1.     Contact the NBFAA or your state burglar and fire alarm association for a list of member companies in your area. The association's members agree to maintain a high level of conduct under its National Code of Ethics and render services at the highest level of quality. Click here

2.     Call several companies. Ask them if their employees are trained and/or certified by the NBFAA.

3.     Ask the companies if they have appropriate state and/or local licenses.  Check here  to check.

4.     Ask the companies if they conduct any pre-employment screening.   Oklahoma State requires a background check from OSBI and FBI for all licensed employees.  This is why it is so important to make sure individuals are also licensed by the State.  Check here.

5.     Contact your local police department's Crime Prevention Department, state licensing agencies, Consumer Protection Agencies, and the Better Business Bureau.

6.     Ask your insurance agent, friends, family or neighbors for referrals.

7.     After you've narrowed the field to three or four alarm companies, ask for the name of the person who will call on you. Consider planning the appointment time when all members of your household are present.

8.     When he/she visits, ask to see some company identification.   Their license should look like this.

9.     Ask each alarm company representative for an inspection, recommendation and a quote in writing. Use a checklist to compare different packages and price quotes. DO NOT COMPARE APPLES AND ORANGES!

To learn more about home security systems, call the NBFAA Marketing Department at (301) 585-1855 for a FREE consumer brochure. Or visit NBFAA on the Internet at www.alarm.org.