Re: Help choosing a home alarm system in British Columbia, Canada

["Robert Campbell" <ssv554@usa@isp01.net>]

Good post Frank ! I guess the large nationals are more regulated in BC than
in Ontario. I wouldn't be quite as charitable in describing ADT locally here
in Ontario. However, both Protectron and Voxcom are decent companies, but
Alarmforce is a company that I would definately avoid for a variety of
reasons that we all know. Chubb I am told is also good, albeit very
expensive, along the same lines as ADT.

I've been wondering how things are down here in Florida. The only companies
I see are ADT, Westco, APT of Panama City, and one small company called
Secure Alarms. I get the impression there are nowhere near as many small
"mom and pop" companies in this area.....

One thing I've learned about our industry is that conditions from one area
of the country differ markedly from other areas. As such, we've gotta be
careful passing judgment on a company based on local
experience.....(something that I have to remember....)

R.H.Campbell
Home Security Metal Products
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
www.homemetal.com


"Frank Olson" <Use_the_email_links@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:2XaRf.138253$H%4.20188@xxxxxxxxxxx
> ppwlee@xxxxxxxxx wrote:
>> Can someone please suggest a reliable home security company? I am
>> moving into a new home in Burnaby British Columbia and like to look at
>> what's available for home protection.
>>
>> I am evaluating the following:
>>
>> ADT
>> Alarmforce
>> Chubb
>> Protectron
>> Voxcom
>>
>> Any feedback on goods/bads from above list would be appreciated.
>> Thanks.
>>
>>
>> Peter
>>
>
>
> Take a look around the neighbourhood.  What company's signs do you see
> around?  The companies you list are all large "nationals" (which isn't
> necessarily a "bad thing").  The only one on the list you supplied that
> I'd tend to "shy" away from is "Alarmfarce".  FWIW, their "superior two
> way voice alarm" just isn't all that "superior".  One tip:  If you're
> shopping on "price" I'd suggest you ask all the companies you invite to
> quote on the same type of system and basic components.  That way you're
> comparing "apples" to "apples".
>
> There are two different types of systems out there.  For a more detailed
> explanation, have a look at http://www.yoursecuritysource.com/faqs.
> Choosing between a "perimeter" and "interior" system depends on what it is
> you consider important.  And don't forget "the basics" (it's also a good
> idea to "harden" your home's entry points, trim high shrubs or hedges that
> a perp could hide in, employ motion sensor lights around the outside,
> etc.).  I'd suggest calling a couple of the local companies in your
> "Yellow Pages".  Do your homework.  Make sure you ask them to leave a copy
> of their contract for you to review and don't succumb to sales pressure
> (not that the good firms use those kinds of tactics).  All of the
> companies in BC are licensed and their staff are as well.  Signing any
> contract (where the rep actually comes to your home) has a mandatory
> "cooling off" period (where you can cancel the contract without penalty).
>
> Avoid the "low down" systems because they usually carry a stiff monthly
> "fee" that will cost you more in the long run.  Make sure you understand
> what it is you're signing and that anything the salesman "says" (or
> "offers") should be backed up in writing.
>
> Is your home pre-wired?  This often makes installing a system easier and
> depending on the quality of the pre-wire you could wind up with an
> excellent system at a very reasonable cost.
>
> Have a look at some of the features and benefits of the different
> manufacturer's systems (in most cases you can download the user manuals
> which may help guide your decision as to what you want:
>
> http://www.dsc.com
> http://www.paradox.ca
> http://www.ademco.com
> http://www.gesecurity.com
> http://www.elkproducts.com
>
> Good Luck!
>
> Frank Olson
> http://www.yoursecuritysource.com