FAQs | Blink Vigilance

We’ve included some frequently asked questions so you can better appreciate the convenience, reliability and comprehensive nature of the Vigilance brand. If you need more answers that aren’t covered here, be sure to send us an email through our Contact Form.

General Questions
- Why Blink Vigilance Alarm Monitoring Service?
  - Blink Vigilance Alarm Monitoring service is a home and business security solution. TSTT is establishing a legacy as a leading security systems supplier that provides reliable technologically advanced security solutions for your family, home and business.
- What is Blink Vigilance Alarm Monitoring Service?
  - Blink Vigilance Alarm Monitoring Service utilizes a fully supervised wireless GSM alarm system, which is monitored 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, by TSTT’s in-house Alarm Monitoring Centre.
- What are the benefits of the system?
  - With Blink Vigilance alarm monitoring service individuals and small/medium sized businesses can finally feel secure. Blink Vigilance provides an easy to use, state of the art, wireless security solution, with continuous monitoring of secured properties and ultimately, peace of mind. Citizens of Trinidad and Tobago can finally install an affordable, theft/tamper proof security solution to help protect their personal items and safeguard their families, homes and businesses.
- How does this service work?
  - The GSM Cellular Communication Module connects the alarm system to the central station via TSTT’s GSM cellular network. It is recommended for every home/business as a primary communication line in case of line failure or tampering with standard telephony lines. In addition, it supports remote operation and event reporting via SMS.
- Is the alarm system easy to use?
  - The alarm system chosen by Blink Vigilance is extremely easy to use and can be armed/disarmed with a simple touch of a button via the wireless keyfob. The ‘User Guide’ is also user-friendly and provides easy to understand diagrammatic instructions for users.
- How does this service work?
  - The GSM Cellular Communication Module connects the alarm system to the central station via TSTT’s GSM cellular network. It is recommended for every home/business as a primary communication line in case of line failure or tampering with standard telephony lines. In addition, it supports remote operation and event reporting via SMS.
- How does Blink Vigilance alarm monitoring service compare to other providers?
  - No up-front cost. TSTT’s Vigilance alarm monitoring service absorbs the cost of the alarm equipment; only charging customers a monthly monitoring fee. We require no up-front fee for the equipment. TSTT also has the greatest reach and coverage in T&T.
    In addition, the alarm system used for Blink Vigilance alarm monitoring service is completely wireless and has a built-in GSM component deterring theft and tampering.
- Is this service available in all areas?
  - This service is available in all areas where TSTT’s GSM coverage exists.
Questions on Vigilance Packages
- What is included in a Vigilance Bronze Alarm Monitoring package?
  - 1 GSM Enabled Control Unit with an activated Sim
  - 2 Magnetic Contacts
  - 1 Motion Sensor
  - 1 Keyfob
  - SMS Alerts
- What is the typical cost of a Vigilance Bronze package?
  - The Vigilance Bronze alarm residential package-Alarm centre subscription service is $199/month, based on a two- year contract.
- What is included in a Vigilance Silver Alarm Monitoring package?
  - 1 GSM Enabled Control Unit with an activated Sim
  - 3 Magnetic Contacts
  - 2 Motion Sensors
  - 2 Keyfobs
  - SMS Alerts
- What is the typical cost of a Vigilance Silver package?
  - The Vigilance Silver alarm residential package-Alarm centre subscription service is $299/month, based on a two-year contract.
- What is included in a Vigilance Gold Alarm Monitoring package?
  - 1 GSM Enabled Control Unit with an activated Sim
  - 1 Keypad
  - 5 Magnetic Contacts
  - 3 Motion Sensors
  - 2 Keyfobs
  - SMS Alerts
  - Opening & Closing Reminders
- What is the typical cost of the Vigilance Gold package?
  - The Vigilance Gold alarm residential package-Alarm centre subscription service is $499/month, based on a two-year contract.
- How would I know exactly what package is suitable for me?
  - The size/ build of your home will determine the size and type of package that will be suitable. However, customers can start out with a basic package and scale upwards as they see fit, or on the advice of the installers.
Questions on Equipment & Installation
- Are there any Installation charges?
  - Installation costs will be waived during the introductory phase. Thereafter, it will be $200, $300 and $400 for the Basic, Premium and Elite packages, respectively.
- Will I own the equipment?
  - No, the customer does not own the equipment. The alarm system remains the sole property of TSTT, who will service and/or replace the equipment at no cost to customers, if there are Manufacturer equipment defects. The system is provided to customers on a contractual basis, and only a monitoring fee is charged. Upon cancellation of the contract, all equipment must be returned to TSTT.
- How long does it take for the system to be installed?
  - Customers will be contacted within 96 hours, to set up an installation date and time. Installation times may vary, but it averages 2 hours.
- How will the alarm equipment be installed?
  - The alarm panel needs to be installed in close proximity to an electrical outlet. Installers will secure the panel to the wall by drilling at least one (1) small hole for a screw to afix the panel to the wall securely. Customers can choose to have the panel secured by Heavy Duty Double-Sided Tape however, the customer will be responsible in the event that it falls from the wall.
Questions on Billing & Terms of Use
- Will I receive a separate bill for Blink Vigilance Alarm Monitoring service, or will it be consolidated with my monthly phone bill?
  - Blink Vigilance utilizes a stand alone billing process; customers will receive a separate bill for their alarm monitoring service which based on the bill date may be included in the monthly phone bill envelope.
- Where do customers go to deal with post-sales issues?
  - Customer’s may contact the TSTT customer service call centre at 824-TSTT(8788)
- Will TSTT provide armed response with the Vigilance Alarm Monitoring service?
  - Customers are encouraged to engage the services of any armed guard response provider of their choice and provide the relevant information to TSTT’s Alarm Centre for contact in case of an intrusion. An armed guard response service will not be provided with the Blink Vigilance Alarm Monitoring service at this time.TSTT will still contact the relevant authorities and contact numbers provided upon detection of an intrusion, in keeping with the standard protocol.
- Are there any additional services provided?
  - Blink Vigilance also provides Medical Alert, fire and flood detection equipment/services. These services are available as additions to any of the various packages. For the entire list of services, please visit our website (http://tsttsecuritysolutions.tstt.co.tt)
- What are the implications, if a customer wishes to cancel their service?
  - If a customer wishes to cancel their service during their contractual period, they will incur a contract breaking fee equivalent to the balance contracted for the rest of the contract period. Customers must provide 30 days advance notice. All alarm equipment is the property of TSTT Security and must be returned upon cancellation.
- Can the system be installed by the customer?
  - No, this option will not be available to the customer. A trained TSTT installer is necessary for accurate installation and system programming. The installer will also need to inform the customer on the functions and capabilities of the alarm system. This is necessary to ensure that all warranties and guarantees are maintained, and also reduce the number of false alarms due to improperly placed equipment.
- Do I need to read TSTT’s terms and conditions?
  - Yes it is absolutely necessary to read and agree to the terms and conditions set out by TSTT. The Terms and Conditions forms a legally binding contract between TSTT and the customer, as such it must be read and fully understood. These terms and conditions safeguard both the customer and TSTT against any foreseen or unforeseen circumstances that may arise. These should be read before the customer signs the contract.
- What type of technical assistance is available?
  - For technical and non-technical queries, customers should contact TSTT’s customer service call centre at 824-TSTT(8788). Queries can also be emailed to Bevigilant@tstt.co.tt.
- Are listed prices inclusive of VAT?
  - All listed Prices are inclusive of VAT
Questions on Response Procedures
- Will my system be monitored 24/7?
  - The system will be monitored twenty-four hours a day, three hundred and sixty-five days a year. Customers can feel secure that their loved ones and possessions are protected at all times.
- How will I be contacted if my alarm goes off, while I am not at home?
  - The Alarm Monitoring Centre will immediately initiate calls to the customer’s designated numbers (in the order provided), including to the nearest Police Station. Customers also have the additional option to be contacted via text message when an alarm has been activated.
- How will I be contacted if my alarm goes off, while I am not at home?
  - The Alarm Monitoring Centre will immediately initiate calls to the customer’s designated numbers (in the order provided), including to the nearest Police Station. Customers also have the additional option to be contacted via text message when an alarm has been activated.
- If I am unable to be contacted, what other procedures are in place to ensure the security of my premises?
  - Customers are asked to provide more than one emergency contact for this very reason. The Alarm Monitoring Centre will first try to contact the customer, and then, will automatically dial all the assigned numbers until contact is made. The local police force or whichever armed guard response team that the customer has an arrangement with, will also be contacted.
- Can I utilize Blink Vigilance alarm monitoring service if I do not have a TSTT alarm system?
  - Because TSTT’s alarm equipment is provided at no cost to the customer, TSTT can simply install it’s own system and monitor accordingly.
- What is a wireless alarm system?
  - A Wireless Alarm System allows all devices in the home to communicate wirelessly back to the control panel. Typically wires and cables are run throughout the home to connect all devices. Our solution utilizes the latest in wireless technology, allowing for a minimum disruption in the home during the installation. This technology allows TSTT to quickly implement a security system and be operational and monitored within hours. Wired systems usually take a minimum of 2 days to install. Building on this philosophy of using Wireless technology, TSTT Security panel integrates a built in GSM Module that allow wireless communication to our Monitoring Center.
- How does a wireless alarm system work?
  - The wireless system has built in GSM capabilities. It leverages the strength of the GSM network, transporting all signals to the monitoring centre, where it is logged, actioned and tracked for any faults, activation or de-activation of the system.
- Would I need to have a cell phone or a landline, for the system to work?
  - A cell phone and/or landline are not necessary for the system to work. The alarm system includes a GSM Sim card, which is enabled to communicate with the alarm monitoring centre. However, for security purposes, the system can use the residents’ landline connection as a backup communication system. Therefore, a landline connection is ideal, but not necessary for the service to work.
- How does a wireless system benefit me?
  - A wireless system is beneficial because it significantly reduces the installation time and the customer can begin the monitoring service as quickly as possible; typical system can be installed within 2 hours. Also, because extensive wires do not have to be run or incorporated into the construction of the premises; it makes for a much neater and aesthetically pleasing system.
Questions on Maintenance
- What happens if there is a power outage?
  - The alarm system utilizes a battery back up in the event of power outages. The 4.8V battery pack can last up to 12 hours without power from an electrical outlet.
- How will I know when to change the battery?
  - Both the panel and the wireless sensors are powered by high-capacity lithium batteries that can last up to three (3) years, depending on the number of times the sensor is triggered into transmission. The keyfob transmitters used to control the system are powered by an alkaline battery that last about one year if you do not press a button more than 10 times a day.If and when a battery becomes weak, the sensors send a ‘low battery’ message to the control panel and a low battery trouble message is displayed together with the zone information.
- How long do I have to change the battery before it dies?
  - When a low battery indication appears for the first time, it may be considered as a pre-warning and usually has about 30 days of life left. The battery must be changed within 30 days.
Questions on Alarm Monitoring Specifics
- Does TSTT have the infrastructure to provide 24hr monitoring service?
  - Yes. TSTT currently monitors all of its own premises, utilizing its nationwide infrastructure, and is more than capable of providing this service to members of the public.
- Will I be able to view my residence from my cell phone?
  - TSTT is exploring Video Verification solutions and it should be available in the future.
- Can I arm/disarm my alarm from a landline/cell phone?
  - Yes. You can access the alarm system from a remote telephone and perform arming and disarming. Additionally, our GSM panels can respond to SMS commands from any cellular telephone.
- Can I arm/disarm my alarm before I enter the residence?
  - Yes you can. The wireless key fob, that is made available in all alarm packages, enables users to arm or disarm their system from up to 75feet away. It is recommended however that the system only be deactivated once you are ready to enter the property and that at all times the key fob is held in such a manner to allow for easy triggering of the alarm/panic button if needed.
- Can the system let me know when my children get home?
  - The system can be armed in the ‘Latchkey Mode’ to send an alert when the system is disarmed by a ‘latchkey user’. This is very useful for a parent at work who wants to be sure that his/her children have returned from school and have disarmed the system. Up to three (3) special user codes can be programmed to send out a ‘latchkey’ message when the system is disarmed by a ‘latchkey user’. This feature will only work if enabled by the installer.
- Can TSTT monitor rural locations?
  - Yes we can monitor rural locations. However, GSM service strength can affect the alarm equipment. To ensure complete coverage, and for an additional cost, the alarm equipment can also be connected to the user’s fixed line for back-up purposes.
Questions on Vigilance Capabilities
- How does TSTT compare to other recognized security providers?
  - TSTT, whilst being fairly new to the security market, has the most established infrastructure and the best available technology in Trinidad and Tobago. In addition, we have the experience gained from doing it for ourselves. TSTT also has the ability to exceed all standards in the area of coverage since mobile (GSM) service is available throughout the nation.Other competitors offer wireless alarm equipment, but additional equipment may be needed, making installation tedious, complex and expensive for the customer. Blink Vigilance offers, a built in wireless system that connects easily to the already established TSTT GSM network. Blink Vigilance offers newer technology and equipment at no up-front cost to customers; only an affordable monthly monitoring fee is charged.
- Do these providers offer similar solutions?
  - No other provider currently offer free equipment solutions; TSTT’s are the most affordable. TSTT’s alarm equipment is easier to install and use, and offers the greatest coverage and reliability in Trinidad and Tobago. TSTT’s alarm monitoring service is also the best available; the infrastructure is already established and the technology in use is superior to all others. Being new to a market has its advantages; TSTT has thoroughly analyzed the security systems currently in use, and has surpassed existing industry standards. Blink Vigilance is using the most innovative monitoring technology, as well as the very best in wireless home security equipment