to the source of the alarm, it could become an expensive issue. 

Also, the aforementioned ideology applies to these stand-alone systems. Whether it’s connected to the internet or not, a strong sounding alarm is a deterring factor.

Is There a More Traditional Alarm System?

While “smarter” security systems have clear advantages, traditional home security hardware is still available. These alarms rely on landline or phone connections. If you still have an actual landline this could also be a good alternative to internet-accessible alarms. 

In this instance, a monitoring service is typically employed. This comes at a cost, usually a monthly fee by way of a yearly contract. However, if there is a phone outage in your area, the monitoring service is rendered useless. This is where a cellular alternative would prove useful. Of course, if a line service is disrupted, those monitoring your system will alert on the matter and likely try to contact you directly or signal for a police response. 

Are You Ready for an Internet-enabled Home Security System?

These days, the sky is almost the limit when it comes to home security systems. All the previously mentioned options are available with a cloud-based system. However, with internet-enabled hardware you get much more. 

There are a variety of perks to being connected. To start with, you will have remote access to your alarm system. This is not something that you would have access to otherwise. 

The win here is that your smartphone, tablet or other internet-enabled device would alert you to any movement in, and around your home while you are away or asleep. You can even adjust the sensitivity of the cameras, and their motion detection so that you don’t receive any “false hits”. Also, if you just want to check the status of your house from a remote location, all you have to do is open the application your phone or tablet and your home is there providing peace of mind in an instant. 

Another interesting perk about internet-enabled security is that it doesn’t necessarily have to come with a contract or monitoring service. More, and more, the technology allows for a very localized or stand-alone option. This means you save money while also having immediate access to your own security system. In this instance, all the recorded data can be stored locally on camera-operated devices, a designated local drive or the cloud. 

The obvious downside is you lose these security perks if your internet is disrupted or disabled. There are a number of new systems that include back up mechanisms, and connectivity options in the case of a lost connection. It’s simply a matter of researching the hardware, and understanding how it might all play out in your home, and according to your needs. 

What Do You Need in a Home Security System?

Despite the advancing technologies, the options are all still there. You can choose a stand-alone security system that has no attachments to the outside world. This is old school, and, as mentioned, it is just as effective as it ever was when it comes to scaring away potential intruders. 

There is also the option of a security system that is accessed by way of an existing phone line. This generally means that a contract is involved as a monitoring agency then attaches, and becomes a part of your system.

The most flexible, and accessible security systems are ones that are internet-enabled. With the more advanced tech, you can choose a monitoring service or hold to a stand-alone system. You can also access your house 24/7 remotely from any internet-enabled device. The internet features are also security redundancy to one or both of the above advantages. 

If you’re interested in a home alarm system, or business security system, don’t hesitate to contact A-1 Locksmith today. We’ll be happy to consult on which option best suits your needs.

If you’re worried about home security during showings, here are a few areas to consider.

Home Security System

For starters, what kind of surveillance system do you have in place? While you shouldn’t be spying on your visitors—especially in situations where they should expect privacy—it’s within your rights to monitor your property, and the items in it. Consider buying, repairing or expanding your security system for your home, at least when you’re showing it. A professional locksmith company like A-1 Locksmith Security, and Safes is a great place to turn for enhancing the security of your home.

Doorbell Cameras

If you don’t feel the need to invest in an entire security system (or you don’t want the expense right before you sell), a doorbell camera is another valuable option. You can record who is visiting your home, yet visitors get privacy for the rest of their tour. A video or voice intercom system can add another layer of protection and visibility—while primarily a commercial security need, it might be a wise idea at any access point. (Especially if your home is quite large.)

Keys

If your home has already had a security issue in the past—or you encounter a visitor you don’t trust—it might be wise to get new locks, and/or keys installed. At the very least, you can create duplicate keys for real estate agents, and the people on tour of your home so you don’t lose the only copies you own. 

Valuables

Do you have valuable items or belongings out in the open during showings? This is a bad idea for obvious reasons. But we’ll take it a step further and suggest that you don’t keep any valuables in the home at all during this showing period. Or, invest in a home safe where you can securely keep the items most important to you.

Insurance

Even if you consider all these areas, and put security protections in place for your home during showings things can still happen. Criminals can still try to break in, people can steal more than you’d think and children or other visitors can damage the home. In light of this, make sure you have good insurance in place, and that it’s up to date, as well as covers these incidents.

Home security during showings might not be your primary consideration as you’re inundated with moving, staging, market volatility etc., but one mistake here can ruin the entire experience for you.

If you’d like more home security tips—during showings or any other time—contact A-1 Locksmith today!

Take security upgrades, for example. 

If your home has a security system, do you really need a safe? What about the opposite scenario? Isn’t only one of these options good enough? Let’s take a look at which security option is better for you, or if investing in both is the best decision.

Advantages of a Safe

Home safes are ideal for keeping valuable belongings secured. At the top of the list are firearms, ammunition, jewelry, cash and important documents. While a security system will alert you to suspicious activity, it won’t do much for physically protecting your most important belongings. Here are some of the other security advantages a safe provides:

• Portability: A safe can be delivered, and installed in the location of your choice
• Flexibility: bolt down the safe to the floor or wall, or leave it freestanding. 
• Variety: There are a wide variety of safe sizes, and features available today.
• Superiority: When it comes to protecting belongings in a fire, flood or burglary attempt, nothing provides safety, and security like a safe (especially with the right safe rating). 

Advantages of a Security System

Security systems don’t physically protect belongings, but they do give you awareness, and an extra layer of support in the form of a monitoring company. Using your preferred settings, and features, you can set up your home security in a way that gives you superior peace of mind—both at home, and on the road. Here are some of the other security advantages a security system provides:

• Visibility: you can install cameras, and point them anywhere you’d like.
• Safety: A team of professionals will be ready to alert the authorities should something suspicious happen and trigger an alarm on your property.
• Affordability: Many security systems are more affordable than large or advanced home safes, and there are different levels of systems for different budgets.

Benefits of Both

Of course, as a professional security company, we’ll recommend that you invest in both a safe, and a security system, if your budget allows. This isn’t just bias; you’ll be able to keep your most precious, and valuable items locked away in a well-rated safe while keeping the rest of your home monitored, and ready to alert you (or the team monitoring your system). A consultation with a professional locksmith is all you need to determine what your situation requires, and they’ll be happy to recommend certain models, brands or systems.

If you’re in need of a new safe or security system, contact the team at A-1 Locksmith today, or visit any of our DFW-area locations. 

From properly securing suitcases to taking extra precautions with your home’s security system, there are several ways to add peace of mind to your summer trip. Here are four of them.

1. Make sure luggage is secure.

There are more ways to secure your suitcases than you might think. For starters, monitor your bag at all times, and ensure you’re the one packing or unpacking it. Locks, and zip ties are other essentials. Finally, keep anything that is valuable on your person, if possible. Securing luggage is all about control, so don’t let strangers have access to it.

2. Install surveillance at home.

You’ll want to make sure your house is secure as well, so consider investing in some form of video surveillance. This could be as big as a full-blown security system, or it could be as small as a video doorbell. The more security precautions you take at home, the more peace of mind you’ll have while you travel away from home.

3. Track and lock your cars.

If you’re driving to your destination, your automobile will be another area of concern. If you don’t already have one, consider installing a tracking device or app on your car, so you know where it is at all times. (Pro tip: you might be able to do a free trial during your trip.) Also, make sure that you can properly secure your vehicle—all locks should be working, windows should create a seal when rolled up, and no valuables should be visible from outside the vehicle.

4. Have a spare key on hand.

Finally, whether it’s your suitcase, your home or your car, it’s always a good idea to have a spare key on hand. A duplicate key can mean the difference between being stranded in an unwanted area of the country, and getting back on the road immediately. Plus, the locks for your suitcase might be cut by security, and your neighbor might need access to your home during an urgent event. For both your suitcase, and residence, a spare key is a smart idea for summer travel.

Interested in more security advice? Contact us today or stop by any of our DFW-area locations.

Comparison #1: Cost

There are several costs to consider when comparing these options. First is the initial cost of the hardware. Whether you choose a mail-in security kit or pay for your security solutions from a locksmith, there is going to be an initial cost for the hardware/equipment (which can start out at $70 for a single doorbell camera and go up dramatically from there, depending on how many cameras you purchase). Second, there will be recurring fees for monitoring and cloud storage, which either show up monthly or annually. Finally, there is a cost for installation. Overall, mail-in kits tend to be slightly more affordable than professional security systems, but you have more options with the latter to build a system that fits your budget.

Comparison #2: Convenience

How easy is it to buy a mail-in security kit versus a professional locksmith installation? For the former, you can easily purchase online, but you have to do your research and trust reviews from other customers. With a professional locksmith, it’s also an easy purchase process, but you might have to visit the store or pick up the phone—a perk of this option being that you can talk directly to an experienced security professional who will give you customized advice.

Comparison #3: Installation

Installing mail-in security kits can be more involved, and difficult than you might assume, as you might be dealing with drilling into brick or precarious locations like the bottom eaves of your roof. For either the mail-in kit or professional locksmith, you have the option of paying for professional installation. But many people choose to go the DIY route, and experience frustration and a waste of time as a result or even improper installation. If you’ve already bought your kit, you can also consider hiring a professional locksmith for installation services only.

Comparison #4: Monitoring

Both mail-in security kits, and professional locksmith security systems offer professional monitoring—though with the former, pricing and services vary wildly. For example, Ring and Nest start out with 60 days of cloud storage for $3 per month, but the cost escalates once you get additional cameras or want more storage. These are also often just security footage storage options, and not traditional “monitoring” services. You also have the option for self monitoring. A professional locksmith will offer security system monitoring via a partnership with a security company so you can rest assured that someone will always be monitoring your home.

If you’re interested in extra security for your home, consider hiring a professional locksmith to set you up. Call A-1 Locksmith today for a consultation.

Home security is the same way.

With countless options like full proxy card systems, biometric systems, digital keypads, video intercom systems, video doorbells, and more, choosing the right security system for your home can be overwhelming. Fortunately, we’re here to help. Let’s break down the most important factors to consider when making a decision the security system for your Dallas home.

Factor #1: Budget

How much money you can spend on a security system will often dictate which security system you choose. If your budget is limited, for example, you might not be able to afford a complex surveillance system with HD video cameras, night vision and motion sensors. Security systems often have a minimum price, installation fees, moving fees, cancellation fees, and monthly charges, so you’ll need to take all these into account as these costs are often overlooked by people simply considering hardware costs.

Factor #2: Home Size

The larger your home, the more equipment you’ll need to keep it monitored. Apartment renters, for example, may only need a camera and a few sensors. Owners of large homes, on the other hand, may need to cover several entrances, exits, and rooms. Factoring your Dallas home size into your decision will help you avoid having to make changes or additions to your security system down the road.

Factor #3: Family Routine

How often are you home? Do you have small children? Pets? Do you go on vacation regularly? These are all questions to consider when deciding on the right security system for your Dallas home. Certain areas of the home may need to be monitored more than others. If you’re away from home frequently, that may also mean you should sign up for professionally monitored systems.

Factor #4: DIY or Professional

Can you install the security system yourself, or do you need the help of a professional? Some security systems are relatively simple, such as a smart video doorbell. Others are more complex and involve a system of electrical wiring, voltage systems, and/or mobile integrations. If you don’t feel comfortable installing a certain system, trust someone who does.

If you’re interested in a security system for your Dallas home, give the A-1 Locksmith team a call at 972-284-7500 and we’ll answer any questions you may have.

Obey the Local Authority

When it comes to rules, and regulations surrounding locksmiths, the Texas Department of Public Safety, Regulatory Services Division – Private Security Bureau (PSB) are the regulatory authority in charge of setting standards, and maintaining licensing requirements.  Before you even begin thinking about becoming a locksmith you’ll have to complete a background check to confirm you’re free of convictions, serious arrests, and other felonious behavior.  Wouldn’t do any good teaching criminals how to pick a lock, now would it?

More Testing Than You Can Shake a Stick At

Once you’ve passed the initial hurdle, there’s several routes you can take to becoming a licensed locksmith in charge of your own establishment.  The first route involves a combination of a 48-hour certification course, 600 hours served at a locksmith trade school, and working for a qualified locksmith for a year.  If that seems a bit, onerous, you can also find a local locksmith company that’s a member of a certified trade union and convince them to take you on for a two-year internship.

At the end of either approach you’ll be required to pass a Federal background check and take something called the PSB’s Qualified Managers exam.  The exam is a far-cry harder than your last driver’s ed test.  Exam takers will need to be familiar with all the laws that govern the locksmith profession, contained within the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1702 and the Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 35.  If you pass the exam, and that’s a big if, the state will then verify your education and employment history, and make you a bona fide Locksmith, able to start their own locksmith establishment.

But Wait, There’s More

The requirements don’t end once you have a license in hand.  As a locksmith, out in the big wide world on your own, you’ll be required by the state to maintain insurance to keep your license.  In order to maintain your license, you will also need to complete annual continuing education and certify, and renew your license.  And don’t forget that hour of ethics that is part of the requirement.

Call A-1 for a Certified Locksmith

As our short summary demonstrates, becoming a certified locksmith in the state of Texas is no small feat.  But that doesn’t stop the professionals at A-1 Locksmith from making the grade.  Each of our locksmiths have met the rigorous training, education, testing and background requirements set by the state.  It may be the law, but is also just makes good sense.  At A-1 locksmith your safety, and security is our number one priority, and only the best and brightest can call themselves a part of the A-1 family.  Call A-1 today to find out the difference that a state licensed locksmith can make when it comes to protecting you, your family, and your most treasured possessions.

The modern age of technology has certainly brought a host of revolutionary conveniences.  From ordering dinner via an app on your phone to remotely turning on your car on a cold winter morning with a click of the button, many advancements are perfectly safe, and can make life both simpler and more efficient.  Other improvements, such as those that allow certain home security systems to communicate wirelessly, may leave you open to potential security vulnerabilities.

Modern Communication May Bring Potential Security Risks

Certain modern security systems seem to offer convenience, and hi-tech bells, and whistles through the ability to arm and disarm from the convenience of an app on your phone.  Additional up-sells include climate control, garage door access, and even appliance control all in a portable device.  While this all may seem fine, and dandy, the same system that allows these devices to communicate are also open to vulnerability.

It’s been proven that hackers can employ fairly simple software designs to wirelessly access your home’s cordless security system.  This means that with the click of a button your previously presumed secure home is now open to potential threats.  Experienced companies know that nothing beats a traditional hard-wired security system, even if the installation is a bit trickier to execute properly.  Experienced companies will also ensure home wireless systems, if installed, are encrypted, and hacker safe.

The Problem with Out-of-the-Box Alarms

Taking the concept of wireless security one step further in the wrong direction, some fly-by-night security companies have begun offering out of the box wireless security systems. The promise is that you can purchase a system, have it delivered, and install it yourself, all for a low, low price.  What that bottom-dollar price tag gets you is another story entirely.

Security analysts set one of the most popular systems up in a run-of-the-mill condo.  Within minutes they were able to disable the alarms, and override the system with little more than scotch tape, and a standard magnet.  Moral of the story?  If something seems too good to be true, chances are that it is!

The Bottom Line: A Trusted Security Partner is Key

Don’t get us wrong.  Technology has a great deal to offer when it comes to home security systems.  In fact, wireless security, and entire home control is definitely achievable without sacrificing yours or your family’s safety.  In the end, it all comes down to having the right security partner to implement a system that’s chosen and then customized with the needs of your home in mind.

At A-1 Locksmith, our certified, and experienced team of security professionals know the correct balance between safety, and modern convenience.  Our technicians will come to your home, and assess major points of entry, and potential security holes, and develop a plan that fits for you.  At A-1 we know that any solution that claims to be one size fits all, in reality fits none.  If you’re looking for a modern upgrade in your home safety but don’t want to sacrifice convenient tech, call A-1 today for your home analysis, and consultation.

Here we discuss three of the main reasons a gun simply can’t replace a quality home security system.

Always on the Job

While guns are certainly able to intimate or dissuade a would-be burglar or fend off an intruder who intends harm, firearms aren’t self-aware, and ever-monitoring and can only be used when an individual is awake, alert and aware of danger.  A security system with motion detectors or window and lock sensors can be programmed to be alert when you simply can’t be.  This automatic monitoring and round-the-clock perseverance means that you can sleep soundly knowing there is a system in place to protect your home.

Preventative vs Reactive

Often guns don’t need to be fired to prove effective in case of a break in as the mere sight of a weapon can be enough to have a burglar running back off into the night.  This is, of course, after they have already broken into your home, and encountered the gun owner.  This makes the gun a highly reactionary method of home defense.  Home security systems on the other hand alert loudly the moment a burglar attempts to enter the residence.  The reaction is typically the same in both instances with the intruder wanting to avoid arrest or personal injury, but the reactionary timing makes a sophisticated alarm system a preventative measure.  In addition, signs, and window shields will often alert would-be criminals to the presence of a home security monitoring system, creating a further deterrent.

Only as Good as the Hands It’s In

The final check in the box in favor of home security system vs gun for protection is the reliance of a gun on being in a person’s hands.  While one member of the family may be trained in proper use, others may be too young or inexperienced to know how to properly wield, and operate a weapon.  In addition, guns can be wrestled away from their owners, or potentially accessed by curious children despite our best warnings to never touch – which, of course, leads to the recommendation of a gun safe.  Guns, therefore, rely on the person behind the weapon.  A sophisticated home monitoring system not only has a technologically advanced computer running the show, with live monitoring there is a team of dedicated security individuals on call 24/7.  Each of these elements is specifically programmed or trained to have the safety, and security of your home, and family in mind.

The Bottom Line

While guns can be useful tools, and serve a variety of purposes from protection to sport, when push comes to shove, a gun alone does not offer you a comprehensive solution to home security.  At A-1 Locksmiths our personnel are security experts trained to take your safety needs into consideration in order to pick out the home security solution that’s best for you.  Call A-1 today for a free home security consultation and find out when it comes to the safety of your most precious human valuables, nothing beats A-1.

Unlocked Doors…and Windows…And Garages, and…

No matter the age of your child, locking up is never going to be their strong suit.  Easily distracted minds plus a lack of real-life experience to build an appreciation for security means they don’t always get the importance of securing the premises on their way out.  Stressing the importance of locking doors, and closing windows to prevent intruders isn’t as much about paranoia as it is about building good habits to see your children through to adult years.  All else fails, have a family movie night screening of Home Alone.  Angry Joe Pesci is enough to scare most kids straight.

Don’t Forget We Have an Alarm

Building on the topic of distraction, kids will often conveniently forget that the home is armed with an alarm system.  Whether triggering false notifications upon entering or neglecting to arm the system when they exit, children can post a bit of a hurdle to peace of mind when it comes to alarm systems.  Try using your child’s birthdate as the passcode or, some phrase or keystroke they select to help retention and get them involved in the process. Perhaps something more cryptic than their birth date is recommended, but something memorable to your child(ren) alone.

Friends in Low Places

If you’ve ever had a child in school you know that little ones share just about everything.  From lunches to colds, if one child has something it’s likely the majority of their friends do also.  This can pose a risk when it comes to passwords, keys, and other security measures.  Ensure that your kids understand that keys, passwords, and other details regarding your home’s safety are not to be shared under any circumstances.  It’s a lesson better taught and learned at a young age rather than after your valuables have gone missing.

Yes, this includes your children’s social media networks.

Loose Lips Sink…Home Protection

Speaking of sharing, it’s not just access that you should be worried about.  Kids often don’t understand the dangers of sharing information with friends, or strangers.  Teach your children that details regarding valuables such as their new Xbox system or mom’s fancy diamond ring, aren’t topics for bragging or sharing outside of the home.  Similarly, the way your home security system works or the location of various trigger points or cameras should also be kept close.

What’s the Big Deal Anyways

Similar to teaching your kids to lock-up, and secure the home, it’s important to teach children the value of security in general.  Having awareness of your physical surroundings, and respect for good old-fashioned security is an essential life skill.  Local police departments often offer programs designed to help children develop these skills.

If you’re in need of a little child proofing or want to discuss security system upgrades that can help manage issues such as multiple passcodes, misplaced or mishandled keys or are in need of an overhaul, call A-1 locksmiths for a free consult today.

But even with a home security system in place, many professionals still recommend that homeowners install a home safe, as well, to shield the most valuable of items that deserve extra defense. One question remains: is this an excessive amount of defense bred from unnecessary worry, or should homeowners truly consider the benefits of this doubled protection?

Why It’s Smart to Install a Home Safe, and a Home Security System Together

Some may see the input of both of these systems as nonessential, a pointless overlap in home security. In reality, however, the installation of a home safe together with a security system is a relatively cost-effective way to protect your valuables, items that you could not bear to lose.

To be sure, home security systems provide a solid defense, and needed layer of protection. With a home security system, you can feel comfortable in your home, and safe from intruders, and anyone or anything else outside your front door. That being said, a scenario may arise wherein the security system is temporarily compromised, or you may even invite visitors into your home in whom you cannot completely place your trust. Here, if your valuables, such as family heirlooms, jewelry, or other high-worth items, have been placed in a safe beforehand, you can possess additional peace of mind knowing that your most prized assets are still out of reach.

Ask for Help from a Professional

If you are considering the installation of a home security system or a home safe, reach out to the professionals at A-1 Locksmith today. Our Dallas-Fort Worth locksmith professionals have decades of experience serving clients in the area, and we are happy to assist you immediately.