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.
Fire Safety in the Home: Protecting What Matters Most
Ensuring the safety of your home and loved ones should always be a top priority, and one critical aspect of home safety is fire prevention and preparedness. Fires can cause significant damage and pose a threat to life and property. However, by implementing proper fire safety measures, you can greatly reduce the risk and mitigate the potential impact of a fire. In this article, we will explore essential fire safety tips and guidelines to help you protect what matters most – your home and family.
Fire safety is a vital aspect of protecting your home and loved ones. By implementing these fire safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of fires and be well-prepared to respond in case of an emergency. Remember, fire prevention and preparedness are ongoing efforts, and regular maintenance, education, and practicing fire safety measures are key. By prioritizing fire safety in your home, you create a secure environment where peace of mind and well-being thrive.
Business Security System Solutions for Enhanced Protection
In today’s fast-paced business landscape, ensuring the proper business security system solutions are essential for success. A robust and reliable business security system is a critical investment that provides comprehensive protection against various threats. In this blog post, we will explore the key solutions and technologies available to safeguard your business. From access control to surveillance cameras and remote monitoring, we’ll discuss how these solutions can enhance security, protect your assets, and promote a safe working environment. Let’s delve into the world of business security system solutions and discover the keys to securing success.
The Basic: Business Security System Solutions
Access Control Systems:
Access control systems are at the forefront of business security solutions. By implementing advanced access control technologies such as keycard systems, biometric readers, or proximity cards, you can regulate and monitor who has access to your premises. This ensures that only authorized individuals can enter restricted areas, protecting sensitive information, valuable assets, and confidential data.
Surveillance Cameras:
Surveillance cameras are a fundamental component of any comprehensive business security system. Strategically placed cameras provide constant monitoring and deter potential threats. High-definition cameras equipped with features like motion detection, facial recognition, and night vision provide crucial evidence in the event of an incident. They act as a visible deterrent while capturing footage that can aid investigations and protect your business from liability.
Alarm Systems:
An effective alarm system is a crucial part of business security. From intruder alarms to fire and smoke detection systems, installing the right alarms ensures that any potential threats or emergencies are detected and responded to promptly. These systems can be integrated with monitoring services, alerting security personnel or emergency responders in real-time, minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of employees and assets.
Remote Monitoring:
Remote monitoring allows you to keep an eye on your business from anywhere at any time. With the help of internet-connected security systems, you can access live video feeds, receive real-time alerts, and control your security system remotely. This capability provides peace of mind, enhances situational awareness, and enables quick response in case of suspicious activities or emergencies.
Integrated Security Solutions:
Integrating various security systems into a unified platform offers a more streamlined and efficient approach to business security. Integrated solutions allow access control, surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and other security components to work together seamlessly, providing comprehensive protection. This integration enhances security management, simplifies operations, and improves incident response times.
Employee Safety and Training:
Business security systems not only protect physical assets but also contribute to the safety and well-being of your employees. Conducting comprehensive security training programs and promoting a culture of awareness can empower employees to play an active role in maintaining a secure environment. From identifying and reporting suspicious activities to following proper security protocols, well-trained employees are valuable assets in maintaining a strong security posture.
Loss Prevention and Business Continuity:
Implementing business security system solutions helps prevent losses due to theft, vandalism, or unauthorized access. By deterring criminal activities and quickly responding to incidents, you can minimize financial losses and protect your business’s reputation. Additionally, business security systems contribute to business continuity by ensuring uninterrupted operations and minimizing disruptions caused by security incidents.
Investing in robust business security system solutions is a vital step towards securing success. By implementing access control systems, surveillance cameras, alarm systems, remote monitoring capabilities, and integrated security solutions, you can create a comprehensive security infrastructure that safeguards your business, assets
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
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
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
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
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
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:
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
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.