These same companies advertise this list of equipment included in your home. (Burglars do read).

Well, how many doors and windows do you have in your home? More than 2? Which 2 are going to be protected? What if the burglar chooses another way in? Oh yes, that's what the motion detector is for. But, it can't be on when you're home! There are many reasons for the purchase of a security system, but in our experience, we find that people generally agree that they and their families (and pets) are ultimately more important than their DVD player.

Besides NOT providing "proper" protection, these "free systems" are actually changing the crime of burglary. Since these systems are mostly "off" when you are home, the burglar, when seeing these systems in the home, have to wait until you are home to gain entry. This is no longer burglary, but HOME INVASION! Growing very quickly, and absolutely terrifying!

What about fire protection? Why invest in the protection of your home and not have monitored smoke sensors?  The smoke sensors in your home now may make noise, but if no one is home, who's going to call the fire department? 

Another important consideration is the monitoring. Who's doing it? The same company? How many operators do they have? Do these operators also do sales or collection calls? (If yes, what if they are on the phone when your alarm call comes in)? What really will happen if they don't call you back? Most likely you will call to find out what happened. But then what? What will be done about it? What choices to you have? What will change?

What "Brand" of equipment do they use? Is it hard-wired or wireless? Do you "own" it? (Check again, Consumer Reports stated they had to read the contract two times before they realized that the company retained ownership of the equipment.)

What is the reputation of the company? Do they have complaints? Try calling them in the evening. Do you get someone to answer the telephone? What if you were having a problem? Does someone call you back?  Did you get an answering machine?

The answer is clear...

What do you get for "Free"?

Exactly what you pay for!

                                              (800)841-FIRE  (3473)