A Guide For Buying A Security System

December 26th, 2023



Security is an important component for any Chico, CA business. Retail businesses have obvious targets in the forms of the desirable products sold that could easily be resold on the black market. Banks are another high-value target since they contain cash. But even commercial, industrial and office-based businesses contain equipment and data that can be profitable for thieves if they get hold of them.

If you're just starting your business in Chico, CA and you have a facility that you need to secure, you'll be looking at all your security enhancement options. But how do you actually get the systems that will protect your business? Just follow the points in this guide to see how!

Know Your Requirements

What will you be using your security measures for? Do you want to monitor indoor areas, as with a store, outdoor areas, to see who approaches, or both? Do you live in a part of the country with lower outside temperatures in the winter? Will you need your cameras to function in low light levels, or even use infra-red? Do you need access control systems like key cards or keypads to restrict access? Before you can shop for security systems, get an idea of what you want secured. You may want to consult with an expert at this point, to give a rough outline of what you hope to achieve, and see which systems can meet your expectations.

Research Your Vendors

Now that you know what kind of security you're looking for, who can supply it? Is there a company in Chico, CA that can handle your security camera needs and access control requirements? Do you need another company for an electric fence? Carefully look into what the companies offer in terms of security products and see how many of them can match up to your list.

Installation & Maintenance

What will the installation process be like? How much will it impact your business? Wireless cameras, for example, are much less intrusive for installation than wired cameras, which will require cabling either attached to walls or floors, or installed behind walls, if you want the cabling out of sight.

Then there is the operating cost. Beyond the fee for installation, how much will a security system use in your monthly operating budget? Will there be additional subscription services for alerts and responses? Will the system require frequent repair or recalibration?

Ease & Expandability

Finally, look into the ease of use for the system. Can you, for example, view security footage from a mobile device such as your phone? Can you store the footage on outside sources beyond a built-in DVR system in Chico, CA, such as the cloud, or your phone or other computer? And what about the future? If you need to install more cameras or access control systems, does your plan for security mechanisms take expandability into account? Can you simply add more, or do you have to scrap everything and start over? Always make sure you have satisfactory answers to these guidelines as you plan your security system. They can mean the difference between an unwelcome expense, and a wise investment.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
    Call (530) 327-7268