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Sheila Callahan

Guide to Security and Alarm Systems for Small Business

Secure your business and safeguard your livelihood

By Sheila Callahan, Freelance Journalist

No matter what size your operation, you have assets to protect. An alarm system can defend you against fire, theft and vandalism. Security systems come dedicated to one form of protection, like fire, or multiple ones including intrusion and safety. The systems can be basic, creating noisy sirens and whistles to deter intrusion, or more sophisticated, with multi-zoned components monitored via computer.

Keep in mind these three factors:

  1. A monitored system helps deter burglars and ensure employee safety.
  2. Guarding against internal employee theft is as important as safeguarding your premises against outside intruders.
  3. Customer information needs safeguarding, too.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done


Request a security assessment for your business

Most security firms conduct risk assessments to determine what your alarm-system challenges are and how to address them.
I recommend: Brink's and Protection One offer security solutions for small business. Slomin's has been in business for over 80 years and is known nationally.

Have your information ready

When shopping for an alarm system, vendors will want to know what type of establishment you are, whether you require a new or updated system, the number of entrances to your premises, and whether you are looking for a fire or security alarm system.
I recommend: BuyerZone lists the common questions for which you'll need answers. ADT's security system buyer's guide for small business has lots of helpful information.

Wireless has its advantages

What good is an alarm system if it relies on telephone notification that can be easily severed? Wireless systems provide a work-around for this possibility.
I recommend: Alarm.com offers wireless security systems.

Find a security solution tailored to your type of business

Different businesses have varying security needs. While some feel most threatened by the prospect of fire, others need to monitor critical equipment such as air-conditioning units or freezers. Others might be most concerned about intrusion and the privacy of their data.
I recommend: HSM offers solutions for all types of businesses, including restaurant, retail, transportation and distribution, manufacturing, pharmaceutical and health-care operations, among others.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

  • Make sure you have full access to your business' security codes if you own your equipment.
  • Get references from each quote provider. Talk to current clients about their experiences with the security company.
  • Don't set up your alarm to call 911. This violates the law and can result in large fines.
  • Insurance companies often require alarm systems but provide discounts for compliance.

The official source of Security and Alarm Systems for Small Business is
the Building Alarm Systems page at Business.com

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Related Resources

Recommended Solution Providers

ADT: Small Business Security
Helps provide a complete range of products and services tailored to small businesses.

Slomin's: Surveillance Systems
Offers custom-designed surveillance and security systems.

Brink's: Business Security
Provides professional security system installation, ongoing alarm monitoring, follow-up customer care, security equipment and national accounts for multiple business sites.

ProtectionOne: Protecting Your Business
Services range from system design and engineering to product specification and installation, and all the way through testing and training of your personnel, this provider oversees all stages of your commercial security system project.

Alarm.com: Wireless Security Systems
Offers security systems which are designed to allow you monitor and control capabilities from anywhere.

HSM: Electronic Protection Services
This provider takes an enterprise approach to security that integrates intrusion, fire, video surveillance, access control and monitoring applications. Designing, installing and maintaining your system through 24-hour monitoring centers, this service provides security and service tailor-made for your industry.

GE Security: Business Security Solutions
Provides systems with the capability to access, intercom, intrusion and video systems all with one interface.

Best Sites to Learn More

BuyerZone: Commercial Alarm Systems
Provides a buyer's guide to monitored commercial alarm systems takes you through the basics, available options, a review of monitored alarm companies, and the costs of getting a system installed.



FEATURED LISTINGS
Free Price Quotes on Building Alarm Systems
Compare prices and options for Building Alarm Systems. Complete a request form and receive multiple matches for Building Alarm Systems.
Alarms.BuyerZone.com
Alarms For Elderly
Looking for Alarms For the Elderly? Discover listings and reviews of specialists, retailers or services in your local area today.
justclicklocal.com
Building Alarm Systems Resource
Find Building Alarm Systems. Search listings and reviews of retailers, specialists and services in your local area now.
JustClickLocal.com
Find Modular Building Manufacturers at IQS® Directory
Browse Our Comprehensive List of Leading Modular Building Manufacturers with Information, Preview Ads, Links and Request for Quote Tool.
IQSDirectory.com/Modular-Buildings

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