What if i accidentally trip my alarm?
First and for most remain calm, and simply enter your four digit security code to turn off the siren from sounding. If your system still doesn't disarm, wait a second then try your code again. Then monitoring station will call you and ask for your password, advise them that you accidentally tripped your alarm.
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What happens if there is a power failure?
In the event electricity fails, the system automatically switches to the battery. Most batteries will recharge once electricity is restored to the system. Your system will operate for approximately 5-12 hours depending on how large your system is.
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What happens when the alarm goes off?
A central station dispatcher will call your home to verify if you have set the alarm off inadvertently by yourself and will ask for your password. If there is no answer after 5 rings or the correct password is not given, the proper authorities (Police or Fire) are immediately notified and dispatched to your premises. The monitoring station will proceed to go through the call list for the premises and try to reach a responsible party. The police will do a perimeter check of your premises, and look for any visible signs of forced entry. If none is found, they will leave. The alarm will reset itself after 8-12 minutes and the siren will    stop sounding.

If a break-in has occurred, the police will notify the central station, and report their findings to you.
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I already have a battery-operated smoke detector, why would I need one on a security system?
A system smoke detector that is connected to a control panel provides more protection than a "stand-alone" detector because   it is monitored. This means that when smoke is detected, an alarm is sounded and a signal is sent to the control panel even if the system is disarmed. The panel automatically dials your Central Monitoring Station. An operator then calls the fire department.
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Will pets trigger my Motion Detectors?
Not if 'Pet Immune' Passive Infrared Motion Detectors are installed.   Another alternative is to use what is known as a 'Pet Alley'.  Call for more information.
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Can the system be set when we are in for the evening?
Yes, arming your system in "STAY MODE" disarms or bypasses your interior motion detector's) for freedom of movement while keeping the perimeter armed.
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How do I update my call list for the central station?
Simply fill out the following form on-line or send us a fax with your name, address, account number and the new call list you would like.
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Can you tell who was the last person who Armed or Disarmed the system?
Yes.  This is called "Opening/Closing Reports" Each person who will use the system can be assigned a unique "User I.D. Number".  which we can tell you which person armed or disarmed your system, by date or time.  This is a feature that is used mostly by Commercial Accounts. Monthly activity reports can also be mailed to you.
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Why is Carbon Monoxide a concern in residential housing and the workplace?
Carbon Monoxide is a product of incomplete (poor) combustion.  It is a direct and cumulative poison.  When combined with blood hemoglobin, CO replaces oxygen in the blood until it completely overcomes the body.  Death from CO poisoning occurs suddenly.  The victim inhaling the toxic concentration of the gas becomes helpless before realizing that the danger exists.

The harmful effects of CO exposure depend of the concentration of gas in the air, exposure time and factors such as age, health, size and sex.  Many of us encounter CO regularly and never know it because it is invisible and odorless.  That is why victims of CO poisoning often have no warning that they are in danger - until it is too late.

A good CO detector is digital and sounds a pre-warning signal that a specified CO level has been present in the environment over a preset number of hours.  When you hear the warning signal, immediately open the windows.  Ensure that the damper to your fireplace is operational.  Make sure that all the appliances using pilot lights are lit.  If you are in a workplace, ensure that the auto-vents to the boilers are functional.  Check with family members or co-workers to determine if anyone exhibits symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning such as:

• Flu-like Symptoms
• Headaches and dizziness
• Nausea
• Convulsions
• Unconsciousness

If so, call 911 immediately.
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Can Carbon Monoxide detectors be added to my Security System?
Yes.  They can be added to most security systems.  Call us for a price quote or more information.
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How does the Security System Communicate with the Monitoring Station?
Thru a Digital Dialer which connects to your alarm panel. The Digital Dialer transmitter connects into your existing telephone line.
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Can Totally Secure monitor my existing alarm equipment?
Yes, Totally Secure can monitor your existing burglar or fire alarm system installed by another company as long as your original contract with them has expired.  Contact us with the brand system you have for a price quote for central station monitoring and or service contract.
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