Basics
The alarm system may be armed in the “Away” or “Stay” mode. Once the system is activated, each monitored zone has the ability to recognize a violation. Once a zone has been violated, the alarm system then dials Central Station, and transmits the message through a telephone line (or Internet, or Cellular). Once the signal is received, the alarm system will wait to send another message if another zone is tripped. Entering the code and turning off the system will end this process.
Alarm Communication
Alarms communicate and are monitored in several ways. Regular communication testing occurs and is vital to ensure reliable monitoring. If there are alerts or "troubles", the Central Station will be notified. Phone Line (Land Line), Internet, or Cellular Unit. Please contact us if there are communication errors, so that we can resolve them. Here is a little more info:
Phone Line: Otherwise known as "Land Line". Problems with communication can occur if your provider is having issues. Also, if you choose to disconnect your "Land Line", and switch to Internet phone, or no home phone, this is prevent you Alarm System from communicating. Please contact us if you disconnect your traditional Land Line.
Internet: This method of communication is done via Broadband Internet. If you have AT&T, or Charter, or similar providers, your Alarm System will communicate on your network.
Cellular Unit: A device, similar to a cell phone, is mounted in your home. Your Alarm System will communicate this way.
Contact Information
It is very important that we are notified of any changes to your Contact List. The Central Station needs to know how to reach you in case of an Alert. If you change phone numbers, or if anyone on your back-up list changes numbers, or, if you need to change your back-up list, please notify us at A-1 Alarms, or the Central Station. Memorize your personal ID number or password to give as an "All Clear" in case the Central Station calls to verify an alarm.
Battery
In case of a power loss, the back-up battery will activate to maintain your alarm protection for several hours. In the event your battery is low, a low-battery signal will be sent to your Central Station and A-1 Alarms so you can be notified. We can either replace it for you, or provide instructions for a simple replacement yourself.
Emergency Button
If you hold down the panic or fire alarm buttons on the touchpad for 1 to 3 seconds, an alarm is transmitted to the Central Station, and emergency services are dispatched immediately. An alarm received in this manner cannot be canceled.
Alarm Process
When the monitoring center receives a signal, an attempt to verify the signal will be made by telephone. All signals are verified except panic signals.
When the monitoring center calls you should identify yourself and give your correct personal ID code to cancel the alarm. If there is no answer, or you do not have the correct ID code the authorities will be dispatched.
Information on the alarm location point will be provided to the authorities when available.
After the dispatch, an attempt will be made to notify a friend, relative, or key holder of the subscriber of the alarm activation site.
Test your alarm system
Test your system once a month. Call the Central Station first. Test more often if anything is in question.
Test your sensors . Conduct an in house systems check – see your user’s manual. Develop a regular schedule to replace all batteries.
How to avoid having false alarms
Have your alarm system configured to accommodate your pets.
Train everyone with access about your alarm system.
Use a regular pest control to keep pests away from sensors.
Also be alert to household items such as large house plants and mylar balloons.. When things such as these move due to air circulation, they can cause motion sensors to alarm.