Common Questions
Q:
Can I get a break on my insurance if I get an alarm system?
A:
Most insurance companies give significant discounts to alarm owners who are
monitored by a UL listed Monitoring Station. Call your
agent.
Q:
What is a monitored alarm system?
A:
A monitored alarm system uses sensors and control electronics at your home or
business to automatically communicate alarm events to a central monitoring
facility (Central Station). The Central Station automatically receives coded
information from your system which is recorded in our computer systems and
analyzed by trained operators who call police, fire, and medical authorities to
respond to the situation.
Q:
Is Y2K a problem for alarm systems?
A:
Although the Y2K rollover event has now passed and most alarm systems were not
affected because of manufacturer and alarm dealer attention to the issues, if
you have a problem which you suspect might be related to a clock/calendar issue,
please contact your A-1 Branch office for assistance.
Q:
Is an alarm system expensive?
A:
The cost of an alarm system depends upon your individual needs. Our sales
representatives are trained to work with you in identifying the most
cost-effective system to meet your needs.
Q:
What happens if my phone lines are cut?
A:
A basic alarm system will not be able to communicate with the Central Station,
but it will sound the siren on the premises. Your A-1 Security sales
representative can show you radio backup options that will overcome phone line
problems.
Q:
How do I know my system is working?
A:
If your system is monitored, you can test your system by calling the Central
Station and they will assist you. You can also ask your A-1 Sales Representative
about TIMER TEST. This optional feature sends a test signal automatically on a
regular schedule. If our computer does not receive the signal when expected, you
and your A-1 servicing branch are notified.
Q:
How do I contact an A-1 Security Sales Representative?
A:
Select the "Contact us / Locations" button on the left side of the page and you
will get a response form. You are also welcome to call the A-1 Security
headquarters at (702) 474-6667 and we will assist you in contacting the A-1
Branch Office nearest you.
Q:
What does "A-1" mean?
A:
"A-1" is
a registered Service Mark and Trademark issued to us by the United States Patent
and Trademark Office. We are the only company authorized to use this mark in
connection with electronic security alarms and alarm monitoring. Our goal is for
"A-1" to mean the very best in security to our business and residential
customers.
Q:
Does A-1 record my telephone calls to the Central Station?
A:
Yes, A-1 records telephone calls between our Central Station operators or
Customer Service representatives and customers and authorities in order to
ensure the consistency and quality of our services
Q:
Is the A-1 Security Central Station U.L.-listed?
A:
Yes, the A-1 Central Station has been U.L.-listed for a number of years.
Underwriters Laboratories (U.L.) is the leader in the certification and listing
of Central Stations. In order to receive U.L. listing, Central Stations must
meet demanding requirements for architectural and physical security features as
well as emergency power, computer hardware and software and operator training.
Many insurance companies require alarm monitoring to be performed by a U.L.-listed
Central Station in order to qualify for significant premium discounts.
Q:
What happens to my alarm system if the A.C. Power fails?
A:
All A-1 alarm systems have a backup battery that should run your alarm system
for several hours in case commercial power fails. We offer an additional service
where we can configure your system to automatically send a Power Fail signal to
our Central Station which will be recorded in your alarm history. If you choose,
we can notify you at any number when this happens. This is especially useful if
you have a large food freezer, medical equipment, or special pets (tropical
birds, fish, etc.).
