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5 Reasons You Need a Robust Intrusion Detection System

Article posted on August 28, 2025

In the first half of 2025, non-residential burglaries across Milwaukee declined by approximately 18% compared to the first half of 2024, with overall property burglaries down 7%.

While it would appear that offices in Milwaukee are being targeted less often than before, the threat hasn’t vanished. If anything, criminals might actually consider this as an opportunity to take advantage of businesses that let their guard down.

The fact is that, even with a reduced crime rate, burglaries still occur. So, strengthening access controls, alarms, mobile monitoring, and real-time alerts can help offset any residual risks.

Here are five reasons your business needs to prioritize a robust intrusion detection system.

1. Criminals Look for Easy Targets

Most intrusions aren’t random. Criminals often case properties in advance, looking for gaps in security or signs of outdated systems.

A visible, professionally installed intrusion detection system sends a clear message that your business isn’t an easy mark. You can create a significant deterrent for intruders if you have a multi-layered system with devices like motion detectors and window sensors that send out perimeter alerts.

2. Protection That Never Clocks Out

Unlike human guards, digital systems don’t sleep, get distracted, or call in sick. Intrusion detection systems operate 24/7, keeping constant watch over all vulnerable entry points and restricted areas. 

Even after hours, you can stay informed and in control with real-time mobile alerts and system access from anywhere.

3. Faster Emergency Response

Today’s advanced systems trigger instant notifications to both internal staff and emergency responders. It’s not just a spray-and-pray alarm system. It’s targeted and highly effective. 

In the case of serious incidents like forced entry or gunshot detection, response time is everything. That’s why a robust system is needed, so you can get help where it’s needed, as quickly 

4. Smart Integration With Other Systems

A good intrusion detection setup shouldn’t operate in isolation. It should integrate smoothly with your access control, surveillance cameras, and lighting to yield the best results.

This lets you create automated responses, such as locking down areas or triggering lighting sequences, to protect your people and property more effectively.

5. Evidence and Reporting

In the event of a security incident, your system will be your best and most reliable witness. Logs, alerts, and video can provide time-stamped data to support investigations and insurance claims to ensure justice and security are maintained. 

Routine reports can also help you spot suspicious patterns or weaknesses before they become real problems.

To strengthen your security with a customized intrusion detection solution, contact Fearing’s and speak to a specialist about your facility’s needs.

Douglas Fearing- Co-Founder / President

A graduate of DeVry Institute of Technology, Doug has been in the Technology industry since 1976 and actively oversees Fearing’s daily operations. Along with his wife, Lois, and three others, Doug started Fearing’s in a 600 square-foot facility in Portage, Wisconsin. In the 25 years since, the company has grown to over 30 employees with offices in Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Doug likes to say he’s a “TV Technician with a dream� going back to his history with the family’s original business-Fearing’s TV and Appliance.

Doug values time with family, watersports, hiking, snowshoeing and skiing. In addition to being a devoted member of his church, Doug serves as Board President for Kinship Mentoring of Columbia County, Board member of Schools for Haiti and Scripture Chair of the Gideons-Portage camp.

Lois Fearing- Co-Founder/Accounting, Human Resources

A graduate of MATC, Lois oversees Fearing’s daily book keeping along with various HR responsibilities.

Along with Doug, Lois is deeply connected to community outreach, serving as a Board member and Fundraising Committee Chairperson for Kinship Mentoring of Columbia County. She also serves on the Schools for Haiti Fundraising committee. In addition, Lois’ ongoing passion and commitment to provide care for the elderly comes from her 10-year history of working in a Reedsburg, Wisconsin Nursing home.

Lois enjoys singing, hiking, sunny days on the pontoon, and spending time with her 4 grandchildren.

Ehren Tresner-VP of Technology and Innovation

Ehren drives Fearing’s technology by continually seeking out trends to enhance capabilities while supporting Sales, Engineering and Installation teams. Throughout his years with Fearing’s, Ehren’s talent and vision have joined forces to create a wide variety of projects and strategic solutions that exceed expectation.

Ehren loves music, family time, movies, nature, sustainability efforts and electric vehicles.

Ben Voeck-Director of Commercial AV

With 10 years with Fearing’s and over twice that long in the industry, Ben continues to lead, coordinate, and develop the Commercial AV team.

By consistently delivering an outstanding experience and outcome, Ben contributes to the Fearing’s legacy of long-lasting partnerships that truly make a difference. Whatever the Commercial AV need may be, Ben and team deliver at the highest level.

Ben is an avid fisherman and photographer. He enjoys coaching his sons and other youth.

Chris Matson-Senior VP of Sales

Chris has been with Fearing’s for 20 years and in the industry for over 2 decades. As a Certified leader in Sales Acceleration and trained in EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating Systems), Chris successfully utilizes his skills to lead the Fearing’s Salesforce. Chris and team are motivated and driven to develop new client partnerships while continuing to reinforce loyal long-term relationships with ongoing Service excellence.

Married for 19 years with 3 children, Chris enjoys skiing, hiking, fishing, boating, hunting, camping and golf. He’s also been actively involved as a Youth Football and Softball coach for his family and others.