CELEBRATING OUR PAST.
SECURING YOUR FUTURE.
Since 1946, the dedicated men and women of Bay Alarm have brought their best each and every day. It’s been that way from day one and will continue for generations to come.
75 YEARS
OF BRINGING OUR BEST
Our first 75 years have been filled with innovation, security expertise, and personal service that’s the best in the business. We’re a third-generation family business that’s grown to become the largest independently-owned security company in the United States. We’re not sitting still, we’ll continue to go the extra mile today, and for generations to come.
EXPLORE BAY ALARM'S 75 YEARS OF HISTORY
This is the story of a family-owned company founded on a simple principle: “Do your absolute best every time and you’ll be successful.” You see, for the Westphals it’s never been about being the biggest, it’s always been about being the best. This principle is alive and well today and remains the backbone of the company’s culture.
The Bay Alarm story spans decades and reflects the dedication, accomplishments and professional pride that comes from being the best at what you do.
1946
1940s
The 40s and 50s saw sheer will and determination turn into a fledgling family business.
1946
Everett and Marj Westphal had a vision to help people protect what was most important to them, so they founded the Bay Alarm company in Oakland, CA.
1950s
1950s
For the next 10 years they operated the company from their home and processed billing and paperwork with a typewriter they rented for 25 cents.
1956
Growing steadily, Bay Alarm operations moved from the family home into its first company office on Marin Way in Oakland.
1960s
1960s
For Bay Alarm, the 60s brought new blood, new technology and a knockout punch to their biggest competitor.
1960
“Do your best each and every time and treat people the way you want to be treated”. This was the family mantra. This approach to the business proved successful as Bay Alarm welcomed its 1,000th customer in 1960.
1962
In 1962 the second generation of the Westphal family joined the company’s official ranks. Bruce Westphal graduated from San Jose State University and joined Bay Alarm.
1964
In 1964 with the need for more room, the company established its first central station at its new headquarters on 7th street in Oakland and Roger Westphal, Bruce’s brother, joined the company. Bruce and Roger would rotate sleeping on a cot in the central station when they were on 24-hour call.
Bay Alarm received a US Patent for technology that revolutionized the business.
1966
A true David and Goliath moment. 1966 saw Bay Alarm win an anti-monopoly suit against ADT paving the way for future growth, not only for the Westphal’s but for every independent alarm company in the country. Bruce Westphal went on to form the Bay Area Alarm Association.
1970s
1970s
A decade of new leadership and continued innovation.
1973
Staying true to its commitment to technological advancement, Bay Alarm built the first fully computerized Central Monitoring Station in California.
1974
In 1974, visionary and inventor Bruce Westphal became president of Bay Alarm Company. Roger and Bruce developed a strategy for acquisitions that would fuel the company’s growth for generations to come.
“Dad gave me an incredible foundation in knowing how to run a business. The principle he taught me was all decisions simply have to make business sense.” – BRUCE WESTPHAL
1976
In 1976, with an eye on diversification, Balco Properties was formed, allowing the family to extend its investments into technology and acquire commercial and residential real estate. Reed and Molly Westphal went on to play significant roles in the continuing success of this family-owned business.
1978
In 1978, Bay Alarm made its first acquisition of a security provider in California, purchasing Security Alarm Company.
1979
Under Roger’s leadership, Bay Alarm management and a team of software developers fully automated the Central Monitoring Station in 1979, creating newfound efficiencies that once again revolutionized the business.
“The first time we came online, we had all of these people just staring in amazement at it, including myself. What was so surprising was that it actually worked! We were now the first alarm company to be fully automated.” – ROGER WESTPHAL
Read Our STORIES
At Bay Alarm, we’re passionate about hiring people with great values. People who work hard, are true to their word, and put others ahead of themselves. Here are their stories.
View More Stories
Melodie Rincon is the epitome of the Bay Way.
When Everett Westphal started Bay Alarm 75 years ago, he believed in having a strong work ethic, giving your absolute best to every challenge, and treating people with the utmost respect. Melodie is all of that and more. Going out of your way to help people comes naturally to Melodie. While others might be surprised…
Mike Evans is a natural problem solver, teacher, and leader.
At Bay Alarm, we’re passionate about hiring great people with great values. People who work hard, are supportive of their teammates, and help to bring out the best in others. Mike embodies all these qualities. Mike is a Bay Area native who’s been part of the Bay Alarm family for nearly 15 years. He’s always…