Vector Security and Security Industry Mourn the Passing of Anita Ostrowski

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Vector Security announced today, the passing of Anita Ostrowski. Anita was the company’s vice president of Central Station Services, having joined the company in 1985. For the past 39 years, Anita had been dedicated to managing the award-winning central station services at Vector Security and has been a trusted ally to the security industry.

Anita recently was the recipient of the Mel Mahler Award from The Monitoring Association (TMA), one of the highest honors given by TMA at the discretion of its president in recognition of outstanding contributions to the Association.

Anita has also been recognized for her leadership in helping to develop alarm monitoring industry standards. As the chair for TMA’s UL 217 Standards Committee, she worked with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to update and adapt the standards to meet changing technologies. She also led the development of work-from-home requirements for central station operators during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure the integrity of professional monitoring. In addition, Anita has been a participant in the Alarm Validation Scoring (AVS-01) standard as well as implementation of the ASAP to PSAP standard across 911 centers. She was also recognized by CSAA with their Excellence Award for Central Station Manager of the year in 2008.

Pam Petrow, Vector CEO, stated “Anita was an integral part of the Vector Security team.  She was passionate about the people and the work done in Central Stations and worked her entire career to improve awareness, processes and service delivery for this vital part of our business.  She will be deeply missed.”

Justin Osborne to Serve the Southeast as New Regional Sales Manager

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DMP is pleased to welcome Justin Osborne to DMP as the Regional Sales Manager for the Southeast region. He will provide ongoing service and support to DMP’s dealers across Georgia, South Carolina and the Florida Panhandle.

Before joining DMP, Osborne worked in a similar capacity in security manufacturing sales. He has spent the past six years providing service and support to security dealers throughout the East Coast. His focus has been to increase dealers’ success by helping them become more operational, efficient and increase their sales volume with additional RMR.

“I joined DMP because I want to make an impact for a company that is highly respected in the security industry,” said Osborne. “I have always heard great things about DMP from others in the industry as well as the dealers that have chosen DMP to be their manufacturing partner. I also feel that the company culture and values closely align with mine. My goal is to provide the support and expertise needed to help dealers succeed at the highest level. I’m eager to work alongside the best security dealers in the industry.”

Osborne brings valuable experience and skills to his new role that makes him well-prepared to serve DMP dealers.

Contact Information:
Justin Osborne | Regional Sales Manager, Southeast
Direct Cell: (417) 849-8135
Email: JOsborne@DMP.com

Creenan, Amherst Alarm, Elected Security Industry Alarm Coalition Chairman

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Tim Creenan, founder and Vice President of Amherst Alarm and a long-time leader in the field of electronic security, has been elected chairman of the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC).

SIAC is comprised of four major North American security associations–Canadian Security Association (CANASA), Security Industry Association (SIA), The Monitoring Association (TMA), and the Electronic Security Association (ESA). Tim serves as the ESA representative on the board.

SIAC represents one voice for the electronic security industry on alarm management issues by communicating solutions and enhancing relationships with law enforcement.

“Tim’s unanimous selection reflects his commitment to SIAC’s mission and breadth of experience and leadership in our industry,” said outgoing chairman Kirk MacDowell.  “As treasurer, Tim demonstrated exceptional leadership as the finance chair steering the financial ship with precision and securing a solid foundation for the future.”

“Working with Kirk and our other board members has been a privilege,” said Creenan. “We will continue to move forward on our path of grooming the next generation of experts on our law enforcement liaison team and enhancing the fund-raising efforts to support SIAC’s important mission.

“While SIAC has had a great deal of success promoting the Model Alarm Ordinance in communities throughout the country, there are still many opportunities as we help promote the TMA AVS-01 standard, ASAP-to-PSAP and other technology to reduce unnecessary dispatches,” said Stan Martin, SIAC Executive Director.

Tim started in the electronic security field in 1975 working for a large locally owned security firm. Tim earned a degree in electronic engineering at State University College at Buffalo. In 1984 Tim and his wife founded Amherst Alarm, Inc., which today has more than sixty-five employees serving the Western New York market. Amherst Alarm is the recipient of the prestigious Police Dispatch Quality Award (PDQ). In March 2023, Amherst Alarm became part of the Pye-Barker Fire Safety family of companies.

Tim’s involvement in the industry associations began with the Western New York Electronic Security Association, where he served as Secretary, President and Past President. He has also served the New York State Electronic Security Association, as Secretary, Treasurer, Vice President, and President- during two different terms. He is currently Chair of the association’s Legislative Committee and was instrumental in leading the association’s efforts in reforming the enforcement policies of New York State’s alarm installer license. On the national level, he has served as chairman of the Election Committee of the Electronic Security Association, the Government Relations Committee, Governance Task Force and as member of the Board of Directors as the New York State Electronic Security Association representative. And is a past Board member of the Electronic Security Association. He is also involved in SIAC – Security Industry Alarm Coalition as a member of the board of directors as Treasurer.

In 2018, Tim was inducted into the Security Sales & Integration’s Hall of Fame.

Tim’s concern for the industry and public has kept him focused on reducing false alarms. This has led to Amherst Alarm’s certification in and his personal involvement in the Installation Quality (IQ) Board program, where he served as Treasurer, Chairperson and is currently board member.

DMP Releases XF6 Series Fire Control Panels

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Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) announces the release of a 24V standalone fire panel. The XF6 is an addressable and wireless fire control panel, equipped with network and optional cellular communications. With a commercial UL fire-rated wireless offering, the XF6 Series can support up to 500 wireless devices.

“The XF6 is an extremely flexible and capable fire system. When combined with the 1100 Series Two-Way Wireless, you get a system that’s easier than ever to install—without losing any features or functions,” said Aaron McGhee, DMP’s product manager of control panels. “This exciting new product stands by our commitment to offer innovative solutions that provide business efficiencies and RMR opportunities.”

 

Benefits include:

  • Advanced Fire Monitoring – Real-time alerts and accurate detection to ensure early response and minimize potential damage.
  • Free Network Communication & Optional Cellular – Facilitates an easy integration into existing fire alarm monitoring centers. Plus, dealers receive free network communication.
  • Powerful Solution – Equipped with a 24V power supply.
  • Rock Solid Reliability – 100% of DMP products are quality tested before shipping.
  • The Path Advantage – No NOC communication eliminates potential points of failure. Every alarm message goes straight to your monitoring station.
  • Trusted Wireless – Affordable, commercial UL fire-rated wireless panels that can support up to 500 devices. 900 MHz spread-spectrum Two Way WirelessTM is tried and true.

“This new, standalone fire panel answers the call dealers have been asking for,” said Joe Gies, director of marketing. “This panel is compatible with other DMP products, including backward compatibility. It offers an intuitive graphic keypad and plenty of power for synchronized horns and strobes. It’s a fully wireless system for simpler, faster installations with reduced labor time and cost.”

The XF6 Series evolved from a long line of reliable panels, suitable for commercial and industrial applications. End users can manage their XF6 through the easy-to-use graphic touchscreen annunciator built into the front of the enclosure. The new panels are compatible with all DMP fire-related products and accessories.

Learn more at DMP.com/XF6Series

TMA Dispatch – Winter Issue Released

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The winter issue of the TMA Dispatch is now available for online reading and download.

This issue’s cover story reviews the year’s highlights in TMA programs such as ASAP-to-PSAP and key initiatives like standards. Catch up and learn how you can get involved in the New Year! Volunteering on a committee is a great way to meet other TMA members and to giveback to the industry.

Our guest column explores how AI and ML is being used to boost video for monitoring centers. See how these new technologies are impacting our industry.

Get to know a bit more about our new president and his plans for his tenure in the President’s column.

Interested in submitting an article? Advertising? Contact communications@tma.us for details.

UL Solutions Empowers Alarm Monitoring Centers to Help Advance Public Safety with New Certification Program

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UL Solutions announced its new service, the UL Solutions Alarm Validation Scoring Certification Program, that helps security alarm monitoring centers in the United States improve communication with public safety professionals, such as law enforcement agencies and emergency response operators. The new certification program resulted from a collaboration between the security monitoring industry, public safety professionals and UL Solutions with the goal of enhancing security alarm notifications and information.

UL Solutions can now evaluate monitoring centers against requirements in The Monitoring Association’s (TMA) voluntary standard ANSI/TMA-AVS-01 2023, Alarm Validation Scoring Standard. This standard includes an alarm scoring or classification metric designed to streamline communication between monitoring centers and public safety professionals, leading to better prioritization of calls. The new UL Solutions certification program uses the alarm scoring system as defined in the standard.

“The move toward industry-wide standardization of security alarm notifications and response processes supports collaboration and efficiency between monitoring centers and public safety professionals,” said Karine Johnfroe, vice president and general manager of the Built Environment group at UL Solutions. “We work closely with The Monitoring Association and industry stakeholders to understand their needs and help address safety-critical challenges. UL Solutions’ new program empowers monitoring centers to demonstrate they are aligned with industry best practices for security alarm response procedures, which play an essential role in the success of public safety professionals throughout the United States.”

UL Solutions’ new program includes a self-assessment, ongoing compliance management, and an audit of the monitoring facility’s alarm notification, validation and response processes.

The ANSI/TMA-AVS-01 standard provides an industry-first alarm scoring or classification metric for intrusions detected by security alarm systems. It assists public safety professionals with resource allocation and prioritization of calls for service.

  • Alarm Level 0 – No call for service
  • Alarm Level 1 – Call for service with no other information
  • Alarm Level 2 – Call for service with proof of or a high probability that a person or persons are present at the alarm site
  • Alarm Level 3 – Call for service knowing a person or persons are present at the alarm site and an apparent threat to property
  • Alarm Level 4 – Call for service knowing a person or persons are present at the alarm site and an apparent threat to life

“The Monitoring Association brought together a wide section of stakeholders from the security monitoring industry, including UL Solutions and public safety professionals, to develop an ANSI standard that provides a standardized alarm validation score or classification metric for intrusion detected by security alarm systems. The score will assist law enforcement with resource allocation and call for service prioritization,” said Celia Besore, CEO of The Monitoring Association. “UL Solutions will help alarm monitoring centers demonstrate their commitment to this industry-wide collaboration that can enhance notifications and provide public safety professionals with critical information.”

Learn more about UL Solutions’ new service for security alarm monitoring centers.

Telguard Wins 2023 TMA/SSN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award

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TMA President-elect Steve Butkovich and Security Systems News Editor Cory Harris presented the 2023 TMA/SSN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award to Telguard President George Brody and Sr. Director of Technical Service Daniel Rosales at the 2023 Annual Meeting on November 7th in Maui, Hawaii. The award was established in 2021 to raise industry awareness of the importance and value of being a diverse and inclusive industry.

“Inclusion and diversity are not just buzzwords for us; they are the cornerstones of the corporate culture at Telguard. This recognition isn’t just a testament to our efforts, but to our collective commitment towards creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. This achievement is a reflection of the hard work of every team member, the leadership’s unwavering commitment, and the spirit of collaboration that defines our organization.  We believe that diverse perspectives and backgrounds fuel innovation, enhance creativity, and drive better business outcomes. It’s not about meeting quotas; it’s about embracing differences and harnessing the unique strengths each individual brings to the table,” stated George Brody, President of Telguard.

View Acceptance Message

Telguard, a brand of Telular Corporation, provides industry-leading security and life safety technologies to independent security dealers for commercial and residential markets.  Telguard combines devices, communications, video, interactive service and alarm processing into turnkey systems for monitoring intrusion and fire systems without a traditional landline. Telguard offers the industry’s most versatile platform, outstanding solutions, and first-class technical-customer service. Telular Corporation is a business unit of AMETEK Inc. AMETEK Inc. (NYSE: AME) is a leading global manufacturer of electronic instruments and electromechanical devices with annualized sales of approximately $5 billion. 

TMA Presents 2023 Mel Mahler Award to Mark McCall, Immix Protect

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The Monitoring Association’s (TMA) President Morgan Hertel honored one of TMA’s volunteer members with the Mel Mahler Award, formerly known as the President’s Award on Mon., Nov. 6th during its General Business Meeting at the 2023 Annual Meeting in Maui, HI. The Mel Mahler Award is presented at the discretion of the TMA president in recognition of outstanding contributions within his/her tenure. The 2023 Mel Mahler Award recipient is Mark McCall, global director of Operations, Immix Protect.

In presenting the 2023 Mel Mahler Award to McCall, President Hertel shared his personal and professional experience working closely with the awardee over the past 20 years. “I have great respect for Mark – both as a dedicated leader and colleague. Most recently, Mark chaired the development committee for the ANSI/TMA-AVS-01 standard. Without his guidance and expert stewardship, I am not certain that the standard would have been completed within the targeted timeline. He is a consummate professional. I am pleased to recognize his outstanding contributions to TMA.”

View Acceptance Message

Longtime Security Industry Contributor Dischert Honored with Top TMA Award, Nov. 7th

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The Monitoring Association (TMA) had the distinct opportunity to recognize the exceptional contributions of Larry Dischert, LRD Consulting, on Mon., Nov. 6th during its General Business Meeting at the 2023 Annual Meeting in Maui, HI. TMA President Morgan Hertel presented the respected and esteemed volunteer with TMA’s highest honor, the Stanley C. Lott Memorial Award.

The Stanley C. Lott Memorial Award, established in 1991 to honor its namesake, a dedicated leader and past president, recognizes exceptional long-term leadership and support. In presenting the award to Dischert, TMA President Morgan Hertel shared, “In our industry, there is a whole subset of individuals who work tirelessly, doing the lion share of the work with little or no public recognition. This year’s Stanley C. Lott Memorial Award winner is one example of those that have been working in the background for many years. Over the course of five decades, his contributions to standards development within the security and monitoring industries have been immeasurable.”

From a blank piece of paper and assistance from a few industry peers, Dischert initiated the creation and development of UL1981 Central-Station Automation Systems and has since contributed to many UL standards. From an emphasis on the continuous maturation of UL1981 and UL827, he became a key contributor to UL STP 205 and its sub parts for all equipment and installation standards that impact the safe reliable operation of a monitoring center.

Most recently, Dischert’s involvement includes, but is not limited to, extensive work with TMA CS-V-01 Alarm Confirmation, Verification and Notification Procedures, and ANSI/TMA AVS-01 2023 Alarm Validation Scoring (AVS) Standard with the mission to increase the value of the Central Station service by greatly reducing or eliminating false dispatches.

“I can’t thank the TMA and industry leaders enough, for this recognition,” stated Dischert. “I’ve put 50 years of my life into this arena and have gotten much in return. And this rounds it out very nicely. Again, thanks.”

VIEW DISCHERT’S ACCEPTANCE REMARKS

Brown County WI Public Safety Communications became the 137th ECC to go live with TMA’s ASAP Service

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Brown County WI Public Safety Communications became the 137th Emergency Communications Center (ECC) in the United States and the 3rd ECC in the state of Wisconsin to implement the Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP).

Brown County went live on October 31, 2023 with the following companies: Rapid Response Monitoring, Vector Security, Guardian Protection, Security Central, Protection One, Brinks Home Security, Securitas, Vivint, Tyco (Johnson Controls), National Monitoring Center, Affiliated Monitoring, United Central Control, and ADT.

Learn more about TMA ASAP-to-PSAP Service HERE.