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Identity Theft has become the fastest growing crime in all of the world. In tops the list as the number one consumer complaint in the United States, with 19 people becoming victims of identity theft every minute. Unfortunately, with the greater use of the internet, the problem is predicted to grow.

So what is identity theft and how could it effect you? Identity theft is a form of fraud that occurs when an individual or group of people steels your personal information for the purpose of financial or social gain. It happens in a number ways. Thieves steal credit card payments and other outgoing mail from private, curbside mailboxes. They file a change of address form in the victim's name to divert mail and gather personal and financial data. They dig through garbage cans or dumpsters in search of canceled checks, credit card and bank statements, and pre-approved credit card offers.They hack into computers that contain personal records and steal the data. They use malware software to steal your information over the internet. They also use phishing in email to get you to give them your personal information. Of course, these are just some of the common ways this crime happens. There are new tactics being introduced all of the time.

While the majority of these crimes involve the theft for financial gain, there are many different types of identity theft, ranging from driver's license id theft to social security number theft. Statistics tell us that 19% of identity theft guarantees credit card or bank accounts. Here are the four most common types of identity theft complaints as reported to the Federal Trade Commission:

1. Government Documents and Benefits Fraud – this accounts for 46% *. This crime includes things like the theft of your social security number, or your driver's license, your Veterans Administration benefits, or your tax refund check. Complaints in this category increased 27 percent points since 2010. The FTC said tax or wage-related fraud accounted for the growth in this area. Tax returns, mainly those where a refund is expected, are new targets of criminals. Another scheme uses your social security number so that illegal immigrants can get employment.

A CBS News report in June 2006, stated that a woman's social security number was being used by 81 people. The woman, who lived in San Francisco, California, only learned of this when she received a tax statement from the IRS stating she owed $ 15,813 in back taxes, even though she had not worked in years. Ironically, the taxes were for work performed in Texas.

2. Credit Card Fraud – these accounts for 13% of identity theft *. It can happen in a number of ways. Every time you hand your card to an waiter, or swipe it at a gas station, or use it online to purchase something, it opens you up to this type of fraud.

One reported problem happens at gas stations. Thieves install a type of skimmer at the pump that reads your credit or debit card information when you swipe your card for gas. They then sell this information.

In January 2014, ABC News reported that two Mexicans were arrested at the Texas border, after using stolen information from a Target credit and debit card security break, to purchase several thousand of dollars. The Target security breach is believed to have involved 40 million credit and debit card accounts and the personal information of 70 million customers.

3. Phone and Utilities Fraud – this accounts for 10% *. Someone steals your personal information to use your name and credit to establish an account with the water company, or the phone company, or the electric or gas company. These people will steal your good name and credit to benefit themselves, even selling your information to a third party, where it could have been used by hundreds of people.

This crime also happens with cell phones – wireless phone accounts – and it is predicted to become the number one complaint in this category.

4. Bank Account Fraud – these accounts for 6% *. This ranges from forgery to writing bad checks, and electronically transferring large sums of money.

A January 2014 LA Times article shared a story about a woman who had five accounts compromised, at three different banks.

A January 2014 report by the website Wet Paint states that an ex-con was charged with bank fraud after he opened a company account and funneled bad checks, stolen airline retirement checks, and auto loan profits to the account. It was reported that he used his new company to gain access to certain people's information to commit this fraud.

5. Other – this accounts for 25% *. It includes all other categories, including Medical Fraud, and Attempted Fraud.

A news article published in 2008 reported that a young marine had lost his wallet while in training camp in South Carolina. After boot camp, he was stationed in California. It was almost a year later, when his mother called and informed him that he was wanted for car theft. He also owed over $ 20,000 in medical bills. It turned out that a man back in South Carolina had used his driver's license to test drive and steal new cars. This same man also had medical treatment for kidney stones and an injured hand. Before the marine could clarify the whole mess, his state tax return was garnished, and his credit was ruined. He also faced potential issues with his medical records. If he were to visit family back in South Carolina and need medical attention, his current medical records could influence what type of medical treatment he could receive.

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, Identity Theft cost Americans $ 24.7 billion dollars in 2012. For many victims the financial and psychological effects can be damaging, and can last a very long time. So what can you do to help protect against identity theft? Here are tips to help reduce the likelihood of you becoming a victim:

– To guard against identity theft, never give out your Social Security number, credit or debit card numbers, unless you know the organization or person requesting this information. Treat it as confidential information.

– Avoid carrying your Social Security card and passport unless they are needed.

– Keep these and all important government and insurance documents in a secure place

– Never print your Social Security number on your checks.

– Carry as few debit and credit cards as possible and periodically check to make sure you still have them.

– Commit all passwords to memory. Never write them down or carry them with you.

– Make your PIN and passwords hard for someone else to guess. Do not use your birth date, phone number or last four digits of your Social Security number.

– When using an ATM machine, make sure no one is hovering over you and can see you enter your password.

– Keep a list of your credit card and financial account numbers with phone numbers in a safe place.Do not give out financial information (account numbers, credit card numbers) unless you know the organization or person requesting this information. Notify your bank or credit card company of any suspicious phone inquiries, such as those asking for account information.

– Always review your monthly financial and credit card statements. If you see an unknown transactions, notify your bank or your credit card company immediately.

– Report lost credit and debit cards, and lost checks immediately. Your bank can immediately block account funds.

– Instead of signing the back of your credit card, write "See Photo ID," this way if a thief takes your car, it can not be used to make a large in-person purchase without your identification.

– Shred any bank statements and financial solicitations before disposing of them. To avoid disposal of paper statements, sign up for statements and bill payments through Online Banking.

– Put outgoing mail into a secure, official Postal Service collection box.

– Install anti-virus and anti-spam software on your computer. Do not open email attachments from people you do not know. Be wary of pop-ups on your computer. Sometimes you make you think you are clicking to exit them, when you are actually accepting a form of malware.

– Periodically review your credit file and make sure the information is correct. You are entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). The three nationwide consumer reporting companies have set up one central website, toll-free number and mailing address through which you can order your free annual report. For a free report, visit http://www.annualcreditreport.com or call 877-322-8228.

When used, these tips provide proactive measures that can help to avoid the time and financial hardships that accompany an identity theft incident. However, there is no full proof system that guarantees you will never be a victim. And that's why the best tip one could offer is to suggest you purchase an identity theft protection plan. There are many companies offering these plans, so it would be wise to do a comparison check before you sign a contract. Most plans include credit monitoring, public records monitoring, and incident alerts that assist with the preventive measures. Where most of the plans differ is when your identity is compromised. Some companies send you a do-it-yourself kit, while others will provide some type of telephone consultation. However, the best plans provide a for a comprehensive identity restoration package that includes licensed investigators or agents that step in to assist you and do the "heavy hiring" for you. In a time a crisis, it would be a great benefit to have a professional to drive your identity restoration efforts.

Unfortunately, identity theft will be with us in the unforeseeable future. While the fear factor comes at a high level, the good part in all of this is that there are measures we can put in place to provide protection for ourselves and our families.

* United States Federal Trade Commission, 2013

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Source by Gerard R Cassagnol

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Prior to fire alarms, smoke detectors were primarily the main indicator for alerting the occupants of a building to a fire. Before that, only an individual calling the fire department may have resulted in minimal loss of property and life. Today fire alarm systems have evolved into complicated networks. With more recent advances, fire alarms have improved diagnostics which only aid in the reliability of the alarm system.

Even though current smoke detectors and heads are more sensitive to detecting fires and heat than systems from even as recent as 2005, improvements are constantly being made from the development of addressable heads to touch screen or touchpad panels. These advances have allowed owners, monitoring agencies and fire departments greater ability in responding to true alarms instead of false alarms.

An addressable head is a recent development in fire detection and locating. Before addressable heads, fire alarm panels would merely display the general location of the fire by identifying a generic zone. For small business owners with only a couple of thousand feet of space, this may be satisfactory, however, for a larger space such as a storage facility, school, assisted living or hospital facility, this can literally be a life saver.

There are several other components available to a commercial facility. Indicator appliances, part of many fire alarm systems, help identify whether a building is occupied. Many times this particular feature would be useful, especially in a school or assisted living facility. Electromagnetic door holders can be very effective with regards to securing or isolating sections of a building, thereby slowing the advance of a fire. The manner in which an electromagnetic door holder functions is when an alarm is activated, the electromagnetic contact holding the door open is de-energized, which in turn causes the door to swing freely shut. Many alarms panels are available with touch panels or touchpad screens. By simplifying the user interface in this manner, it allows companies to train their employees on the use and understanding of the fire alarm and security systems quickly and efficiently.

Every commercial business or institution could benefit from investing in a new fire alarm control system or updating the existing alarm system. At a bare minimum, an inspection needs to be performed annually. In many cases particular industries, such as restaurants or food related facilities, hospitals and schools are generally required by law to have an inspection done more frequently. Along with an inspection, fire suppression systems are also required to be inspected. Even though the components and fittings of a fire suppression system may not have been activated, the parts do receive wear and tear in certain conditions and need to be adjusted periodically.

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Source by Daniel P Elliott

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Many people love dogs and owning one is a pleasure for them. However, some people also own dogs for security reasons, as something that helps protect the home. The other main alternative is high quality home security system. Both dogs and security systems have their own benefits, but the alarm system will probably do a better job of protecting a home in the end.

A dog needs incredibly specific training to become a guard dog. Only certain breeds are really suited for the task and the training process can be long and expensive. Certain professionals make a lot of money training canines for the guard role. An improperly trained guard dog can be dangerous and aggressive, which is certainly not something desired in the home. An aggressive guard dog is as likely to keep you out of the house as it is a burglar!

Installing a home alarm system is comparatively simple. A professional can come and assess the home. They will identify all of the doors and windows through which anyone could access the home and place sensors on all of these entry points. From this point on, turning the alarm system on and off is a simple process for anyone authorized to do so. Simply enter the correct password or wave an electronic key and it’s safe to enter. Plus, there’s no chance of the alarm system biting you or a family member.

Taking care of a guard dog can be a lot of work as well. Food bills can be expensive, as guard dogs tend to often be bigger breeds. They also require daily exercise and walks to keep them healthy and keep the house clean. If leaving town it’s not possible to leave the dog to take care of itself and the house. It still needs to be fed and walked, which requires finding and perhaps paying someone to be responsible for it.

On the other hand, a home alarm is self sufficient once installed. It should come with a back-up battery in case of power outages. If the alarm is activated, it provides more protection than just a loud noise. It should be connected to a monitoring center that is overseeing the system 24 hours a day. If the alarm is set off the company can contact both the homeowner and the police to ensure a quick reaction. Imagine a dog that could do that!

A good security system can also protect the home in other ways that a dog can’t. It can monitor for smoke or fire and let authorities know about any emergency. It can even measure levels of dangerous gases like Carbon Monoxide in the home. Sensors can also be installed that watch for pipe freezing or basement flooding.

A dog makes for a perfect pet. It can be a great companion, and studies show that dog owners tend to be healthier and happier. But for home security, an alarm system can do a great deal more to protect the home than Rover can.

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Source by Eleanor Stevens

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There are many reasons to fear walking around alone in the world today. Unfortunately, the crime rate is high in about every city you visit. Whether you are walking out of your office building at the end of the day, or walking to your car in a parking garage after shopping all evening, there is a chance that you will be confronted by a dangerous situation. In order to defend yourself, there are many things that you can purchase to assist in your personal protection. Personal alarm key chains may just be the convenient product that you should carry with you at all times.

For your personal protection, something as simple as a personal alarm key chain can mean the difference in your getting hurt in a bad situation. These key chain personal alarm devices are useful because you carry them with you basically any time you travel by attaching them to your keys. A personal alarm device such as this offers you a sense of self-assurance and security. Just a simple pull of the pin that is attached and the device is set off, making a loud alarm to look an offender away. Some of these alerts come equipped with a flashing light as well that is useful in the dark. The key chain personal alarm device is small and lightweight. It requires you to install the batteries, and then you are all set.

There are other portable handy products offered for personal protection as well. These include a mini alarm with clip, or a ace and screecher alarm; both for a reasonable price. Another key chain personal alarm product is the electronic pocket whistle. This personal protection merchandise is very easy to use. To scare a predator away, all you need to do is push a button. The whistle is extremely loud, and will sound until you release the button. The electronic pocket whistle is only four inches long, and requires require the use of four batteries that are included with your purchase. This device is great for kids who walk home from school. If they have this key chain personal alarm device handy, you can rest assured that they are safe on their walk home. You just never know what kind of danger you will face when out in the world alone. There are also other convenient uses for this whistle such as dog handling, traffic use, or even for a referendum. Instead of blowing on the whistle, you simply push the button.

Protect yourself from crime by purchasing safety products. Whether you purchase a key chain personal alarm, or an electronic whistle, they both will help ensure that you and your family are safe when away from home. Everything you need for personal protection is readily available.

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Source by Jim Guarino, Ed.D.

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Don’t invalidate your fire insurance policy.

I find this a very strange case but it just shows how important it is to read the small print as if you ignore the conditions of the policy your policy could be invalidated.

In this case it was a condition of the FIRE insurance that the SECURITY Alarm was maintained and monitored. Times had been tough for the insured and he let the maintenance of the security alarm lapse and as the ARC had not been paid for 6 months they stopped monitoring the site.

Vandals broke in and set fire to the factory. It was a furniture company and they incurred losses of over £750,000.

The case went to the High Court, the judge had nothing but sympathy for the Directors of the Company and he took ‘no pleasure’ in ruling that as it was a condition of the combined insurance policy that alarm was to be monitored by an external firm, the Insurers did not have to meet the claim.

There are often conditions attached to the insurance policies we take out which relate directly to the risk. We need to make sure our cars have valid MOTs in order not to invalidate the policy. We are required to notify the insurance company if we get a speeding fine but, to my mind oddly, you do not have to tell them if you decide to do the Speed Awareness Course rather than pay the fine.

I have just come across a case, now in front of the insurance Ombudsman, where an insurance company voided the policy and returned all the premiums because the policy holder had unwittingly exceed the value of the ‘valuables’ within their contents insurance. They had insured the contents of their house for £60,000 but there was a clause stating that the value of the valuables should not exceed 66% of this.

They had to rush their daughter to hospital, and while they were out the thieves struck taking goods and damaging the property to the value of £70,000. When assessing the claim the loss adjusters calculated that the value if the valuables in the house exceeded £40,000. Normally claims would be ‘averaged’ to reflect the under insurance, but the insurance company in this case argued that the under insurance voided the policy. As I said this case is in front of the ombudsman as I write.

Back to case in hand where a fire insurance claim was dismissed as a security alarm and monitoring were allowed to lapse. Clients of ours run a hotel and there is someone on reception all the time so if the fire alarm is activated there was always someone on duty to respond. We came round to the time when the annual contract with the ARC [monitoring station] needed to be renewed. The Hotel Manger wanted to cancel it as it was considered an unnecessary expense. I said I agreed but asked him to check with his insurers to make sure they had no objections. The Insurers confirmed; monitoring was a condition of the policy.

Often with in the insurance policy there is a clause that the fire alarm is maintained in accordance with British Standards. It would be interesting to know whether a similar claim has been dismissed as the Fire Alarm has not been adequately maintained.

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Source by David Shepherd-Cross

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Statistics show that, in the United States, there is a burglary every fourteen seconds, placing the country in the first place in the world by the burglary rate. The average victim of burglary lost property worth about two thousand dollars. It's interesting to note that most burglaries take place during the day, when homeowners are at work. The burglar usually enters through the front doors! Property crime and burglary is on the rise in times of economic crises. This is what makes home security, especially today, an important issue for Americans.

There is, though, one encouraging fact: according to the same statistics, homes that have an intruder monitoring system in place are three times less likely to fall prey to burglary. The issue of home security should not be taken lightly. A homeowner should take time to find, and put in place, a good monitoring system that will keep burglars out of his property, and ensure the safety of his family.

Driveway alarm systems are a welcome addition to any home security plan. You will be alerted whenever someone has entered your driveway, be it a person or a vehicle. You will be aware of the stranger approaching long before he turns up at your doors. Not only are you never again going to miss a delivery man, but you can rest assured that your home and property is protected the best that it can be.

Driveway alarms have a range of about six hundred feet. They are so simple to install, most homeowners decide to tackle the installation themselves. Driveway alarm systems can be set up in mere minutes.

Typically, a system consists of one transmitter that can be installed at some point along the driveway, and one receiver that can be plugged into a standard outlet in your home. There is an option to add multiple transmitters and receivers if needed. Some types of receivers can be portable.

There are different types of driveway alarm systems. The most common types make use of radio waves: the radio wave detects a person or an object move across its path and sounds an alarm. Ultrasound and light waves are also used for that purpose.

One important advantage of wireless driveway alarms is that a burglar can not simply cut the wire and take the alarm system out, like it is unfortunately possible for a burglar to do with the wired systems. Wireless systems will continue to operate even when a burglar tries to smash them. Sensors connect wirelessly to a control panel that sends alerts via secure cellular network. You do not even have to own a phone line to use wireless driveway alarms.

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Source by Anita Bern

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Your home is no doubt important to you, and you want to protect it around the clock, especially when you are away. There are different types of wireless alarm systems on the market. The Protector plus system sounds a screaming alarm, flashes lights and automatically calls the numbers that you have programmed in the system to deliver a pre-recorded message. This alarm has 16-zone security with motion, door and window sensors. It alerts by a siren, an emergency dialer and flashing light. This system contains a security systems console, security remote control, wireless motion detector, lamp module, keychain security remote and window and door censors.

The monitored alarm system works the moment you press the trigger button. The monitor sets off flashing lights that activate a siren and calls a monitoring station. The monitoring station calls your home to confirm the authenticity of the call. If the stations feel that there is something suspicious, the police and up to three contact people are called. Thus, this system has three-way protection — a screaming siren, emergency dialer and flashlights.

The third is system is the outdoor motion activated alert kit that enables you to know when someone walks into your room or when someone is moving around in your home. When the monitor censor is triggered, the remote chime will sound. This alarm system enables you to find out who is ringing the doorbell before they actually ring it.

Power flash burglar alarm interface connects to an existing burglar alarm system and flashes light connected to lamp modules and wall switches the moment the alarm trips.

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Source by Jason Gluckman

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Many people around the globe are now using virtual doorman systems instead of having a physical doorman presence, especially in the case of tenants who are looking to have their parcels delivered when they are not available themselves to accept deliveries due to work or school commitments.

There are also many businesses that now use these services, as remote identity verification and entry provided for commercial buildings means that they can save money on hiring a full time security presence when it is not really needed.

Furthermore, the use of these virtual doorman and aiphone intercom systems can be tailored to property owners’ varying needs.

Despite the many advantages that this type service offers, one of the concerns of some people is whether this actually provides a high level of security when compared to other systems that require a human presence. Here are some factors that indeed point towards a virtual system being an exceptionally secure solution for many properties.

Firstly, one of the main security advantages of this system is that it relies solely on technology for the gaining of entry to a property. Doors can be closed using complex locking systems and there is no way to open the door other than by being granted access through a remote system or the access code of residents or workers.

Without virtual identity checks being fulfilled satisfactorily, in many cases it simply will not be possible to gain entry to a property, whereas in the case of other methods which requires a doorman to gain entry, this is not the case.

Although this will all depending on the locking systems that are in place to stop forced entry, it is still fair to say that a tough entry system paired with rigorous security checks via an advanced aiphone intercom system will prevent entry of people who are simply not meant to be there.

There is another important security gain with using virtual doorman services, and this is that these often take advantage of the latest technologies to ensure that verification takes place. This often happens via a video and audio aiphone intercom system, but the reality is that newer technologies can even be integrated for even better security.

Various checks can be made electronically which cannot be done manually by a single doorman, and therefore this means that a virtual system could have many security gains. If a property owner is considering implementing this kind of system, it is well worth consulting several different virtual doorman services to find one which offers the best technology for your purposes.

Many are understandably concerned that it can be harder to verify people’s identity through a remote system, but in many cases this is not the case. In fact, aiphone intercom systems have extremely sophisticated video and audio systems to ensure that thorough identification is made possible.

There is also the opportunity to tailor the services to exactly what the property owner wants. This can include showing a variety of ID forms, as well as confirming passcodes orally via the audio system. Each security solution can undoubtedly be customised, which means that this can be a very safe solution.

All in all, there are numerous security advantages for those who choose to implement these systems. Although people may have concerns about not having a physical presence on the door, this can be countered by choosing a highly reputable virtual doorman service that only uses the latest security technology.

It is also worth remembering that physical security forces are not infallible, and that there can be advantages and disadvantages for each and every security or doorman service available. Whichever one a company chooses will all depend on their needs, objectives and the budget that they are working with.

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Source by Juda Slomovich

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Security systems provide families and businesses throughout North America with the confidence and security that comes with knowing their lives and goods are safe. In these trying economic times, property and personal crimes are sure to rise, reducing the safety of yourself and your family. A security system provides the means to make your home safe from all threats.

A system that covers a variety of safety and security needs, such as: fire detection, public address and voice alarm, access control systems, Close Circuit Television, care communications, electronic article surveillance, building management systems and alarm monitoring, security systems service and maintenance is the best to use at these times.

When choosing the best home security system, homeowners should consider response time, ease of use, monthly fees and professional reliability. Whover you choose needs to excel in all four fields.

They must offer near instantaneous contact with law enforcement when a security alarm is activated. It is better if they maintain a full network of interconnected customer monitoring centers throughout the country, and can notify both you and the police department of any break, so that your home is constantly protected. If they have a large number of home security alarm monitoring centers, these can provide extra coverage. If communication with one home monitoring center is interrupted, the other centers takes over quickly, giving them the ability to offer continuous security through the company's advanced alarm monitoring service – providing clients with increased safety and peace of mind.

A key chain remote lets clients arm and disarm with a touch of a button. This simple device is easy for all members of the family to understand and use. Also easy to use, is the touch keypad that controls the security system you chose.

Having the Best Home Security System can be very affordable, and may help you save up to 20 percent on your homeowner's insurance.

A security system company's professional reputation must be beyond compare. They must be the most respected brand name in their field, and the company should have some security and trading history.

They should also pride themselves on getting to know the individual needs of its customers. They build these personal relationships to better offer solutions on how to protect protect clients' employees, assets, and the clients themselves. Their experts also can recognize ways to increase the efficiency of your business operations. Once they get to know your company, the company can choose from a wide range of products and services to help you meet your needs.

To better get to know you, a free risk assessment to prospective clients should be offered. A professional will respond to all risk assessment calls and offer an evaluation of where you are vulnerable and what you will need.

In short, larger companies with the best coverage can offer the Best Home Security System on the market and are a proven, proven brand you and your family can trust to ensure the security of your home, but do not go past the smaller local companies either as these companies may be better as they know their local area better than any other company could. Large companies account for 69 percent of home security business in North America and they have many monitoring stations, in the United States. For a safe secure option for your home and family large security monitoring companies can be the best in the world.

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Source by Elija James

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Your dwelling is often your most precious asset that you need to protect. We created a list of all savings opportunities associated with Home insurance. This list is the most complete perspective on home insurance savings tips. Numerous insurance brokers contributed to this list. So, let's start!

1. Change your content coverage: Renting a Condo? You can often lower your content coverage. No need to insure your marriages to up to $ 250,000 if you only have a laptop and some IKEA furniture!

2. Renovations: Renovating your house can result in lower home insurance premiums, as home insurance premiums for older, poorly maintained dwellings are usually higher. Additionally, renovating only parts of your dwelling (eg the roof) can lead to insurance savings.

3. Pool: Adding a swimming pool to your house will likely lead to an increase in your insurance rates since your liability (eg the risk of someone drowning) and the value of your house have increased.

4. Pipes: Insurers prefer copper or plastic plumbing – maybe it is a good idea to upgrade your galvanized / lead pipes during your next renovation cycle.

5. Shop around: Search, Compare, and switch insurance companies. There are many insurance providers and their price offerings for the same policies can be very different, therefore use multiple online tools and talk to several brokers since each will cover a limited number of insurance companies.

6. Wiring: Some wiring types are more expensive or cheaper than others to insure. Make sure you have approved wiring types, and by all means avoid aluminum wirings which can be really expensive to insure. Not all insurers will cover houses with aluminum wirings, and those that would, will require a full electrical inspection of the house.

7. Home Insurance deductibles: Like auto insurance, you can also choose higher home insurance deductibles to reduce your insurance premiums.

8. Bundle: Do you need Home and Auto Insurance? Most companies will offer you a discount if you bundle them together.

9. New Home: Check if insurer has a new home discount, some insurers will have them.

10. Claims-free discount: Some companies recognize the fact that you have not submitted any claims and reward it with a claim-free discount.

11. Mortgage-free home: When you complete paying down your house in full, some insurers will reward you with lower premiums.

12. Professional Membership: Are you a member of a professional organization (eg Certified Management Accountants of Canada or The Air Canada Pilots Association)? Then some insurance companies offer you a discount.

13. Seniors: Many companies offer special pricing to seniors.

14. Annual vs. monthly payments: In comparison to monthly payments, annual payments save insurers administrative costs (eg sending bills) and therefore they reward you lower premiums.

15. Annual review: Review your policies and coverage every year, since new discounts could apply to your new life situation if it has changed.

16. Alumni: Graduates from certain Canadian universities (eg University of Toronto, McGill University) may be eligible for a discount at certain Insurance providers.

17. Employee / Union members: Some companies offer discounts to union members (eg IBM Canada or Research in Motion)

18. Mortgage insurance: Getting mortgage insurance when you have enough coverage in Life insurance is not always necessary: ​​mortgage insurance is another name for a Life / Critical Illness / Disability insurance associated with your home only but you pay extra for a convenience of getting insurance directly when lending the money. For example a Term Life policy large enough to pay off your home is usually cheaper.

19. Drop earthquake protection: In many regions, earthquakes are not likely – you could decide not to take earthquake coverage which could lower your premiums. For example, in BC earthquake coverage can account for as much as one-third of a policy's premium.

20. Wood stove: Choosing to use a wood stove means higher premiums – Insurance companies often decide to inspect the homes with such installations before insuring them. A decision to get rid of it means a lower risk and thus lower insurance premiums.

21. Heating: Insurers like forced-air gas furnaces or electric heat installations. If you have an oil-heated home, you might be paying more than your peers who have alternative heating sources.

22. Bicycle: You are buying a new bicycle and thinking about getting extra protection in case it is stolen when you leave it on the street eg when doing your groceries? Your Home insurance might be covering it already.

23. Stop smoking: Some insurers increase their premiums for the homes with smokers as there is an increased risk of fire.

24. Clean claim history: Keep a clean claim record without placing small claims, sometimes it makes sense to simply repair a small damage rather than claim it: you should consider both aspects: your deductibles and potential raise in premiums.

25. Rebuilding vs. market costs: Consider your rebuilding costs when choosing an insurance coverage, not the market price of your house (market price can be significantly higher than real rebuilding costs).

26. Welcome discount: Some insurers offer a so called welcome discount.

27. Avoid living in dangerous locations: Nature effects some locations more than others: avoid flood-, or earth-endanged areas while choosing a house.

28. Neighborhood: Moving to a more secure neighborhood with lower criminal rate will often consider your insurance premiums.

29. Centrally-connected alarm: Installing an alarm connected to a central monitoring system will be recognized by some insurers in promotions.

30. Monitoring: Having your residence / apartment / condo monitored 24 hour can mean an insurance discount. eg via a security guard.

31. Hydrants and fire-station: Proximity to a water hydrant and / or fire-station can reduce your premiums as well.

32. Loyalty : Staying with one insurer longer can sometimes result in a long-term policy holder discount.

33. Water damages: Avoid buying a house which may have water damage or has a history of water damage; a check with the insurance company can help to find it out before you buy the house.

34. Decrease liability risk: Use meaningful ways to reduce your liability risk (eg fencing off a pool) and it can result in your liability insurance premiums going down.

35. Direct insurers: Have you always deal with insurance brokers / agents? Getting a policy from a direct insurer (ie insurers working via call-center or online) often can be cheaper (but not always) since they do not pay an agent / broker commission for each policy sold.

36. Plumbing insulation: Insulating your pipes will prevent them from freezing in winter and reduce or even avoid insurance claims.

37. Dependent students: Dependent students living in their own apartment can be covered by their parents' home insurance policy at no additional charge.

38. Retirees: Those who are retired can often get an additional discount – since they spend more time at home than someone who works during the day and then can prevent accidents like a fire much easier.

39. Leverage inflation: Many insurers increase your dwelling limit every year by considering the inflation of the house rebuilding costs. Make sure this adjustment is in line with reality and that you are not overpaying.

40. Credit score: Most companies use your credit score when calculating home insurance premiums. Having a good credit score can help you to get lower insurance rates.

41. Stability of residence: Some insurers may offer a stability of residence discount if you have lived at the same dwelling for a certain number of years.

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Source by Alexey Saltykov

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Virtual doormen are fast becoming a popular alternative to hiring a regular physical presence for many commercial properties, and their popularity is also rising for residential buildings. The reasons for this are numerous, as are the many advantages that this kind of service can offer.

Although there are several concerns that people may initially have with this kind of remote solution, the reality is that if put in place effectively, people can benefit from the following plus points that automatically come with adopting this kind of system.

Firstly, one of the main advantages of a virtual doorman solution is that it is far less expensive than hiring a physical presence when it comes to commercial properties. Many commercial buildings like to have a physical security presence, but in some cases this can be costly for something that is not entirely necessary.

A virtual system is a more affordable option as it involves only using the service when someone tries to enter a property to make a delivery or carry out some other necessary task. A link is established by video and audio so that identification measures can be made before access is allowed; this means that no full time staff member needs to be employed to complete this identification task.

A second major advantage is for tenants, rather than commercial building owners or users. Millions of parcels and packages are attempted to be delivered each year, yet often the tenant is not present to accept the delivery and therefore this results in a failed delivery.

This is especially important considering that so many people do their shopping online these days, meaning more and more parcels are being delivered at hours when people are at work or at school. A virtual doorman can assist in this instance, allowing parcels to be delivered first time, every time.

This can save a great deal of time and stress, especially if the delivery is urgent. Many residential property owners looking to improve the experience of their tenants would be wise to consider using this simple and highly convenient solution in their buildings.

Another major advantage is that this type of system can actually be used for different reasons other than allowing access for deliverymen. Although the delivery of packages and parcels is a major issue for many tenants, so is allowing repairmen to enter the building for work, or allowing access to emergency services.

A virtual doorman solution can assist in both of these two cases, and in fact entry to a property can restricted in any way that the building owner likes. This can involve using more or less stringent security checks, and can allow access for any number of reasons. This tailored approach can be very efficient in allowing repair work to be carried out or allowing emergency services in during a crisis.

Fourthly, a major advantage of this type of system is that it allows building owners to take advantage of the latest technologies, which are improving each and every day to be safer and more secure. The aiphone intercom systems now used in virtual doorman services mean that identity can be checked in a number of ways.

These technologies are sure to improve in the future, which means that investing in this type of system now can only bring further security gains and advantages in the coming years too. This is another convincing reason why choosing a virtual doorman could be a great choice for modern day property owners.

These are just four of the major advantages of investing in a virtual doorman service. From allowing commercial property owners and tenants to gain significant benefits in the way of allowing access to deliverymen, repairmen and the emergency services, the popularity of this solution looks likely to grow in the future too.

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Source by Juda Slomovich

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To place an elderly family member in a nursing home or assisted care facility is not an easy decision. A large part of the decision process comes down to the amount of care the individual will require. The person’s physical condition, ailments and level of fragility will dictate whether they will require round-the-clock attention, day care, regular rehabilitation or periodic check-ins by health care personnel. Transportation for things such as doctor visits and grocery shopping must also be taken into account.

Another large part of the equation is the expense. Medicare and Medicaid will help pay for some of the costs of assisted care and full-time care facilities. But certain conditions must be met – such as using Medicare-certified facilities and services – to qualify for these benefits.

Many elderly adults end up spending their personal savings in order to live in a nursing home or assisted care facility. Eventually they may become eligible for Medicare benefits, but by that time their savings have been significantly depleted. And if a qualified senior chooses a facility that is not Medicare-certified, the expenses can be prohibitive, especially on a fixed income. Even part-time home care costs can add up and become a financial burden over time.

Living at Home

Elderly adult or not, there’s no place like home. But this is especially true for seniors. Living in the familiar surroundings of their own home or apartment helps seniors feel they are still in charge of their own lives.

This is where senior medical alert systems come into the picture. If an elderly individual is still able to function on their own to an acceptable degree, a reliable medical response system backed by a reputable company can be invaluable.

Most elderly home alarm systems have two-way communication capabilities. When the button is pushed on a medical alert bracelet or pendant, a responder at a monitoring center will immediately be alerted that there is a problem and will go into action. The responder will then attempt to speak to the occupant of the home, proceeding to send police and an EMS response team to the site if contact is not established.

As we age, we sometimes have a tendency to forget things. Medical alert companies have come up with ways to remind seniors to take their medications during certain times of the day. Additionally, there are mechanized dispensers available that help prevent seniors from skipping or double-dosing on medications.

Fall sensors and motion detectors are also very important devices in providing a secure and well-monitored environment for elderly individuals in their homes. These devices greatly diminish the chance that an elderly friend or loved one will have some kind of difficulty where they are unable to reach their alert button. These sensors and detectors provide an added level of security.

Living at home can perpetuate independence and foster self-esteem. If an elderly person is capable of living on their own, then home medical monitoring systems can ensure that their quality of life remains at a good level.

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Source by Christine L Roberts

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One of the most popular trends in home security today is the installation of wireless alarm systems. Before you jump on the bandwagon, though, you should know a little more about how these systems work, as well as the benefits (and drawbacks) to this technology. To start off, let’s examine the two forms of wireless alarm system:

There are two dominant types of wireless home security systems on the market today: self installed systems and professionally installed systems (ADT and others). Both offer wireless benefits, but they are very different, as well. Self installed systems are usually very simple to install, though they are limited in their application as well as their usefulness to consumers. This is because they are not monitored and have no ability to alert police, fire or emergency authorities. A professionally installed system comes with dedicated monitoring capabilities (read that as 24-7) as well as the means to alert the right authorities (through the monitoring company).

Now that we know that a professionally installed system is the best option for comprehensive protection, let’s move on to other aspects. The installation itself is not completely wireless. While all the sensors are wireless, the control unit(s) are not. These need to be wired into the home for several reasons, including being wired into your phone line. This is how the system communicates with the monitoring station. Some new systems offer wireless communication through your ISP, as well. Regardless, the installation of the control units is minimally invasive for your home.

A wireless home alarm communicates or sends signals to the control unit through RF signals (radio frequency). Some systems have been designed to use infrared beams, as well. When the system is armed, the detectors monitor the surrounding area for motion (actually registers as a temperature difference) and send the signal to the control unit. The control unit then sends a signal to the monitoring company and sets off the alarm. When the monitoring company receives the signal from the alarm system, they will contact the homeowner to ascertain the situation.

In addition, there are quite a few accessories or add-ons that can be included with this type of home alarm system. If there are elderly family members in the home, young children or anyone with health problems, you can include panic buttons that will alert the monitoring company and medical response authorities. Carbon monoxide detectors are another popular option, as are water monitoring sensors for areas in a home that are susceptible to flooding. There are numerous other aspects that can be added, as well, such as wireless video cameras and wireless arm/disarm devices that can be carried on your key ring for better security options.

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Source by Bruce Kelly

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At least once a day someone says to me, “It wasn’t so long ago that nobody even locked their doors. Why is the home security alarm system so popular now?” The answer is that there are actually several reasons people want the protection these systems provide.

1. People don’t feel as safe as they used to feel. Crime rates might be rising. But the real reason people don’t feel as safe is that the media informs us every evening of all of the crimes occurring in homes in our area. Whether there is or isn’t more crime, we are certainly more aware of neighborhood crime.

2. We, as a society, tend to believe that burglaries and other crimes increase during times of economic hardship. This is certainly true in some areas, and the media encourages us to believe it is true in all areas. Convinced of a rising crime rate, people invest in home security alarm systems.

3. When people buy a home in a neighborhood where a large number of people have a home security alarm system they tend to believe they also need a system. The assumption is that there is a good reason the neighbors have security systems.

4. Many home builders are including wiring for home security alarm systems as part of the basic construction package on new homes. It is hard to know whether builders are responding to a trend or there is a trend that follows what builders are installing in new homes.

5. Lifestyles encourage many people to want a home security alarm system to protect their families. For those who travel frequently for business, for parents who want to know their children are returning to a secure home, for parents who occasionally leave older children home alone, the security system offers confidence the children are safe.

6. Parents who leave young children with a babysitter are purchasing video monitoring equipment or “baby-cam” equipment to tape the interaction of their children with the sitter. These parents want to know their children are safe and choose to install a home security alarm system.

7. People with disabilities who want to live independently can install home security alarm system equipment that offers monitoring safeguards to keep them safe. They might install a monitor that sends out an alert if they are in the bathroom for more than an hour. If they could not reach an emergency button, the monitoring company would investigate and send help.

8. People who worry about elderly parents who want to “age in place” can install a complete home security alarm system that includes monitors for activity in various parts of the house. This might include monitoring for activity in the area where medications are kept and appropriate times of the day, or monitoring for activity outside the bedroom between the hours of 6 and 10 a.m.

Some of these sensors and monitors and alarms can be used in multiple ways to safeguard all family members whether you are at home or away. Most of the devices that make up a home security alarm system can even be monitored over the internet from any location.

If you have concerns about the safety of your family, contact a security professional to help you assess your risk, analyze your needs, and create a home security alarm system that fits your needs and your budget.

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Source by Todd Cavanaugh

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Southern California has seen an epidemic of water damage losses in the past few years. These types of losses can displace you and your family for months significantly disrupting your normal routine and destroying items of great personal value. Understanding the steps of how you can prevent these losses will save you from financial consequences and emotional turmoil.

Understanding the problem:

Remember when things were going well with the economy? Tract homes from large building developers were being built quickly in Southern California in the late ’70’s, ’80’s and early 90’s. Typically new homes were being “thrown up” with less than desirable care. Plumbing materials and construction methods were as “cheap” as possible with homeowners now facing the consequences.

So you think you have premium copper plumbing? Don’t be too sure! Exposed plumbing (what you can see) may be copper but what is it connected to in the walls?

Do you have a slab foundation? Is your plumbing imbedded in the slab? (Really- builders placed plumbing in most cases during this time into a rigid concrete structure – in earthquake country. Are you kidding?) Even minor tremors can be enough to dislodge plumbing joints above the foundation from pipes that cannot move in the slab.

Appliance failure is another huge source of water damage losses. Appliances are just not built the way they used to. Remember when washing machines lasted 15 to 20 years? Nowadays due to planned obsolescence by the manufacturers- you’re lucky to get 7-10 years of use. (I digress.)

So what can you do?

Replace water delivery hoses for washing machines, toilets, ice makers and indoor faucets every 5 years. One of the best and cheapest investments you can make! Also- turn off the water to the washing machine when you are not using it. OK- at least when you’re going away for a few days. These steps are especially important if you have toilets and washer located on the second floor.

Consider adding water sensing gadgets that you can place under a sink or under the washer that will text you a message if they sense water. Water gushing for an hour is much better than water gushing for 8 hours!

If your home does not have a water pressure regulator-add one! A plumber can do this for you or if you’re handy you can probably do it yourself. My house built in 1976 did not have one. The water pressure was 150 psi and should have been approximately 65 psi. What has happened is that the local municipalities have been increasing the water flow pressure over the years to the point now where it is just a matter of time before your aging pipes can no longer withstand the pressure and will break inside your walls, in the foundation, etc. So how high is your water pressure? Go to one of those big box stores and purchase a water pressure gauge for about $15 and screw it into your garden hose. (My gardener had one.) It will tell you what your water pressure is. Don’t wait on this one!

If you have a house that has a central station alarm system- consider adding a “water flow monitor” to your alarm system. If you have a vacation home that you do not visit all the time- this is a must and now required by many insurance companies.

Please consider working on one or more of these items. Your home’s well being and your peace of mind are my greatest concerns.

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Source by Sharon L Graeter

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Practical homeowners and those who manage their own businesses should consider setting up house security systems primarily for two reasons. The first is to come up with an effective preventive mechanism against attempted burglaries or forced entries. The second is to give them comfort of mind that their abode or business venue is safe from any possible intrusion.

The added value of a home alarm system away from providing you, your loved ones and property the needed security is a discount on insurance premiums. This price cut can be directed to the cost of purchasing the security system. Clients have the prerogative of choosing monitored systems. This denotes that a private security firm monitors your residence or office and takes the responsibility of alerting police authorities in case of an attempted incursion. This may be the most reliable since watchfulness is guaranteed.

Monitored home alarm systems typically work according to the following procedures:

The system makes use of very sensitive sensors that are activated by the slightest movements.
Owners have at least one-half minute to disable the system to stop any false alarm. If not, it sends a message to the monitoring agency typically through a wireless mechanism.

It depends upon the company to validate the cause of the alarm by calling the owner. Once the code is not received or there is no answer from the owner, the police are called upon to investigate and proceed to the venue.

For all intents and purposes, it is also advisable for those who are interested in purchasing house security systems to be familiar with the operations and technical components of this sophisticated apparatus. It is normally made up of a control panel, central monitoring station, siren, motion detectors, sensors, touch pads, panic button and video monitoring or CCTV camera.

Despite the emergence of wireless technology, most systems still require a telephone line. Customers are advised to inquire from the company that will provide the house security systems how contact or communications will be done in case of a break-in. If you are using Voice over Internet Protocol for your phones and internet, inform the alarm monitoring company. Conveying of alarm signals through these lines is frequently erratic so measures should be taken to guarantee high-quality reception. Burglars are always on the lookout for telephone lines which can easily be cut without these are difficult to get to and run underground. Another option is to acquire a cellular alarm system which robbers can not tamper with.

Do a casual study of a typical home alarm system before buying one. Get sufficient information regarding features and benefits. Consult your local police authorities for suggestions and inquire about response time after being alerted by the alarm monitoring firm. In the US there are agencies like the Underwriters Laboratory, Factory Mutual or Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) that give out accreditation to alarm companies. It pays to get this authorization. Compare benefits and features carefully. Finally, try to get as many proposals and cost quotations for your house security systems to get the best buy.

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Source by Ryan Tapia

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Don’t jump to the first home security company that tells you they are the best for you. Do your homework. Contact at least three home security companies and have them send out a representative to do a written estimate on your house.

After the representative has given you a run down on the best way to protect your home, here are a few questions to ask him/her.

1. Does your home security system offer a back up communication unit if telephones are cut or down?

Burglars are getting smarter these days. They will cut the phone line in hopes that it will cut off your communication with your home security company. Make sure your provider has back up communication.

2. Does the home security system have a back up system in the event of power failure? Can the system run on batteries?

If the power goes out, what happens to your home security system? Weather can play a big part in power failure; you need to check if your system can run on batteries and how long it will last.

3. What happens in the event of a power failure at the alarm monitoring station?

So you had a power failure. You need to know what happens inside the alarm monitoring station. Without power, how are they going to contact you?

4. Do your home security system have a warranty? What happens if it breaks?

While most have some type of warranty, you need to check and see the cost of repair and what all is covered.

5. Is this home security system convenient and effective to protect my whole family?

Does the company protect everyone and everything you love? Will it protect your animals, grand parents, children, and even valuables?

Some other questions you might want to cover with your representative are the contract length, cancellation policy, and return policy.

Deciding which Home Security System [http://www.homesecurityrelief.com/home-security-systems.php] shouldn’t be a long and hard decision. These questions are just a few to help you in the decision making process.

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Source by Edson Buchanan

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Home alarm systems are kid friendly; they have come a long way with today’s technology. They are easy to understand and easy to arm or disarm. The security system is able to protect both the residence and the family from break-ins; smoke or fire and they can make a child home alone feel safe. More than making them feel safe as long as the system is armed they are safe, since there are trained professionals monitoring the security system for any alerts.

The child or teenager that comes home before their parents can disarm the alarm system with the use of a key chain pad, which means no false alarms because the child did not make it to the wall pad in time. This can make them feel confident about using the home security system, which means they will arm the system when leaving home or coming in the house alone. That means parents don’t have the fear of them being in an unsafe house until they arrive home, which a stranger might be able to enter.

Home security systems give parents piece of mind, knowing when they cannot be at home before the kids they are protected from strangers, break-ins, smoke and fire. This is important when children are old enough to be home alone and do not want a babysitter, but parent’s work schedules don’t permit being home when the child gets home.

Security systems have outward signs that the residence is protected, because there are decals for the windows and doors, plus a sign for the yard. Criminals look for these signs at a house, apartment or condo, before choosing it to break into. They know the risk of attempting to rob this type of residence, because the monitoring center will receive a signal that the alarm has gone off and alert the authorities. What that means to a criminal is that they only have minutes to leave the area or be caught, which makes them pass by the residence that has an alarm system. It just is not worth the risk of being caught for burglary of a home and when there are children at home it means they are much safer. Criminal elements checkout a house or apartment before breaking in, this is because they want to know that the residence is empty in most cases. They do not want to risk anyone being at home, so they watch for signs for it to be empty, but when it is protected by an alarm system they are not that brave.

Every parent wants to protect their children and the way to ensure they are as safe as possible at home is to protect the home with a security system, with monitoring. The alarm will be triggered twenty-four hours a day if anyone tries to break-in or if there is smoke and fire. Kids are safe when home alone or when the entire family is sleeping and there is an event, while the family gets to a safe place, the monitoring center is alerting the authorities.

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Source by Bill Ray

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In January of every year I write an article to help you think about you Home, Electronic and Personal Security. In 2017 Assistants like Alexa and Siri have become “smarter” and claim to help us more in our everyday lives.

Home and Lock Security:

Look at your locks and your doors. Are your locks operating smoothly are they at least a class 2 lock? Do all your outside doors have deadbolt locks installed? Can you account for all your keys? If not, either replace the lock or have it re-keyed. Try Lockable Key Rings to keep control of your keys.

Is your alarm system working properly? In 2017 the biggest change from 2016 to 2017 is most alarm systems now can be controlled by smart phone apps. Maybe its time for you to upgrade to a modern alarm system that can be controlled by your smart phone. It should communicate with the central station via cell service instead of a landline.

Computer Security:

In 2017 our computers, tablets and smart phones have become smarter. They are also more open with extensive Wi-Fi connections. These connections should be secured by some type of internet security that has built in Wi-Fi security. Make sure that you are using the most up to date Wi-Fi security. We are using Home Automation more and this opens us up to additional security problems. Be careful how you use Alexa, Siri, Cortana and Google Assistant.

If at all possible, use credit cards instead of debit cards. Credit cards give you more security and you are using their money for 30 days. Just make sure to pay your bills in full every month.

Personal Security:

When driving or walking be aware of your surroundings, know where you are at all time. If you “Gut” tells you to leave an area, listen and move away. Park your vehicle in a well-lit area and do not leave any thing visible such as you GPS, laptop, etc. When arriving home park your vehicle in your garage and close the door before you get out. If it’s dark try using light on a timer inside your house, so that there is a light(s) on when you arrive home. It’s always better to walk into a lighted house.

All of the above items are common sense, everyone has different security needs, so this article is written to help you think about your own personal security situation.

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Source by George Uliano

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What does a Security Installation consist of?

Many consumers out there are attempting to tackle a wide variety of home improvement projects. With today’s new technologies this is much easier to do. As a Do It Yourselfer you need to consider what the project is and what the percentage of success is. You need to consider all of the tools that you will need to complete the project and also the skill level that you need to have in order to have good results.

DIY Security Installation

Basic Security System Design

There are several factors that you must consider when you are designing a security system. A basic system must consider all of the following items:

• How many doors does your home have?
• How many windows does your home have?
• Do all of the windows need to be protected?
• Are there areas that require special consideration such as liquor cabinets or gun cabinets?
• Your lifestyle should also be considered to make sure that you can take advantage of the features available in today’s security systems?
• Do you need or want remote system access?
• Do you want to now or in the future take advantage of home automation?
• What areas need fire protection and where should you locate your smoke detectors?
• Do you need smoke or heat detectors?

Special Security Considerations

You will want to survey the areas outside your main dwelling so that you can determine if there are additional areas that you will want to protect now or in the future. You will want to make sure that the security system that you select can expand and change to accommodate everything that you want now but can also meet your future needs.

Planning Your Security System

The first place to start is to make a zone list of your home. The best way to do this is to make a numbered list starting at the front door and write down every door and window around your entire house. Make sure to label each opening as a door or window. It is easiest to keep things straight if start at the front door and proceed clockwise around your home until you are back at the front door. Make sure you include at least one motion detector in a common traffic area and also at least one smoke detector located in the hallway between the bedrooms. If you have a second story then you will need to include a smoke detector at the top of the stairs. You must also consider adding Carbon Monoxide protection.

Tools of the Trade

You will need some basic tools in order to complete an installation along with some specialty tools that should be available if the need arises. The last thing that you want to happen is be in the middle of an installation and then have to stop the flow to go and pick up an additional tool. Here are the basic tools to have in your tool bag:

• Standard Screwdriver (small and large)
• Phillips Screwdriver (small and large)
• Wire Strippers
• Hole Saw
• A small level
• Battery Operated Drill
• A variety of Drill bits
• A glow rod or wire hanger
• A tube of silicone
• A multimeter

Installing Your Security System

As you can see by the time you actually get to the installation of your security system you have already devoted a lot of time to the process. At this point you have already made a lot of decisions and it is time to get the system installed. In a DIY installation these are all decisions that have made on your own. If you have a professional installer they have asked questions and helped to guide you to a security system that will protect your home and family and since they do this process every day you have the peace of mind knowing that it has been designed properly.

At this point you already purchased the control panel and all of the supporting devices. The next decision is to decide where to place the control panel. Just ask yourself this question. What door do you normally enter the home through or exit through when you leave? Let’s say your answer is the garage door. If this is the case then you will need to locate your panel above a wall outlet at eye level.

Mounting the Control Panel

A professional installer will cut a hole in the wall that is large enough to work with but smaller than the opening on the back of the panel. You will need to fish a wire down the wall to the outlet below. If at all possible make sure that you locate the panel on an inside wall. Outside walls typically have fire block and insulation that can make it very difficult to fish the wire down. Once you have the wire down the wall you will poke the wire out at the bottom of the outlet and it will be screwed down to the transformer. The wall outlet is a shock hazard so please be careful when you are working in this area. Do not plug the transformer in at this point. You will want to make sure the other end of the wire is landed on the control panel first. Always make sure to observe proper polarity when making your connections. At this point you have only mounted the back plate of the control panel. If you are going to add an external siren to your panel you will need to cut a hole higher on the wall and then run wire from the panel up to the new siren location. If you have ever watched a professional security system installer they will make this look easy. Do not get discouraged if takes more time that it took for me to write this. Once you have your siren wire run you can mount the control panel to the back plate and plug in the transformer. You panel should come to life at this point. It is now time to program your panel with all of the new devices that you purchased.

Programming your Security Panel

Your new wireless security panel is a highly technological piece of equipment. It can detect intruders, detect smoke, detect carbon monoxide and control many parts of your home with zwave technology. It can also automatically notify the authorities (if you have alarm monitoring) to save lives and property. The programming of your system is by far the most critical part of making sure that your system operates to the specifications needed to properly operate. The wrong entry during programming can make a device fail to report at all or it can even report the wrong situation which can fail to activate the alarm or send in the wrong signals. Make sure that not only do you absolutely observe the correct programming procedures but also make sure that you test every incidence of a possible alarm to make sure that the system operates the way that was intended. A smoke detector should report a fire and not a medical emergency as an example. A front door opening should not be reported as a fire. These are just some of the examples of what incorrect programming can cause. There are some basics to observe but the exact programming of your panel must be accomplished by you thoroughly reading your programming manual. Most alarm professionals rarely need to consult the manual because they have installed so many of these systems that programming has become second nature.

Critical Parts of Programming

1. Make sure you program your devices with the correct zone type. Using the wrong type can report a smoke detector as a front door or any variety of incorrect things.
2. Make sure the account number is correct so that central station know what panel is reporting information.
3. Make sure the phone number is correct that the panel will dial in the event of an alarm.

There are hundreds of options available when programming a security panel. Each programming book does have an explanation for each programming option so if you take to not skip any items you can get the system programmed properly.

Testing Your Security System

After your system has been installed it is critical to test every aspect of the system. A professional security installer does this every time and you should take even more care when testing. You must arm the system and test every device by opening doors or windows and testing each smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector. Before you send alarms into central station you must first make sure the system is in test. Before you send in alarms make sure that all of your zones are properly reporting. This means that when you open the front door the security panel knows it is a front door and so and so on. Do not skip any openings or any steps during the alarm installation process. Skipping a step could literally mean the loss of life or property in the end. Your security system is a Life Safety device and should be treated as such. Now that you know that all of your zone are correct you can arm the system and open every door and window again to make sure that the system detects an alarm. There are two parts to this process. You must check the control panel to make sure that it received every alarm and then you must call central station monitoring to make sure that they received every alarm from every zone. Don’t forget to activate the emergency alarms located on the control panel.

Monitoring Your Security System

There is no question that your security system should be monitored. A security system without monitoring is like having a fancy noisemaker. It knows that someone violated your space but no one knows. It cannot summon help to protect your family or your home. You cannot depend on your neighbors to help because they may not be home at the time and do you really want your neighbors to potentially be in harm’s way trying to prevent a burglary? The protection of your family and your property is best left to the professionals such as the police and the fire department. You can install your own security system and select an alarm professional to monitor the system.

Warranty for Your Security System

When you have a DIY installation you have to realize that you are the installer. This means that if something does not work when you install or stops working after the installation you will be the one to do the troubleshooting and you will also be responsible for the replacement of the equipment. The equipment may be under warranty but you will have to send it back for replacement and wait for the part to be sent to you. This means that your home protection has been degraded while you are waiting. You can purchase all of your parts from local security companies and this way you can minimize the time required having your system up and running.

As you can see the installation of an alarm system is not a slam dunk and does require attention to detail. You must consider that even though you will save money upfront on the parts you may not have the peace of mind in knowing that the installation was done right. Make sure you consider all of the factors before jumping into an installation on your own.

TIP:

Some installation companies will supply the equipment programmed and ready to go. This means the critical part of an installation has been done and you can just do the installation.

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Source by William J Robinson

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As crime rates are now at epidemic levels, making sure your property is adequately protected against the threats posed by intruders should not be taken lightly. There is ongoing research into creating new security systems and alarms that would ensure that our homes and workplaces are as burglar-proof as possible.

If your home or office still utilises an old fashioned motion sensor alarm, do not be under the impression that this alone is a deterrent to a potential intruder. There are now new systems and concepts that add an extra level of security to a property or building.

A lot of research and investment has gone into creating wireless security systems. Previously, most alarms would have utilised lengths of cables and wires which were in fact easy to tamper with such that a break-in could go undetected. Wireless systems take security to a higher level, in that they are a lot more difficult to disable.

There is now a trend (or trick!) for installing decoy alarms. These have been designed to give the appearance of a real security system, and have the ability of tricking an intruder into thinking they have effectively disabled an alarm when in reality their moves are actually being recorded and tracked!

CCTV cameras are now a common sight on our streets and in buildings. As the price of CCTV systems has been reduced drastically over the last few years, it is now quite affordable to integrate security cameras into a property’s alarm system. You can choose a security installer that also offers remote monitoring. When the alarm is triggered, professional security guards can observe the intruder and then take swift action. A camera not only helps in deterring potential burglars, the video that is recorded may also be used as evidence in a prosecution.

In a similar vein to motion detectors, there are now infrared sensors that can monitor the goings on in a particular area. These are designed to track heat sources such as the body heat given off by an intruder. Heat sensor systems are becoming extremely popular as they can also minimise the risk of a serious fire causing damage.

It can happen that even when the latest locks and alarms are installed in your property, an intruder still gains entry. You can reduce the impact of the break-in by choosing a system that releases a dense fog when the alarm is triggered. The result of this fog is that the burglar cannot see any further than just a few centimetres in front of their face and therefore immediately make their way out of the building as they can’t see what to steal!

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Source by Stephen Mawhinney

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Most home owners are aware of the fact that the security of their home depends in large part on the security of the larger community in which it is located. As a result, home security measures will only be as successful as the broader security measures being implemented outside the walls of your home, in the neighboring homes and in the streets that run through your community. It is due to this reality that any home owner trying to boost their own personal home security also needs to help boost that of his neighbors and boost the overall security of the neighborhood as a whole. Without this sort of all-inclusive perspective, a person will always expose themselves to unnecessary and unwanted risks that could be overcome with a bit of proactiveness.

In order to help prop up the security of your neighbors’ homes, you will want to know what you are talking about; hence, becoming thoroughly acquainted with all the ins and outs of the home security industry is a must. Before tackling issues outside your own four walls, make sure that everything within them is in optimal condition: as they say, you have to have your own house in order before you go and tell others how to do things. There have been several crucial advances within the home security field over the last few years, and the contributions they make to guaranteeing safety in a home have been without a doubt invaluable, taking the level of service (at least that of the best companies in the sector) to unprecedented levels.

Two main advances in recent times have come in the form of the switch both to wireless and to digital technologies: these two facets of today’s security systems raise the bar way above its former height, and burglars have a worse lot than ever before with these latest generation technologies. Another major development that has kept countless people safe in emergencies has been the ability to adapt your keypad into a sort of intercom (two-way), which means that even if you can’t reach the phone or make it to the keypad on the wall you will be able to communicate with dispatchers. The keypad is equipped with a super-sensitive microphone and the speaker is given greater amplification powers, with the option of routing the audio to additional speakers throughout the home so that a dispatcher’s instructions can be heard from practically anywhere.

Another improvement of more or less the same class has been the inclusion of backup cellular tower communication lines between your home security system and the monitoring center, a crucial aspect that prevents storms or even criminals from severing your lifeline with live dispatchers.

Bring these issues up with neighbors, and prompt as many of them as possible to strongly consider getting such features included in their homes’ security systems. If they don’t have a security provider that offers such features, then provide them with information about which companies do (many times switching from one provider to another incurs no cost whatsoever, and many of the hardware components can be left in place).

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Source by Ben Crenshaw