Sleep better at night with a comprehensive security system that protects your home and business from home intrusion, fire and medical emergencies.

Is a security system really necessary?

Unfortunately in today’s world, it is. Crime is ever increasing even in ‘safe’ neighbourhoods; we read about it every single day in the news. The saying “better safe than sorry” perfectly describes the need for a security system. It protects your home, family and business from fire, break-ins or medical emergencies. It helps create a safer environment to live in, too.

Monitored vs Stand-Alone Alarms

There are two main types of security systems available: a local alarm (also known as stand- alone alarm) and a monitored system.

Local alarms are designed to make a lot of noise to help scare off a potential intruder. If a local alarm is set off while you’re away, no one will know or be able to take any action except for your neighbours, who chances are, will simply ignore the loud noise and wait till the alarm automatically shuts off. You come home to find that your house has been broken into long after the intruder has fled.

A fully monitored system doesn’t just make a lot of noise – when an alarm signal reaches a monitoring centre, the signal is routed into an automation system that holds all your information. Specific instructions that you have requested are displayed and the operator can then take the necessary steps whether it’s contacting you, informing your family member or notifying the appropriate authorities. With a monitored security system, you can be rest assured that responses to alarms that go off are prompt.

Monitored security system also offer help during panic situations and medical emergencies, especially for the elderly. There is comfort in knowing that help is on the way without your having to take action.

False alarms will also be a thing of the past. Unlike a stand-alone alarm system, which is not monitored, a 24/7 monitoring centre has trained professionals to advise on whether an alarm is genuine. Upon receiving a signal, they will verify the triggered alarm with you, preventing any unnecessary panic.

ADT, a name synonymous with security, not only distributes, installs and maintains your security system, but provides essential monitoring service too. ADT Central Monitoring Centres are manned 24 /7 by real-time support trained professionals. The centres respond to over 47 million alarms in 50 countries around the world each year.

The setup

Alarm packages vary, depending on factors such as, the type of house, the size and home owner’s security needs. An optimal system is not about the number of security devices installed, but about the concept employed in the design and layout of the security system.

ADT’s standard package includes components such as a control panel (with built-in keypad), magnetic contacts for doors and windows, a motion sensor, and an indoor siren. Other devices, such as the panic button, smoke detector and motion viewer can be added to the basic system, all customised to your needs.

Catching up with Salim Mohammad, General Manager, Tyco Fire & Security

iProperty: How do you set yourself apart from your competitors?
Salim Mohammad: In the market, there are companies that provide stand-alone alarm systems as well as monitoring services. We differentiate ourselves by offering a range of comprehensive services to our customers and consistently work on improving our service levels to boost customer experience.

iP: You have been in the business for a long time, how much has the technology changed from 10 or 20 years ago?
SM: Security technology has evolved from the common landline (PSDN) to IP (internet protocol); from a simple alarm system to home automation; and from monitoring signal to image monitoring, which is video verification.

For customer monitoring service, the latest technology is Internet Protocol (IP) solution. IP solution is the backbone network that is commonly used now. Devices such as CCTV and access card equipped with IP features can be connected to customers’ existing network easily. It is fast and convenient and allows customers to monitor their business premises at anytime via one standard network.

Demand for video verification is fast growing globally. The intrusion alarm and real-time video captured will be transmitted to the monitoring centre. With instant verification, the security professional at the monitoring centre can alert the police immediately.

iP: Do you see any spike in the purchase or enquiry regarding video surveillance in light of recent child abuse cases?
SM: Recently, we have noticed a 30% increase in visits to our website compared to the same period last year. This could be attributed to consumer’s increased awareness on the importance of home security.

4 Rings of Protection

ADT security systems provide 4 rings of protection for your home or business premises.