How to Arm a Security System: Stay and Away Modes

You have to arm your security system to use it, we all know that. What many of you may not know is that there are two arming modes: “Away” and “Stay.” Most security systems come with these arming modes. The two settings are very different and each are designed for different applications. We’re here today to explain in greater detail how “Away” and “Stay” function. Empty Home – Put It “Away” The “Away” mode is used whenever you leave the house and there’s nobody else home. Arm your security system in “Away” before you leave and it’ll protect your entire home. Every single sensor of your security system will be armed - exterior sensors, such as Door/Window Sensors and Glass Break Sensors, and interior sensors, such as Motion Detectors. Keep in mind that Motion Detectors are pet-friendly, as long as the pet doesn’t exceed 40 pounds. If you own a large pet, putting your system in “Away” might not be the best option. Instead, use the alternative. Tell Your Security System to “Stay” The alternative is putting your alarm system in “Stay” mode, which is used when you are home. Selecting this mode arms only the exterior sensors and not the interior ones. This allows you to freely move around your home, while still having protection on your doors and windows. If you’re not comfortable having all your interior sensors unarmed, don’t worry. The “Stay” mode is customizable, allowing you specify certain sensors to remain armed even when in this mode. This is perfect for any areas in your home that you rarely passed through. Bypassing a Sensor Along the same lines, you can also arm your entire system while specifying that certain sensors remain unarmed. This is called bypassing a sensor and is easy to do with a FrontPoint Security system. Straight from the Control Panel Quick-Start Guide:

“To bypass specific sensors while your system is armed, press the Bypass Button followed by the Master Code. Using the menu navigation buttons at the top right-hand corner of the panel, scroll to the desired sensor and Press OK."

Bypassing a sensor is great for situations where you want to keep your system armed, but need to move about or access a certain room. Good examples include:

• Keeping a specific window open while you sleep or want a cool breeze
• Disarming a motion detector in your bedroom so you don’t set it off in the night
• Disarming a motion detector in the room where your pet sleeps
• Disarming a sensor in a room where you’re making repairs or renovations

More Ways to Arm an Alarm System Arming your home security system has never been easier – or more convenient. The “Stay” mode allows you to move around your home uninhibited. There are multiple ways to arm your system as well, meaning there are no excuses! Arm your security system! Are you taking advantage of the different arming modes? Share us your thoughts on the “Stay” and “Away” modes in the comments below!