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

Why You Need A Monitored System in Your Home

Merriam-Webster defines "home” as "the place (such as a house or apartment) where a person lives.” If you are like most people, your home is so much more than the four walls and a roof where you return after a hard day’s work. Your home is your sanctuary. It is where everything that matters to you is. Your spouse, children, pets and possessions reside there, and all those things are well worth protecting. Whether you are home or away, you want to know that the things you value the most are being cared for. There are few better ways to ensure your property and loved ones are protected than by having a professionally-installed home security system.

Intrusion - When most people think home security, the first thing that jumps to mind is "burglary alarm.” Magnetic contacts on doors or windows, motion sensors and glass break detectors work in conjunction to notify the monitoring station that there is an unlawful intruder. If you are away, you can trust that the authorities have been contacted and will meet you there to help assess what damage has been done. If the unthinkable happens and you are home when an intrusion occurs, you do not have to worry about trying to reach out for help, yourself. The monitoring station has you covered 24/7, as long as the system is armed.

 While intrusion detection is an important component, it is not the only function of a monitored home security system. In fact, fire and life safety devices are essential to having a well-protected home. They work around the clock, whether your system is armed or not.

Monitored Smokes - From cooking fires to electrical malfunctions, there are many potential causes for residential fires. They can happen quickly and without warning. Moreover, statistics show that 50% of all fatal fires occur between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. A home security system with monitored smoke and heat detection devices means that, no matter the cause or the hour, someone is getting help to you quickly.

Monitored CO Detection - Carbon monoxide "an odorless, colorless gas, which can cause sudden illness and death” and which "is produced any time a fossil fuel is burned.” Humans cannot detect it. A disturbing fact, when you consider that many household items, including furnaces, portable generators and charcoal grills produce this poison gas. With the installation of carbon monoxide detectors near every sleeping area in your home, monitored detectors would offer an extra level of protection for your family.

Water Detection - While a flooded basement, laundry room or water closet is hardly a life-threatening event, water damage accounts for the most frequent causes of homeowners’ insurance claims. A monitored water detection system is designed to alert you of the presence of moisture before any major damage can occur. Like life safety devices, they are monitored 24/7, and can be essential to helping you prevent the considerable hassle and expense of dealing with the result of a leaking or burst pipe in your home.

Detection of intruders, fire and other emergency situations can give you the peace of mind you want and deserve when it comes to your home and the people you care for the most; but these are just a few benefits to having a monitored home security system professionally installed and serviced by Atlas Alarms. Contact us for a tailor-made proposal suited to your family’s unique security needs. - See more at: http://www.atlasalarms.com

Secure Your Home

Home security systems are a great way to provide peace of mind. A home security system will not only protect your family while at home, they can often provide a quick link to the authorities while you're away when your system is monitored. Home security systems are used to ensure the safety of your home and family. Home security systems are very effective and easy to use.

It's just important to know what your goal is for the system. Do you want to protect the people when they are in the home or your possessions when the people are away? Home security systems are a great investment and are a must have for every household to keep your family safe inside as well as your possessions. Most everyone has been broken into or knows someone on their street who has been the victim of a break-in, so it makes sense to consider some kind of home security system.

Some home security systems are commonly perceived as consisting of flashing lights and loud sirens. While some systems certainly do employ these methods, it is important to be aware that certain home security systems have become quite sophisticated.

A good home security system is not the only way to guarantee home security; some basic common sense steps need to be taken to safeguard your home to give you total protection. If a burglar is delayed just a few minutes, he is apt to give up and try another less problematic home.

Home security systems are now easy to operate and come with a variety of options and styles. But best of all, they provide you with better security and more peace of mind than you've ever had before. Home security systems are a vital part of keeping your family and your home safe. If you have never tried shopping for a home security system before, it can be a little overwhelming but well worth the effort.

Secure your home using some common sense home security ideas. For advice on home security systems 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

 

We Never Used to Lock Our Doors!

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 or live 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. 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 should they fall. If they could not reach an emergency button, the monitoring company would investigate and send help.

7. People who worry about elderly parents can install a complete home security alarm system that includes pendants or emergency buttons should they fall or require help, the monitoring company will call and then send the appropriate authorities.

If you have concerns about the safety of your family, contact Kelly Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com to help you assess your risk, analyze your needs, and create a home security alarm system that fits your needs and your budget. 

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

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

Commercial Security

A commercial Security System is a must for any Business with a physical store. If you want to trust that your business is safe at all times, you need to protect it well. Installing a system to protect against crimes like vandalism, burglary, and other common crimes is going to give you more peace of mind than you might expect. When it comes to finding the right alarm system, you have to think about what you need and which features are most important. Here are some great features to look for when evaluating commercial Security Systems:

- Motion Sensors. Even if you have an alarm, criminals can find a way to bypass it. If you put in motion sensors with your system, it will be more difficult for them to get through your business and cause any harm without setting off the alarm.

- Surveillance Cameras. You need to be able to monitor your business so that you can catch anyone who breaks in or tries to commit crimes against your business. With cameras poised at all the entry points and throughout the business, it will be easier to see who is coming and going, including those who are trying to harm your company.

- 24 Hour Monitoring. Any Commercial Security System needs a 24 Hour Monitoring Centre. Knowing your business is in the hands of a Company who will monitor your business at all times, will make you feel much safer and be reassured that your business is protected and will be attended should the alarm be triggered.

- Customer service and support isn't usually a feature that you would look for in your commercial system, but you really need to make sure that you get these two things. You cannot trust your business to just anyone, and ensuring that you are buying your alarm from a reputable company that you are able to keep in touch with and trust is very important.

These are all great features to consider when you are investing in a Commercial Security System. Do your research before you make a decision to figure out which systems are best for your business and how you can make the most of your purchase. Look for professional, reputable services that will give you everything that you want and need in your Commercial Security System, no matter what you might be looking for. If you've invested yourself and your money into a business, you need to make sure that you invest in protecting it, as well.

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

Going Away on Vacation?

Going Away on Vacation?


Your home is most vulnerable when you are away for an extended period of time.

Be sure to practice good crime prevention techniques so the house you come back to is as safe as you left it.

Have someone you trust check your home and pick up your mail and papers while you’re away on vacation. Tell that person when you are leaving and when you will be back. If you decide to come home early or stay away longer, make sure they know.

For a small fee, you can have the Post Office hold your mail until you return from vacation. You should also know whether your home insurance policy has limits for the length of time your home can be vacant.

A lived-in look will give an outsider the impression that someone is at home. While you are away, have:

•The driveway shovelled in the winter and your grass cut in the summer.

•Lights on timers that would normally reflect your daily activity.

•A neighbour park a car in your driveway.

•A neighbour put some of their garbage at the end of your driveway on garbage day.

Making arrangements to have these normal daily routines continue while you are on vacation will give a potential burglar the impression that someone is at home.

For this and more information 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

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

Thieves Dont Want You To Know This!

You are a conscientious homeowner and do everything you can to protect your home. Why, you've even installed a home security system to make sure your family and belongings are protected. But did you know that burglars case homes everyday and take note of certain things in order to choose which house they're going to hit?
One of the top home security tips that will prevent burglars from even thinking of breaking into your home is to recycle your garbage properly. How else do people find out what you have in your home except through the waste cartons and packaging that you throw out on the curb? If handymen are setting up your new home theater system, have them bring all the packages with them. Or, tear and shred any packaging that you have in your home and use them for plant mulch. Don't advertise your vacations! Posting your vacation plans on Facebook is a great way to invite someone into your home. But you don't have to be so technical about it. Does your plumber, your hairdresser or your manicurist really need to know you'll be out for the next two weeks? Unless they're your family, you don't need to tell them anything.
It's a good idea to set up a monitored alarm system in your home, so you should look for a reliable company like to help you set it up properly. Don't hide the fact that you have a home security system set up, advertise it! But, have a few alarm switches and motion detectors and lights set up where burglars won't expect them. Believe it or not, your second story needs alarms, especially in the master bedroom's window. It's more urgent when you have a glass door that leads to your room over the porch. Burglars don't like the dark but you don't need to have football flood lights on the perimeter of your back yard install lights triggered by motion detectors for large mass objects.
For more information on hone and business security contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at 604-791-0089 or kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Oops - I just forgot!

Sometimes, people get a bit lazy when it comes to taking care of their homes and apartments. It's not a matter of leaving things be, it's a matter of not taking the right steps to ensure that everything stays the way that it is. While most people can admit to forgetting to shut a window before heading to work or perpetually leaving deadbolts unlocked, sometimes these small mistakes are not rewarded with the benefit of no one around to take advantage of them. And without seeing consequences, sometimes homeowners continue to do things the lazy way, rather than taking a couple of minutes to make sure that everything is as it should be.

When it comes to home security, making mistakes on a regular basis isn't just something to forget about: it's something that can lead to being more vulnerable for break-ins. The trouble is that people often forget burglars who are good at their jobs aren't going to be appear as threats or suspicious people while casing a home. And if they are able to notice that your front door is perpetually left unlocked or keys left sitting in the ignition to a car, they'll be sure to take advantage of it when the time is right.

Not all mistakes are that obvious, though. Here are five of the biggest home security mistakes, and simple ways to prevent them from leaving your house at a disadvantage.

#5 - Leaving valuables in a car. Sure, it makes sense if you're running late on the way home that you don't feel like lugging in the GPS and laptop from the car, but sometimes this can lead to robberies that don't even involve the house. Talented burglars know to hit cars when homes are occupied, so remember to go ahead and bring pricey electronics inside, no matter what.

#4 - Not securing a window air-conditioning unit. If you have a window unit, then you know that there is space around where it fits into the window that can be used to pry that window open. Be sure that you have the window unit secured, either with a cage or something else that acts as a deterrent. Otherwise, consider your home security the same as if you left a window open every single time you left the house or went to bed.

#3 - Forgetting to lock deadbolts. It takes mere seconds, yet is a major way to keep robbers from being able to break in. There's simply no excuse not to.

#2 - Not setting the home alarm system. If you've spent the money on it, why not take the couple of seconds that it takes to remember to punch in the code before leaving. Make sure everyone else in the house knows how to, too.

#1 - Putting a spare key somewhere "hidden." Under the mat? Behind a potted plant? Burglars are likely to look all of these places. Try to keep spare keys in the hands of trusted friends and relatives instead. This way, there's far less chance of the worst kind of break-in: one where someone simply uses your spare key and takes all the time he wants.

For more information or a quotation on a Security System be it residential or commercial please contact me at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com

Not A Cookie Cutter !

Along with Atlas Alarms Ltd. strive to be the industry leader in the sales and installation of high quality alarm systems by combining expertise, exceptional customer service, and competitive pricing for both residential and commercial applications.

I will attend your premise, residential or commercial and provide you with a complete security evaluation, tips on “how to secure your home yourself” and a professional quotation from Atlas Alarms Ltd. I will design a security system to fit your Budgetary needs and your security requirements. Do not be fooled by other alarm companies offering a "Basic System", your house is not cookie cutter why would you want your security system to be.

I will work closely with the technician to achieve a balance of feasibility and functionality in order to ensure that both the needs of the and the challenges of the individual system are met. Contact me either via kellywicks@atlasalarms.com to have your professional home security evaluation.