june issue 2009:Layout 1 6/9/2009 4:18 PM Page 1

The
HANDSHAKE
Volume 10 / June 2009 / Issue 6

The Official Publication of the Alarm Association of Florida

Putting A Halt on Unlicensed

Alarm Contractors
Industry News
Coverage

Director and President Urge Member Support

Change Service Requested

800-899-2099
Plantation, FL 33322
1802 N. University Dr. Suite 329
PERMIT NO. 4662
FT. LAUD. FL
PAID
U.S. POSTAGE
STANDARD
PRESORTED
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Contents
June 2009/The Handshake Monthly

Features Page
Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
A Word from the President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
From the Director’s Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Regional Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Keeping Unlicensed Contractors Out of Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Rollacard Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
What is It? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Visit the AAF at www.fla-alarms.org / or contact us at handshake@fla-alarms.org / 800.899.2099 / your company could be listed here.

Advertisers Page
Acquisition & Funding Services page 8 FL Dept of Business & Professional Regulation page 14
www.afssmartfunding.com / 800-354-3863 www.myfloridalicense.com / 866-532-1440
ADI page 6 Honeywell Power Products page 15
www.adilink.com / 800.233.6261 www.honeywellpower.com / 203.484.6236
Cen-Signal page 14,15 ICRealtime Security Solutions page 15
www.cen-signal.com / 800-554-110 www.icrealtime.com / 866-997-9009
Central Alarm Control Inside Cvr Marlin Central Monitoring page 8,15
www.centralalarmcontrol.com / 954-525-0104 www.marlincentral.com / 866-400-2130
CLOAF page 14 Monitronics International, Inc. page 15
www.cloaf.org / 561-233-5532 www.monitronics.com / 866-541-9519
Criticom Monitoring Services page 2 National Monitoring Center page 9,15
www.cmsn.com / 800-422-2712 www.nmccentral.com / 877-353-3031
COPS Monitoring Back Cvr Rapid Response Monitoring Services Inside Bk,15
www.copsmonitoring.com / 888-420-9735 www.rrms.com / 800-558-7767
Fire-Lite Alarms page 14 SentryNet page 4
www.firelite.com / 203-484-7161 ext. 5690 www.sentrynet.com / 800-932-3304
FFMIA page 15 System Sensor page 14
www.ffmia.org / 863-467-8991 www.systemsensor.com / 800-736-7672

Monthly Disclaimer To All Members

The AAF encourages Associate Membership to companies that provide goods or services to our regular membership.
The AAF does not endorse any Associate. No Associate is a “Preferred” member, “Selected” member, or in
any way placed above any other Associate. Furthermore, The content of articles contained in the Handshake reflects solely the personal opinions of the authors
or contributors and does not necessarily represent the official position of the AAF. Additionally all materials used in advertisements in the Handshake involving
any rights, clearances and copyrights are the sole responsibility of the advertiser and not the Alarm Association of Florida, Inc.

June 2009 • The Handshake / 1

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2009 AAF Officials
Bob Ireland - President
Amsafe of Miami, Inc. - crireland@juno.com
Norm Mugford - Vice President/President Elect
Alarmpro, Inc. - 1alarm@bellsouth.net
Mary Galloway - Past President
Dynafire Inc. - regmhg@earthlink.net
Bob Worthy - Secretary
Secur Technologies - bob4secur@bellsouth.net
Ron Toole - Treasurer
Crime Prevention Services of Florida - toole@gnt.net
Bob Neely - Executive Director
Alarm Association of Florida, Inc. - bneely@fla-alarms.org
Ace Forsythe - Director At Large
SentryNet, Inc. - aforsythe@sentrynet.com
Greg Gracer - Director At Large
Maximum Security, Inc. - maxsecinc@hotmail.com
E.J. Fleischmann - Director At Large
Dynamark - ej@dynamarkjax.com
Alan Higgins - Associate Representative
ADI - ahiggins@adi-dist.com
Steven Creasey - Associate Representative
Graybar - steven.creasey@gbe.com
Don Damron - Public Safety, Fire
Sarasota County Fire Department - ddamron@scgov.net
Vacant - Public Safety, LEO
2009 AAF Regional Directors
Dale Burger - Broward Regional Director
Access Code Technology, Inc. - accesscodetec@hotmail.com
James Edwards - Great Northwest Regional Director
Advanced Fire Protection Services, Inc. -
edwards@wesavelives.com
Hernando Barreto - Miami-Dade Regional Director
Amtel Security Systems Inc. -
hernando.b@amtel-security.com
John A. Pastore, Jr. - Gainesville Regional Director
Crime Prevention Security Sys, LLC - jpastore@cpss.net
Heather Johnston - Gold Coast Regional Director
Active Alarms, Inc. - heather.johnston@hotmail.com
Vacant - Tallahassee Regional Director
Jeffery Garland - Jacksonville Regional Director
INSTLTK, Inc. - jgarly@bellsouth.net
Mike Ahern - Orlando Regional Director
Dynafire, Inc. - mike@aafpsystems.com
Dave Gerald - Tampa Regional Director
Devcon Security Services Corp. -
dgerald@devcon-security.com
John Toscano - Ft. Myers/Naples Regional Director
Affordable Alarm - john@affordablealarm.com
Mark Queen - Sarasota Regional Director
Sarasota Alarm & Fire Electronics - safecorp@comcast.net
Eric Prutsman, Esq. - Lobbyist /General Counsel
Prutsman & Associates, P.A. - eric@ericprutsman.com
Marty Pomeranz - I.T., Web Site Management
VolTech, Inc. - voltech@mindspring.com
Mike Fletcher - Training Coordinator
Alarm Association of Florida, Inc. - mfletcher@heeth.com
Mark Paloski - Training Program Manager
Alarm Association of Forida - training@fla-alarms.org
AAF Office & The Handshake Staff
Linda Neely - Contributor and Office Manager
Alarm Association of Florida, Inc. - lneely@fla-alarms.org
Mary Kenna - Data Management
Alarm Association of Florida, Inc. - info@fla-alarms.org
Erin Cavanaugh - Badges & Training
Alarm Association of Florida, Inc. - photoid@fla-
alarms.org
The Handshake Newsletter - Editor and Advertising
Susan Brady & Associates - handshake@fla-alarms.org
Editorial
Be Proud of the AAF and Security Industry
Dear Readers:
Even to this day, as the summer months arrive and the
Fourth of July approaches, I become patriotic. It is a time to
reflect on the accomplishments our countrymen have made.
In a true test of the American legislative system at work,
AAF Executive Director, Bob Neely, recaps the Alarm Associ-
ation of Florida’s successful trips to Tallahassee. Turn to
page 7. The efforts of all the AAF representatives involved in
this year’s legislative session are to be commended.
Protecting the citizens of your community can be looked at
as a contribution to America.You should feel proud. AAF
President, Bob Ireland, reminds members to promote the
AAF to your fellow contractors and building and public
safety officials. Ireland also announces that a group of some
35 Fire Alarm Contractors from the Fort Meyers-Naples Re-
gion have decided to join the AAF. Read about it on page 5.
Helping to uphold the reputation of your profession to a
high standard is also part of the American spirit. “Keeping
Unlicensed Contractors Out of Security,” takes a closer look
at how The Department of Business and Professional Regula-
tion handles unlicensed contractors operating in your indus-
try. The interview with Michael Green begins on page 10.
Your certification as a Fire Alarm System Agent (FASA) or
Burglar Alarm System Agent (BASA) says you are a trained
expert. You have completed the necessary education. The
requirements also point to the character of your company.
The licensing means any employee in your firm engaged in
the contracting or installation of alarm systems need to be
certified as either a Fire Alarm System Agent or Burglar
Alarm System Agent. FASA and BASA certification requires
the employee to meet the following criteria:
• Is at least 18 years of age.
• Completed a minimum of 14 hours of training by a board-
approved provider.
• Has not been convicted of a crime directly related to the
business within the last three (3) years.
• Must obtain from the Florida Department of Law En-
forcement (FDLE) a completed fingerprint and background
check if applying as a burglar or fire alarm system agent
every two (2) years.
• Has not been committed for substance abuse within the
last three (3) years.
Your customers and business contacts may not be aware
that as a FASA/BASA agent you must also complete six
hours of board-approved continuing education every two
years including false alarm reduction.
Security involves technology. Staying up to date with train-
ing is vital. It is also part of being American. You are making
your business better all the time.
Susan A. Brady
Editor
June 2009 • The Handshake / 3
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A Word from Your President
By Bob Ireland
In late March the AAF was
invited to a meeting of some 35
Fire Alarm Contractors in the Ft.
Myers-Naples Region. With
significant local issues facing
these Contractors, they wanted to
discuss whether they should join
forces with the AAF or start their
own organization. After about an
30 minutes of commentary by Bob
Neely and me and another 20 or so
minutes of questions from the
Contractors with answers provided
by Bob Neely, Mark Paloski, my-
self, Dan Lanier, and John Toscano,
The situation in this western region of the state
brings up a couple of interesting points and
a few questions.
we left the meeting to allow the
Contractors to discuss the question
at hand.
John Toscano called later that af-
ternoon to advise me that they had
decided to join the AAF. We all
were exceptionally pleased with the
news and rather gratified that the
AAF, with supporting testimony,
was deemed superior to starting an
organization from scratch.
The situation in this western re-
gion of the state brings up a couple
of interesting points and a few
questions.
Point One: It was obvious from
the questions and comments at the
meeting that quite a few of the
Contractors either did not know
about the AAF or did not under-
stand our strengths and depth.
Questions: Do you promote the
AAF to your fellow Contractors,
Building Inspectors and Public
Safety Officials? If not, you should
be since you are in contact with
these people on a regular basis.
By reaching out to your contacts,
you help everyone in the industry.
Contractors who are unaware of
the AAF (yes, there are a few) may
be in a position to contribute in a
big way to the group. Once they
join, for example, they can enhance
AAF’s efforts to help reduce unli-
censed contracting.
Do your Building Inspectors and
Fire Service officials know about
BASA/FASA cards, just as another
example? Did you know that the
AAF works hand in hand with
SIAC (Security Industry Alarm
Coalition) to write, revise, and gen-
erally make better False Alarm Or-
dinances, for BOTH burg and fire?
Something you might say to a Fire
or Police official might lead to their
city writing a better alarm ordi-
nance. Do you know the benefits
(training and legislative support,
for instance) the AAF provides? Are
you involved enough in the AAF to
be able to properly answer these
questions?
Point Two: Equally obvious was
the fact that more than of a few of
the Contractors who did know
about the AAF believed that it is
an organization dedicated to the
burglar alarm side of the industry.
Although on the surface it may ap-
pear that is the case, nothing is
further from the truth.
Questions: Do you know that, in
fact, the AAF is fighting legisla-
tively for all disciplines within the
low voltage industry? This year
alone, the AAF has worked within
the State Legislature with respect
to five major bills, and several
minor ones, that would have had
an effect on EVERYONE in the low
voltage industry in a negative way
June 2009 • The Handshake / 5
had we not been there. (See Bob
Neely’s article, From the Director’s
Chair on page 7 for more details.)
Did you know that the Alarm As-
sociation of Florida has made
major inroads with the Fire Serv-
ices throughout the state in the
last two years? Mark Paloski, the
AAF Training Program Manager, is
providing training in conjunction
with the FFMIA to offer Continu-
ing Education credits to the Fire
Service. This is paying dividends in
spades by placing the AAF in front
of these officials as an organization
full of people that can assist them
as partners not confront them as
adversaries.
Three years ago I was invited to
participate in a panel discussion at
the FARA False Alarm Reduction
Association annual meeting in
Miami, FL. FARA is an association
primarily of persons employed by
government and public safety agen-
cies in charge of, or working in,
False Alarm Reduction Units.
When it was my turn to address
the assembly I offered the following
comment: “Ladies and Gentlemen,
we are engaged in a war and it is
‘Us’ against ‘Them.’ The ‘Us’ is not
the Alarm Companies and the
‘Them’ is not the Police or Fire
Agencies. The ‘Us’ is both the
Alarm Companies AND you, the
Police and Fire Agencies. The
‘Them’ is the bad guys who break
the law or anything that threatens
life and limb like fire, all of which
represent peril to life and property.
We need to join forces to defeat the
‘Them.’”
Promote the AAF, YOUR Associa-
tion, to assist in the war to defeat
the “Them.”
Bob Ireland, President
Alarm Association of Florida
crireland@juno.com
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From The Director’s Chair
by Bob Neely
Our trips to Tallahassee were
numerous, expensive and whirlwind
this year in working with our lobbyist
Eric Prutsman. We met with numer-
ous legislators and staff to discuss
pending bills and issues affecting our
industry. And although there are
many who delight in pointing out
some of the annoying deficiencies in
“There’s no trick to being a humorist when you
have the whole government working for you.”
▬Will Rogers, US humorist & showman (1879 - 1935)
the governmental system, we came
away impressed with both the quality
and intelligence of the folks we met.
Bob Worthy, legislative chair, John
Toscano, John Pastore, Norman Mug-
ford, Ron Toole and many others con-
tributed time, effort and phone sweat
for many hours on over thirty bills
that affected your alarm contracting
business in one form or another. One
primary bill presented for passage was
a service contracts bill that would
have automatically defaulted your
service contracts to a thirty day time
limit; very inconvenient and very im-
practical for insurance reasons.
Another bill concerned a new cate-
gory of licensure for locksmiths: very
much needed for security if for no
other reason. We were able to work
with them to remove the initial statu-
tory conflicts and amend the bill to
accommodate the necessary and rea-
sonable terminology for it to pass
muster. Then there was the perennial
journeyman bill always proposed,
that this time around would have re-
moved the existing square footage re-
quirement among other things. Of
course, we also monitored a bill that
would have a drastic effect on your
workers compensation rates if passed
in the wrong form.
A very strong political group also
pushed extremely hard for an exten-
sion on the sprinkler and alarm retro-
fit of their condominiums to push out
to the year 2025. We were able to re-
move the elements from the bill that
adversely affected the electronic alarm
issues. One portion of that bill that did
pass was the exemption of one and
two story condominiums with exterior
egress from manual fire alarm sys-
tems. We vigorously opposed this.
If you consider the staggering num-
ber of issues that affect your life daily
and then assume that one person (a
state representative or senator) be ex-
pected to immediately grasp the
thousand nuances of your industry in
one sitting, you are sadly mistaken.
You can liken it to someone entering
your office and expecting you within a
ten minute time frame to compre-
hend the electronic subtleties of a
space launch.
These fine people go to Tallahassee
as senators and representatives to try
make a difference in bettering your
lives. Their legislative staff members
are there for that same purpose. The
reason our AAF volunteers go to Tal-
lahassee is to play a role in helping
them along in this process. This is
government from the bottom up, not
the top down. These legislators are as
dependent upon us for information as
we are dependent upon them to pass
effective laws. It must NOT be a mat-
ter of one individual imposing their
will upon others. That is why it is so
very important for you to participate
in this sometimes difficult process.
Your contributed funds to Florida
AlarmPac help elect individuals fa-
vorable to your industry. It is why
AAF goes to Tallahassee and why, as
an AAF member, you are asked to
visit legislators in your district. It is
most important. Drop by your local
legislator’s office, introduce yourself
and leave your card. What happens
next is when there is an issue regard-
ing security that legislator will call
the number on the card you left. Leg-
islators depend upon experts such as
you for the information they need to
comprehend the problems and to
make good law. YOU are the one pro-
viding the momentum on the issue
rather than being hammered by it.
We succeeded in shutting down the
service contracts bill. We worked with
the locksmiths, but their bill stalled in
committee. The journeyman bill also
ground to a halt in committee reviews
when issues that could have caused
conflicts with existing law became ap-
parent. Workers compensation is now
much better than when it started and
our electronic fire alarm time frames
are still intact for retrofit. All in all, it
was a very successful if not hard
fought legislative session for 2009.
Every year we appeal to AAF mem-
bers to contribute funds to assist in
these legislative endeavors. The cam-
paign organization formed under
Florida law is the Florida AlarmPac.
The organization gathers and distrib-
utes campaign funds legally to worthy
candidates in their quest for office.
That is how we are able to support
those we want elected.
We ask that you send your contribu-
tions to the AAF office right away for
the Florida AlarmPac. All amounts
large and small are welcome. Do not
assume that someone else will send
the necessary funds. Make your check
out or call the AAF for credit card con-
tributions at: 800-899-2099. Your help
in the effort is welcome and needed.
Please assist AAF today.
Bob Neely, Executive Director
Alarm Association of Florida
bneely@fla-alarms.org
June 2009 • The Handshake / 7
june issue 2009:Layout 1 6/9/2009 4:19 PM Page 10

Regional Report
Great NW Region (5/5/09)
Ed McDaniel discussed new AAF leadership and budget
issues. Norm Mugford discussed what the AAF does to ben-
efit its members, and thanked everyone in the NW region
for their support. Mugford then went on to give a Legisla-
tive update, regarding the recent bills that have been fought
and put to rest for this year.
During the meeting there was discussion on unlicensed
contractors, pointing out who to contact, how to turn them
in and why they should be turned in. Permits and fees in a
county ordinance, being active in the community and on
county/city/state boards that affect our industry were also
on the agenda.
The importance of communication with AAF leadership
was discussed and passing on information regarding poten-
tial local issues to gain AAF support. The Gulf Breeze inci-
dent was used as an example. Norm Mugford read a speech
by AAF President, Bob Ireland. Ron Toole discussed budget
changes and possible resolutions to AAF expenditures.
Nominations were called, John Young was nominated as
Regional Director, and Bob Suhrheinrich was nominated as
Regional Secretary. Both were voted in unanimously.
Broward Region (5/13/09)
With 24 members in attendance. Regional Director Dale
Burger introduced speaker, Rich Perry, CEO of Security
Networks. He spoke on how to maintain, prepare and sell
your business. Mel Hulkower of American Marketing then
spoke briefly on how they are going out to do on site demos
and training.
Bob Ireland took the floor to discuss membership and
speaking with people who are not aware of AAF. Specifically
he addressed the Fort Myers area fire contractors as an ex-
ample of new members joining AAF and urged meeting at-
tendees to go to local officials.
Bob Worthy gave a detailed legislature report with gen-
eral success all around for the end of session in Tallahassee.
Bob Neely gave some handouts and spoke on an unlicensed
alarm company in Lake Worth for which Deputy Charlie
Mosher has issued orders for “cease and desist.”

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Keeping Unlicensed Contractors Out of Security
A closer look at The Department of Business and Professional
Regulation and meeting Licensing Requirements
By Susan Brady, Editor
Installing alarm and security systems is complex work. It
requires an education. In Florida, it also requires you have
a license that proves you have achieved the necessary level
of expertise. After all, you have the public’s safety in your
hands. Having unlicensed contractors operating in your in-
dustry is not good for anyone.
The Florida Department of Business and Professional
Regulation, in partnership with the Clay County Sheriff’s
Office, completed a two-day contracting sting operation re-
cently in May. These stings are set up throughout Florida
on a regular basis. In the Clay County operation, the DBPR
targeted individuals found advertising via the Internet. The
suspected unlicensed contractors were asked to submit bids
for work including, plumbing, roofing, home theatre instal-
lation, security surveillance, electrical outlets and installa-
tion of electrical panel boxes.
When the individuals arrived to deliver the bids, they
were asked to provide proof of licensure. Those who could
not provide proof were arrested and issued citations. Cita-
tion amounts varied based on whether the individuals of-
fered to do both construction and electrical work or only one
of the services. They were fined either $2500 or $5000.
The Handshake, Editor, Susan Brady, sat down with
Michael Green, Unlicensed Activity Administrator, Division
of Regulation to learn more about DBRP’s inner workings.
10 / The Handshake • June 2009
Brady: What is the process used by DBPR to address the
problem of unlicensed contractors?
Green: The department investigates complaints of unli-
censed activity under the statutory authority of Section
455.225, Florida Statutes. Contracting without an electrical
contractor’s license in violation of sections 489.531.(1)(a)(b)
Florida Statute. The department is very concerned about
unlicensed contracting activity, and we take various steps to
combat this problem. The department performs sweeps and
sting operations around the state in conjunction with law
enforcement and other regulatory agencies. Appropriate ac-
tion is taken in the event that an investigation reveals unli-
censed activity. Individuals found to be contracting without
a license can be charged up to $5,000 per violation and are
subject to referral for criminal prosecution. In some cases
where there is no apparent consumer harm, the department
may issue a citation for $1,000 or $2,500.
The department has also set up a toll free hotline,
1.866.532.1440, where consumers and licensees report
possible violations of unlicensed activity or obtain assis-
tance with the complaint process. Callers to the toll free
line are asked to provide the name of the unlicensed per-
son or business, the address where the activity is taking
place and any other information that will be helpful.
june issue 2009:Layout 1 6/9/2009 4:19 PM Page 13
This information is relayed to the appropriate
regional enforcement office for assignment to an
investigator. Due to geographical limitations, the
local office may recruit the assistance of partners at
local code enforcement, building department or law
enforcement to check out the activity.
Brady: Is there a certain time of the year or do
certain events bring in more unlicensed security
companies, i.e., a bad economy, after a hurricane,
the summer months with student solicitors, etc.
Green: Licensed professionals in all trades are
becoming increasingly aware of unlicensed competi-
tion in these tough economic times. Licensees across
the state are very helpful in submitting offers and
advertisements from unlicensed individuals and
companies. After hurricanes unlicensed persons are
more prevalent and the desperate homeowner is
more vulnerable than during normal circumstances.
Brady: What usually happens after the unlicensed
company is caught?
Green: The Department may:
• Investigate complaints and refer the information
to the State Attorney.
• File an administrative complaint and seek
sanctions up to $10,000.
• Issue a notice to cease and desist unlicensed
contracting.
• File a case in circuit court for an injunction when
a notice to cease and desist is ignored and seek a
civil penalty ranging from $500 to $5,000.
• Issue a citation requiring payment between
$1,000 and $2,500.
Section 455.2277, Florida Statutes, requires
the Department to “report any criminal violation
of any statute relating to the practice of a profes-
sion regulated by the department or appropriate
board to the proper prosecuting authority for
prompt prosecution.” Those working without a
license can be charged with a first-degree
misdemeanor for a first offense. Anyone who
works without a license during a governor
declared state-of-emergency, such as a hurricane,
commits a third-degree felony.
Brady: What is the role of law enforcement?
Green: The department’s investigators are not
sworn law enforcement, so we are not able to
make arrest. We must defer to law enforcement
to make this decision on a case by case basis.
Investigators work with law enforcement on
sweep and sting activities and develop working
relationships to provide stronger cases referred
to the State Attorney.
Fire Alarm System Agent or Burglar
Alarm System Agent Certification
What are the requirements to become FASA or BASA
certified?
Any employees of electrical or alarm contractors engaged
in the contracting or installation of alarm systems need to
be certified as either a Fire Alarm System Agent (FASA) or
Burglar Alarm System Agent (BASA). FASA and BASA certifi-
cation requires the employee to meet the following crite-
ria:
• Is at least 18 years of age.
• Completed a minimum of 14 hours of training by a
board-approved provider.
• Has not been convicted of a crime directly related to
the business within the last three (3) years.
• Must obtain from the Florida Department of Law En-
forcement (FDLE) a completed fingerprint and back-
ground check if applying as a burglar or fire alarm system
agent every two (2) years.
• Has not been committed for substance abuse within
the last three (3) years.
Do all employees of electrical or alarm contractors en-
gaged in the contracting or installation of alarm systems
have to take the 14-hour training course?
No. The following individuals are exempt:
• Employees of a licensed contractor who perform only
monitoring of alarm systems.
• License holders of a certified electrical or alarm con-
tractor’s license.
• Licensed journeyman are exempt from the initial train-
ing only, and must possess a FASA or BASA card and com-
plete an approved six (6) hour renewal course every two
(2) years.
• See section 489.518, Florida Statues for additional ex-
emptions.
What is the FASA/BASA identification card?
The FASA/BASA identification card indicates that the
FASA/BASA agent has met training and education require-
ments required for certification. The licensed electrical or
alarm system contractor must provide each FASA/BASA
employee with an identification card that includes the fol-
lowing:
• Photo of the agent
• Name of the agent
• Signature of Agent
• Name, address and license number of the contractor
• Signature of the contractor
• Issue date and expiration date
Are there continuing education requirements for FASA
/BASA agents?
Yes. Each FASA/BASA agent must complete six (6) hours of
board-approved continuing education every two (2) years
to include false alarm reduction (See Rule 61G6-12, Florida
Administrative Code, for additional information on FASA
and BASA requirements).
June 2009 • The Handshake / 11
june issue 2009:Layout 1 6/9/2009 4:19 PM Page 14

Industry News
In Memoriam Huntington Security Systems, Inc. in Southern California.
On May 24, 2009 AAF received word “We look at our relationship with ADI as an operational and
of the passing of Ronald Anthony strategic partnership.”
Lafontaine, the son of Ron and “At ADI, our relationship with our customers is very im-
Katherine Lafontaine. He passed away portant to us and in today’s economic landscape we are
after a short but severe bout with can- pleased to have the opportunity to come together with our
cer. Ron has worked in the alarm indus- vendor community and show appreciation to our dealers for
try alongside his father since he was in their continued support,” comments John Sullivan, vice
high school and throughout college. He president of sales at ADI.
founded his own company following the sale of Security For more information, visit www.adilink.com.
Systems, Inc., in 2000.
Born March 7, 1964 in Chicago, ILA, and raised in Micro Key Solutions Certificate of Appreciation
Deerfield Beach, FL, he is survived by his daughter Micro Key Solutions recognizes a top security dealer inte-
Jennifer, his fiancé Heather Johnston, parents Ronald D. grator who provided continued support and endorsement of
and Katherine, sisters Theresa (Leonard) Deimel, Laura Micro Key Millennium Software. Fidel Gonzalez, owner and
(Ron) Barak and Brother Mark. He is cherished by all president of Laredo Alarm in Laredo, TX, is this year’s Cer-
his nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. tificate of Appreciation honoree. Wayne Torrens, president
Ron has been an active member of the Alarm Associa- of Micro Key
tion of Florida for many years. He has served as Secre- Solutions,
tary and most recently as Vice President of the Gold gave Fidel
Coast Region and Board Member. He will be missed by the award at
his many friends in the alarm industry. Micro Key’s
Donations may be made in Ron LaFontaine’s name to ISC West
Hospice by the Sea at 1531 W. Palmetto Park Road, Boca 2009 exhibit
Raton, FL. 33486. booth in Las
Vegas, NV.
ADI Shakes Up Vegas Torrens
ADI joined together with scores of its industry-leading handed Gon-
vendors to host zalez his
a special cus- plaque, stat-
tomer apprecia- ing, “You are
tion event at constantly
this year’s ISC recommend-
West in Las ing our prod-
Vegas, NV, to ucts and
thank dealers services to your fellow central station owners and have
for their contin- served as an excellent advocate. Everyone at Micro Key So-
uous support. lutions enjoys working with you and appreciates your will-
ADI’s customer ingness to state how our software and services have enabled
appreciation you to grow your business.”
event was held For more information, visit www.microkey.com.
at the posh
LAX Nightclub Fire-Lite IP Fire Alarm Communicator
located in the Recognized By Security Industry Association
Luxor Hotel Fire-Lite Alarms’ FireWatch Series upload/download fire
and Casino. alarm IP communicator was awarded top honors in the Fire
Sponsored by and Life Safety category of the Security Industry Associa-
more than 50 tion’s (SIA) 30th annual New Product Showcase competi-
manufacturers, tion. The FireWatch upload/download IP communicator
the event featured music by the fabulous LA Allstars band. enables any commercial building’s fire alarm system to com-
The event provided an excellent forum for dealers, vendors municate with central monitoring stations via the Internet.
and the ADI team to interact and experience an enjoyable Its exclusive upload/download feature allows installers to
evening of music, dance, food and refreshments. interact with systems from any remote location.
“We’ve worked with ADI for so many years, and it is great Whether uploading program updates, troubleshooting is-
to see their effort and desire to work with dealers and inte- sues or performing virtual maintenance checks, these re-
grators is still so strong,” states Scott Mullins, president of mote capabilities can lead to reduced expenses and false
12 / The Handshake • June 2009
june issue 2009:Layout 1 6/9/2009 4:19 PM Page 15
Industry News
alarms. Fire-Lite’s IP communicator can utilize a building’s
existing IP line (i.e. LAN, WAN, DSL, cable, etc.) to digitally
transmit information to central stations. Traditional phone
lines utilized for alarm
communications can
be eliminated.
Internet
alarm monitor-
ing eliminates
the many alarm
communication is-
sues that stem from
the telecommunica-
tions industry’s ongoing
switch to fiber optic cable for
digital signal transmissions.
While enabling faster alarm
transmissions, the FireWatch IP
communicator also increases supervi-
sion of connectivity between the central
station and alarm panel to every 90 seconds. Phone lines
are typically supervised once every 24 hours.
The FireWatch IP communicator merely connects to a fire
alarm panel’s standard telephone ports, no changes to the
panel’s existing configuration are required. All alarm trans-
missions are secured with the industry’s highest level of en-
cryption (AES 512 bit). This module’s fully-digital
transmission method also eliminates common dropouts in
modem communications caused by noise or other factors.
The FireWatch IP communicator is listed to UL 864 9th
Edition standards as compatible with multiple new and
legacy varieties of Fire-Lite alarm panels.
For more information, visit www.firelite.com.
Monitronics Renews “Five Diamond Central
Station Certification”
Monitronics International Inc, Dallas, TX, has renewed its
Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA) “Five Diamond
Certification.” This Certification testifies that 100% of its
central station operators have achieved proficiency and
certification by passing the CSAA Central Station On-Line
Operator Training Course.
These courses cover all phases of central station communi-
cations with customers, law enforcement, fire and emer-
gency services communications centers. This critical area of
communications is the life-saving link between the residen-
tial or business properties and the law enforcement, fire and
emergency services in local areas.
In order to achieve the “Five Diamond Certification,” each
and every operator must have not only passed the course,
but demonstrated: proficiency in alarm verification, which
helps reduce false alarms; proficiency in communications
with the Public Service Answering Points, such as the
Emergency 911 centers; knowledge of electronic communi-
cations equipment, including radio; an understanding of the
codes and standards of such organizations as Underwriters
Laboratories, Factory Mutual, the National Fire Protection
Association and others; and proficiency in the area of emer-
gency preparedness under a wide scenario of possibilities.
According to the CSAA, there are approximately 2,700 cen-
tral stations in the United States, which communicate and
interact with the law enforcement, fire and emergency serv-
ices agencies. Of this group, fewer than one hundred central
stations have achieved the “Five Diamond Certified” status.
Tri-Ed Puts “Emphasys” on Sound
Tri-Ed welcomes EMPHASYS to its team of vendor part-
ners. A comprehensive line of high-performance architec-
tural loudspeakers, EMPHASYS enhances Tri-Ed’s Home
Entertainment category. EMPHASYS speakers are de-
signed by engineers who won’t settle for less than superior
sound performance. In-wall, In-ceiling, Dual-Channel and
LCR cinema speakers are all available in a variety of popu-
lar configurations for customized installations.
“EMPHASYS is excited to introduce our line of loudspeak-
ers to integrators across the U.S. through Tri-Ed’s distribu-
tion channels,” says Keith Marshall, President of
EMPHASYS.
“Tri-Ed looks forward to a long and successful partner-
ship with EMPHASYS,” adds James Rothstein, Senior Vice
President of Marketing. “It’s part of our commitment to de-
livering the best products and brands to our customers.”
For more information, visit www.tri-ed.com.
ICRealtime Releases a Super Night Vision
Outdoor Zoom Camera
The feature-rich EL8000 from ICRealtime brings more
than cutting-edge style, with the built-in 30X (f3.3~99mm)
optical zoom lens and 10X digital zoom function, the camera
provides 300X of zoom capability. Users can utilize the
RS-485 interface remotely to manip-
ulate the zoom as well as
all of the cameras
internal functions
via the DVR.
The EL-8000 is
fully weatherproof
and is rated at IP66. It
has 6 built in IR’s that
can illuminate up to 150ft. If
longer distance of intelligent IR
is needed you can easily connect the
EL-IR1 illuminators on the spot to give
it up to 300ft. Built in motion detection lights on
the side flash red when motion is sensed and stay
blue when idle.
The El-8000 features “Serve Ease” which allows you
to remove the camera from it mount without discon-
necting the camera from the wall. This feature makes
service and installation quick and simple. The camera
June 2009 • The Handshake / 13
hers… Protect Yourself and Others…
june issue 2009:Layout 1 6/9/2009 4:19 PM Page 16 Protect Yourself and Others…
tivity Report Unlicensed Activity Report Unlicensed Activity
Toll-free at: Toll-free at:
1-866-532-1440
or e-mail: Industry News
1-866-532-1440
or e-mail:
ULA@dbpr.state.fl.us ULA@dbpr.state.fl.us
incorporates an Intelligent CDS control technology spot. Specially designed power circuit enables the
hers… that triggers the mechanical day/night filter accu-
Protect Yourself and Others…
rately. This filter is switched on and off with the
camera to be operated from DC12V to DC30V maxi-
Protect Yourself and Others…
mizing the reliability of the unit from power fluctua-
tivity Report Unlicensed Activity
image changing between color and b/w at 5 lux out-
door darkness.
Report Unlicensed Activity
tions. This broad tolerance of power variations
accepts most unstable power supplies without failure
With user friendly IR Link outputs, installers can before or after installation.
Toll-free at:
easily connect the ICR EL-IR1 illuminator on the Toll-free at:
For more information, visit www.icrealtime.com.
1-866-532-1440 1-866-532-1440
or e-mail:
ULA@dbpr.state.fl.us Rollacard Index
or e-mail:
ULA@dbpr.state.fl.us

hers… ect Yourself

Protect
Prot thers…
Yourself and OOthers… Protect Yourself and Others…
tivity RReport Activity
eport Unlicensed Activity Report Place yourActivity
Unlicensed business
at:
Toll-free at:
Toll-free Toll-free at:
card here in
1-866-532-1440 The Handshake
1-866-532-1440
-mail:
or ee-mail: or e-mail: Contact: Susan Brady
UL A@dbpr.state.fl.us
ULA@dbpr.state.fl.us at: 772-334-3249
ULA@dbpr.state.fl.us

14 / The Handshake • June 2009

june issue 2009:Layout 1 6/9/2009 4:19 PM Page 17

Rollacard Index

Nicholas Perry 3600 Commerce Boulevard

Business Development Kissimmee, FL 34741
Manager
866-400-2130
nperry@marlincentral.com
EF-20000519 www.marlincentral.com
Listed

A True Central Station Partner

June 2009 • The Handshake / 15

june issue 2009:Layout 1 6/9/2009 4:19 PM Page 18

What is It?
Try your luck at guessing what this picture is and win a prize.
A hint: the item relates to the alarm industry in some way.
Email the correct answer to:
Susan Brady
handshake@fla-alarms.org

Win an LED Flashlight from Tane Alarm

Products.
RULES, RULES AND MORE RULES
Here they are:
1. Guess what the pictures is.
2. Provide a detailed description of the item, product, or
service depicted in the picture.
3. Provide a description of what the item did, does or is
supposed to do.
4. Email the answer to Susan Brady. The first correct
answer wins. Do to latency in email services, emails
within 5 minutes of the time stamp shall be considered to
be concurrent. The most complete email description will be
judged the winner.
5. Any email containing derogatory comments about the
photo or anything related to the photo will be automati-
cally disqualified, regardless of accuracy.
6. One win per member company per calendar year.
7. Only member companies may participate, although any
member of that company may attempt an answer.
8. The picture will be published in The Handshake in
print. Due to delivery delays, the photo will also be pub-
lished on the website the day of, the day before, or the day
after the mailing of The Handshake. You will not be noti-
fied. Check the website regularly or wait to receive The
Handshake in the mail.

Complete contest rules are available

at: www.fla-alarms.org
or you can call the AAF office at:
954-748-7779
For Members Only

16/ The Handshake • June 2009

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