Here are some helpful articles on how to keep your business and home safe and protected. We offer custom-designed, security systems for New Jersey businesses and residential homes. With the most cutting edge security solutions in the industry, you can trust GCSI Security Group’s highly qualified experts.

Environmental Alarms For The Home

Environmental Alarms For The Home

In the pursuit of eco-friendly living, integrating environmental alarms into your home is a forward-thinking choice. These alarms not only enhance the safety of your living space but also contribute to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. Join us as we explore the types of environmental alarms designed specifically for residential use, ensuring your home is a haven that prioritizes both your well-being and the planet.

Temperature and Thermostat Alarms: Tailored for home use, these alarms monitor indoor temperatures and alert you to deviations. Ideal for preventing frozen pipes in winter or maintaining energy-efficient cooling in the summer.

Humidity Monitoring Alarms: Protect your home from mold and allergens by employing humidity monitoring alarms. These devices alert you to changes in humidity levels, allowing for timely adjustments to maintain a healthy indoor environment.

Indoor Air Quality Alarms: Ensure the air your family breathes is clean and pollutant-free. Indoor air quality alarms detect harmful substances like VOCs and allergens, promoting a healthier living space.

Water Leak and Quality Alarms: Guard against water damage with leak detection alarms that notify you of potential leaks before they become disasters. Water quality alarms can also help you maintain the purity of your drinking water.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Gas Detection Alarms: Essential for home safety, these alarms detect the presence of carbon monoxide and other harmful gases, providing early warnings to prevent health hazards and potential emergencies.

Smoke and Fire Alarms with Environmental Sensors: Beyond traditional smoke detectors, modern alarms equipped with environmental sensors can detect not only smoke but also changes in temperature, enhancing your home’s fire safety measures.

Radon Gas Detection Alarms: Protect your family from the potential health risks associated with radon exposure. Radon gas detection alarms monitor radon levels in your home, ensuring a safe indoor environment.

Smart Thermostats with Environmental Integration: Combine energy efficiency with environmental awareness by opting for smart thermostats. These devices not only regulate temperature but also provide insights into your home’s energy consumption.

Elevate your home into an eco-conscious haven with the integration of environmental alarms designed for residential use. By investing in these technologies, you not only enhance the safety and well-being of your household but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle. Embrace the future of home living, where your space is not just a shelter but a harmonious blend of safety, comfort, and eco-awareness. Welcome to the green revolution in home monitoring!

 

Social Media: Guide to Avoiding Scams

social media scams

In the vast expanse of social media, where connections are made in the blink of an eye, there exists a parallel world of scams and deceptive practices. As technology advances, so do the strategies employed by cybercriminals seeking to exploit unsuspecting users. To fortify your digital fortress and navigate the social media landscape safely, it’s crucial to be armed with knowledge on how to avoid scams. In this blog post, we’ll explore practical tips to help you stay vigilant and secure in the digital realm.

  • Question the Unfamiliar: The internet is a vast and varied space, and not all that glitters is gold. Be skeptical of unsolicited friend requests, messages, or connection invitations from unfamiliar profiles. Cybercriminals often create fake profiles to establish trust before attempting to scam you.
  • Verify Before You Trust: Before engaging with any offer, promotion, or request, take a moment to verify the legitimacy of the source. Check for official website links, look for verification badges on social media profiles, and cross-reference information from reputable sources. Scammers often rely on imitating well-known brands or individuals to deceive users.
  • Guard Your Personal Information: Your personal information is the key to many scams. Be cautious about sharing sensitive details such as your address, phone number, or financial information on social media. Legitimate organizations will not request such information through direct messages on social platforms.
  • Beware of Phishing Attempts: Phishing is a common tactic employed by scammers to trick users into revealing sensitive information. Be wary of clicking on suspicious links, especially those sent through private messages or emails. Verify the authenticity of the sender before interacting with any external links.
  • Educate Yourself About Common Scams: Knowledge is a powerful defense. Stay informed about the prevalent scams circulating on social media, such as lottery scams, romance scams, and phishing schemes. Understanding the tactics employed by scammers empowers you to recognize red flags and protect yourself proactively.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Enhance the security of your social media accounts by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA). This additional layer of protection ensures that even if your password is compromised, an extra step is required to gain access to your account.
  • Report Suspicious Activity: Social media platforms provide tools to report and block suspicious accounts or activity. If you encounter a profile or message that raises suspicions, report it to the platform immediately. Your vigilance not only protects you but also contributes to a safer online community.
  • Stay Updated on Security Features: Social media platforms continually update their security features to combat evolving threats. Take the time to familiarize yourself with these features and regularly check and update your privacy settings to align with your security preferences.

In the dynamic realm of social media, the onus is on users to stay vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their online presence. By questioning the unfamiliar, verifying sources, guarding personal information, staying informed about common scams, enabling two-factor authentication, and reporting suspicious activity, you can build a robust defense against scams. Remember, a vigilant user is an empowered user—armed with knowledge, you can navigate the digital landscape safely and enjoy the benefits of social media without falling prey to malicious intent.

Enhancing Home Security with Outdoor Cameras

Integrating outdoor cameras into a comprehensive security system offers a range of benefits that can greatly enhance the safety and protection of your home. These cameras serve as vigilant sentinels, diligently monitoring the surroundings and providing an invaluable layer of security. From deterring potential intruders to capturing crucial evidence in the event of a security breach, outdoor cameras offer peace of mind and empower homeowners with enhanced control over their property’s security. 

 

In this section, we will explore the numerous advantages of incorporating outdoor cameras, including their ability to deter criminals, provide visual evidence, and offer remote monitoring capabilities. By understanding the benefits they bring, you can make informed decisions and take proactive measures to fortify the security of your home and loved ones.

Advantages of Installing Outdoor Cameras

Outdoor cameras play a crucial role in any comprehensive security system, providing an additional layer of protection for your home and property. In this section, we will delve into the numerous benefits of incorporating outdoor cameras and explore the different types available, such as fixed, pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ), and wireless options, highlighting their features and functionality.

One of the primary benefits of outdoor cameras is their ability to deter potential intruders. The presence of visible cameras can act as a powerful deterrent, making would-be criminals think twice before targeting your property. The sight of a camera often signifies that the premises are monitored, increasing the perceived risk and likelihood of getting caught. This proactive measure alone can significantly reduce the chances of a security breach.

In the unfortunate event of a security breach, outdoor cameras provide valuable visual evidence. By capturing high-resolution video footage, they can help identify intruders, record their activities, and provide crucial evidence for investigations and potential legal proceedings. This evidence can be invaluable in apprehending the perpetrators and recovering stolen property.

Moreover, outdoor cameras offer a sense of security and peace of mind. Whether you are at home or away, having the ability to monitor your property remotely provides reassurance. Many outdoor cameras offer remote viewing capabilities, allowing you to check live feeds or recorded footage from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. This feature enables you to keep an eye on your property, monitor suspicious activities, and ensure the safety of your home and loved ones, even when you’re not physically present.

When it comes to selecting outdoor cameras, there are various options to consider. Fixed cameras are a popular choice for their simplicity and affordability. They are typically mounted in a fixed position, providing a specific field of view. PTZ cameras, on the other hand, offer the flexibility of remote control to pan, tilt, and zoom, allowing you to cover a wider area and focus on specific points of interest. Wireless cameras provide the convenience of easy installation and flexibility in terms of placement, without the need for extensive wiring.

When evaluating outdoor cameras, consider their resolution, night vision capabilities, weather resistance, and connectivity options. High-resolution cameras ensure clear and detailed footage, making it easier to identify individuals and objects. Night vision capabilities enable cameras to capture clear images even in low-light or nighttime conditions. Weather resistance is crucial for outdoor cameras, as they need to withstand various weather conditions. Look for cameras with appropriate IP (Ingress Protection) ratings to ensure durability. Lastly, consider connectivity options such as Wi-Fi or Ethernet to ensure seamless integration with your security system and remote access capabilities.

In conclusion, the incorporation of outdoor cameras into a comprehensive security system offers a multitude of benefits that cannot be understated. These cameras act as a strong deterrent, discouraging potential intruders and safeguarding your property. Their ability to capture high-resolution video footage provides valuable visual evidence, aiding in investigations and ensuring accountability. Additionally, the convenience of remote monitoring empowers homeowners to keep a watchful eye on their property, even from afar. By harnessing the power of outdoor cameras, you gain peace of mind, knowing that your home is well-protected and that you have the tools to monitor and respond to any potential security threats. Make the wise investment in outdoor cameras and take proactive measures to fortify your security system, ensuring the safety and well-being of your home and loved ones.

Safety Tips For The Home

home security tips

Here are a few “Do’s” from our list of safety tips for the home

DO protect windows and doors:

First of all, make sure all your windows and doors are equipped with sturdy locks. Routinely check to make sure all your window and door locks are activated. In addition, a deadbolt lock is the best for an outside access door. Install a deadbolt which does not have an inside key. For sliding glass doors, reinforce your locks with a metal pipe and place it where your door slides. Furthermore, invest in a glass break sensor system.  If your door is compromised, your monitored alarm system will notify the central station.

DO make sure your home and surrounding property is well lit:

While you are not home, try to make it seem like you are. Motion-sensored outdoor lighting is an excellent deterrent. Make sure your porch and doorways are well lit to thwart off any attackers waiting for you to get home to gain access. For the indoors, enable timers to your lights to make it seem like someone is home. Finally, you can add a home automation system. You will be able to control your lights and security system from anywhere in the world.

DO use drapes or blinds to obscure line of sight into your home:

While advertising “what you have” is great for a business, it is not a great idea when it comes to home protection. Using blinds and drapes to cover your windows allows you to hide your valuables from sight. A good idea is to walk around your home and peer into your windows to assess what you can see. If you can see anything of value, try to move the items to obscure sight from the outside.

The Best Home Security System For Your Home and Family Is One Installed  And Monitored By a Professional.

Out of the approximately 2 million burglaries, which occur each year, three quarters of them happen  to residential homes.

DO lower the ringer on your home phone:

When not home, you want to lower your ringer volume on your home phone. By doing so, a person passing by your home will not be able to hear a phone call going to voicemail. An unanswered phone call is a clue, to a possible intruder, a home is vacant.

DO sleep with car keys near bed:

Nowadays most of us have key-fobs, equipped with a panic button on our car keys. If a home evasion or emergency situation occurs while you are in bed, setting off a car alarm could scare off an intruder and alert a neighbor to an emergency situation. For additional Security: A panic button near your bed can also be installed in connection with your home security system.

DO recheck all your window and door locks after a contractor has been in your home: 

We have all heard the stories in the news referencing a homeowner being burglarized by a  contractor they hired to do work on their house. Therefore, once a contractor has access to your home, it is very easy for them to unlatch a window and/or door locks for later entry. Recheck all window and door locks in rooms which any contractor has been into immediately after they leave.

9 out 10 convicted burglars admit they would avoid a home which they knew to have a security system. 

DO store fire wood or anything stackable away from the home:

Most break-ins occur through lower level entry, but if a burglar believes they can gain easy access through a second or third floor, they will try. Therefore, storing stackable items along-side your home is like leaving a ladder for a burglar to climb up.

DO  leave an extra set of keys with a neighbor or trusted friend:

A burglar would rather use a key to get into your home than to break in through a window or door. A burglar will take the time to look for a key in the “obvious” places. Consequently, hiding a key under your door mat or planter is a bad idea. If you do not feel comfortable leaving your key with anyone, another option is to invest in a keyless entry system. With a keyless entry system you never have to worry about locking yourself out of your house.

DO take the time to phone your delivery person or friend and give them the message directly:

Avoid leaving a “note” on the door.  A note left on the door for a delivery person or friend is basically puts a sign on your door saying “we are not home”. A note on the door can easily be seen by anyone walking or driving by your home.

In conclusion, following these simple home safety practices can help keep your home safe and protect your valuables.

Homeowner Insurance Discounts For Security Systems

home owner insurance

Insurance companies are giving huge savings to home owners who have monitored alarm systems installed in their home.

Homeowner insurance discounts: Insurance companies are rewarding their clients for protecting their homes. Savings for the home owner start at about 5% for homes which have smoke alarm, basic security system or deadbolts. Monitored alarm systems can bring in a discount of up to a 20% . A monitored  alarm systems contacts the appropriate authorities or Central Monitoring Station when an event triggers the alarm. The total savings can offset the price of the system, while offering a safer home to live in.

Big Savings! The average premium discount for a home equipped with a monitored alarm system is 20%.

Insurance companies are now offering such huge discounts for customers who have a monitored alarm system installed because modern systems are more reliable. The newer systems reduce claims. They are also capable of handling multiple safety concerns throughout a home. Most systems can offer the home owner these additional features installed right into their security system.  Such as; smoke, fire and flood alarms.

Investing in a monitored home security system can offer you the peace of mind your family deserves, as well as, save you money on your homeowners’ insurance.

In a study, conducted by Simon Hakin at Temple University, it was found that an alarmed single family home is 60% less likely to be broken in to. The study compared homes with alarms to a similar home without an alarm. Another study, conducted by Rutgers University, shows that advances in security technology makes systems more affordable, versatile and dependable than ever before. These technical innovations have increased the availability of home security systems to middle class homeowners and have reduced crime.

Home Automation For The Home

smart home for kids

Home Automation for the home is becoming the new “norm” in the modern house. The uses of these technologies are endless. From controlling our lights, appliances and home entertainment systems. Monitoring our security and safety.  In addition, saving us time and money.

Listed below are a few of my favorite Home Automation ideas:

There is safety in light

When the garage door is activated after dark, have your lights leading up to your front door automatically turn on.

I have tried motion sensor lights in the past to try to accomplish this…only to find myself spending my time jumping up and down in front of the sensors to try and activate them. Now the only time I have to jump up and down is at the gym, during a burpees set.

Saving energy is on everyone mind

Have the lights in a room automatically turn off when your motion detectors sense the room is vacant for a specified period.

This automation program has saved me time and money. I used to spend my nights trailing my children, as they jumped from room to room, leaving lights on everywhere. Now I just sit back and relax and let my Home Automation System, Control4, do the work for me. Bonus: My electrical bill is down 10%!

Always know when someone is entering or leaving your home

Program the lights in your house to flash briefly when any exterior door is opened.

My youngest, is an “escape artist”. Every time I turn around, he is heading for the outside. I spent a ridiculous amount of money on pricey locks to try and keep him from escaping (only to have him learn how to open them within days). Now every time my little opens an exterior, I am immediately alerted, no matter where I am in the house. 

and lastly…..

No more mold

Add a humidity sensor in your bathroom. You can have your exhaust fan automatically turn on when a room reached a certain moisture level.

This automation feature has cut my cleaning time in half.  Bonus: I no longer have to stand outside the bathroom door, yelling to, “PUT THE FAN ON”, when someone in my household is showering.

Geofencing With Home Automation

geofencing

For those of you who aren’t up to date on this latest technology trend… Geofencing is the use of GPS or RFID (radio frequency identification) technology to create a virtual geographic boundary or barrier, enabling software to trigger a response when a mobile device enters or leaves a designated area. Or more simply, with your house as “home-base”, you can set up an invisible parameter around it, which can be connected to and controlled by apps on your phone.

Now that you know about Geofencing…enter in Home Automation. How can we use the two technologies together to make the perfect pairing?

Once you have set up your geofence(s), you can connect it to your Home Automation system to have them work together. Basically, any Smart Home technology you have in your home can now work in conjunction with your geofence. Imagine a scenario where you have left your house and can’t remember if your locked your doors or if you set your security alarm. No worries! You can program your Home Automation System to automatically lock all your doors and set your alarm once you leave your geofenced parameters. No more losing time to turn back to check the locks!!

Let’s take it a step further…you can also program your Home Automation System to turn on (or off) your lights once you enter or leave your geofence parameter, as well as, adjust the temperature of house. This would save you time and energy use.

Worried about where your kids are going? You can set a parameter that when breached you will be automatically be alerted. A message will be sent directly to your phone. You can also set an alert to let you know when they get home.

Does “Fido” like to occasionally run off? You can purchase a smart dog collar for your furry friend and set up a geofence. You will be notified whenever you pal leaves their designated location to go chase after the mailman.

The possibilities only end with how far your imagination will bring you.

Advice From Top Home Security Experts

items burglars want

Top home security experts reveal that when a burglar enters your home there are certain items they are looking for. A burglar looks for items which are small, valuable and easy to remove. Some of the tops items in home break-ins are:

JEWELRY

It is very easy and lucrative for a thief to pawn or meltdown your jewelry to make quick cash. If you have any high value jewelry it is best to keep it in a safety deposit box at your local bank or in a bolted security box in your home.

CASH

Cash is a burglars’ favorite find. It is small, untraceable and has instant value. It is best to store your cash at your bank.

PRESCRIPTION DRUGS

Whether the burglar is an addict or not, prescription drugs have value. There is a huge market for these types of medicines and he/she can make a huge profit from selling them.

FIREARMS

Guns and weapons are one of the easiest things for a criminal to sell “on the streets” because they are always in high demand.  Guns should always be stored in a gun safe to stop them from being stolen or used against you in a home invasion.

ELECTRONICS

Smart phones, tablets, laptops, video game consoles, IPods®. Even though these items aren’t the least conspicuous thing to carry out of your home; they are one of the easiest to sell. A burglar will target these items because of their cash value. It is a good idea to have your family put them in a safe space after each use.

It is also important to remember the information you store on many of these items is personal and can aide a criminal to steal your identity. Identity thieves have risen over the years, mostly due to the sensitive information we store online. It is a good practice to store sensitive information on an external hard drive and to make sure it is stored in a secure location.

Video Doorbell For The Home

The latest trend in home security, the “smart” or video doorbell, has revolutionized the way we interact with our front doors. With its seamless integration with iOS or Android devices, this innovative device enables you to see, hear, and communicate with visitors at your door. But its capabilities extend far beyond being a mere doorbell. It acts as a vigilant video camera and a convenient two-way communicator, enhancing your home security and lifestyle.

Let’s explore how having a video doorbell can empower you to live smarter:

  • Remote Door Access: Whether you’re lounging on the couch or vacationing miles away, the video doorbell allows you to answer your door from anywhere in the world or within the comfort of your home. You can effortlessly see and converse with whoever rings your doorbell, ensuring you never miss an important visitor or package delivery.
  • Enhanced Security Footage: Your video doorbell serves as a watchful guardian, capturing any suspicious activity at your front door. Whether it’s an attempted package theft or a suspicious caller, the recorded video provides valuable evidence for future viewing and necessary action.
  • Peace of Mind for Child Safety: Ensure the safety of your children by having them ring the doorbell when they arrive home from school. This simple act gives you peace of mind, assuring you that your children have safely returned home. You can remotely verify their well-being and attend to any concerns promptly.
  • Uninterrupted Rest with “Do Not Disturb” Mode: When you desire uninterrupted relaxation or a rejuvenating afternoon nap, switch your video doorbell into “Do Not Disturb” mode to disable the chime. Even in this mode, you will still receive text notifications on your device, allowing you to catch up on any missed visitors or events when you awaken.Package Delivery Convenience: With the rise in online shopping, package deliveries have become a regular occurrence. A video doorbell simplifies the process by allowing you to communicate with delivery personnel even when you’re not at home. You can provide specific instructions or request them to leave the package in a secure location, ensuring your deliveries are safe and secure.Visitor Screening and Control: The video doorbell gives you the ability to screen visitors before opening the door. Whether it’s a salesperson, a solicitor, or a stranger, you can assess their identity and intent without compromising your safety. This feature is particularly valuable for vulnerable individuals or those living alone, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind.
  • Package Delivery Convenience: With the rise in online shopping, package deliveries have become a regular occurrence. A video doorbell simplifies the process by allowing you to communicate with delivery personnel even when you’re not at home. You can provide specific instructions or request them to leave the package in a secure location, ensuring your deliveries are safe and secure.
  • Visitor Screening and Control: The video doorbell gives you the ability to screen visitors before opening the door. Whether it’s a salesperson, a solicitor, or a stranger, you can assess their identity and intent without compromising your safety. This feature is particularly valuable for vulnerable individuals or those living alone, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind.
  • Deterrent Against Potential Intruders: The mere presence of a visible video doorbell can act as a powerful deterrent against potential intruders. Criminals are more likely to think twice before targeting a property equipped with surveillance technology. The knowledge that their actions are being recorded and their identities can be captured increases the overall security of your home.
  • Integration with Smart Home Systems: Video doorbells often integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, enhancing the overall functionality of your home automation system. You can create customized routines that activate lights, unlock doors, or adjust thermostats when the doorbell detects motion or a visitor rings the bell. This integration adds convenience and allows for a more connected and cohesive smart home experience.

By embracing the latest advancements in home security technology, such as video doorbells, you can create a safer and more intelligent living environment. Experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have control over who enters your property and the ability to monitor your front door from anywhere. Invest in a video doorbell today and take a significant step towards enhancing your home security and living smarter

Cellular Monitoring and Home Security

cellular monitoring

As a result of people getting rid of their landline phones, Cellular Monitoring is becoming the main way for an alarm system to “talk” to the central station.

For years, Cellular Monitoring has been used as a back-up system for POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service). It was only triggered when a landline was not working. It was set in motion when there was a power loss or a break in a line. Today, 25% of American households no longer have a landline. People are switching to cell phones as their only source of a phone. As more people get rid of their landline, Cellular Monitoring has become the new standard for home security solutions.

What Is Cellular Monitoring?

Cellular Monitoring is a wireless network which allows an alarm system to “talk to”  the central station. It can “talk to” the central station even when a landline is not working. It operates on a its own secure channel. The system sends a signal over a secure, encrypted transmission to the monitoring center if your alarm is triggered.

Benefits:

Cellular Monitoring is reliable. If phone lines are down or an intruder attempts to disable them your system will still be able to transmit a signal.

In addition, Cellular Monitoring is easy of install. The system is wireless, so there is no need for drilling and re-wiring.

Cellular technology also allows for remote access of your home. You can access your alarm system, from anywhere in the world. It all can be done through apps from your smartphone, tablet or laptop. There are many smart home technologies which become available when you run your system through cellular technology. Most noteworthy:

Remote Arm & Disarm
Remote Lock & Unlock
Climate Control
Lighting Control
Live Video Streaming
Real Time Alerts Via Text

With the shift towards cell phones as the primary means of communication and the decline of landline phones, cellular monitoring has emerged as the leading method for alarm systems to communicate with central monitoring stations. What was once used as a backup system for landlines has now become the new standard in home security solutions.

Cellular monitoring operates through a wireless network, enabling alarm systems to transmit signals to the monitoring center even when landlines are down or compromised. This reliable communication channel ensures that your system can still alert authorities in the event of an intrusion or emergency.

One of the key advantages of cellular monitoring is its ease of installation. Since the system is wireless, there’s no need for extensive drilling or rewiring, making it a convenient option for homeowners.

Moreover, cellular technology opens up a world of remote access possibilities for your home security system. Through smartphone, tablet, or laptop apps, you can remotely arm and disarm your alarm, control locks and climate settings, manage lighting, and even stream live video. These smart home integrations enhance the convenience and control you have over your home security.

As the reliance on landline phones continues to decline, embracing cellular monitoring for your alarm system ensures you stay connected and protected. The reliable communication, easy installation, and remote accessibility make cellular monitoring a valuable choice for homeowners seeking comprehensive and convenient security solutions.

Upgrade your home security to the modern era with cellular monitoring, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a reliable, wireless, and connected alarm system. Stay ahead of the curve and embrace the future of home security today.