A system for monitoring a location may include a local agent device at the location, and at least one sub-system at the location. The sub-system(s) is in communication with the local agent device. The local agent device is configured to detect and automatically respond to a first event occurring at or within the sub-system(s) according to a first procedure. The local agent device is configured to contact a monitoring center that is remotely located from the location when the local agent device detects a second event occurring at or within the sub-system(s) according to a second procedure.