05/26/2026
What is the actual function of a security system?
Had an interesting conversation with a client earlier, that was somewhat educational for me, and even though the question above was never actually asked...
It was the subtext of the entire conversation.
Specifically, my client was struggling between choosing either glass breakage detectors, or motion detectors for their new home.
For those of you who don't know, no matter how thick or thin, when any glass breaks, the sound it makes is the same frequency.
Glass breakage detectors listen for that frequency, and trip the security system when they hear it.
In the conversation, my client was wondering why they'd choose a glass breakage detector over a motion detector, and she made a comment that helped me to understand why this was a dilemma.
"Well, if someone breaks a window while we're home, we will hear it."
Yes, unless you are the heaviest sleeper I've ever met, you will most likely wake up if someone breaks a window.
But my response was simple; "what is the point of a security alarm system? Is it to just let the homeowner know there's trouble, or is it to let the police know there's trouble?"
The answer of course is both, but if you don't have adequate coverage, you are NOT using the system how it was designed to be used.
Essentially, you are NEUTERING your home protection.
Once I had the opportunity to educate, the conversation became very easy after that. We were on the same page.
Now, why did I go through the trouble of explaining all of this to the client?
I could've just said "oh, you want motions. Sure, whatever ✌️"
That's the pathway of least resistance, so why not?
Or maybe it was for the money? Glass breaks must be higher ticket items, and that's why you'd rather go that route.
No, not at all. No difference in price between a glass break and a motion.
Really, it had everything to do with making sure that my clients are SAFE.
If you "make the sale," but fail in the ONE job you have as a security consultant, which is to help keep people SAFE...
You have failed, and should not be in this industry.
Go sell a widget from a widget factory.
Don't gamble with peoples lives just to make a buck.
If you want the peace of mind that comes from knowing your security professional is going to advocate what's best for you;
Send me a message. Even if you are not in my area, I can point you in the right direction 🙌
