Category: Featured

Celebrating 50 years!

Posted on by Angelique Armstrong

In 1969 Charles (Buzz) Matheson began Howland Alarm Company out of his home with his wife Patricia. Over the years Buzz, Pat and their children Jesse and Cindy have grown Howland Alarm into the most recognizable and trusted name in security in Northeast Ohio.

The Matheson Family | Howland Alarm Company
Founders Buzz & Pat with President & Vice President Jesse & Cindy Matheson

Howland Alarm has come a long way in those 50 years. Hiring a staff of Installers, Service Technicians, Monitoring Dispatchers and Office Personal and expanding to offer Commercial Security, Cameras, Intercoms, Fire Protection, Access Control and more.

Jesse and Cindy Matheson | Howland Alarm Company
Jesse & Cindy (owners)

To celebrate the occasion several ‘Customer Appreciation Days’ were planned throughout the year. Cindy & Jesse wanted to show their gratitude for the loyal customers that have been the reason their local family business has flourished over the past five decades.

Customers enjoying lunch at Howland Alarm

Howland Alarm staff welcomed customers to come visit and be treated to breakfast or lunch on select dates. Fun was had by all!

Here’s to the next 50 years!

Customer Reviews

Posted on by Angelique Armstrong

We always appreciate feedback and kind words from our loyal customers here at Howland Alarm. We are 100% committed to offering new and existing customers the best service and products to fit all of their safety needs. Below are some reviews and comments of what our customers have to say about our services!

Andrew J- “We have and continue to be happy with not only their wonderful employee’s, but the great service they provide!”

Lisa E- “You’re the best, I sleep so much better knowing you’re watching over me.”

Jack H- “When we had our Howland Alarm system installed, I can’t remember how many times we set it off until we finally got the hang of it. And Each time a dispatcher called to check on us, they were very understanding. A great LOCAL company, from the top down!”

Joe N- “Been using your services for 25 years now. Highly recommend!”

Donna M- “We love Howland Alarm. The best family owned business that keeps us feeling safe.”

ML R- “ We love Howland Alarm! No longer do we worry when we leave the house. We are covered. Thank you Howland Alarm!”

Kathy A- “Keeping us safe since 1992!”

Janice C- “Best Alarm company around. Honest and good people! Have had their system in my house and rental property for 30 plus years.”

Gary J- “I love the company and I love the family! Doing business with Howland Alarm is the most easiest service around the tri-county area. Thank you Howland Alarm Company!”

Joe N- “I’ve used Howland Alarm for 25 years. Their service is outstanding.”

Debbie L- “Long time customer here. I would not go anywhere else! Great products! Great people, all of them! Great service, always!”

Lisa E- “Fast and Friendly workers. No mess. Leaves a peace of mind. Many options to choose from. I believe being a family business, they care about families and family safety. To me, that makes a huge difference in their approach. Thank you Howland Alarm.”

Jacob C- “Best customer service I have ever had from any company ever!”

Ed A- “Great install, installers friendly and professional! Office personal friendly as well and it’s nice calling local if there is a question that you have. A company that has been around for a long time because of the great job that they do! Can’t say enough!”

Jim L- “Have used Howland Alarm for 15 years, got them into kid’s school and wife’s work. SUPERB SERVICE AND PEOPLE. I worked 20 years in police dispatch and they were quickest to dispatch alarms and correct problems if repeat false alarms. Would NEVER EVER use anyone else.

Jack H- “The entire staff are professional, courteous  and down to earth! Also very pleased the monitoring is done locally. The piece-of-mind we realized after their installation is priceless! Thank you Howland Alarm for all you do!”

Brenda M- “Feel totally safe with this family!! Always a phone call away.”


A big thank you to everyone who has left reviews for our page and to anyone who has used our services. If you are new and interested in learning more about what we have to offer, call us at 330-369-2956 or email us at [email protected]

New technology in the world of camera systems

Posted on by Angelique Armstrong

  Camera systems, commonly known as “CCTV” or “closed circuit television”, have been around since the 1960’s.  Over the years technology has advanced, as with any other electronic device. Howland Alarm has installed several types of camera systems to change with the times.  Ranging from VCR based analog systems, DVR based analog systems, DVR based HD/Hybrid systems, and the newest NVR based IP camera systems.

  The transition from DVR based analog systems to NVR based IP camera systems has been a great advantage to the consumer.  These advantages include but are not limited to:

  • Better picture quality (less pixelated picture).  Our most popular IP cameras are the 3/4MP cameras for either indoor or outdoor use, have I/R illuminators for night time viewing and can see up to 100 feet at night.
  • Longer recording time from the NVR.  Our standard NVR can record approximately 2-3 weeks depending on how many cameras are on the NVR. The NVR’s can be built with a larger hard drive for longer recording capabilities.
  • Continued ability to view images from smart phones, tablets, and computers.  This feature is great when you are away from your home or business so you can still view the cameras.
  • Comparable costs to installing an analog system, as the industry is phasing out analog cameras and prices are increasing to meet the demand making IP and Analog systems nearly the same price.

  Our qualified sales representatives can assist you with designing a custom system to fit your needs and concerns.  They are available day/evening hours and can meet you on-site to survey the property for an accurate quote. We have installed smaller 4 camera systems as well as larger systems exceeding 32 cameras.  Call us for more details or to schedule an appointment for an on-site survey.

[email protected] 330-369-2956

Common Reasons Why a Home Burglar Alarm is Important!

Posted on by Angelique Armstrong
  •     The average burglary takes place between 10am and 3pm.  Where are you during those hours?  At work, school, grocery shopping, working out at the gym, helping at your child’s school, or taking care of a loved one.  The list is endless as we all live busy lives with no time to deal with the stress of a break-in. Chances are your neighbors will be away from home during these times as well, reducing the chance the criminal will be spotted and the police department called. Having a burglar alarm with local monitoring will give you the ability to feel comfortable leaving your home knowing someone is monitoring your alarm to dispatch the proper authorities when needed.
  •     A home burglary can start and finish within 10 minutes.  Most seasoned criminals know what they are looking for, collect what they can and leave the premises.  However, they could return at a later time if they know you will not be home. Installing a burglar alarm with a siren will help deter the criminal from wanting the stay in your home.  Police will be notified by our local monitoring station along with yourself, friends, relatives or neighbors of your choosing.
  •     Over 30% of home burglaries start with an unlocked door or window.  Was it warm outside last night and you forgot to lock the bedroom window?  Having your doors and windows protected from opening is a great first line of defense.  It is good practice to check all doors and windows before you go to bed to ensure they are closed and locked.  We can custom program the doors and windows to have no delay time, so when the door or window is open the alarm automatically triggers the siren to sound.  
  •     Home invasion is a very real and scary thing!   Someone is home during nearly 3 out of 10 burglaries.  Having your burglar alarm armed while you are home is always a great idea.  Most people feel they only need it while they are away from home but that is not always true.  
  •     The average loss per burglary is nearly $2300.00, not to mention sentimental items that are not replaceable.  Compare the average cost of the loss to the average cost of a burglar alarm that starts at around $500.00.  There is no comparison!
  •     Burglars typically head to the bedrooms first.  They know most people hide their valuables in their bedroom; items such as jewelry, fire arms, and cash.  Along with having the windows/doors protected, we also recommend that you add an “inside trap”. This is usually a motion detector in the hallway of the bedrooms or other high traffic area to catch them before they ever get to your valuables.
  •     Burglars tend to avoid homes with a burglar alarm.  When you purchase a system from us, we will provide you will signs for your property and decals for your doors/windows.  They are a great deterrent and make a burglar think twice about trying to enter your home. If they do decide to burglarize your home with a monitored system, the siren will sound and we will dispatch proper authorities.  

Call us today for a free no obligation quote from one of our qualified sales representatives at  330-369-3956 or email us at [email protected]

Stats courtesy of safewise.com

Why Use Howland Alarm Company For Your Security Needs?

Posted on by Angelique Armstrong

Over the past, nearly 50 years, since I have been in the business I have heard this question more times that I can count.  And it’s my favorite question to answer.  The reason I like this question is that I get to explain the differences between us and our competitors.

Howland Alarm is a family owned business.  You may ask, how does that benefit me?  A family owned business is a reflection of the family.  Therefore, a family owned business has a lot at stake.  We will go that extra mile to make sure you are satisfied and to honor our family name.  We have roots in the community and often see our customers around town, and want the ability to hold our head high.  The company was started by our Dad, Charles (Buzz) Matheson and Mom, Patricia Matheson and then continued by Jesse and I when we took over the business in 1987 and purchased the company.  Now we are proud that the tradition is continuing by having our sister Charlotte, Jesse’s daughter Samantha, and Charlotte’s son Jake all involved in the business.  With nearly zero turnover rate, you will be able to call back 5-10-20 years later and still speak to the same person that sold you the system.   Another benefit to being local is, if you ever want to come into the office to ask questions or do minor repairs to your system yourself, then you know where we are and can stop in anytime Mon-Fri 9am -5pm.

Howland Alarm was started in 1969!  So that means 2019 will be 50 years in business!  We have the experience needed to offer and design the system that best fits your needs.  The security industry has some of the largest turnover rate.  In the past I have pulled out old phone books and would be amazed how many companies would come and go in our area.  We also believe in keeping up with the ever changing pace of the security industry by taking continuing education classes.  We are licensed with the State of Ohio for installing commercial required Fire Alarm systems.  We have an A+ rating with the BBB.  And we are WBENC – certified (Women Minority Business).

Howland Alarm owns/operates it’s very own Monitoring Station, right here in Trumbull County.  By owning our own monitoring station, we have control over how each account is handled. We can assure our customers the fastest response in the industry and greatest knowledge of our community and emergency situations that may happen.  If the monitoring station is located in a different State or even different COUNTRY, the response could be slower than normal.   I remember one time, our 911 office flooded.  The 911 station was closed for several days, the phone number to 911 just rang and rang, with no answer.  Since we were local, we were able to locate the emergency numbers and get police dispatched for our accounts, anyone with “out of the area monitoring” did not have police response for several days!

Howland Alarm, uses Honeywell product line for our burglar alarm systems.  I love Honeywell!  They are the largest and oldest American made manufacturer of alarm equipment.  They have the best technical assistance in the industry!  We have been using that product line for nearly 50 years.  Honeywell was known as Ademco, back many years ago, but changed names when Honeywell bought them out.  We believe in staying with the same manufacture. It allows us to always have the right parts needed to do any repairs.

Howland Alarm will never lock you out of your equipment, use proprietary equipment, or bind you to long term contract for monitoring.  I have always felt that customers should stay with us for monitoring because they want to and feel they are getting great value. Not because they HAVE to stay.   By signing a contract with an alarm company you are bound to that company. Your hands are tied and you cannot use a different company even if you are unsatisfied.  Benjamin Franklin said it best when he said “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten”.  I caution you to investigate what exactly are you getting and if there are any hidden cost or contracts.  Watch out for the fine print!

There are many other valid points I could tell you about but maybe it would just be best if you to stop in at our business office (2489 Niles Cortland Rd., N.E., Cortland, Ohio 44410) or call 330-369-2956 Howland Alarm.  We are always glad to answer your questions and all too eager to let you know the benefits to using us for all your security needs.

Thank you for your time and interest in Howland Alarm.

Cindy Matheson – President

Behind The Scenes

Posted on by Angelique Armstrong

I thought it would be nice to explore behind the scenes at Howland Alarm.  So many members of our staff you will never meet, yet they are vital to the daily operation of the business.

I am going to at least introduce you to the business office staff and the monitoring Central Station manager, so you can have a glimpse into our behind the scenes.

Jennifer Prater, the business office manager, has been with us since 2003.  Jenjen is definitely my right hand at the business office.   She works in accounts receivable and customer care, and helps where needed.  Jen is trained in every job at the business office and the monitoring department.  Jenn was raised in Howland and now resides in Champion with her husband Rob (an installer for our company).  They have 2 dogs, enjoy camping, and coming to bluegrass shows with Mitch and I.

Beverly Cleaves, has been with us since 2013.  Bev is very organized and responsible.  Her work is top notch!  She is responsible for scheduling service and accounts receivable.  She is the one that will greet you (with a smile) if you should come into our business office.  Bev was raised in Champion and now resides in Howland with her husband Chuck, daughter Catie, and son Michael.  Their son Zach has moved out of the area.

Megan Tolley, has been with us since 2016.  Megan stepped into the position of scheduling installs and helping with filing, scanning and other office jobs.  She has brought a ray of sunshine to the office.  She sweet, caring, and always in a good mood.  She will always do her best to make everyone happy.  I love having her as part of our work family, I feel like I have known her all her life.  Megan grew up in Mineral Ridge and still resides in Mineral Ridge with her husband Dave and two of the cutest boys you have ever seen, “Bentley and Ashton”.

Debra Landis “Debbe” is my BFF, I have known Debbe since we were 2 years old.  She began working in the business with us in 1990.  She is the manager of the monitoring – Central Station.  She is responsible for the hiring and organizing of the call center and she also still works in the daily operations of that office.  I have never met a more honest and sweet person in all my life.  She will do her very best to make sure the customer is taken care of.  Debbe was born in Howland, and the family moved to Kinsman in 1974.  Which absolutely devastated me, since we were inseparable.  Even with Debbe living in Kinsman, we were able to retain our close friendship through all these years.  Debbe lives in Kinsman with her husband Walt, son Nick and mom Judy (previous employee of Howland Alarm, until her retirement). Debbe and Walt also have a daughter Courtney, who lives in Kinsman, and that has blessed them with two beautiful grandchildren. (Kyliegh and Hunter).  Enjoying their grandchildren is their favorite hobby.

Cindy Matheson – President

Feeling Safe While We Make You Safe

Posted on by Angelique Armstrong

Feeling safe while we make you safe.

I know it is difficult to let someone you don’t know, come into your home and install or service your system.  Let me reassure you, our installers and service techs are 100% trustworthy.   Each are well trained, bonded, and insured to meet all state requirements.

Jesse, the vice president, is still an installer.  He focuses his expertise to the commercial side of the business at this point.  However, he is still available for those unique situations that the other installers may run into.  With over 40 years of experience installing, there is no situation that Jesse cannot handle.

Mitch Meadors Jr., has been a part of the business since 2003.  He specializes in camera networking and computer related installs.  However, he is still very active in the home and commercial installation department too.  Mitch is from Leavittsburg, and is engaged to Cindy.  Cindy and Mitch share a 15 year old son, Mitchel.   Bluegrass Music is a big part of his and Cindy’s life. They have an annual Bluegrass Jamboree at the Trumbull County Fairgrounds the 3rd weekend in July.  It is slated for July 18-20th, 2019.   Mitch is an accomplished musician, and performs on weekends with Caney Creek.

Rob Prater has been a part of the business since 2012.   He is both residential and commercial installer.  He is Jesse’s right hand man helping with large commercial fire alarms and other jobs.  Rob is from Howland, and now resides in Champion with Jennifer Prater (Howland Alarm office manager).  They have 2 dogs and love to go camping.

Eric Rhodes was hired in 2013.  Eric is both residential and commercial installer.  Eric is a very hard worker and willing to go that extra mile to make sure the customer is taken care of.  Eric is from Howland and now resides in Warren, with his wife Lexi and their son “Vincent” (born April 2018).

Our service department consist of two of the best guys you could ever know, and the best service team in the industry.  Service after the sale, is something that we pride ourselves on, we will always strive to satisfy our customers.

Greg Sampson, has been with the company since 1987.   I could never say enough good about Greg’s work.  He not only does service and sales, also installs when needed.  He has worked in every facet of the business and can do it all!

The customers love him and his work, and so do we.  Greg was born in Little Hocking, Ohio and now resides in Mecca Twp. He has a beautiful daughter “Anna” that he shares with his partner, Julie.  Greg loves motorcycles and the beach.

Todd Littell has been with our company since 2009.  Todd is our full time service technician.  Always eager to help the customer making sure the problem is corrected and the customer is satisfied.  Todd is one of the most compassionate people that I have ever met, and it shows in his dedication to the customers.  If you need him to come for a service call, I promise you will feel like you have known him all of your life.  Todd was raised in Howland and still resides in Howland with his beautiful wife Tracie.  They share two beautiful children, Ashley and Brandon.

Our staff feels like our family.  Every one of them are a blessing that I appreciate every day.

Cindy Matheson – President

Meet The Howland Alarm Sales Team

Posted on by Angelique Armstrong

I would like to introduce you to our sales representatives. I feel we have the best team in the business! Our team will help design a system that fits your life, and budget. We have always believed it is important to educate our customers as to the types of security available, and listen to their concerns to achieve the perfect fit for their security needs.

Jake and Charlotte leaning against Howland Alarm Company car
Charlotte and her son Jake

Meet Charlotte (Matheson) Daugherty

Charlotte is the sister of Jesse and Cindy. Charlotte has been handling our burglar alarm residential sales for the last twelve years. It was a blessing to have her come into the family business and take on the residential side of the business. Being raised in the home where Howland Alarm was started almost 50 years ago, she was a perfect fit for the position. She is always eager to take the extra time to explain our options to you and help to design your residential burglar alarm.

Meet Jake Daugherty

Jake is the son of Charlotte, and the nephew of Jesse and Cindy. While attending Kent State University, Jake worked for us in every facet of the business. Since graduating in 2015, Jake has joined us in a full time position. Jake is our residential camera expert. He knows more about the cameras then any one person should know. He can help you design the perfect camera system to fit your needs, and explain the differences in the cameras. There are hundreds of options when considering cameras, let Jake help you to make the right decision.

Samantha Kropp of Howland Alarm Company - Commercial Sales Specialist
Samantha Kropp – Commercial Sales Specialist

Meet Samantha (Matheson) Kropp

Samantha is the daughter of Jesse and Cindy’s Niece. Samantha is our Commercial representative for everything from Burglar Alarms, Commercial Fire Alarms, Cameras, Card Access, Door Release, Intercoms, and more. Samantha has been in the family business for many years, working in monitoring, business office, and now as our Commercial representative. Her knowledge and professionalism is a major asset to our company. Let Samantha help design the perfect system for your security needs.

Howland Alarm Company Stop Sign Logo | Howland Alarm Company

Jesse and I are still involved in the daily operations and are here to help if our team needs our expertise. We have been in the business since 1969, and Jesse and I have been running the company since 1987 when dad “Buzz Matheson” retired. Call and schedule an onsite visit for a free, no obligations estimate from one of our sales representatives today.

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Cindy Matheson – President of Howland Alarm

Meet Jesse – Vice President of Howland Alarm

Posted on by Angelique Armstrong

Jesse Matheson started with the company at the age of 11, as an “attic rat” running wires for his dad “Buzz”. After graduation in 1980 he became our full time installer. He has worked in the field, starting with the small jobs and has grown into the large commercial jobs. In 1987, Cindy and Jesse took over the company, growing from the foundation laid down by Buzz. He became Vice President of the company in 2010 and holds a State of Ohio license to install fire alarms under the NFPA standards.

Personal Life

Jesse has 2 daughters (Sam/Brian and Nicole/Kevin), 2 grandsons (Bryce/Jordyn) and his wife Barb. He’s a dog lover with 6 dogs at home: Shotzy, Buster, Mugsy, Petey, Ringo, and Teddy. In his spare time, he enjoys riding his Harley and judging body building contests such as the Arnold Classic. From time to time, he will sing in the family band alongside his mom, dad, sister and nephew. Vacationing to the Florida Keys has become a yearly tradition for him and his wife.

Making Howland Alarm The Best

Howland Alarm has been a part of Jesse’s life since he was 11 years old. The company continues to grow and expand, and has incorporated the 3rd family generation. He has instilled in hid employees the value of customer service, and we believe it is one of the main reasons the company has been so successful.

Where You Can Find Us

Howland Alarm has served the Valley since 1969. Contact us for all of your security needs.

You can find us weekdays at:

2489 Niles Cortland Rd. NE Cortland, Ohio 44410

Or call us anytime: (330) 369-2956

Email us: [email protected]

Meet Cindy – President of Howland Alarm Company

Posted on by Angelique Armstrong

Cindy Matheson started with the company at 9 years old working for her dad Charles “Buzz” Matheson, filing and book keeping after graduating from Howland. She started full time in 1980 and has worked in all facets of the company, even going out on the occasional service call. In 1987 she and her brother Jesse took over the company, growing from the foundation laid down by Buzz. She became president of the company in 2010 and holds a certificate with the WBENC, women/minority business owners.

Personal Life

Cindy has a 15 year old son and a fiance that works at Howland Alarm as well. She’s a dog lover with three dogs at home: Tippy, Guy and Cotton. In her spare time, she enjoys playing Dobro in a Bluegrass band called Family Pride alongside her mom, dad and son. This year she started an annual bluegrass Jamboree, with her fiance Mitch that will continue on next year during the 3rd weekend of July. She is also an avid bowler, and has been on a bowling league for 35 years. There has never been a beach vacation she didn’t like, and she has mastered the skill of boogie boarding.

Making Howland Alarm The Best

Howland Alarm has been a part of Cindy’s life since she was 9 years old. The company continues to grow and expand, and has incorporated the 3rd family generation. She has instilled in her employees the value of customer service, and we believe it is one of the main reasons the company has been so successful.

Where You Can Find Us

Howland Alarm has served the Valley since 1969. Contact us for all of your security needs.

You can find us weekdays at:

2489 Niles Cortland Rd. NE Cortland, Ohio 44410

Or call us anytime: (330) 369-2956

Email us: [email protected]