Your home is your sanctuary!

 Your home is your sanctuary. It is a place where fond memories are made and relaxing evenings are spent after a busy day. Your home is a safe haven where you and your family most feel at ease. If your home is under-protected or you've had a recent burglary, this may compromise the security you feel in your own home.

No one wants to become a statistic. Using a few simple home security tips and tricks, you can protect your belongings, thwart would-be thieves and increase your feeling of security while home and away.

 

Prevention begins outside your home from the minute it comes into view. Take a walk around your property with a critical eye to see what changes it needs. Here are a few you may have missed:

1. Don't provide places for thieves to hide: Trim trees and bushes that may give someone a place to hide or unnoticeable access to your windows. You should trim back any shrubs that are high enough to block a window.

You will also want to consider the lighting of your property. Look for places around your home that are very dark and may allow a thief access to your home under the cover of darkness. Consider installing lights in various places that can light up entrances. Motion detection spotlights are the best option to conserve energy and not annoy your neighbors or yourself with the bright lights.

2. Don't let thieves know you are not home: If you are planning to go on vacation, never announce it beforehand. We are a society that likes to share, and thieves love that about us. Sending a tweet that you've arrived at the airport or posting a status update on Facebook indicating that you can't wait to leave for your cruise is a great way to alert thieves that your home is empty. Save all updates about your vacation and picture sharing for when you return.

In addition, if you are planning to vacation, have a trusted friend or neighbor stop by every day to pick up the mail, newspapers and any fliers that may be left at the door. If a flier has been sitting on your front door for days, a thief could take notice and know you are on an extended leave.

Any time you are going to be gone during the night, even if it's just returning from work after it gets dark, you should have interior lights set to a timer. Having lights on will keep thieves guessing and will let you feel safer when you come home.

3. Keep your yard clean to prevent giving thieves an advantage: Many times, thieves will gain access to your home through a window they have broken. It is best that we don't give them a tool to do that. Clean up your yard of broken tree limbs after a storm. Ensure your kids put away their toys after playing outside. Never leave a ladder outside in the yard; a thief could use your ladder to gain access to a higher window that is more likely to be unlocked. Use the same precautions for tools, whether they are gardening or for the barbecue; lock them up when they aren't in use.

4. Take precautions to protect windows: If you are purchasing new windows for your home, it might be worth the upgrade to buy shatterproof glass. This would prevent anyone from breaking a window to gain access to your home. If new windows aren't in the budget, consider adding a security film to windows. This will prevent the glass from shattering upon breaking and may deter thieves from continuing their attempt to break in.

5. Secure sliding glass doors: Sliding glass doors have incredibly flimsy locks. A thief can easily pop them in an instant, giving quick access to your home. Installing a security bar for sliding doors would make gaining access to your home more difficult. This measure of protection is a must-have for all sliding doors and windows.

6. Always lock doors and windows: Keep windows locked when you are not home, when you go to bed at night and when they are not in use. If you like to sleep with a window open at night, install window locks that only allow the window to open a few inches.

You should also keep your garage door down, even during the day. Having the garage door open invites thieves inside to look around. It gives them quick, easy access inside your home. Even if they can't take something at the time, they can get enough of a look to see if your home is worth a visit later.

7. Change the locks as necessary: If you've just purchased a home from someone, your first order of business should be to meet the locksmith at your new home. You have no idea who is out there with a key just waiting for the moment to use it. In addition, if you've had a breakup recently, it is time to change the locks. The person may give you the key back, but you have no idea how many copies are out there. Having the locks changed is good for the peace of mind.

8. Install a home alarm system: While an alarm may not keep burglars from getting inside your home, it will deter some and bring the police to your home quickly, limiting what a thief is able to take. Home security systems will only work if you always remember to engage the alarm. You should have your alarm engaged while you are away or while you are at home as many thieves will attempt to break into one part of your home while you are busy in another. Also, many insurance companies may lower your home insurance premiums for having a home alarm system installed.

 Keeping your family, your belongings and your home safe and secure does not involve a lot of money. A few simple changes such as the home security tips mentioned above can protect everyone and everything for years to come.  For this and more information contact Kelly Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Securing your Basement

One of the easiest ways to access a home is the basement. While its true that burglars enter homes mainly through front door or other first level accessibility, some choose to make their way in from down low. The unfortunate truth is that basements are rarely secured as tightly as main level doors and windows.

Let us take a look at some ways to secure your basement to the fullest.

1. Clear Windows: One of the keys to maintaining a secure basement is to keep your basement windows visible. This seems a bit counter-intuitive as most homeowners think that hiding possible entry points will serve to protect the house. Do not let shrubbery overgrow to mask these entryways. It will allow a burglar to hide behind something while making his way into your living space. You want your windows to be easily seen by neighbors and those who pass by. So avoid planting shrubs and flowers by those windows and trim those that are nearby on a regular basis. It will make a burglar think twice about trying to break into your home through the basement.

2. Protect The Windows: While clearing out the area by your windows will prove critical to giving an intruder second thoughts, you should take the extra step for enhanced protection. Add bars to your basement windows so that thieves cannot access them. Unprotected windows are sometimes weak enough to be kicked in or smashed with little effort. Do not give burglars an easy way into your home's foundation. Bars are an incredibly effective deterrent. They tell burglars that you mean business and that you have gone to great lengths to protect your home. Bars do not have to be unsightly. They come in all different types of styles, colors and shapes. They can always swing open so that you can exit in case of an emergency. You can even opt for removable bars that can be uninstalled in little time.

3. Security System: Your home security system can extend all the way to the basement. Be sure to put a sticker on your property near your basement windows to announce to thieves that you have installed a security system to protect your home's foundation. This is an excellent deterrent. If a thief attempts to access your basement through your window, your home's entry sensor will trigger the alarm. The monitoring company will contact the authorities and the burglar will likely flee or be caught.

 4. Add Security Film: If you would prefer to not use bars, opt for security film. It protects window glass from objects, natural disasters and intruders but is a bit more aesthetically pleasing than bars. The film really will prevent a thief from accessing your basement. Some are easy enough to be installed yourself.

5. Water Detection: Be sure to install a water detection system in your home's basement to prevent major damage. This involves the placement of special sensors in your basement and/or laundry room to notify the monitoring company when there is flooding or any sort of leak. Your basement's water detection will operate 24/7/365. You can even be alerted to flooding or leaks through an alert on your smartphone or by e-mail.

It is imperative that you reinforce your basement's entryways. Your home is just as vulnerable from windows and doors that lead to your basement as it is from the door in the front of the house. All it takes is a few precautions and you will be able to rest easy knowing that you have done all that you can to protect your home and family.

For more information on how you can secure your premises contact Kelly Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Safety Tips 101:

1)  Store valuables in your child’s sock drawer rather than in your nightstand.

Thieves often scour the master bedroom but tend to leave children’s rooms untouched.

 2)  If your front entrance contains decorative glass, install your security keypad in a spot that is not visible from the doorstep.

That way, burglars won’t be able to peer in and see if the alarm is set.

3)  A mail slot goes against the wood grain, weakening the horizontal integrity of a door and making it easier to kick in.

Opt for a mailbox, or install your slot near the bottom of the front door, no higher than a quarter of the way up.

4)  Keep car keys next to your bed while you sleep.

If you hear a suspicious noise and suspect that someone is trying to break in, press the Panic button on your key ring. The car alarm will sound, and the burglar will have no choice but to flee the scene.

5)  Plant thorny shrubs, such as rosebushes, beneath ground-floor windows.

They’ll add beauty to your garden and deter burglars.

 6)  If you’re going away on vacation, ask a neighbor to check daily for flyers stuck in your front door.

Crafty criminals have been known to leave pizza ads in doors to see how long it takes for residents to remove them.

 7)  Rather than loading up the car the night before a weekend getaway, quickly do it in the morning right before you leave.

Left in front of the house, a fully packed car can serve as a green light for those looking for one.

 8)  Lower the volume of your telephone ringer.

This way a passerby won’t be able to hear it go to voice mail, which is an indication that no one is home.

9)  Don’t store wood near the side of the house, as it can easily be used by intruders as a step ladder up to a window.

Keep logs in the garage or in a pile at the edge of the yard and of course lock up ladders.

10)  Program your GPS for the nearest Police Station.  Store your Vehicle Registration in a safe location in the vehicle.

Thieves break into vehicles at community events, thus knowing how long you will be away from home, don't allow the thieves to find their way to your unattended home.

 11) Invest in a home Security System.

Homes with Security System's are less likely to be broken into.  Display lawn signs and door/window decals and be sure to use the Security System, even it just popping out for a few minutes.

 For more information contact Kelly Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

 

Why You Should Have a Security System

There are a variety of things that can stop or deter a would be burglar from stealing your processions or harming your family. A home security system is by far the best deterrent that you can have. Unfortunately many people only feel the need to have a home security system installed after they have been violated. Obviously this is the wrong time to consider arming your home.

There are 4 main reasons why you should have a home security system and the areas of protection that they offer to you and your family:

1. Burglary Deterrent

2. Preventing a Confrontation(Home Invasion)

3. Loss Prevention

4. Fire and Carbon Monoxide Detection

Stopping a would be thief

Statistics show that you are less likely to be targeted by a thief if you have a security system sign in your front yard. Often times it is 3 to 4 times less likely. A burglar is looking for an easy target and if there is a potential of getting caught then they will, more often than not, move on to the next home that does not have an alarm system.

Reducing the threat of a home invasion

Home invasions are becoming more of an issue and you will want to make sure that your family is protected. If you are home at night you can arm your alarm system and still have freedom of movement in your home. So, if a home invasion is attempted the alarm system will sound and the home invader will most likely flee. If your home has alarm monitoring then the authorities will also be dispatched. If your alarm system has wireless capability then you can carry a key fob with you which have a panic button. This panic button can be used inside and outside your home in the event of an emergency. Make sure you test the range of your key fob so that you will be aware of the area that you can depend on activation.

 Preventing the loss of your possessions

When a burglary occurs in your home you can count on the loss of some of your possessions. The average loss is $1,700 per incident. An alarm system will not cost anywhere near that amount unless you have a very large home. If you have a very large home then the value of your processions is probably more than average so you can see that the loss will also be larger. An alarm system will discourage a burglar from entering your home at all or if they are bolder they will stay in your home for a shorter period of time because they know the authorities will be on there way.

Protection from Fire and Carbon Monoxide

A home burglary can obviously result in the feeling of being violated and lingering feelings of "what if they come back". A fire can cause much more damage to your home, processions and potentially the lives of your family. Even with many people being aware of this there are a large number of people that still do not have a smoke detector in the home. A burglar can steal some stuff but a fire can destroy everything. Most people think that a security system is meant to stop burglars but they are actually for the purpose of "home security" This means all things that can make your home more secure. A smoke detector should be installed on every alarm system. These are available in wired or wireless versions.

Where most fires start in family dwellings:

· Kitchen 23.5%

· Bedroom 12.7%

· Living Room 7.9%

· Chimney 7.1%

· Laundry Area 4.7%

Carbon Monoxide has become a problem in residential homes and the biggest issue is that Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. This silent killer can attack you while you are sleeping and you may never wake up. A carbon monoxide detector can be installed and attached to your security system. These devices are also available in a wired or wireless version.

For this and more information contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Perks on Owning a Security System!

Consumers who believe that security systems only guard against theft haven’t done their homework. Surely the most obvious benefit of a home security system is burglary prevention, and that’s for good reason. Alarm systems work in both low-tech and high-tech ways to deter break-ins.

On the low tech side, yard signs and window decals often are enough to ward off potential intruders. Most criminals are cowards. Seeing that your home is protected with state of the art technology, burglars will think twice before breaking and entering. If they decide to proceed anyway, sensors on windows and doors detect when someone has entered or exited your home. When your system is armed and an intruder enters your home without punching in your security code, an alert is sent to a monitoring center, and authorities will be dispatched.  But, as the late night commercials say, “Wait! There’s more!” Following are other ways your system can protect you from common problems:

Fire prevention

Fires pose a threat to your family, home and belongings, so you don’t take fire prevention lightly. You make sure to repair broken electronics, smoke outdoors and watch over lit candles. Security systems boost your protection from fires. Heat and smoke sensors send a signal to your system when they detect a threat. An alert then travels to monitoring center where security professionals will quickly make sure you are safe. If needed, firefighters will be sent to your home to handle the situation.

Carbon monoxide

The threat of carbon monoxide makes homeowners and parents nervous and for good reason: This poisonous gas is tasteless, colorless and odorless, which makes it nearly impossible to detect. But carbon monoxide sensors added to a home security system can sniff out the presence of this gas and alert your security system, much like heat and smoker sensors do for fire. Security experts will of course assess the situation and dispatch emergency professionals to your residence if necessary.

Medical emergencies

Disasters are sometimes manmade. Medical emergencies come about all on their own. Your father might fall in the tub or you break your leg while no one else is home. The truth is that accidents and severe illness can come out of nowhere. For these scenarios, security systems can be triggered manually. Instead of sensors detecting a menace, household members can trigger the alarm via a medical pendant or fob. Your system will contact a monitoring center, where a security professional will make sure that everyone in your home is all right. If anyone requires medical attention, an ambulance will be dispatched to your house.

Water

You can also buy water sensors to alert you to the possibility of flooding in your home. Water can damage floors and furniture within a matter of minutes. With these sensors you can minimize damage when rising waters enter your home or a pipe bursts.

Home security systems protect against a wide range of dangers, and they have the potential to pay themselves off. With an alarm system, you can potentially earn a sizeable discount on your homeowners insurance. Savings could be as great as 20% off your premium. Twenty-four-hour monitoring for your home can be quite affordable, too. Knowing that you are protecting yourself, family, home and belongings is key to peace of mind.

For this and more Security information contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Moving - Home Security Tips

Spring is approaching, which means that a lot of you will be relocating soon. I want to help make your move flow as easily as possible, which is why I have taken the time to compose a checklist of sorts that you can use to help guide you through the process.
Change All Of the Door Locks in Your New Home
Real estate and leasing agents, workmen, former residents…and anyone associated with a former residence is likely to have a key to your new abode. Don’t assume that any of these individuals are above breaking into your home. From the day that you take possession, you and the people that you authorize should be the only ones with keys to your door locks.  Remember to also place pin locks on all sliding doors (and windows).
Install an Alarm System
Before you spend a single night in your new home install an alarm system.  Contact Atlas Alarms for your no-charge home security evaulation.  (NOTE: If you haven’t already done so, contact your insurance agent to inquire about any discounts that you may be eligible for by securing your home with an alarm system.)
Alert Your Monitoring Company
Contact yourMonitoring Company to update them on your move. More often than not you will have to provide 30 Days written notice.
Place Security Warnings Around Your Home
Deterrents are your first line of defense against burglary. Let the bad guys know that you’re prepared and they’ll likely move onto an unsuspecting residence, instead. One of the most effective ways to go about this is to place security warnings on your windows, your front lawn and anywhere else visible to the casual observer.
Secure Your Fencing
Walk around your front, side and back yard and check for holes or weak areas in your fencing and, if found, repair these issues right away. I also recommend a lock on your gate.  Not only will this help keep burglars away, but doing so will also help keep pets and young children inside.
Introduce Yourself to Your New neighbors
A face-to-face introduction helps neighbors establish a rapport with one another. Such an introduction may also heighten vigilance amongst homeowners. Without appearing paranoid, let your new neighbors know that they can contact you anytime they see or hear anything unusual around your property and that you will kindly do the same for them.
Inquire About a Neighborhood Watch Program
Call or visit your local police department to find out who is in charge of your local neighborhood watch meetings and when they are held. If you discover that no such program exists, speak to your police department about starting one. This is a great way to get to know your neighbors while fighting crime at the same time.
Start Fresh
Start fresh and change the batteries in all of the smoke detectors in your new home.

For more information contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Investing in a Security System

This articles offers insightful information on the benefits of investing in a quality home security alarm, the various components of security systems in the market today as well as tips or guidelines on what to look for when shopping for a security solution or system for your home.

Benefits:
The biggest and most important benefit of home security alarms is that they help keep you and your dear ones safe. In addition to that such security systems help users stop possible intrusions and catch burglars. As is the case with most products on the market home security systems come with their own set of pros and cons. It is for this reason that security system or alarm shoppers have to do their homework before setting out and making an actual purchase. Going through various home safety system websites and reading reviews from individuals who are using such products goes a long way in helping you identify whether or not the security alarm or system you wish to purchase is effective, reliable and meets your needs.

Components of Home Security Systems:
The large number of emerging security solution firms in the market today make it harder and sometimes even annoying for home owners or security system shoppers to identify or select the best security alarm options for their needs. Though there are quite a number of home safety system features offered by various companies in the market the following is a check list of basic features an effective security system should have:

• Siren
•  Door and or window contacts (sensors)
• Motion Detectors
• Control panel
• Keypad
• Battery back up
• Local Alarm Monitoring

Selecting the best security system for you home security needs:
The most important thing to do before purchasing a home safety system is identifying your home alarm needs. Doing so allows you to have a better understanding of what products and product features would best suit your needs.  For more information on Residential or Business Security contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Do I Need A Security System?

Have you thought about installing a home security system, but put it off because you don't think you really need one?


The number one reason to invest in a home security system is to protect your family and assets, the simple fact of installing a security system deters crime.

Reason #1 - To Deter Potential Crime

You might think that a crazy-loud k-9 is a great way to keep burglars away - and you wouldn't be wrong - but studies show that investing in a home security system is a proven way to keep burglars at bay.

The bottom line: Burglars are on the lookout for "soft targets," so making your home more difficult to access is likely to deter a break-in.

Reason #2 - To Detect Smoke and Fire

So, it's pretty obvious that a home security system can protect your home against burglary, but did you know that many security systems are also built to protect your home from a fire?

Here's how: A home fire alarm system is usually part of a total security system providing burglary protection in addition to fire protection. Such a system supervises doors, windows, and spaces within the home for break-in and may provide monitoring services to report a fire or intrusion to a Monitoring Center, where it can then be reported to your local police or fire department.

Reason #3 - To get a Discount on your Home Insurance

On top of being a burglar-deterrent, installing a home security system could also help lower the premium on your home insurance - and by a pretty penny at that.

In fact, Some companies may cut your premiums by as much as 15 or 20 percent if you install a Monitored Burglar and Fire Security System.
Reason #4 - To Control Your Home Remotely

Have you ever called a neighbor to ask whether you left your kitchen window open? Now there's an app for that, in a manner of speaking.

Most home security systems can alert you - via text or e-mail - when there's activity in your home that you want to know about. For example, you can get alerts every time someone enters your home.

Reason #5 - To Help Law Enforcement Respond Faster to Emergencies

What's another good reason to invest in a home security system? How about this: It can actually help children or seniors get medical attention in the event of an emergency.

How so, you're probably wondering? Well, if someone with health problems is living alone, they could carry a wireless transmitter that triggers their home security system if they need assistance. Many home security systems can include two-way intercoms so that when the system is triggered, you and your family members can communicate directly with the operators in case you can't get to a phone.

And while this little detail may not sound like much, to someone with limited mobility, who many not be able to get to the phone very quickly, it could prove extremely helpful.



For this and more information contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com or visit us on Facebook and Twitter.

10 Tips for Security

1. Don’t open your door to strangers or solicitors. Most home invaders knock on the front door to gain entry. They pose as someone in distress, a person asking for directions, workers, delivery persons, or they may be offering to do work for you.

2. Lock your windows and doors and keep your garage door closed and locked even when you are home.

3. Install solid core doors, heavy duty locks, and window security devices.

4. Check to see who is at your door before opening it by using a peephole, intercom system, or nearby window.

5. Use your front porch light to help you see outside.

6. Don’t rely on chains to keep intruders out, they don’t.

7. If you have an alarm system, use the "stay" mode or "instant" mode while you are home. If someone attempts to gain entry, the alarm will sound and get help to you.

8. Have an escape plan. Train your family on where to go and what to say. If someone can escape, the invaders will have lost their advantage of privacy and time.

9. Consider owning a dog for protection. If this isn’t possible, an empty dog bowl left on the porch gives the impression that there is a dog on the premises.

10. If you live alone, place men’s boots or other clothing laying around or yell “I’ll get it” when answering the door to make it seem like your not alone.

For this and more information please contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Garage Security

 Garages present special challenges for security. Here are some tips for keeping your garage secure.

• If you frost or cover your garage windows, burglars won't be able to tell if your car is gone.
  
• Keep your garage door closed and locked even when your car is not in the garage.
  
• Install a peephole in the door separating the house from the garage. If you hear suspicious sounds, you can check without opening the door.
  
• Are you worried about someone entering your house through your attached garage? If the garage door lifts on a track, a C-clamp can provide extra security since the door cannot be opened if you tighten the C-clamp on the track next to the roller.

For this and more Security information please contact me at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

How Aware are You?

Your home is where your Life takes place, where your Family meets together and your Children sleep soundly at night. Your Home houses not only memories but the important physical pieces of your life as well. Whether it is photo albums or special documents about insurance or financial information these are the things that our lives are built upon. When someone breaks into your home your space is violated and your safety is compromised. Having a Home Security System can not only keep your belongings from getting into the wrong hands, but keep you feeling safe as well. When considering your Home Security there are several things to consider.

Plan for safety. Have a family plan as to where you will go or what you will do in case of an emergency or disaster. Talk about items in your home that you want to have added protection for and how you can do this. If you don't have a plan you will not know what to do in a worst case scenario. Be prepared so that you never have to be put in that situation.

Look at Home Security Systems as they are improving everyday and now offer more benefits than they ever have before. It may be worth the investment to not only have a System installed but to have Alarm Monitoring as well. This way you can assure your peace of mind, even when you are away.  Do research on the costs and services that will work well for you so that you feel comfortable with the System that you have installed.

Probably one of the most important things to consider when thinking about Home Security is your instincts, as a homeowner oftentimes you can pinpoint areas of your home or property that may be susceptible to criminals. This is also where a Security Consultant will help you, they can do a walkthrough of your home and point out areas of concern.

Once you are aware of your surroundings and you are continually doing all that you can to protect your family and home from danger, chances are you will be safe. Use common sense when it comes to leaving doors and windows open or leaving items visible that may be a lure for a thief. Adding a Home Security System will not only give you added protection but additional peace of mind as well. No price is too high to protect your family and property.

For this and more information contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

GARAGE REMOTES and B&E's

Just on the Noon News today: Elderly Lady from Abbotsford, BC had been at Church, when she came out to her car she found it had been broken into, to add further pain when she arrived home it had also been broken into. PLEASE people remove your garage remotes from your vehicles and blacken out your address on your insurance papers, and finally do not have your exact home address on your GPS.  For this and more helpful information please contact Kelly Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

A Good Nights Sleep!

The best way for you to get a good night's sleep is to have your home equipped with a Residential Security Alarm System. There are several systems on today's market and they will let you sleep peaceably, without a care in the world. Your alarm system will keep your most valuable possessions - your belongings and your family - safe and free from harm. Once your alarm system is installed, your chances of being robbed or invaded are much, much less than if your home is without adequate security. All it takes is one look at your posted "Burglar Alarm" signs, and would-be intruders choose to take their presence elsewhere!

The cost of an Alarm System varies, depending on the model and the number of features it has. But, no matter what the cost, it will be well worth the money you spend because of the peace of mind you'll have. The bottom line is: While it will take some cash to invest in a Security System, you'll likely save money on replacement costs for valuables and even on your home insurance bill. It will be one of the smartest things you have ever invested in for your family and for yourself.

You probably have lots of questions about a Residential Security System. First of all, you most likely don't have a clue as to what type of equipment you'll need. You might also be at a loss as to how a security system works. And, you've probably heard about the monitoring stations attached to alarm systems and are wondering just what and where they are. Everyone in the process of purchasing an alarm system has questions, so you certainly are not alone in your quest to find just the right system for your home.

The basic purpose of an alarm system is to keep unwanted intruders from entering your home. Alarm Systems do this by alerting local police authorities and also your neighbors when something is definitely wrong at your house. In addition to burglaries, the alarms work to alert authorities about fires and medical emergencies.

Your home will be monitored by a Security Monitoring Company any time you set the alarm. This can be while you're away on vacation, at work for the day or jut sleeping soundly at night. The choice is yours. All it takes is for the alarm to be activated in an emergency or during break in and within minutes help will be on its way to your home. There is simply no better way to protect your loved ones at all times - whether you're at home or away.

For this and more security information please contact Kelly Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Pets and Your Security System

Burglar alarms were designed to keep homes and families safe from unwanted intruders. For many homeowners, their pets are part of their family. A properly installed and operational burglar alarm can help pet owners feel more secure leaving their pets home alone for any amount of time.

Most homeowners today know the many benefits of burglar alarms such as:

-Protection against unwanted intruders.

-Peace of mind knowing their home is secure whether they are there or not.

-Life safety protection in the event a fire, home invasion, or carbon monoxide poisoning should occur in the home.

-Insurance discounts for having an alarm installed and monitored in the home.

For homeowners with pets, burglar alarms add pet protection as an incentive to have an alarm system installed in their home. What is great about burglar alarms is that they can be customized to fit the needs of homeowners as well as their four-legged friends.

For instance, during the daytime when their owner is away, a pet can stay safe and secure from the threat of a burglar with something as simple as a basic burglar alarm system. While some people may see their dog as a burglary deterrent, a determined burglar can easily get by the dog by offering it a treat or other incentive.

Even worse, a burglar once inside the home can cause harm to an animal if he feels the dog is getting in the way or is a threat to him. This is just one example of why burglar alarms should be used as a burglary deterrent, never a dog or any pet for that matter.

Many pet owners over the years have decided to leave their homes and their pets unprotected from burglar alarms because of the fear of false alarms. While it is true that pets and alarm systems did not mix well in the past, advancements in technology have made it easier than ever for pets to live in a home with a burglar alarm system installed in it.

It is important, however, for the security company to know that there are pets in the home so that the proper pet immune alarm devices such as pet immune motion detectors are used during the installation.

Homeowners who have cats, dogs, birds, fish, or any other type of animal in their home they want to protect, can benefit from having monitored burglar alarms that have smoke detectors and/or carbon monoxide detectors installed in them. If a fire breaks out or there is a carbon monoxide leak in the home, no matter what time of the day or night, a pet owner can feel secure knowing that their pet is protected 24/7.

Humans can pick up a phone and call for help, animals cannot. Burglar alarms combined with alarm monitoring are great tools for keeping pets safe and tools no pet lover should ever go without.

For this and more information contact Kelly Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Common Sense or Not?

Security is not always just for your home or your business it extends to all parts of your lives. Common sense is not always that commonly used. More often than not when I am walking up the driveways to my clients I notice vehicles unsecured or electronics just laying on the seats. I am arriving at their premises to provide Security but they have forgotten about their vehicles. Why is it that we forget our common sense when we lock our front door?

Below are some tips you can use to avoid being the victim of vehicle theft:
• Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk out of sight, or better yet bring them inside.
• Always park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas, when possible.
• Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel, column, or brakes. These devices are a visible deterent.
• Investigate the purchase of a vehicle theft tracking/security system, especially if you own one of the frequently stolen model vehicles.
• Never leave personal identification documents, vehicle ownership title, or credit cards in your vehicle.
• If you must leave your key with a valet, attendant, or mechanic leave only the ignition key. Make sure you are dealing with a reputable firm.
• In high theft areas the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) should be etched on windows, doors, fenders and trunk lid. This makes it difficult for a thief to market your stolen car parts ("chop shop").
• Copy your license plate and vehicle information (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them with you. If your vehicle is stolen, the police will need this information to take a report.
• Many vehicles today come with some type of security system from the factory. Normally there are upgraded systems available if you ask. The best choice are systems that shut off the fuel supply so that a car can't be started or driven.
• Keep your home address information on your vehicle insurance papers blacked out.
• Program your GPS to the nearest local Police Station not your home, that way if your vehicle is stolen the GPS will not lead the bad guys straight to your house.
• If you have a RV be sure to use a device that prohibits anyone from them hitching it to their vehicle and driving away.
• Do not store expensive electronics in your RV.

For this and more security tips please contact Kelly Lynn Wicks of Atlas Alarms Ltd. at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

How You Can Prevent False Alarms

False alarms have been a hot topic lately and for good reason. They tax police resources and heighten pressure on authorities to manage first responder dispatches. This can result in changes to alarm by-laws and increased false alarm fines to residents.

By working together, the general public, security professionals and police departments can reduce false alarms.

Consumer error is the number one cause of false dispatches. A false dispatch occurs when an alarm system is set-off, police are called and there is no intruder or emergency situation.

Here are a few tips on how to make the best use of your security system by reducing false alarms.
1) Ask for Enhanced Call Verification and provide multiple contacts: “Enhanced Call Verification” means that your monitoring company will try to get in touch with two or more of your contacts to confirm your alarm’s validity before issuing a dispatch. Communities that require Enhanced Call Verification have seen reductions of unnecessary law enforcement response between 30 and 50 percent.
2) Maintain your “call list”: Keep your “call list” up to date with current phone numbers for you and your contacts with the right contact information, monitoring stations can be proactive in determining if police should be dispatched to your residence.
3) Schedule annual inspections: Request annual maintenance inspections to ensure proper performance of your alarm system. Also, don’t forget to replace your back-up battery every three to five years.
4) Properly train caretakers: Ensure all key holders are trained in the proper use of your alarm system and know your pass code and monitoring station’s phone number in case the alarm is accidently set off. Never give a key to someone who isn’t familiar with the system.
5) Monitor your home’s environment: After any household changes, such as remodelling, contact your alarm company to ensure they won’t affect your system. Plants or curtains that are too close to drafty areas or a new pet that enters an armed room can trigger an alarm.
For more information on this and other security tips contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Alarm Systems for Townhomes.

Most people don't even think to install an alarm system inside their town home because of the way they are set up so close to other houses, people figure no one would be brash enough to break in. This is absolutely not true, and having an alarm system in any type of home you live in is a good idea. What can make a town home prone to theft is the fact that there are so many houses in such a small area. Thieves can easily steak out a house and figure out what the schedule is of a tenant. Everyone should have his or her town house protected just as if it were a traditional home.

A good thing about having a town house is that you will have less entry points in your home. This means that when installing the system, it will be easier to make sure every window and door is hooked up to your alarm device. After the system is installed, a small sign will be placed in the front of your property, and small stickers will be placed on every window you have in your home as a warning to people that plan on breaking into your home.

Other benefits of alarm system for your town home is all the warning features you can have with your system. If there is a fire in your town home, this means other homes are at serious risk of catching fire too. By having your alarm system installed be able to notify authorities in case of a fire while you are not home, this will help protect not only your home, but also protect other families around you. There are also other buttons and special features that you can have installed that can contact specific medical entities, or of course you can have a panic button for when you believe someone is trying to break into your home.

As homeowner, when your house is armed with an alarm system, your homeowner insurance will go down every year because of the extra security provided. Your alarm system will also bring added value to your town home, so that the money you put into it will be seen when it is time to sell the house. Either way, the potential benefits for having a state of the art alarm system are endless, and because these systems are cost-friendly, it is senseless not to have one installed in your town home as soon as possible.

For this and more information please feel free to contact me, Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

"Do I Really Need Security"?

Time after time I hear that people do not think that residential security is either affordable or really required. Some believe that because they live in an apartment or town house, the neighbours live close and they will respond if anything happens. Today’s society is programmed to “mind their own business” and unless you are one of the lucky ones, no one will even bat an eye. Did you know that intrusions occur mainly between the hours of 10am and 2pm? If your neighbours are at work or away, they’re not going to be any the wiser. Sad but true.
A residential security system can be the most basic of systems which covers a couple of entry points along with an interior motion detector to provide you with more security. This is a good starting point and most systems can be added to as finances allow. Keep in mind that the interior motion detector is only turned on (active) when you are not at home. More elaborate systems can, and should be designed to suit your needs and, of course your budget.
Whatever the reason is for the rise in crime in all areas of the country, we as citizens must take more necessary precautions to protect our families and our belongings. This is just another form of insurance. It is a proven fact that homes with visible security are less likely to be broken into than those without. Signage is your first line of defence; use it to your advantage. Decals should be placed in any areas that are visible for possible entry. Use common sense, think like a thief and scope out your own house. Ask yourself, how would you break in? Then fix it!!
For those that have a security system be sure to use it, the system is designed not only to be used when you leave your home but for when you are at home whether it be day or night. More often than not thieves enter through the front door. And thieves will enter even if you are home. If someone rings your doorbell and you are not expecting anyone, make noise, let the person at your door know someone is home. By ignoring your doorbell, you are telling an intruder the home is empty. Keep your doors locked and the security system armed on the “stay” mode. What this means is that if anyone enters the home through any secured opening the system will sound the siren immediately and simultaneously transmit the signal to your Alarm Monitoring Centre and if needed, the Police are on route.
For this and more information contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Homeowners Dream and Responsibilty

For many of us, our dream is about being surrounded by our loving family and having a home that we can call our own. However, as homeowners, we do carry the responsibility of ensuring that our home is as secure as possible - this means that home security and home safety are two of the most important considerations for any homeowner.

Of course, choosing the right decor, the right landscape and the right swimming pool are important decisions when it comes to purchasing or building your home, but what about security? All too often, this is one area where many homeowners fall short - somehow believing that "nothing bad" will ever happen to them in their homes. While, of course, this is something we all hope for, the reality is that accidents, such as home invasions happen each and every day and while first responders, such as the police, will be on site to assist with the aftermath, the responsibility lies with you to make sure that you have put in place the appropriate security measures that will warn you and your loved ones should any type of unfortunate incident of this nature occurs.

Of course, nobody likes to think about these types of scenarios - it is actually quite sad to think that you have to protect your home because another person might want to bring harm to you and your family. However, it is a fact of life and this means purchasing the right type of home alarm equipment.

Choosing the right home security can be a bit daunting, however, the best course of action it find out exactly what type of home alarms are currently available on the market and to work from there. For this and more in depth information on home and business security contact Kelly Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com or call 604-791-0089.

Planning Your Vacation? Plan Your Security NOW!!

As spring and summer approach, many families will be leaving their homes empty for a few weeks to enjoy a little R&R. Don't let your opportunity to enjoy some quality time away with the family become an opportunity for burglars to invade your home.

A well-planned vacation includes a plan for minding the fort while you're away. Some common strategies include: getting a house sitter, having a neighbor bring in mail and newspapers, leaving on some lights or putting some on timers, and possibly getting a security system.
The old standby in this situation seems to be: lights-timers-neighbors. Any plan is better than no plan at all, and ensuring that your papers and mail don't pile up is a good place to start. Having a trusted neighbor take care of these items and possibly even park a car in your driveway can be a great help. Shedding a little light on the subject property can't hurt either. Be careful with the lights though, when overdone it could actually send the message that the lights are on, but no body's home. If your home has a sprinkler system that is on a timer, you may want to set it up to operate intermittently while you're away too. Just be sure to abide by any watering restrictions that might be in place.

While leaving some lights on or utilizing items on timers might give the impression that someone is home. Someone actually being in the home is a much better idea. Try to get a trusted friend or family member to temporarily take up residence in your home while you are away. Your home will truly be more secure and you will be able to enjoy your time away that much more knowing that it is.

If you already have a security system, use it. If you haven't used it in quite some time and cannot remember exactly how, consult your instruction manual or your security company well in advance of your departure date. This will help you to avoid a great deal of last minute frustration. If you plan to have a house or pet sitter, ensure that they know how to operate the security system too. You should also communicate your vacation plans with your monitoring company. Let them know things like: the dates you will be away, your return date, if the house will be vacant or the numbers for your house or pet sitter, if there is to be one. Some companies may also let you request immediate dispatch if the home is to be completely vacant. This may temporarily bypass the need for a verification call to the home, which is required by most police departments and could speed up the dispatch process. You may also want to give them the numbers where you will be staying for ease of contacting you should they need to.
If you don't have a security system and are thinking about getting one, plan ahead. Security companies get a rush of business around vacation time too. The best companies will book up just like the best hotels at the beach. You should do your research and shopping well in advance to ensure that you can get your security system installed in time and that you get to use your alarm company of choice.

With a little planning you can enjoy your dream vacation without the worry of a burglary nightmare.

Contact me at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com for more information.