Home Security Systems

How to Secure Your Doors Against Burglary

Even though crime rates have dropped dramatically in countries around the world, burglary and break-ins are still an unfortunate reality, especially if you live in the city. The implications of burglary, financial and emotional, can be dire; heavy costs associated with replacing valuables and re-securing your home, as well as a fear of being in your own home, being just a few. The majority of break-ins occur at night and the favoured entry route into the home is quite surprising; rather than entering through more fragile windows, a majority of burglars prefer using the front door which can be just as easy as breaking a window, with the added benefit of being quieter, if a door isn't properly secured. This means that securing your front door, especially if you live in a house facing a major public right of way or road is essential. Thankfully, there are a few easy steps you can take towards securing your front door. The first step is to determine what material your door is made of. If your door is made of wood and is hollow then you will need to upgrade as these kinds of door are very easy to break down with a minimal effort. Wooden doors that are secured through the middle with metal or a similarly strong material should be fine, while uPVC doors offer much more resilience than a hollow door while remaining relatively cost effective. Having a window in your front door offers a number of benefits; it looks attractive and also allows you to look out and determine who's calling when someone knocks on your door. However, these windows are often close to the interior door handle, making them easy for burglars to smash and thus open the door from the inside. There are two security options if you have a window in your front door; put mesh in the window or replace the window with a subtle spyhole. The first, while effective, makes for a very unattractive option so it's better to opt for a spyhole which offers the benefits of a window without affecting the aesthetics of your home. It's also important to consider the kind of locks you have on your door. Generally, spring locks (which are quite common) are considered weak so consider replacing them with deadlocks, which are much harder to break. Consider other security options too, such as a door chain or, if you live in a crime hotspot, a second lock for your door. Finally, check the hinges and frame of your door as these are two of the most commonly exploited security flaws. The hinges of your door should be tight to the frame - a door on loose hinges can easily be kicked off the frame - so if they feel a bit loose, tighten the screws. Consider attaching more screws to the hinges if you feel they aren't secure enough. If your door frame has seen better days, make sure that you upgrade and strengthen it; metal plates can add an extra layer of security if needs be. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7245230

How to Secure Your Doors Against Burglary

Even though crime rates have dropped dramatically in countries around the world, burglary and break-ins are still an unfortunate reality, especially if you live in the city. The implications of burglary, financial and emotional, can be dire; heavy costs associated with replacing valuables and re-sec…

30Aug2012

Business Fire Alarm Inspections

Fire alarm inspections are required of businesses and commercial structures, such as hotels, offices, restaurants, and retail stores. In most cases, a local fire department performs fire safety inspections, however in some cases, security and fire alarm companies are qualified to carry out such inspections. Some of the primary areas and components that inspectors check include: <ul><li>smoke and alarm systems in good working condition</li><li>easily accessible exits with visible signage</li><li>properly functioning windows and doors</li><li>fire extinguishers in good working order</li><li>appropriately covered electrical boxes and switches</li><li>visible address on the outside of the building</li><li>Before a Fire Alarm Inspection</li></ul> Before you undergo a fire inspection, be sure that the address of the building is clearly visible from the street. You will also want to ensure that all exits are clear of obstacles like merchandise and storage. The exit signs are an important element to the inspection, so look to see that these signs are properly lit. Take the time to replace any broken or damaged cover plates on electric units or on exit signage. Avoid using door stops around fire exit doors, for this may hinder the ability to escape the premises. If there are automatically closing doors in the building, check to see that they're in good working order. Lastly, you'll want to address the amount of clearance between electrical panels and circuit breakers. Make sure that there is at least 30 inches of clearance between panels and breakers, and if panels are hidden, include a sign to indicate where they are located. Fire Safety Violations If a business or commercial entity is in violation of fire codes, the inspector will issue a report that requires correction of the violation(s). In addition, the business will be required to pay any fines associated with the violation. If the violation is severe and potentially life threatening, the correction may be required within a 24 hours time period. Other less severe violations may be allowed up to 30 to 40 days to fix. In most cases, fire inspections will typically result in preventable violations that business owners can address on their own. Fire inspections are not always scheduled with proper notice, so be sure to assess the building and ensure its compliance on a consistent basis. Home Fire Inspections Home fire inspections, although very important, often times go overlooked by most homeowners. In fact, over 75% of deaths from fire-related incidents occur in a home. For this reason, there's a high level of concern for proper residential fire safety amongst both families and local fire departments. There are ways to prevent domestic fires by conducting your own home fire inspection. Some of the areas you'll want to address include checking the condition smoke alarms, electrical cords, vents, and chimneys. Additionally, you'll also want to assess how appliances are being used around outlets as well as other potential hazards that could start a fire. Your local fire department should have guidelines to help pinpoint areas of risk throughout the home. The Advantages of Fire Inspections Many business owners find fire safety and alarm inspections to be a burden and a hassle. However, these individuals should take into consideration that almost 80 percent of all small businesses that encounter a large fire fail to re-open in the future, according to All Business. Investing in fire safety inspections on a regular basis can result in greater customer and employee confidence, lower insurance premiums, minimized physical and financial risks, and a better resale value on the building. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7205527 <div style="text-align: center;">Safe Side Security, Inc. provides Fire Alarm Inspection service for local & monitored fire alarm systems. We adhere to the inspection requirements as outlined in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines and provide comprehensive testing and maintenance of fire detection devices.</div><div style="text-align: center;">800-794-7575</div>

Business Fire Alarm Inspections

Fire alarm inspections are required of businesses and commercial structures, such as hotels, offices, restaurants, and retail stores. In most cases, a local fire department performs fire safety inspections, however in some cases, security and fire alarm companies are qualified to carry out such insp…

27Aug2012

Do You Need a Monitored Home Security System?

Deciding whether or not to install a home security system is a choice that every homeowner must make at some point in his or her life. While the cost of installation may be an initial deterrent, there are many benefits to having a home system in your home. In addition to installing the system itself, you must also decide whether or not to have it monitored, and by whom. Most home security systems will function on a certain level without outside monitoring. In order to take advantage of the full range of security offered by them, however, you must contract the monitoring out to a home security company. Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding whether or not you need a monitored home security system. Safety & Peace of Mind Whether you decide to have your system monitored or not, there is a certain level of safety and peace of mind that you gain by having a home security system. You can turn it on when you leave or go to sleep so that a loud alarm will sound if any doors or windows are opened while it is turned on. In many cases, this is enough to deter any criminals and alert your neighborhood that something is amiss. Having your security system monitored adds an additional layer of safety to this. Whenever the alarm is tripped, the alarm company is notified of an intrusion. If they do not receive an all-clear signal from you, then they will notify the local authorities so that they can send someone out to check on you and your property. Many modern alarms have specialized buttons on them for notifying different emergency crews, even when your alarm is not turned to on. By pushing a button, you can alert them of your need for Fire, Medical or Police assistance. Insurance Savings Most home insurance companies will give you a fairly significant discount for having a monitored security system. In many cases, this will pay for the cost of the monitoring, as well as a little bit extra. Because you can find very low-cost home safety companies in almost every area, this can make the decision of whether or not to have your system monitored a very easy one. By coupling your increased safety and peace of mind with an insurance savings, making the choice is a no-brainer. Although it is not necessary for you to have your home security system monitored by an outside company, there are definitely many benefits to doing so. Home security companies essentially become your set of eyes whenever you are outside of your home. If you are away for an extended, or even very short period of time, a home security company can alert both the authorities and yourself of any possible problems happening at home. You can then rest easily knowing that someone is looking out for you when you are away. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7109236

Do You Need a Monitored Home Security System?

Deciding whether or not to install a home security system is a choice that every homeowner must make at some point in his or her life. While the cost of installation may be an initial deterrent, there are many benefits to having a home system in your home. In addition to installing the system itself…

24Aug2012

10 Fun Facts About Interior Design

1. Interior design is basically the practice that deal with the placement and design of furnishings and other elements inside a space like windows, walls, doors, textures, finishes, light, and furniture is called interior deign. All of the said elements are manipulated by an interior designer in order to make the most functional space. 2. Interior designers may plan on various space like offices, homes, airport terminals, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, schools, and hospitals. One should not confuse interior design with interior decoration as the latter is focused on the selection of color palettes to go with complimentary furniture, window coverings, flooring, lighting, and artwork. Today most interior decorators need to be familiar with architectural detailing like home renovations, floor plans, and construction codes. 3. Interior designers may specialize in a distinct discipline like residential and commercial design, health care, hospitality and institutional design. In areas where profession is government-regulated the designer must have particular qualifications. The designer should also show competency not just in his or her specialty but in the entire profession. 4. Specialty areas involving interior designers are continuously growing and evolving. With an aging population in most countries the focus has been on developing solutions that improve the environment especially for the elderly. 5. There are many disciplines involved in interior design like function, structure, special group needs, specialized performance, discipline for business, presentation skills, computer technology, craft skills, and aesthetic disciplines, among others. The many disciplines that are involved in interior designing shows how encompassing interior designing is. The field of interior designing also requires an interior designer to be adept in science and technology, and be creative as well. 6. The process of providing interior designing services is identical regardless of the type of building. First the interior designer will determine the objectives, time frame and budget of the client. This is referred to as taking a brief. The aim is always to improve the revenue potential of the clients, since even homeowners need to consider the value of their property. Then the designer will outline a cost estimate for the project including the design output and corresponding expenses. Drawings are also required prior to commencing design work. 7. Computer-aided design is normally used by designers these days although hand sketches still remain valuable for their personality. Also called CAD, this is a program that is used to communicate the design in realistic views and various angles. CAD eliminates the need to work on long hours for hand drawing and sketching. 8. After the survey and provision of the working drawing the client will be given an initial concept for approval. Once this is approved the floor plans, alternations, finishing, and furnishings follow. Most probably doors, walls, and windows will be repositioned as well. 9. Employment of interior designers may vary like any other profession. Interior designers may take on regular day jobs with large corporations. Others may take on a project basis. There are designers who need to adjust their working hours in order to suit the needs of the client, meaning they have to work for a lot of hours. Those who are self employed however have a lot of pressure to get clients in order to get themselves adequate income. 10. Interior designers usually travel from one place to another, visiting the offices or homes of their clients. Interior designers’ earnings likewise differ based on their employer, years of experience, and their reputation. If you are looking into changing the interior design of a room in your house, your entire house or your office, try to look up the Asheville builders and the Asheville construction company. They would surely be able to provide you with the best service and with exactly what you are looking for.

10 Fun Facts About Interior Design

22Aug2012

Fellowes Microshred Ms-450cs Micro Shred Paper Shredder Review

<div style="text-align: justify;">If you're looking for a high-quality, medium-duty, deskside paper shredder that offers a high level of security, you needn't look any further than the Fellowes Microshred MS-450Cs. This is a top-notch product from Fellowes that combines great safety features and thoughtful little touches with what's really important: document security. For a relatively low price (under $300.00), Fellowes' MS-450Cs provides an extremely high level of security and it not only can destroy paper, it can decimate other types of media quickly and quietly, making this shredder a great choice for both the home and office. One of the first things that's noticeable about the MS-450Cs is how quiet it is. Indeed, it's so quiet you can barely hear it working at all, so this shredder would be great for a shared workspace or reception area. The shredder is also very safe to use, so it'd be a welcome addition to homes containing young children and/or pets. Fellowes has given the machine with its patented SafeSense technology which causes the shredder to immediately shut off if it detects hands - or anything other than paper - anywhere near the opening, so you and your loved ones will be safe. (The machine also stops when a jam occurs, thus preventing damage to the machine.) Other features include casters for easy transport, a generous wastebasket capacity of 4.5 gallons, and an additional chamber for media waste. Also, the basket area has a shelf for easy storage of shredder oil and wastebasket bags.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bCxwovR22Lo/UqNUSsnttaI/AAAAAAAAAB8/T9z-4ChP0_w/s1600/Fellowes+Microshred+Ms-450cs+Micro+Shred.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="about the MS-450Cs" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bCxwovR22Lo/UqNUSsnttaI/AAAAAAAAAB8/T9z-4ChP0_w/s1600/Fellowes+Microshred+Ms-450cs+Micro+Shred.jpg" title="document security" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fellowes Microshred Ms-450cs Micro Shred</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"> The noise and safety factors are great features to have, but what's truly amazing about the MS-450Cs is its shredding capability. This is a cross-cut machine that can shred just about anything you put into it including paper, CDs, DVDs, and credit cards. (Staples can be put in, too.) This paper shredder can shred up to seven sheets of paper at a time (less if you're shredding non-paper materials) and it can run continuously for 8 to 10 minutes. And best of all, the MC-450Cs pulverizes paper, producing very small paper particles. Identity thieves don't have a chance of stealing any information from documents that are passed through this machine, so the MS-450Cs is the perfect choice if you're concerned about identity theft. That said, the MS-450Cs' main strength is also its drawback, in a way. The shreds this machine produces are so fine, it's very easy to make a big mess with them. Be sure to be careful when changing or emptying the wastebasket, unless you want to be vacuuming up paper shreds. (And really, who wants to do that?) Also, some users may want to shred more than seven pages at a time. If that's the case, a different shredder would be a wise choice. Offices that are looking for a shredder to share among a number of users may find that the MS-450Cs is a little bit small for that application. A shredder with a larger bin, larger sheet capacity and wider throat may be nice for sharing in a workgroup or department. Overall, the MS-450Cs is the perfect paper shredder for individuals and businesses who are concerned about document security. If you're looking to safeguard your private information, get the MS-450Cs today and rest easy tonight, knowing your personal data won't wind up in the hands of identity thieves when you use this shredder. This is a great shredder to place beside or underneath your desk to make shredding of confidential documents easy and convenient. </div>

Fellowes Microshred Ms-450cs Micro Shred Paper Shredder Review

If you're looking for a high-quality, medium-duty, deskside paper shredder that offers a high level of security, you needn't look any further than the Fellowes Microshred MS-450Cs. This is a top-notch product from Fellowes that combines great safety features and thoughtful little touches with wh…

22Aug2012

Commercial Fire Alarms and Control Panels - What To Be Aware Of So You Do Not Get Burned

Before there were modern day fire alarm control panels and easy-to-use touch screen computer interfaces, the only defense against fire was for an individual to call for emergency response services. The first electric smoke detector was patented over 100 years ago, but was unable to be affordably mass produced until around 1970. Prior to then only large businesses were able to afford smoke detectors. Up until fairly recently most fire alarm control systems were also prohibitively expensive for all but the largest companies. Fire control equipment is constantly evolving as are the fire codes. There are many considerations to be concerned with when dealing with fire control panels and fire suppression systems. As advancements in electronics and computers were made the cost of fire alarms have leveled. Newer effective fire suppression chemicals have also increased the effectiveness of fire suppression systems. Depending upon the type and purpose of the building, specific types of fire suppression systems may be required for the intended purpose. For example, restaurants will require a different fire suppression system than a computerized data center. Of all the varying types of suppression systems available on the market, the most commonly installed is a standard wet pipe system which is what most of the public has seen throughout retail shopping stores. Other systems can be dry pipe systems or strictly use a chemical suppression system designed for sensitive electronics or conditions where grease or other flammable liquids may be present. If the building is in the planning stages a basic fire sprinkler can seem like a sizable investment. If the building in question is already completed or being purchased retrofitting the structure may be necessary in order to bring the property up to minimum fire code requirements. The cost can be much higher than new construction. It is important to note regarding real estate transactions of commercially zoned property that real estate agents will very likely be ill equipped to make an informed assessment of any fire control panel or suppression system. Contacting a fire alarm or security company which may inspect fire suppression equipment may be necessary to prevent additional costly oversights after the real estate transaction has been completed. Regardless of the type of business, it is mandatory to have an inspection performed of any fire sprinkler or suppression system present at regularly scheduled intervals. Usually the interval is consistent with a one year period. In many jurisdictions, however, it may be more frequently required. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5367466

Commercial Fire Alarms and Control Panels - What To Be Aware Of So You Do Not Get Burned

Before there were modern day fire alarm control panels and easy-to-use touch screen computer interfaces, the only defense against fire was for an individual to call for emergency response services. The first electric smoke detector was patented over 100 years ago, but was unable to be affordably mas…

21Aug2012

Your Home Improvement Project - Questions You MUST Ask a Contractor

<div id="article-content"> Choosing a reliable, quality-conscious, home improvement contractor is the most important part of any project. Proper planning, doing the necessary research, and having lots of patience will help to ensure your dream project will not become a living nightmare. Once you have narrowed down the list of contractors (3 or 4) you want to consider for your project, it's time to start getting to know them better...much better! Plan a pre-construction meeting at the project site with each contractor individually and ask lots of questions.Here is a sampling of some questions to ask the contractors you are considering. These will help get you started:How will you approach a project like mine? This will give you an idea of how the contractor works and what to expect during the project. Listen carefully to the answer. The contractor's work ethic and other traits can be uncovered listening to the answer.Have you completed many projects like mine? This will help you determine the contractor's familiarity with projects like yours.Will I need a permit to do my project? Your contractor should know the answer to this question and be the one getting the permit.How long have you been in this business? Seek out a local company or craftsman with experience in your community. A minimum of 5 years experience as a business owner is acceptable if everything else checks out.Do you have employees or do you hire subcontractors? Or both? Who will be overseeing the project? It is good to know what parts of your project will be handled by whom.Who do I speak with if I have a question or concern? Get exact names and contact phone numbers for all persons who will be involved with your project. It is best to speak with the owner if at all possible.Are you properly equipped and qualified to do a project like mine? You may be able to hire a handyman to do your project if it is small enough and does not require special training or licensing. If your project requires multiple trades it may be wise to consider a full service company.What kind of insurances does your company carry? Ask for copies of the insurance certificates to verify coverage. If they employ workers they will need workers' comp coverage along with general liability. Get the name of their insurer and contact them yourself to verify the coverage is intact.Are you licensed to do my project? If your state does have contractor licensing laws ask for a copy of the contractor's license, then confirm the license number and expiration date with your local jurisdiction. Plumbers, electricians and those who work with hazardous materials are the only trades in Maine that need a license to operate.Do you do a substantial amount of repeat and referral business? This will give you a good idea about the company's customer satisfaction.May I have a list of your recent references? The contractor should be able to supply you with a minimum of three references, including names, phone numbers and addresses. CALL THEM! Ask lots of questions. DIG DEEP...and try to see if they might even let you come see their finished project. People who are satisfied with their contractor and proud of their project results like to show them off.Yes...there are a lot of questions-and others will arise the more you speak with the contractors. Of the many questions you can ask during an interview, the most important question is one you must ask yourself: "Do I feel comfortable with and trust the person I am about to hire?"Your answer to that question should help make the hiring decision a little easier. Also, remember that reliable, quality-driven contractors are busy for a reason...they are good at what they do and they are worth waiting for...so PLAN and be PATIENT! </div>

Your Home Improvement Project - Questions You MUST Ask a Contractor

Choosing a reliable, quality-conscious, home improvement contractor is the most important part of any project. Proper planning, doing the necessary research, and having lots of patience will help to ensure your dream project will not become a living nightmare. Once you have narrowed down the li…

19Aug2012

Alarm Systems Today: Better And More Reliable Compared To The Older Varieties

If you're buying an alarm system for the first time, then this article will provide helpful insight on the facts about security systems alarm, how they have improved over the years and how you can benefit from them. Alarm Systems were originally designed to be used in commercial and official establishments for security purposes. In the past, only large businesses and rich individuals could afford to purchase commercial systems alarm. It wasn't because these alarms were exclusive only for businesses, but because they were expensive, bulky and quite impractical. But, thanks to technological developments and increased demand for security in homes, security system companies have started producing residential security systems as well. Over the years, many changes have been made with house alarm systems. Changes and improvements not only in the size and looks have been implemented on these devices; they are now capable of carrying out a number of functions as well. One of the most obvious changes done on Alarm Systems would be the implementation of wireless technology. Although there are still burglar systems alarm that make use of wires, wireless systems alarm are becoming more and more popular these days. As a matter of fact, wireless home systems alarm are among the most in-demand security devices on the market. This is because compared to the wired varieties, wireless alarms are more reliable! Furthermore, they are very convenient to use and can be installed just about anywhere you want. If you have to choose between a wired system alarm and a wireless system alarm, choose the latter. The newer types of home burglar systems alarm nowadays are equipped with better and more advanced features. For instance, some of the best home system alarm on the market is equipped with motion detection technology. This type of technology allows the device to detect any kind of movement or activity within a certain location. Some of the most advanced varieties can even differentiate between movements of humans and animals, reducing the likelihood of false alarms. Alarm Systems are not only useful for keeping burglars and thieves off of your homes. The newer alarms of today are capable of alerting homeowners of emergencies such as fires, earthquakes, floods and other kinds of natural disasters. Furthermore, it can also detect the presence of dangerous chemicals inside your home such as Carbon Monoxide. You don't only provide protection against dangerous individuals but you also protect you and your family from other types of threats as well. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7229641

Alarm Systems Today: Better And More Reliable Compared To The Older Varieties

If you're buying an alarm system for the first time, then this article will provide helpful insight on the facts about security systems alarm, how they have improved over the years and how you can benefit from them.Alarm Systems were originally designed to be used in commercial and official establis…

18Aug2012

10 Ways To Protect Your Home And Family From Theft

More than 1.5 million residential burglaries occur every year in the United States, according to the FBI. Thieves target electronics, jewelry and other valuables, resulting in an average dollar loss of $2,079. It's not just about the money for many families, however. Thieves often take sentimental items and other things that can't be replaced. And with identity theft now the fastest growing crime in the United States, burglars are now after your personal information and financial records as well. There are measures you can take to protect your home and family, many of which are easy and free. Secure your home with these 10 tips: 1. Get a home security system. It should come as no surprise that the number one tool for crime prevention in your home is a home security system. When confronted with a functioning alarm system, burglars commit crimes elsewhere. If you're serious about protecting your home and family, purchasing a home security system should be your first move. It doesn't have to cost a fortune either; some companies will give you the home security system for free, you just have to pay for the monthly monitoring. 2. Secure your windows. Broken or cracked windows are an open invitation to thieves. If you have any in your home, replace or repair them as soon as possible. Even broken windows on a second or third level put you at risk, as thieves can and will find a way up there. It's also smart to keep obvious valuables away from windows, so as to not tempt thieves on the prowl. 3. Shed some light on the situation. Keeping your outside entryways lit provides you with security when you return home late at night and also has a big effect on home security. All exterior lighting is not created equal, however. Motion-sensing lights can be triggered by even the slightest motion, like an animal or tree branch. Opt for heat-sensing lights instead, which only turn on when they detect human body temperature. Also, low wattage lights tend to be better than the high wattage ones, as they don't cast as many dark shadows where thieves can hide. 4. Maintain your yard. Overgrown trees and shrubs are handy hiding places for thieves and branches can be used to climb into windows, so make sure you keep up your yard and trim trees back from the house. You can use landscaping to your advantage as well, like planting thorny bushes around first-story windows to deter thieves. Make sure to also keep gates, garages and storage sheds locked up, as easily-accessible ladders and tools can make it easier for a thief to break in. 5. Protect your valuables. A professional thief knows all the obvious hiding places - a freezer, under the mattress or in a cookie jar. Avoid hiding your valuables in these places. If you purchase a new TV or another type of valuable, don't leave empty boxes at the curb for trash pickup, as they're an obvious sign to thieves of what's inside your home. 6. Protect your identity. Thieves these days are after more than just your jewelry and valuables. Personal information and financial records that make it easy for a thief to steal your identity are also a target. Protect this valuable information by securing it in a lock box or safe, and use a shredder to limit the amount of personal information available to thieves. You can also lower your risk of having your identity stolen with identity theft protection services. 7. Make your home look "lived in." Burglars typically steer clear of homes that are occupied. That's why it's important to set lights on timers and leave a radio or TV on when you leave the house. Make sure your timers have a random option that will turn lights on at different times on different days, making it harder for a burglar to detect an obvious pattern. 8. Improve your neighborhood. A good relationship with your neighbors is a strong asset when it comes to home security. You can't always be home, so it can be a great comfort to know that others are looking out for you. In addition to forming relationships with your neighbors, you may want to help form a neighborhood watch program to ensure your block doesn't become a safe haven for thieves. 9. Keep a detailed inventory of the valuables in your home. In case your home is burglarized, having a detailed list of the valuable items in your home will help the police and insurance company more quickly replace and recover your stolen property. If creating a list seems daunting, pick up your camera and take pictures of your valuables. Make sure you store copies of your photos on a DVD or hard drive, and keep these storage devices in a safe place. 10. Pretend to be a burglar. Lastly, put yourself in the thief's shoes. Walk around your property with a close friend or neighbor and ask yourself, "If I was a burglar, how would I break in?" And don't do it alone - a friend or neighbor may spot things you overlook. While you can't secure your home 100 percent, there are things you can do to significantly limit your risk. Burglars aren't looking for a challenge! They're interested in a scenario that makes it easy for them to get in and out with valuables and cash. If you make it difficult for someone to break into your home, your house is not likely going to be a thief's first pick. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5009892

10 Ways To Protect Your Home And Family From Theft

More than 1.5 million residential burglaries occur every year in the United States, according to the FBI. Thieves target electronics, jewelry and other valuables, resulting in an average dollar loss of $2,079.It's not just about the money for many families, however. Thieves often take sentimental it…

15Aug2012

How To Choose Home Gates And Glazed Doors?

<div id="article-content"> If you are establishing or even upgrading your home, making the right choice of gates and doors for your home is very important. This is because these give a very good impression of your home. In addition, the option you choose has to be strong enough to withstand rain, scorching sun, rain and any intruder. Home gates and glazed doors are among the options that homeowners have to use in their homes.To make the right choice of these important components of your home, you need to consider the following:• Make sure that you buy products that have been designed and constructed using quality materials. This will ensure that they will last long. They will also be able to withstand destruction from would be intruders keeping them at bay.• You also need to know the size of the entry to your home or house. This is very crucial when buying these parts of your home. These products are available in carpenter's shops and can even be ordered in different sizes and dimension. When you make the right order, you can be sure that they will fit in your house without giving you much trouble.• You also need to get help of a professional. This is very important because a carpenter or professional contractor will guide you in taking measures of the entrance to your home or house. This is of great essence because it will ensure that the entrance will not even give you trouble after it has been fitted in your home or house. It will also not require repair or replacement after being used for a short while.• It is also important to get help of contractors or carpenters. With many manufacturers of these products in the market today, you might be confused in choosing the right one. As such, it is important to ensure that you get professional help to make the right choice.• There are many outlets where you can buy home gates and glazed doors today. However, not all outlets offer quality products. As such, you need to ensure that you purchase from the best dealer. This is why you need to do some market research. Many online sites offer reviews written by buyers and constructors. These can give you important information to guide you in making the right choice.• Price is another factor that you need to consider. Different outlets will sell their products at different prices. The material used in their manufacture may determine the price. It might also be determined by other services such as shipping if it will accompany the products. Nevertheless, with many dealers in this product, getting a product that suits your need is now easy. All you need is to do your research on the Internet to find the most reputable dealer. You can also search in your location. </div>

How To Choose Home Gates And Glazed Doors?

If you are establishing or even upgrading your home, making the right choice of gates and doors for your home is very important. This is because these give a very good impression of your home. In addition, the option you choose has to be strong enough to withstand rain, scorching sun, rain and …

15Aug2012

Develop A Cat House

Building your own cat window box could be a simple diy project and provide great reward to all your indoor cat. Most people basically an apartment building or with little back yard can generate a cat window box cat enclosure to let their cats to take pleasure in the sun's rays and acquire some clean air.Since all windows are of numerous dimensions this post will outline the primary steps to make the cat window box, letting you adapt the form for your window measurements. Excellent of outdoor cat enclosures is growing in recent times as owners have grown more attentive to the need to protect their cat from predators, cars, in addition to other outdoor dangers. As well as, free roaming cats kill a surprisingly large number of birds.If you are building an outdoor cat enclosure, the design really varies according to your designing skills, your private home and yard's dimensions as well as the limits of your respective pocketbook. It is typically any size, but a 6' x 6' x 6' area is sufficient. You must have the door prior to deciding to make your outdoor cat enclosure frame. They are generally 32 to 36 inches wide and approximately 80 inches tall and may also be found being kit just about hardware stores.If your catio is designed to hang outside the house next to a window you could consider including an entrance flap to your feline which will continue to be not too young to permit you cleaning access. Cats enjoy to go through small doors and are usually naturally curious and so you should ensure the flap attaches safely from a indoor structure to the new cat condo. For this specific purpose you can use a clear flexible door that attaches to the window door frame. You'll want you reside you may produce a cat enclosure for outdoors to fit your needs along with the needs on your pet. Whether you attach it for your or build cat exercise on the perimeter of your own yard, there are various creative solutions. During the city many decide on a cat run in next to the window, allowing free enjoy from the feline trampling or over sleeping your window box plants. Householders usually prefer to "Do It Yourself" DIY cat enclosures or cat proof fences and balconies. Whatever sort of house you choose you'll enjoy watching your feline frolic to their new home day after day. Whereby traders combine normal cat tree having a cat house for play and rest. Your cat can ascend the tree and lounge one of several platforms. When they're done they've careful analysis crawl in the house at the base and require a needed cat nap or simply just simply catch some shut eye one within the platforms way too.

Develop A Cat House

12Aug2012

Residential Security Systems Give Families With Pets Peace of Mind

Pet safety is a concern for many families today. Cats, dogs and other animals play an important role in the family dynamic. There are several features available in residential security systems which allow family members to know that in case of an emergency, their pets will be safe. This is especially important when the animals are left home alone all day. Fires, break-ins and natural disasters may make the home unsafe. A home video surveillance and security system can help owners look out for their pets' well-being, as well as the rest of the family's. Remote Video When people have remote video systems in their homes, they can watch pets or other family members from their Smartphone or office computer. A touchscreen enables homeowners to view different rooms in the home, including the pet's sleeping and feeding areas, the front door and other designated camera feeds in the home. In the event of a natural disaster or other emergency, owners will be able to monitor their pets to find out where they are and if and how they need help. Fire and Rescue If there is a fire in the home while the family is away, a fire and smoke alarm will alert the owners and, if necessary, the fire department. The homeowner can then direct the emergency rescue team to where the problem is and where the family pets are. Safety and Comfort There are several other safety features available with residential security systems. For example, if the carbon monoxide levels in the home become too high, an alarm will sound, letting the homeowners know of the danger. Other options for comfort, safety and notification include glass breaks, mass notification, health monitoring and temperature controls. Entry and Access In the event of a break-in while no one is there, an intruder may take items, create damage and possibly hurt any animals on the premises. A swift exit will also mean that the doors or windows may be left open. The pets may leave as well, either chasing the intruder or simply wandering away unattended. Having restricted entry will let the homeowners know that there has been a break-in and video cameras will let them know when and if the intruder has left and whether the family's cats and dogs are all right or running free. One of the most important reasons that people install residential security systems is to make sure that their property and family are safe from emergencies and dangers. This includes the inside and outside of the premises, as well as parents, children and pets. Using the many options available homes and families can rest more easily at night and during the day, especially when no one is home. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7211915

Residential Security Systems Give Families With Pets Peace of Mind

Pet safety is a concern for many families today. Cats, dogs and other animals play an important role in the family dynamic. There are several features available in residential security systems which allow family members to know that in case of an emergency, their pets will be safe. This is especiall…

12Aug2012

The Benefits You Can Get From Using Security Cameras

Security cameras are often used for the purpose of surveillance and monitoring. However, it is also considered as an ideal deterrent to crimes such as burglaries and break-ins. The moment a thief realizes that you have a security cam system installed in your home, they will think twice about breaking in. They will most likely move on to another target. Besides monitoring and preventing crimes, there are other benefits that you can get with using security cameras in your own home. For instance, If you use indoor and outdoor security cameras, it will allow you to monitor the activities that are happening inside and outside your home. You'll be able to check up on your children and your spouse while you are away at work. If you are away from home most of the time and leave your children in the care of babysitters, you will be able to find out if they are being treated properly or not. Many cases of child abuse have been solved thanks to these camera systems. If you're planning to invest on surveillance cameras for your home, you need to learn the basics first before you finally decide on one. If you go shopping for a security cam today, you might be surprised to find out how there are so many choices available. There are wired and security wireless cameras then there are cameras equipped with night vision capabilities such as the security infrared camera and the security night vision camera. Then there are also cameras that use "smart technology" just like the motion activated security cam. With so many choices available out there today, how will you be able to choose the one that would suit your needs better? It always pays to do your research before purchasing any security camera product for your home. Try reading security cam reviews first. These types of reviews are quite helpful in pointing you out to the right camera system for your home. These reviews even feature shops that sell cheap security cams as well. If you're on a tight budget, then you might find it interesting. No matter what kind of security camera you decide to buy, always make sure it uses wireless technology. Security wireless camera systems are the most trusted types of cameras out there today. Compared to the wired varieties, wireless security cameras for the home are more affordable and easier to use. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7216380

The Benefits You Can Get From Using Security Cameras

Security cameras are often used for the purpose of surveillance and monitoring. However, it is also considered as an ideal deterrent to crimes such as burglaries and break-ins. The moment a thief realizes that you have a security cam system installed in your home, they will think twice about breakin…

09Aug2012

Your Home Improvement Project

<div id="article-content"> Doing an home improvement project on your own is not to difficult. OK, lets say you want something repaired in your apartment, remodeling or maybe just a property improvement. So now its time to make the decision on if you going to do this home improvement project yourself or should you hire a professional contractor to do the repair or improvement, however you are finding budgeting a mental struggle. Chill out, there are lots of things you can plan that will enable you to start the project in a efficient way.Set up a financial plan:1) The first thing you need to think about before you start on any home improvement is a realistic budget. A budget includes setting aside an amount of money for any eventualities this includes mistakes, any accidental damage inflicted on your home and so on. If your project is on a somewhat bigger scale than most home renovations, you can save costs by purchasing materials in bulk from a supplier.2) However low cost and good quality doesn't always go together. Compromising on price might also mean getting lower quality materials. Ensure that whatever you are buying is in good condition and long lasting, otherwise you may have to replace whatever you have bought thus doubling the cost.To use a professional contractor or not:Very often the best way to judge a contractor's quality of work is by word of mouth. People will recommend a contractor when they are satisfied with the work. So the best way to find the contractor for you, is to talk to friends who have had repair work done, or a home improvement project completed recently to see if they would recommended the contractor who did the job.Sometimes whatever property improvement you have in mind can be easily done on your own. Supplies and tools can be bought at your local hardware store and you can cut down on the cost immensely. However if your project seems complicated and you don't have much experience with DIY projects, it's best to leave it to the professional house improvement contractors. Remember that although you think by going DIY you are saving money; a mistake might make things costlier later on.Planning your project:Timing is a significant factor when setting up your home improvement project. Deciding on the best time for your undertaking makes sure that it can be finished on time and if you have hired professional contractors, it's wise to keep in mind that this will mean strangers will be in and out of your home; this could lead to a very stressful situation for you and your family.To reduce the stress aspect, it would be better to plan your home improvement around your life and not the other way around. Try to find a period when your work timetable isn't so hectic and none of your family have anything important scheduled such as an exam, presentation, or any important appointments.It is also wise to realize that home improvement projects and remodeling can take more time than was planned for and there's not a great deal you can do about this. The tips in this article will hopefully help you start your project with very few problems. </div>

Your Home Improvement Project

Doing an home improvement project on your own is not to difficult. OK, lets say you want something repaired in your apartment, remodeling or maybe just a property improvement. So now its time to make the decision on if you going to do this home improvement project yourself or should you hire a …

09Aug2012

Keeping Your House Safe While on Vacation - Quick Tips and Tricks

There's nothing more awful than coming back from a well-deserved vacation just to find out that you had some unwanted visitors during your absence. An empty house is an open invitation for any thief so make sure your house won't look uninhabited while you're away. Follow these simple instructions to make sure you'll find your home just the way you left it when you come back. The lack of any movement is the most obvious sign that there's nobody home. The easiest way to counter this is to give a relative or a close friend a key to your house and have them come in as often as possible. Ask them water your flowers, feed your cat, bring in the mail - whatever you can think of, as long as they'll be there. They might not be able to come around daily but insist that they come at least every two days. The next-door neighbor might also be able to help you maintain the illusion that the house is populated. Ask him to park his car on your alley, mow the lawn or even stay for a beer on the deck in the evenings. Having a person seen around doing household activities will give the impression that he is the owner, thus scaring any burglars away. This practice is not unusual between neighbors; your neighbor will eventually want to take a vacation as well and he'll need somebody to return the favor. A simple yet effective trick to stage presence in the house is by having the lights and the TV or radio connected on timers which turns them on and off at certain intervals. Make sure not to overdue it, though, as a TV that continuously keeps turning on and off will definitely attract some attention. You can use timers or have someone leave the TV on for an entire night once every few days. Try to come up with a random pattern. Prepare for your vacation in advance. Check the locks on all your windows and doors and fix or replace them if necessary. Run an alarm system check to make sure it is functioning properly and don't forget to arm it when you leave. Don't forget to leave the access codes to the person that will be taking care of the house and remind them to arm the system every time they leave. The alarm system is an important factor when it comes to house security. Combine all the instructions above and you'll end up with the perfect recipe for a care-free holiday. Your house is safe so all that's left for you to do is to go out and enjoy your holiday. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7210270

Keeping Your House Safe While on Vacation - Quick Tips and Tricks

There's nothing more awful than coming back from a well-deserved vacation just to find out that you had some unwanted visitors during your absence. An empty house is an open invitation for any thief so make sure your house won't look uninhabited while you're away. Follow these simple instructions to…

06Aug2012

Home Business: A Guide To A Great Start

<div id="article-content"> Home business can be difficult to start but it can be very interesting and worth it. Asking" How to get started?" and "What to do?" are very obvious questions that will surely puzzle you. How to keep your business up and running? Just like any other business, it needs marketing to promote and make your product known.Here are some suggestions:Build a network. Think of your business and think of possible customers that would be interested in it. For example, if you are trying to sell baby's stuff, go to mom's forums and participate. By then you can post links or information about your business. Perhaps, you could advertise in parenting, home and kids magazine or site.Make use of Internet. The power of Internet is unquestionable. With simple clicks and mouse hovers and presses on the keyboard, you can create a website for your business and in thar same way that people can find you or your business. There's a whole lot to do in the web to advertise your product such as pay per clicks or press releases or perhaps in forums.Be friendly. Anyone can be a prospect. Who knows the person you may have just bumped in a grocery store or someone you shared the table with in a restaurant may probably be a customer. Try to engage in a conversation rather than just stare or be lonesome. You had a nice talk, gained a friend, and possible get a customer.Show off. Try to call out group conventions or gatherings that would possibly be interested in your business. Give a demonstration if you are selling services and show how great your product is. Always try to take into consideration the customer's need and start your attack or build your strategy around that need.Don't lose communication. Keep in touch and be accommodating to people who show interest in your business. They may not need what you are selling right now, but then may be in time and may be soon. Don't be in a rush. If they don't buy your business sooner, they could actually refer you to some friend who will.Constant Learning. Never stop learning especially when you haven't found the secret to your success yet. Do some research and read some materials that would help you improve your marketing style and learn from the experts. You will certainly get ideas that you can make use of. </div>

Home Business: A Guide To A Great Start

Home business can be difficult to start but it can be very interesting and worth it. Asking" How to get started?" and "What to do?" are very obvious questions that will surely puzzle you. How to keep your business up and running? Just like any other business, it needs marketing to promote and m…

06Aug2012

Home Security Essentials - Wireless Home Alarm Systems

Your home is your haven. This is your comfort zone where you can take the time off, relax and spend some quality time with your family. Since this is the place where you want to relax, it is just important to keep the privacy of your home and protect it from intruders or invaders. Fortunately, with today's latest technology, you do not have to worry about how to protect your home. There are now many devices that offer protection for your home and wireless home alarm systems is the most advisable to use. Today's wireless security devices are technologically enhanced. Unlike wired alarm systems, this type of device run on radio wave frequencies, which will detect motion and instantly transmit it to your control unit. This will then alert the owner of the home about the invasion. This type of device can transmit signals within hundreds of feet. There are many advantages of using wireless alarm systems at your home. One of the benefits you can get from this type of alarm system is the obvious fact that it is wireless. Unlike previous hard-wired alarm systems, you do not need to worry about hiding the wires on your alarm system. This is very helpful if you have a large property to protect. This type of device is also battery operated. Unlike traditional hard-wired alarm systems that use electrical wires to transmit signals, wireless alarm devices use lithium-batteries. Homeowners are also notified once the device needs some battery replacement. And since it is powered by batteries, your device is not affected when there is a blackout or power shortage in your area. Another good thing about this type of alarm system is it is easier to install as compared to traditional hard-wired devices. With this device, you do not need to run through every entry points in your home to install them. It is very portable and since it can penetrate most walls in your home, you do not have to drill holes just to install it. You can also extend your monitoring area with this type of alarms. Since it is wireless, replacement is more flexible and can be extended to different areas including your pool, driveway, and guest house. This is very beneficial to those homeowners with a large area to protect. This type of alarm system uses only one main control unit. This feature helps you control your device from only one location. If you want to secure all areas of your home, you can definitely benefit from this device. Furthermore, this type of alarm system can also automatically alert various emergency services, like the police station, once an intruder is detected. With this added feature, you can instantly contact emergency services without having to dial your phone. Another advantage of using this type of security system is that you can easily upgrade your device without the hassle. With the traditional wired devices, you need to go into every wall on your home and rewire everything. But with wireless devices, you just need to assign new codes to the main control unit of your device. As you can see, there are many advantages of using wireless home alarm systems in your home. With its high technological features, you can be sure that your home is protected and free from intruders. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4158528

Home Security Essentials - Wireless Home Alarm Systems

Your home is your haven. This is your comfort zone where you can take the time off, relax and spend some quality time with your family. Since this is the place where you want to relax, it is just important to keep the privacy of your home and protect it from intruders or invaders. Fortunately, with …

03Aug2012

Find The Best Home Improvement Loans

<div id="article-content"> It is of great importance when searching for the best home improvement loans that you do some legwork to make sure you find out what is best for you. If you have a large home improvement project coming your way finding the best home loan can be just what you need. You would not want to settle for a loan that will end up costing you more in the long run.It is the research that you do that will allow you to find deals and great costs. Quite often you will find that these loans typically have lower interest rates, but some extra footwork can help you save in other areas as well. The best loans will be the ones where the interest rates are low as well as any fees from the lender.They can be found through just about any lender. Who you will decide to choose will all depend on where you are researching and what time you have available to apply. More traditional lender may take a bit of time to research. You will need to be prepared to possibly miss work to meet with a lender to fill out your application and discuss all of your options. This can become costly both in time and in your wallet if you visit several lenders to get the right deal.On the other hand, online lenders can be a bit easier to research. These lenders are available 24 hours a day and will not take up any of your important time. The best loans can be easily researched and applied for through the Internet. You will be able to fill out a much shorter application than with traditional lenders, as well as quickly submit to multiple lenders at once to get the best home loans offered to you.What To ExpectHome improvement loans are used to help you finance your renovation project on your home or other property. You will be lent an amount of money that will be used to purchase materials and fix it up yourself or to hire a professional to do it for you. The amount that you decide to borrow will all depend on what you have in equity. It is the equity, or money that you have already paid on your property or home that will determine the amount of the loan you are offered. You can expect any lender to ask to see proof of your equity as well as how much is left on the balance of the mortgage.You should be aware that your credit report will be reviewed when applying for one of these loans. This will help to determine the amount of the interest rate you are being offered. You will want to make sure to look over your credit report yourself prior to apply for the best home improvement loans. This will allow you to see if there are any mistakes on the report that may not get you as low of an interest rate as possible. </div>

Find The Best Home Improvement Loans

It is of great importance when searching for the best home improvement loans that you do some legwork to make sure you find out what is best for you. If you have a large home improvement project coming your way finding the best home loan can be just what you need. You would not want to settle f…

01Aug2012