Time For Another Story...

Once upon a time (about two years ago) I met with an elderly woman named Harriet. Harriet had recently been burglarized in broad daylight. She was gardening and a man drove up to her house, walked in the front door, took her purse from the counter, waved to her and left. Yes, really. I have been in many homes shortly after the residents have been burglarized. Typically, they call us to help them get their peace of mind and sense of security back. Their number one concern is keeping something like that from happening again. Harriet was concerned about the same thing, but she was even more concerned about something else. Harriet's number one concern was purchasing a system that was easy to use. I knew that we had a solution that would be perfect for her.

Why was she concerned?

• Eye sight - Harriet has trouble seeing small text. She wanted a solution that wouldn't require her to strain her eyes to read.
• Mobility - Harriet is almost 90. She gets around great for her age without a walker or cane, but she moves slower than she used to. She wanted to make sure she wouldn't have to rush to a keypad all of the time.
• Technology - Harriet is not very familiar with technology. She wanted something that wouldn't be complicated to learn and use.

What did we do?

Fortunately for Harriet, our systems are pretty easy to use even in a standard installation. I designed Harriet a life safety and security system that would protect her from further burglaries. She also decided to add fire protection. One reason ASI systems are easy to use is the keypad.

• One button arming. Press the "stay" button when you're home and the "away" button on your way out the door.
• 4 digit code to disarm. Press 4 digits that you choose into the system to turn it off. 
• Easy to see symbol buttons for medical, police, and fire. 

I also gave Harriet a 4 button Wireless Key FOB. Even though the keypad is easy to use I knew a Harriet would benefit from a FOB.

• "stay" button, "away" button, "police panic" button, and "off/disarm" button.
• All of the buttons have easy to understand pictures on them rather than tiny words. 

The most important reason that our system is easy for Harriet to use is ME... Seriously though, our customer training is top notch.

• We spend as long as is needed after the installation explaining how the system works. 
• We go over, in detail, what to do if your alarm goes off.
• Our sales reps leave their cell numbers with the customers in case they have questions.
• We offer refresher training at no cost if you forget how to use the system.

So, are security systems easy to use?

Not always. The systems can be as complicated or as difficult as the company you're dealing with. If you have solid training and a system that is designed for you and your family, they become an indispensable (and unobtrusive) part of your life. What has your past experiences been with security systems and security companies? Did you find them easy to live with, or were they a pain?