The Future of Home Automation

smart-home-automation

There is no doubt that home automation is the wave of the future when it comes to home security — residential property owners in Maricopa County and throughout Arizona are continuing to discover the many benefits of living in a “smart” home, especially the ability to integrate various security system features and operate and monitor them remotely with a mobile device.

As automation technology evolves, it will continue to shape the future of home security. Here’s a brief glimpse at some of the top trends in home security systems over the next 3-5 years:

  • Integration of alarm and lighting systems. This enables the activation of a home’s lighting whenever a burglar triggers an alarm or motion sensors, which gives the intruder an extra incentive to flee as quickly as possible.
  • Further development of home cloud solutions. Home cloud solutions encompass three types of digital data — content, sensors and productivity. As this technology continues to evolve, expect to see changes such as an increase in video storage capacity and greater interactivity with all cloud-based security system features.
  • Use of pocket drones. Android-controlled pocket-sized drones are available that can fly at an altitude of 20 feet and capture critical information that aids the identification of a burglar or assailant.
  • Implementation of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Bluetooth technology can facilitate control of home lighting systems and allow homeowners to snap photos of visitors at the door for identification purposes. Low-power Wi-Fi can transform a standard smoke detector into a more effective “connected” home security device.
  • Enhanced video monitoring capabilities. Improvements in video monitoring capabilities will allow homeowners and security system monitoring services to keep a closer watch on a property. Users will be able to monitor multiple points of data such as movement, temperature and sound as well as connect with other system devices for a more robust security solution.
  • Improved sensors. Manufacturers are continuing to improve the technology in the sensors used in devices such as motion detectors and surveillance cameras, which will enable a more proactive approach to home security.
  • Advanced wireless technology. Advancements in wireless home automation technology will make wireless systems even more attractive to property owners who want maximum installation flexibility and an increase in accessible monitoring points around the home. Wireless smart home video surveillance systems should become even more cost-effective over the next few years.
  • Improved user experience. Understanding the need to make home security systems as user-friendly as possible, manufacturers will continue to seek ways to improve system features so that even technology novices can use them effectively and efficiently. A focus on upgrading mobile apps should also make remote monitoring an even more attractive feature for system owners.

Titan Alarm Will Keep Abreast of the Top Trends in Home Security Systems

You can always count on Titan Alarm, Inc. to stay ahead of the curve regarding future smart home technology innovations — we’ve been the leading home security solutions provider in the Phoenix area for more than a decade. Contact us for information and to schedule a no-obligation in-home security consultation today.

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Do I Need a Permit to Install a Home Security Alarm?

permit-for-home-security

Here at Titan Alarm, Inc., we’re often asked by our customers whether it’s necessary to obtain a permit for a security system for home use. While any homeowner in the U.S. can install a security system without first acquiring a permit, the issue becomes a bit more complex in terms of the actual operation of the system. As a general rule, a home security permit is required to operate any alarm-based system equipped with emergency response features or remote monitoring capabilities.

Why Are Permits for Home Security Alarms Required?

The primary motivation for requiring a permit for alarms is to reduce the occurrence of false alarms, a common issue with many home security systems. False alarms result in a needless waste of police and fire department resources and prevent the timely dispatching of first responders to real emergencies. Home security permits provide a means of registering your alarm system with your local municipality. In many locations, emergency personnel will not respond to an alarm at a property that is generated by an unregistered security system.

What Is the Process for Obtaining a Security Alarm Permit?

 While every state and/or municipality has its own specific procedures for obtaining a permit, the process generally entails the following steps:

  • Registering your system with your local police and fire departments
  • Paying the required fee (often annual, but varies by location)
  • Receiving a permit number and a specific access code to verify alarms
  • Agreeing to adhere to all permit terms and conditions

What Happens If I Have a Permit and Accidentally Trigger a False Alarm?

False alarms are often unintentional — they can occur for various reasons such as malfunctioning equipment and operator error. Many municipalities have instituted a system of escalating fines to offset the cost of dispatching first responders. Some areas allow for one or two “free” false alarms prior to levying financial penalties.

Do I Need More Than One Permit?

Depending on where you live, it’s possible you will need to obtain more than one home security permit. For example, some municipalities require separate permits for burglar and fire alarms. Other areas offer a combined permit that covers the entire system.

Where Do I Obtain Security System Permits in Arizona?

In Arizona, security system permits are administered at the local level. To learn more about the permit requirements and procedures in Phoenix and several neighboring cities, click here. You can also contact your local fire department, police department or municipal government office for additional information.

Contact Titan Alarm for Your Home Security System Needs in Phoenix and Beyond

Titan Alarm is an experienced, professional home security solutions provider serving the Phoenix area and all of Maricopa County. In addition to helping you design and install a customized, fully integrated security system that will protect your family and property against fire, theft, vandalism and other threats, we can provide reliable guidance on the home security permit process in your Arizona municipality. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation in-home security consultation today.

Learn More About Protection From Burglars

Updated by Titan Alarm on October 31, 2018.

How Titan Alarm Can Protect Your Business

how-to-protect-your-business

No business is immune to crime. While heavy cash-handling operations such as retail stores and banks continue to be prime targets for robberies and break-ins, just about any business is vulnerable to theft, vandalism or even acts of violence perpetrated by disgruntled workers or former employees. If you haven’t made business security a top priority, you could easily be the next crime victim.

Fortunately, if you operate any type of business in the Phoenix, AZ area, Titan Alarm, Inc. is ready to help. We’re a leading designer and installer of customized business security systems that will significantly reduce your vulnerability to criminal activity.

Titan security system solutions for businesses include:

  • Video surveillance: The effective use of cameras for business surveillance enables you to monitor the premises on a 24/7 basis and can also serve as a reliable crime deterrent. We feature high-quality wireless IP cameras that deliver crystal-clear HD images of the most vulnerable areas on your property. The recorded video capabilities of our security cameras can also provide valuable evidence when apprehending and prosecuting criminals.
  • Intrusion protection: Titan security solutions also include cutting-edge intrusion detection devices such as motion detectors, door contacts, glass-breakage detectors and hold-up buttons. These devices trigger monitored alarms that enable the prompt dispatching of first responders to the scene. They provide an extremely reliable around-the-clock business security solution that is especially useful for safeguarding your property when no one is there.
  • Access control: Access control systems offer a significant upgrade from traditional lock-and-key solutions. Keys can easily be duplicated or stolen, and you might not get them back when an employee is terminated or quits. An electronic access control system gives you full control over who enters and exits your property at all times. It’s also an effective tool for protecting areas containing sensitive data or confidential proprietary information.
  • Alarm systems: The Titan Alarm offerings include monitored fire and burglar alarm systems that provide the dual benefit of protecting your property and providing the early warning that is essential for preventing injury — and saving lives. Our high-quality alarm system design and installation services also ensure compliance with all applicable commercial building and fire codes.
  • Video verification: Our video verification systems will significantly reduce the likelihood of false alarms that result in a needless waste of law enforcement’s time and resources. Our video verification systems allow your burglar and fire alarms to trigger a priority response from police, fire departments and other first responders, which can make the difference between a minor issue and a catastrophic event resulting in major property damage and serious injury.

Titan Alarm: a Full-Service Business Security Solutions Provider

Whether your primary goal is theft prevention, fire detection or vandalism protection, we can work with you to develop and implement a customized security solution that meets your needs. Titan Alarm’s services also include reliable maintenance and repair work to keep your system in peak operating condition. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation on-site business security consultation today.

Learn More About Commercial Security

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 2, 2018.

What Is the Best Security Camera for Business Use?

security-cameras

In today’s security-conscious environment, security cameras are nearly as valuable of a business commodity as the products a company offers for sale. Commercial security cameras help to deter theft and keep the property safe when no one is there. Recorded video from surveillance cameras provides strong visual evidence that assists in criminal investigations. Even the sight of a camera will deter many individuals from engaging in criminal activities.

What Security Cameras Are the Best?

There are many types of commercial security camera systems currently on the market. Use the following information to help you select the best system for your company:

  • Day/night: Day/night commercial outdoor security cameras offer the clear visual images in all types of lighting conditions required for 24/7 exterior monitoring. They can help to prevent break-ins and vandalism, while also providing surveillance of parking areas.
  • Dome: Often installed in retail stores to detect shoplifters, dome cameras offer an unobtrusive, but not completely hidden security solution.
  • PTZ: Pan-tilt-zoom cameras are a good choice for covering large areas such as warehouses or manufacturing plants. They’re also among the most complex — and expensive — commercial security camera systems.
  • Bullet: These cylindrical cameras are typically used in conjunction with closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems to monitor designated high-risk areas. While bullet cameras cannot tilt, zoom or pan, they are usually waterproof, which enables outdoor or indoor use.
  • Spy: These compact cameras offer a covert security solution for monitoring activities in small areas. However, they provide relatively poor image quality, and there are certain legal/privacy restrictions regarding their use.
  • Covert: Covert cameras offer the benefit of disguise. They can take the form of devices such as alarm clocks, smoke detectors or other smaller items that tend to blend into the surroundings.
  • Infrared: Also known as night-vision cameras, infrared devices are used in businesses and homes for monitoring pitch-dark or dimly lit areas.
  • Varifocal: This flexible security camera solution works best for monitoring situations where the distances and viewing angles may vary. Users can zoom in and out without affecting the focus.
  • HD: High-definition cameras offer the best image quality, making them a preferred choice for protecting expensive items in stores or secure facilities. They’re able to zoom in without negatively impacting image quality.
  • IP:  Internet protocol cameras represent the most advanced security camera technology. They’re able to transmit video via the Internet. That, when combined with their wireless functionality, makes them the ideal choice for large security networking applications that require covering long distances.
  • Dummy: These “fake” cameras offer no monitoring or recording capabilities and primarily serve as an inexpensive visual deterrent. Many models include flashing red lights and other features that simulate a live camera operation.

Titan Alarm, Inc. Can Help You Explore Your Commercial Security Camera Options

Titan Alarm is your source for the best commercial camera systems in the Phoenix, AZ area. We also have the expertise to help you choose the right system for your needs and budget. Contact us for more information and to schedule a free on-site security consultation today.

Learn More About Commercial Video Surveillance

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

What is Home Automation?

what-is-home-automation

Home automation is a process that enables to homeowners to mechanize the control of devices and systems such as lighting, heating and cooling units, appliances, electronics and security systems. The homeowner can operate these fully integrated sub-systems via one master controller unit located in the home. Additionally, the homeowner can typically manage these “smart” systems remotely with an Internet-enabled desktop or laptop computer, smartphone or tablet.

What Are the Benefits of Home Automation?

As home automation industry technology continues to evolve, more homeowners are taking advantage of the numerous smart home benefits. These include:

  • Energy efficiency: A smart home is an energy-efficient home. The ability to remotely turn off appliances and lights when not in use and program your HVAC unit to automatically adjust to changes in temperature can result in substantial savings on your monthly energy bills.
  • Comfort: The ability to remotely control your home’s temperature helps you improve your level of comfort. For example, you can automatically adjust the temperature on your way home for from work so you don’t have to enter a house that’s too hot or too cold.
  • Access control: If you travel a lot, a home automation system allows you to remotely unlock doors to let people in to look after your pets, water the plants, etc. while you’re away. You can also program the system so that doors unlock and relock at predetermined times.  No more hiding a key under the welcome mat or worrying that your neighbor will lose the key.
  • Convenience/time savings: If you’re like a lot of busy folks these days who are always on the go, you’ll appreciate the convenience of operating household appliances or adjusting the thermostat with your mobile device, even if you’re miles away from your house. And you won’t have to waste precious time running back home because you forgot to turn something on or off.
  • Safety and security: Automation can make your home a much safer place. In addition to automating or remotely controlling the operation of door locks, you can control the lighting to make it look as though someone is home while you’re away. You can also turn on interior lights prior to entering your home at night to make sure no one is lurking in a darkened room.

Another important home automation safety benefit is the ability to increase your property awareness via your home security system’s video surveillance cameras. You can view live or recorded camera feeds on your computer or mobile device 24/7, so you’ll always know what’s going on in and around your home. This gives you additional peace of mind if your kids come home from school while you’re still at work or if you leave them in the care of a nanny or babysitter.

Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. for Your Home Automation Needs in Phoenix, AZ

At Titan Alarm, we stay on top of the latest home automation trends to ensure we can provide the most effective smart home technology solutions to Phoenix-area property owners. Contact us to schedule a free home automation consultation today.

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Types of Businesses Most Likely to be Targeted by Thieves

businesses-targeted-by-thieves

How likely is it that your Phoenix-area business will become the target of a robbery, break-in or employee theft? While just about any business that handles cash or keeps anything of value is vulnerable to theft, some are at higher risk than others. In this post, we’ll list the most common types of businesses targeted by thieves and offer a few business security tips that can prevent you from becoming the next victim.

Retail Stores

Retail businesses are targeted by robbers for several reasons. Many are open at night, and in some cases, around the clock, which provides convenient access for thieves. They also keep cash on hand and typically have few employees on duty. While retail robberies are most often associated with convenience stores, they also occur at supermarkets, gas stations, liquor stores and jewelry stores. Employee theft is also an issue in many retail outlets.

Banks

A reporter once asked notorious bank robber Willie Sutton why he chose to rob banks, and he responded, “Because that’s where the money is.” Although banks typically present a more difficult theft challenge than retail stores, the lure of large amounts of cash make them a favorite target of robbers. While most banks now have sophisticated business alarm systems in place, they do not completely prevent robberies from occurring.

Warehouses/Distribution Centers

The major theft prevention issue in warehouses is not robbery or burglary — the main threat typically comes from the inside. Most warehouses are large structures containing several “blind spots,” which makes it difficult to monitor all employee movements. Employees who have worked in the warehouse for a long stretch of time have the opportunity to determine the facility’s most vulnerable areas. In many facilities, it’s relatively easy for employees avoid detection when attempting to steal goods.

Construction Sites

Construction sites contain valuable equipment that is attractive to thieves. Perpetrators include construction workers who walk off the jobsite with expensive tools, as well as burglars who target unoccupied jobsites during the nighttime hours. The temporary nature of most construction jobs usually makes providing effective site security a daunting challenge.

Transport Sites

Large trucks that transport goods are another prime target of thieves. Tractor-trailers filled with valuable merchandise present significant security issues, particularly when the trucks are left unguarded in a freight yard or when drivers leave them unattended on the road.

How to Reduce the Theft Risk at Your Business

Steps for making your business less vulnerable to robbery and theft include:

  • Improving visibility by altering the layout to eliminate blind spots
  • Keeping the interior and exterior of your facility well lit
  • Paying close attention to property upkeep
  • Posting signs that prohibit trespassing and loitering
  • Installing modern business surveillance systems and alarms

Titan Alarm, Inc. Is Your One-Stop Headquarters for Business Security Systems in Phoenix

. We can design and install a customized business security system that will dramatically lower your risk of robbery and theft. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today.

Learn More About Intrusion Detection

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

The Reasons People Shoplift

retail-shoplifting

If you own or operate a retail store or other type of business that sells goods to the public, about one out of every 10 people who enter your establishment having shoplifting on their mind. If you haven’t made theft prevention a high priority at your place of business, your company’s profits could literally be walking out the door. In this post, we’ll explore the various reasons why people steal and provide a list of some of the most shoplifted items.

Why Do People Shoplift?

To implement an effective theft prevention system at your business, it’s helpful to understand why people feel compelled to steal. Contrary to what many people believe, most shoplifters do not steal to satisfy a physical need or due to a lack of financial resources. In most cases, a psychological compulsion or mental illness is the driving force behind shoplifting. Approximately one-third of shoplifters suffer from depression, and many shoplifters are diagnosed with kleptomania, which is a recurrent, irresistible urge to steal.

What Are the Most Stolen Items?

The most common items targeted by thieves include:

  • Meat: Expensive cuts of meat are a primary shoplifting target in grocery stores — it’s relatively easy to conceal a steak underneath a jacket or slip it inside an oversized pocketbook.
  • Alcohol: Teenagers often shoplift bottles of liquor since they are not of legal age to purchase it in most states. Peer pressure and the “thrill” of breaking the law are common motivators in many teenage liquor thefts, and kleptomaniacs who are also experiencing alcohol dependency issues often target the more expensive booze items.
  • Electronic gadgets: Small electronic gadgets and devices are a major shoplifting target in electronics stores and mass merchandisers that do not keep them under lock and key. Their small size makes them easy to conceal.
  • Over-the-counter medications and personal care items: Most OTC drugs, as well as personal care items such as razor blades, deodorant, toothbrushes, etc. come in small packages, making it simple to slide them into jacket pockets or purses.
  • High-end clothing: The theft of high-end clothing is on the rise in many retail outlets, particularly expensive sneakers. The most brazen thieves will try the clothing on in a fitting room and then attempt to walk out the door undetected.
  • Trendy toys: It seems that every holiday season there is at least one extremely popular toy that hits the market — and becomes of a prime shoplifting target.
  • Tools: Many types of tools, especially power tools, are coveted by thieves in hardware and home improvement stores.

Make an Advanced Security System a Key Component of Your Business Protection Plan

Installing a state-of-the-art security system is an important business safety step that will limit your shoplifting exposure. If you operate a business in the Phoenix, AZ area, Titan Alarm can design and install a customized system that includes video surveillance and other valuable theft prevention features. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today.

 

Learn More About Commercial Video Surveillance

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

How Schools Can Better Protect Students and Teachers

schools-protect-students

Threats to safety at school take many forms these days: bullying is a major issue in many schools, and there are growing concerns about active shooter situations and even acts of terrorism. Protecting students and teachers is a top priority in elementary, middle and high schools in Arizona and across the Unites States. In this post, we’ll explore the various teacher and student protection solutions available to school systems. Schools can:

  • Install fences: Fences create a visible physical barrier that will deter intruders. Fences are especially important for protecting students on elementary school playgrounds. Consider constructing a fence with blunt top projections to prevent intruders from climbing over.
  • Establish choke points: Most school buildings are large structures containing multiple entrances — which also provides multiple opportunities for intruders to find their way inside. Creating a choke point, which entails locking all entrances except one closely monitored access point, allows school staff members to control who enters the building at all times. If it becomes necessary to unlock multiple doors to accommodate a large influx or departure of students at the beginning and conclusion of the school day, these entrance points should also be monitored.
  • Train staff to spot security threats: Another important school protection step is providing training for teachers and other staff members so they can detect a potential security threat in the early stages. Local law enforcement agencies can provide valuable security tips and may even be available to conduct in-person training sessions.
  • Provide emergency response training: A security emergency can create chaos that is counterproductive when attempting to maintain school safety. Training your staff to function as a coordinated team — including individual responsibilities to each team member — can significantly reduce confusion and improve the chances of a positive outcome.
  • Implement a visitor management system: Establish a system for verifying the identity of individuals who arrive on campus claiming to be parents or invited guests. Software systems are available that can provide valuable security information, including whether the visitor is a registered sex offender.
  • Use guards and metal detectors: It may be necessary to resort to implementing more “extreme” security measures in schools with a history of violent behavior. Metal detectors can screen for weapons such as guns and knives. Many school systems have enlisted the services of security guards or local police officers to patrol the building during school hours.

Titan Alarm, Inc. Can Meet Your School Safety and Security Needs in Phoenix, AZ

Titan Alarm is a reputable security solutions provider serving Phoenix and all of Maricopa County. We can work with school administrators and security personnel to design a customized, state-of-the-art system with 24/7 monitoring that addresses the security risks in your campus’s most vulnerable areas. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today.

Learn More About School Security

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 2, 2018.

The Benefits of Installing an Energy Management System

home-energy-management-systems

As home energy costs continue to rise, homeowners everywhere are seeking the best ways to lower their energy bills. In Maricopa County, Arizona, where the average high temperature during the summer months exceeds the 100-degree mark, keeping home cooling expenses under control presents a major challenge.

Many homeowners are discovering the advantages that home energy managements systems (HEMS) offer in terms of energy conservation. These energy management systems make use of specially designed computer hardware, software and sensors to control HVAC units, lighting, electronics and household appliances with greater efficiency. Using the power of home automation, these state-of-the-art energy management solutions enable you to create a preset schedule for the operation of your home’s systems. You can also use your mobile device to manually operate the systems even when you’re not at home.

Exploring the Many Benefits of Energy Management Systems

Key HEMS benefits include:

  • Less wasted energy via prescheduling: The ability to preschedule when your systems operate can avoid a needless — and expensive — waste of energy. For example, a heating/cooling system that is programmed to your family’s schedule and preferred temperature settings, and that automatically monitors and adjusts the temperature as needed, can reduce energy consumption by approximately 25 percent on average.
  • Making manual temperature adjustments remotely: Imagine this scenario: You’ve been outside throughout a blistering Phoenix summer day, so you want your home to be nice and cool when you arrive. You’ve programmed your HEMS so the air conditioning won’t be blasting while no one is home, which would be a big waste of energy. Using your mobile device, you can manually crank up the AC at the right time so that when you finally step inside your home, it will already be at the perfect temperature. You won’t have to wait forever for your home to cool down!
  • Occupancy sensing: Leaving lights on in unoccupied rooms is one of the biggest energy wasters in many homes. Some energy management systems include an occupancy sensing feature that will automatically turn off the lights when someone leaves the room or when it remains unoccupied for a certain period of time. You won’t have to worry about whether you’ve remembered to turn off the lights after you’ve already left your home.
  • Increased security: A HEMS allows you to preprogram the operation of lights throughout your home, which can be an effective deterrent to burglars. For instance, you can have the lights go on and off in specific rooms during the nighttime while you’re away on vacation. This makes it appear to burglars that someone is at home. And if you’re coming home late at night, you can use your mobile device to turn on the lights before you arrive. You won’t have to worry about stepping inside a dark — and possibly unsafe — home.

Titan Alarm, Inc. can install a custom-designed HEMS in your Phoenix area home. Contact us to learn more about the benefits of our highly efficient energy management system for the home today.

Learn More About Energy Management

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

How to Survive a Robbery

employee-theft-prevention

If your business handles cash or stores or displays valuable items, you could easily become the target of a robber. A robbery is different from a burglary in that the victims are confronted by an armed individual who demands cash or property. Consequently, a robber typically poses a greater risk to your personal safety than a burglar who makes every effort to avoid detection.

While being the victim of a robbery is a frightening and a potentially life-threatening experience, you can increase your odds of survival by following these safety tips:

  • Remain calm: While most robbers do not want to harm anyone, they are usually desperate — which makes them highly unpredictable. Victims who appear stressed could further agitate the robber, possibly increasing the risk of a violent outcome. While staying calm under such trying circumstances is difficult, it can significantly enhance your safety during a robbery.
  • Cooperate: Another important robbery survival tip is to obey the robber’s commands. Robbers want to get what they’re after and flee the premises as quickly as possible. Cooperation reduces the likelihood that the robber will view you as an obstacle or threat. However, do not volunteer to do anything more than what the robber specifically tells you to do.
  • Stay quiet: Robbers are not interested in engaging in conversation. They will view your attempts to talk to them as a distraction and could cause them to become even more agitated. Speaking should be limited to providing brief, direct responses to the robber’s questions. If you need to clarify a command, keep your question short and to the point.
  • Do not resist: The robber will likely view any attempt to resist or fight back as a threat. Do not attempt to reach for a weapon or overpower the robber. Any sudden movement could have disastrous consequences. Always ask permission before taking any action.
  • Observe as many details as possible: Any information about the robber you can provide to the police will greatly improve the chances of apprehension and a successful prosecution. Make a mental note of as many details as possible about the robber, such as approximate height, weight, clothing, type of weapon and any distinguishing or unusual physical features.
  • Lock up immediately after the robber leaves: There’s always a chance the robber could return to the scene — perhaps due to a fear of leaving incriminating evidence behind. Make sure to lock the door and immediately call the police when the robber exits the building. If possible, note the direction the robber takes when leaving.

Installing a Security System: An Essential Robbery Protection Step

An advanced security system can reduce the chances of a robbery, as well as provide important visual evidence should a robbery occur. If you operate a business in the Phoenix, AZ area, Titan Alarm, Inc. can provide custom surveillance camera installation and design that will provide the reliable robbery protection you need. Contact us for more advice on protecting yourself during a robbery and to schedule a no-obligation on-site security consultation.

Learn More About Commercial Video Surveillance

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.