When shopping for a burglary alarm system, use these guidelines to check out the system you are considering as well as the dealer:
THE BUSINESS
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___ Is it local?
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___ Do they have a state license?
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___ Do they offer 24 hour service?
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___ Will the business work with your insurance company for reduced rates?
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___ Is there a warranty?
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___ Is there a service contract?
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___ If the system is monitored by a central station, is it a person or tape recording?
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___ Will the company have someone respond to the location to assist the police?
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___ Any complaints on file with the Better Business Bureau of Central Florida (621-3300)?
EQUIPMENT
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___ Avoid motion detectors if pets roam your house freely.
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___ Is it electrically or battery operated?
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___ If electrically operated, does it switch automatically to battery power without activating (power failure)?
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___ If activated, will it automatically shut itself off, will it reset for another attack?
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___ If the control box is exposed, will it activate if tampered with?
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___ Are all wires protected from the elements and rodents?
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___ If an audible system, is it loud enough for neighbors to hear?
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___ Does the system have a time delay to allow time to activate or deactivate without false alarms?
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___ Is the system approved by Underwriters Laboratory (U.L.)
RESOURCES
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Electrical Contractors and Licensing Board
1940 Monroe Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0771
Alarm Association of Florida
1349 E. Lafayette Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32307
904-681-3200
If you are a resident of Orlando and need further assistance selecting an alarm system, contact your Crime Prevention Officer at 246-2461.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
