INFORMATION :

It’s not just security
It’s 24 hours monitored security

Every system is connected to our 24 hour Monitoring Center.  When alarm is triggered, trained professionals can alert you and call your county or city police, fire department or emergency for help – even if you’re away from home.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH SECURITY
Neighborhood Watch Security helps protect our neighborhood.  Let us do for each of our neighbor to protect and keep you safe & secure with peace of mind!

 

 

Customer’s Own Responsibility In Switching to VoIP !!!

What you need to know about VoIP and your alarm monitoring?

If you are considering switching from your current Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to save money on long distance calls, please consider the following information. VoIP providers like Vonage and AT&T CallVantage are quick to point out your potential dollar savings, but not all providers are quick to point out the limitations regarding your monitored alarm system.
We at Neighborhood Watch Security always have your security needs as our prime focus, and have prepared the information for our valued customers. You will find a few important issues to consider before you make the switch to VoIP.

Power – Using VoIP requires constant power

Since your connection to the Internet must be available to provide any telephone service, every piece of equipment in the “chain” (modem, router, hub, telephone adapter, etc.) must be receiving power. If the only source of power is your electric utility company, your telephone service (and your connection to the alarm monitoring station) WILL NOT FUNCTION during power outages.
If you choose to gamble that your power outages will be brief, please realize that some equipment may not reset itself reliably after even a brief power outage. This can mean someone has to be at the premises after power is restored to reset the Internet equipment - not so convenient if you are away on vacation. One way to remedy this mode of failure is to purchase and install battery backup power supplies for all the required equipment.
POTS Power for telephone service is carried through the telephone wires themselves, and provided by the telephone company’s batteries which are completely separate from utility power. Historically, telephone service has been restored far more quickly than electrical power after a severe outage.

Communication Reliability –  Not all alarm processing equipment can handle  the distortion often found in the VoIP- transmitted signals

Even when a human user may find no degradation of the voice call over VoIP, the fact remains that the VoIP system relies on converting the normal analog signals into data packets for transmission via the Internet and then back to analog signals for reception by the equipment at the alarm monitoring station. Sometimes this process breaks up alarm signal packets in a way that prevents the signal from being properly received. It has been proven that much of the industry’s existing receiving equipment cannot reliably process all signals transmitted via VoIP.
Furthermore, the signal reliability is not a constant. So, you may test the monitoring effectiveness of a VoIP system today with satisfactory results, but it may not work tomorrow when you need it most.
POTS No issue exists because all the current equipment was designed to work with high reliability using the analog signals carried over POTS lines.

Line Seizure – Switching to VoIP may require changes 
to your premise’s telephone wiring

When the alarm panel needs to send a signal to the alarm monitoring station, it must gain complete control over the telephones in the premises. The addition of the VoIP equipment may bypass the existing wiring scheme that ensures your alarm system can function as designed. The premises wiring will need to be checked and some rewiring may be needed.

POTS No issue exists because the premises wiring was checked and tested during the installation of the alarm system using the POTS lines.

Service Outages – Downtime for maintenance occurs more 
frequently than with normal telephone service

Whichever Internet Service Provider you use, chances are good it will need to disable your service from time to time for varying periods to perform maintenance, upgrades, or just to reboot their equipment. You may not notice it much since they typically schedule such periods for the middle of the night. That also happens to be a time when you especially want your monitored alarm system fully reliable. 
POTS Historically, such outages of telephone service for maintenance are very rare and brief.

Dialing 911 – You may not be connected directly to the 
dispatcher and your address may not be known

Unlike your normal telephone service which connects you directly and displays your address to the local 911 dispatcher automatically, calls to 911 over VoIP are often intercepted and re-routed by the VoIP provider – possibly delaying your connection to assistance. Additionally, it becomes the responsibility of the premise owner to ensure the VoIP provider has your proper address on file. 
POTS Not an issue as all data are the responsibility of the telephone company and the government-controlled 911 center.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 50% of burglaries go unreported.           

• 60% of burglaries occur while a home is occupied.
• 38% of robberies are committed with firearms  (Source: FBI, Crime in the U.S., 2001)
• 70% of American homes will be burglarized in the next 20 years.85% of fire deaths occur in the home
• 9 people die in home fires every 24 hours burglar enters a U.S. home every 14 seconds A home fire occurs every 86 seconds  A fire injury occurs in the home every 31 minutes
  (Source: National Fire Protection Association, 2000)

2004 Burglary Statistics

• 1 burglary every 14.6 seconds.
• 62.2% of all burglaries occurred between 6am-6pm
• Average loss per residential burglary was $1607
• Only 12.9% of all 2004 burglaries were cleared (solved).

     Source: U.S. Dept Of Justice-FBI (2004)

Burglary:
In the event that an intrusion takes place while you are away from home, your security alarm system will notify our central station. One of our operators will contact the homeowner first and will call their contact persons. If either one of them was contacted, it also enables our operator to inform the burglar that the police have been dispatched, further ensuring that the burglar is on his way out of your house. In some circumstances, depending on the kind of the security hardware being installed in the customer’s house and software will even enable our operator to follow the activities of the burglar, and pinpoint to the police where the burglar may be hiding.

Home Invasion/Intrusion: If you are in the home and someone breaks in, you can press the panic buttons on your alarm keypad, or using the optional wireless remote, thus sending a distress signal to the police. With our two-way voice monitoring, our central station operator will be able to listen and respond even if you can’t. The emergency response operator can also relay information to the police, who will already be on the way.
 
Neighborhood Watch Security system is an effective deterrent to both burglary and intrusion. So effective, in fact, that your insurance company may provide you with a discount of up to 20% off your homeowner’s insurance premiums once your alarm system has been installed.

Most accidents occur in the home.   If a you or someone in your home has an accident or medical emergency, your Neighborhood Watch Security Alarm system allows you to simply push the medical panic button on your alarm keypad, or on the optional wireless panic button and our monitoring center will be immediately notified of the emergency, and will contact your home.
Our operator can also relay detailed information as to personal or medical conditions of the individual. When the medical personnel arrive, they will already know what the problem is and what is needed to treat the victim. Our  two-way voice monitoring will allow you to remain with the injured individual while providing details to our operator, who can then advise the medical personnel as to the nature of the emergency. 

Is there any discount on homeowner’s insurance?
Many insurance companies will give a discount simply for having a monitored security system. Different insurance companies have different discount programs for having a monitored security system so be sure to check with your insurance company to see what they offer. Discounts are usually between 5 to 20%. Discounts on Homeowner’s Insurance simply make having a monitored security system all that more affordable. In some cases, the discount on insurance can actually completely pay for the cost of the monitored security system. Again, be sure to check with your Insurance Company to see what they offer.  It’s just one more reason to give Neighborhood Watch Security a call.
Save up to 20% off your homeowner’s insurance just for having a monitored security system!

The keypad on my alarm system isn’t lit up, is that a problem?
Probably not, most problems are easy to fix with little or no out of pocket expense to you. Many times the alarm system simply needs to be powered up or have a new battery installed.
Can you work on my type of alarm system?
Our trained technicians and subs work on just about any burglar alarm out there.
How does the alarm monitoring work?
Your security alarm system is monitored 24-hours a day, 7-days a week by our U.L. approved monitoring station. If your alarm system is armed then we receive a signal via your phone line if any of the zones are breached. When we receive the signal from your alarm system, we call you first to see if it may have been a false alarm. If you don’t answer the phone or don’t give the correct password then we proceed to call the local police response for dispatch. Then we call all of the numbers on your emergency notification list to inform the people on the list that there has been a burglar alarm signal received from your security alarm system. Additionally, your keypad most likely has panic buttons for police, fire and medical emergencies that can be pressed whether your security system is armed or not. In this case no phone call is made, we simply call the proper authorities since it is an emergency situation. (note: Some dispatch procedures may vary from county to county)
Should I test my security alarm system regularly?
Yes. We recommend testing your alarm system weekly to monthly. We will respond if we receive a signal from your alarm system. However, there are various things that can effect the operation of your security system that are beyond our control and that are your responsibility to check. Some examples are; not arming your system, changing your phone number, getting a second line, hooking up internet service, switching to VOIP, having other work done on your home that effects the security system ability to work properly.
How do I go about testing my security alarm system?
Simply call our 24-hour central monitoring station and tell us that you want to put your alarm system in test mode for the next hour.  Then, simply arm your security system and wait two minutes for it to activate. Next set off some or all of the zones and wait thirty seconds and then enter your code to turn off the alarm system.  After you have done that just call the central monitoring station and ask which signals we received.  The monitoring station operator should be able to tell you exactly which zones were breached.  Remember to allow your alarm system enough time to activate.  Additionally, some alarm systems have what is called a fail-safe that makes the assumption that the Alarm was an accident if you turn off the alarm system too quickly.  That is why you should wait thirty seconds before entering you code to turn off your alarm system.
Can you monitor my alarm system if I’m renting?
At this time Neighborhood Watch Security does not provide service to renters.
How long will it take to set up my alarm system?
If you have an existing home alarm or business alarm system then set-up usually takes about an hour. If you need a new alarm system then basic installation is three to five hours.
Will my alarm system be affected if I have a pet?
If you have a pet we can install a pet friendly motion detector if you don’t already have one. In most cases the pet will not be a problem for the security system. Tell a Neighborhood Watch Security representative and they can double check for you by asking a few simple questions.
Can you install new alarm systems?
Yes. We have great rates available for set up of new alarm systems. We make it easy to get an alarm. Simply contact a Neighborhood Watch Security representative to check on the different packages we have available.
I need service fast. Can you help?
We do our best to accommodate your schedule. We understand that some situations occur that make having a alarm system an immediate necessity and we do our best to work with you. Just give us a call and we will do all that we can to accommodate your schedule.
The keypad on my alarm system beeps all the time. Can that be fixed?
Yes. A beeping keypad on your alarm system is an indication of a trouble condition. Most of the time these are simple situations to fix and can be fixed for little or no cost to you during your initial set up.
Is there anything different about your alarm systems or monitoring?
Almost every type of alarm system made works in essentially the same exact way. All send signals to a monitoring station and perform the same basic functions. The main difference from one security company to another is simply the cost and quality of service. Having said that, service to customer at Neighborhood Watch Security is our priority.
What if there is a power failure at my place?
You don’t have to worry. Our security system come with a 24-hour battery back up so that your home or office stays secured even in case of a power failure.
Can you add on to my existing alarm system?
Most alarm systems can be added onto very easily. Simply let the Guardian representative know if you want to add a door, window, motion detector, glass break, smoke detector etc… to your burglar alarm.  We have very competitive pricing for add-ons and upgrades.
I have a security system already. Can Neighborhood Watch Security monitor my existing equipment?
Neighborhood Watch Security can monitor most brands of alarm systems. We  can evaluate your existing system prior to activation.   This will allow us to better serve you, as we will be able to evaluate that age, condition, and compatibility of your existing equipment.   This will also allow you to discuss other options for upgrading and customizing your alarm system.
I have a security system already. Can Neighborhood Watch Security monitor my existing equipment?
Neighborhood Watch Security can monitor most brands of alarm systems. We can evaluate your existing system prior to activation.   This will allow us to better serve you, as we will be able to evaluate that age, condition, and compatibility of your existing equipment.   This will also allow you to discuss other options for upgrading and customizing your alarm system.

I have a security system already. Can Neighborhood Watch Security monitor my existing equipment?
Neighborhood Watch Security can monitor most brands of alarm systems. We can evaluate your existing system prior to activation.   This will allow us to better serve you, as we will be able to evaluate that age, condition, and compatibility of your existing equipment.   This will also allow you to discuss other options for upgrading and customizing your alarm system
Can I activate the alarm system when I am home alone?
Your alarm system has a function whereby your motion sensors are deactivated, while the perimeter sensors are still functioning.   This allows you to walk around your house safe in the knowledge that you home is protected while you are at home.

What does it cost for monitoring?
Monitoring rates can vary but a rule of thumb is that monitoring will typically cost approximately $1 (one dollar) per day.

How long is the monitoring agreement?
Your monitoring agreement is for 3 years. Other alarm companies will ask you to sign a 4 or even 5 year contract.   Our customers have that option as well, if they wish to guarantee their monitoring rate for that long. However, they are not obliged.

Who monitors my system?
Our UL Listed monitoring facility is a premier monitoring facility, as well as being one of the best in the nation.
 
What happens if I move?
If you move within the region of the Commonwealth of Virginia, we can relocate your alarm system to your new home, or put a new one in your new home.   If you move outside of the region, you simply make the alarm agreement a part of the sale of your home, and the incoming homeowners can take advantage of the security hardware that is protecting their new home.


Do I own the equipment?
Unlike many of our major competitors, with Neighborhood Watch Security you own your hardware at the end of your three-year agreement.


Why should I trust Neighborhood Watch Security with my security?
Neighborhood Watch Security provides you with uncompromising safety and professionalism, while keeping our prices reasonable and our service second to none.   We monitor your home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and no one else can give you the flexibility in security options to ensure that your system is customized to suit your individual tastes and requirements.
What about false alarms?
While there is always a risk of a false alarm, Neighborhood Watch Security is dedicated to ensuring that false alarms are as rare as possible.   To that end, Leading manufacturers of security alarm hardware ensures that the equipment you receive has been engineered to the highest specifications, and incorporates the latest developments in false alarm reduction hardware and software.   Properly installation and proper training are the two other factors that keep false alarms to a minimum.


What happens when my alarm goes off?
When your alarm system goes off, a signal is sent to our monitoring facility over your telephone lines.   One of our trained operators will immediately contact your home to ascertain if your home is safe.    If no one is available on site to provide an abort code, the operator will contact the appropriate authorities.


I already have smoke detectors in my house. Why would I want to add additional ones to my alarm system?
The smoke alarms that are typically installed by construction companies are not of the same quality as the smoke sensors that we utilize.    Plus, our smoke detectors are monitored 24 hours a day, whether your system is on or not, and whether you are home or not.

I’m interested in an alarm system. What do I need to do to set up an appointment?
You can click here to send an email requesting a visit from one of our security professionals and book an appointment.

Who will install my system, and how long will it take?
Neighborhood Watch Security employs only highly trained, skilled, licensed technicians.   You installation will usually take approximately 3 hours, but can vary from 2 hours to 8 hours for a more comprehensive system.
Can I activate the alarm system when I am home alone?
Your alarm system has a function whereby your motion sensors are deactivated, while the perimeter sensors are still functioning.   This allows you to walk around your house safe in the knowledge that you home is protected while you are at home.


What does it cost for monitoring?
Monitoring rates can vary but a rule of thumb is that monitoring will typically cost approximately $1 (one dollar) per day.

I have alarm system already. Can Neighborhood Watch Security monitor my existing equipment?
Neighborhood Watch Security can monitor most brands of alarm systems. Neighborhood Watch Security can evaluate your existing system prior to activation.   This will allow us to better serve you, as we will be able to evaluate that age, condition, and compatibility of your existing equipment.   This will also allow you to discuss other options for upgrading and customizing your alarm system.


What is two-way voice monitoring, and what does it mean for the safety of my family?
Two-way communication device that enables our operator to communicate directly with the home in the event of an alarm.   If you or someone in your family has a medical or other type of emergency or accident, it allows you to communicate with our monitoring station without having to use a handset.   It also allows our experienced operators to offer advice and assistance.   If there is a burglary, it allows our operator to challenge the burglar and inform the burglar that the police have been dispatched.
 

I have a system from another Alarm Company. Can I add the features to my existing system?
Neighborhood Watch Security can be configured with most security alarm hardware. One of our security consultants would be glad to visit your home to determine the optimal way to protect your home and family.


How long is the monitoring agreement?
Your monitoring agreement is for 3 years. Other alarm companies will ask you to sign a 4 or even 5 year contract.   Our customers have that option as well, if they wish to guarantee their monitoring rate for that long. However, they are not obliged.


Who monitors my system?
Our UL Listed monitoring facility is a premier monitoring facility, as well as being one of the best in the nation.
 
What happens if I move?
If you move within the region of the Commonwealth of Virginia, we can relocate your alarm system to your new home, or put a new one in your new home.   If you move outside of the region, you simply make the alarm agreement a part of the sale of your home, and the incoming homeowners can take advantage of the security hardware that is protecting their new home.


Do I own the equipment?
Unlike many of our major competitors, with Neighborhood Watch Security you own your hardware at the end of your three-year agreement.


Why should I trust Neighborhood Watch Security with my security?
Neighborhood Watch Security provides you with uncompromising safety and professionalism, while keeping our prices reasonable and our service second to none.   We monitor your home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and no one else can give you the flexibility in security options to ensure that your system is customized to suit your individual tastes and requirements.


I have pets. Can I still have Neighborhood Watch Security system installed inmmy home?
Absolutely, yes.   We have a number of system configurations that can be adapted for pets of all sizes and quantities.    Many of our customers have pets that are like family, and the security alarm system is designed with them in mind, as well.

What about false alarms?
While there is always a risk of a false alarm, Neighborhood Watch Security is dedicated to ensuring that false alarms are as rare as possible.   To that end, Leading manufacturers of security alarm hardware ensures that the equipment you receive has been engineered to the highest specifications, and incorporates the latest developments in false alarm reduction hardware and software.   Properly installation and proper training are the two other factors that keep false alarms to a minimum.


What happens when my alarm goes off?
When your alarm system goes off, a signal is sent to our monitoring facility over your telephone lines.   One of our trained operators will immediately contact your home to ascertain if your home is safe.    If no one is available on site to provide an abort code, the operator will contact the appropriate authorities.


I already have smoke detectors in my house. Why would I want to add additional ones to my alarm system?
The smoke alarms that are typically installed by construction companies are not of the same quality as the smoke sensors that we utilize.    Plus, our smoke detectors are monitored 24 hours a day, whether your system is on or not, and whether you are home or not.

I’m interested in an alarm system. What do I need to do to set up an appointment?
You can click here to send an email requesting a visit from one of our security professionals and book an appointment.

Who will install my system, and how long will it take?
Neighborhood Watch Security employs only highly trained, skilled, licensed technicians.   You installation will usually take approximately 3 hours, but can vary from 2 hours to 8 hours for a more comprehensive system.