The CleverLoop security camera system is an affordable package for your home or business. It’s ‘clever’ in the way that it actually learns (with a little feedback from the user) what’s important and warrants an alert (human or vehicle movement) and what’s not important, thereby greatly reducing false alerts from pets, tree movements, light changes etc.

As a stand alone smart home security system it can effectively remove the need for a traditional burglar alarm. The CleverLoop acts more like a silent alarm with the added benefit of an active monitoring camera system.  

One of the biggest attractions about using CleverLoop as a home security camera system, or indeed for business security, is that it doesn’t require a monthly monitoring service fee, which is usually around $20 a month for a traditional monitored system.

Instead, it’s linked up with your smartphone, via a well designed IOS / Android app. Through this app you’ll receive push notifications (you can easily turn them off) to alert you whenever there’s activity in one of your camera’s view. 10 seconds movement video clips are recorded by default so you can see exactly what your camera saw. You’re also able to jump directly to a real-time view to any of your linked cameras.

Who Does The CleverLoop System Suit?

Renters who want non-destructive security solutions

It’s a common story, you want better security for your family and property, though your landlord doesn’t want to fork out to alarm the house. The CleverLoop system can easily be installed without damaging walls and removed when it comes time to shift house. Indoor cameras don’t need to be screwed into walls and can be adjusted to sit bench height or else be fixed to a wall using some heavy-duty 3M removable sticky strips. Outdoor cameras would however certainly need to be screwed into a wall because of their weight.

Homeowners to monitor suspicious activity, pets or child safety

Everyone wants a safer home, the linked smartphone app functionality makes CleverLoop a versatile system not only for burglary protection but for other applications too. Use it as a ‘petcam’ to check out what your pets are doing while you’re at work or to make sure the kids got back in from school okay.

Small businesses wanting to protect property, stock or cash areas

With a max of 4 cameras connectable to a base station, CleverLoop is ideal for smaller business looking for additional security without ongoing monitoring charges. CleverLoop allows businesses to easily and affordably monitor behind counter staff, outside areas (especially after hours to prevent break ins or vandalism), loading/delivery areas and any other places where security is needed.

Setting Up Your Cleverloop Security System

One of the things I really like about CleverLoop is how painless and user-friendly it is to setup, even for the non-tech savvy! No confusing instruction manual in 10 different languages to have to navigate through. 

Instead, you download the app onto your phone and follow a series of short 3-5 second clips to get you up and running. It actually took me longer to figure out how to get my new wireless Bose headphones working last week (long story)

TIP: If you have trouble paring the cameras with the base station through WiFi, try connecting the cameras to the base station using the provided ethernet cables first, then switch them to WiFi mode after they’ve been paired.

PROS

Great price point

Most buyers are going to want the 4 or 3 camera system which is currently $699 and $639 respectively. You can mix and match indoor with outdoor cameras for the same priced combo depending on your surveillance needs.

For a comparable quality camera system professionally installed you would be looking at a minimum of $1200 

No on-going monitoring fees

Monitoring fees for regular alarms and CCTV usually run at about $20 a month or $240 per year. This adds to the price of your regular security system year on year.

High-resolution security cameras

Both the indoor and outdoor security cameras are 720p HD. They can clearly identify faces both indoors or out. And because the outdoor cameras are water proof and dust proof, you can places them outside in the elements.

2-way speakers 

Use the indoor cameras to hear what’s happening in any room (not available with outdoor cameras). This works like a walkie-talkie or intercom system where you can only speak or listen at one time, unlike a telephone. Audio is available in live view mode, and can be set to record in the 10-second alert clips. 

Just remember if you’ve got multiple people with app access to cameras, then you’ve always got people who can hear and see what you are doing!

Night vision

Even in darkness the CleverLoop security cameras are surprisingly good, while you won’t be able to identify faces that are further away, you will often be able to pick some facial features. And like all surveillance cameras, don’t expect to be able to pick up license plates at night.

Wide angle coverage

The indoor cameras are 115deg which is more than enough to cover a large size room when mounted high in a corner. The outdoor cameras are only 60deg though usually they are mounted higher up than indoor cameras, they can will cover a wide driveway or porch view without a problem.

Behaviour learning to identify and reduce false smartphone alerts

Worried about getting an alert everytime moggie jumps onto your bed when you aren’t home? When the notification gets pushed out to your phone, tap the ‘This should be a movement’ button on the alert. Pretty soon your CleverLoop system will realize that moggie is just looking to get comfortable, not steal your jewelry box.

CONS

Base mounts for indoor cameras are limited in motion

It can be a bit of work in twisting and turning the base mount to get the perfect point of view for your camera. Though this is a one time job, after you lock it in place you’re good to go.

Black colour camera power cabling

White or off-white would have been a better choice to match most people’s walls. Though a trip down to Mitre 10 for some of that cable raceway to run down the wall should do the trick to hide those black cables.

Camera lag 

With the indoor and outdoor cameras, I found on about 5-10% of the alert clips taken there was a noticeable lag in the time between the time of a person or vehicle entering the camera’s point of view and switching on. What this means is in those alerts with lag, a person might ‘appear’ several steps inside a monitored room, rather than seen walking through the doorway. 

After talking with Cleverloop support they’ve explained the system has a delay of between 0.8 and 1.3 seconds. I find that to be about right, and for the majority of the time it seems to be on the low side of that delay.

Summary

High-spec cameras connectable through WiFi coupled with a brilliantly designed app make this a genuinely smart security system. Click here to see all the cool things the app is able to do.

While I’ve been playing around with my CleverLoop system all week and fine tuning it, the one thing I haven’t activated yet is it’s geo-fencing function, this means cameras will be activated/de-activated when an app’s users phone is within a certain distance of the base station. Putting this in place means no more constant alerts while I’m at home and I won’t forget to activate the cameras when I leave the house!

If you’re looking for an affordable security system for your home or small business you certainly won’t find a better system available for $699. CleverLoop really does cover you for both a silent intruder alarm and security camera system which if you had professionally installed would be well over $1000. 

You can check out more details or pick up your own system on-line at www.cleverloop.co.nz. They also provide free, express courier delivery throughout NZ on their systems. I’ve found their customer support to be top notch, so any pre or post-purchase questions, you’ll likely get a very fast response from their Wellington-based team.

The post CleverLoop Security Camera System Review appeared first on Security Search - Home and Commercial Security.

“Security is what we do” – DSC website

DSC is security. They are one of the leading companies selling and innovating technology for electronically securing homes and businesses around the world. Their control panels, monitoring products and their innovative wireless products secure the places we work and live.

Looking back, their drive to improve the world through securing our properties has been built on their care for society and constant innovation.While many New Zealand security installers prefer Bosch and Paradox systems for residential installations. DSC systems tend to be more popular in commercial installations.

A Proud History Sets the Stage

They began in 1970 at a time when there was plenty of room to improve the standard security products on the market. Their first step in revolutionizing the industry was when they introduced the first small security keypad and micro-processor-based alarm panels. The small size paired with an ease-of-use and performance that the security industry had not seen made them a strong competitor right from the start.

Their reputation was strengthened when, throughout the 90s, DSC paired up with two other major security system companies which were then acquired by Tyco International working together as a super-group in maintaining and innovating industry standards. By 2007 Tyco broke apart into three groups. DSC stayed under the Tyco International banner and has remained a part of their security system program.

This process has strengthened the brand and given them knowledge of the industry that only comes with such unique experiences, acquisitions and growth. Today their products are innovations and set standards for the industry. They have branched into new areas of the market by providing products such as cabling items, detection devices, communication items, and control panels.

The Results

Today the DSC global empire is rooted in their Toronto headquarters. They are recognized by distribution partners, integrators and dealers throughout the industry for their leadership and expertise with products in over 140 countries including NZ

Their product development and innovation is stronger today than it has ever been. The products are developed by leading engineers and experts who find the next step in their pursuit to bring the best products.

Behind the Products – Technology and Experience

All of this has resulted in products that are reliable, flexible, durable and easy to install, use, and most importantly – upgrade. After the system is installed you won’t need to waste time educating yourself on programming language and reading confusing manuals.

The process of programming and operating the system is self-explanatory and you can rest assured that your things are safe and can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with this. Peace of mind is one of the results they deliver that often goes overlooked but is equally important.

DSC’s reliability and upgradeability with 30 years of development behind them allow them to be your cutting edge security system today and for as long as you need. Your system will advance along with industry developments.

The PowerSeries Line

This series is a staple in the DSC line and is full of unique features that bring more than protection against intruders. This includes support for carbon dioxide detection, easy installation, different communication lines and an easy-to-operate interface.

Carbon dioxide is a silent killer. In order to detect it a building needs the technology to do so. The Power Series is compatible with wireless and hardwired CO detection interfaces.

The ways that security systems communicate their information have traditionally been over phone lines but this is disappearing. The Power Series can communicate via an internet line and what is called a GPRS/GSM channel. Multiple communication lines serve as backup for each other and allow added security.

The automatic sync feature, in short, allows for quicker installation.

DSC Panels and Keypads

DSC PC1616 PowerSeries Control Panel

This control panel can monitor 6 different zones and caters to 48 user profiles. It can be expanded to cover 16 hardwired zones and 32 wireless zones.

DSC 1832 PowerSeries Control Panel

This covers 8 zones and can be expanded to monitor 32 hardwired or 32 wireless zones. Caters to 72 user profiles. This is great for businesses with many employees that need access to the system.

DSC 1864 PowerSeries Control Panel

This covers 8 zones and can be expanded to monitor 64 hardwired and 64 wireless zones. It can cater to 92 user profiles.

WTK5504 Wireless TouchScreen keypad

This keypad is easy on the eyes at night with its color display. Other features include rechargeable batteries, sleep mode and remote arm/disarming

DSC Sensors

WS4904 Wireless Passive Infrared detector

This detector includes pet immunity up to 60 lbs, which means a pet under 60lbs won’t set off a false alarm. It also has exceptional detection performance that doesn’t deteriorate in extreme temperatures.

LC-100-PI Digital PIR Detector with Pet Immunity

As the title indicates, it’s equipped with pet immunity up to 50lbs. High technology at an affordable price, the LC-100-PI is popular for its slim design that goes well with any decor.

One of the Best

In the 70’s DSC burst into the security market meeting and pushing industry standards. Their care for humanity and their passion for their craft has resulted in over 30 years of quality, reliable and innovative products in more than 140 countries. This reputation protects both the things that people want to keep secure and provides them with a peace of mind that is also crucial to a smoothly running business and a comfortable home.

They have flexible programming options that allow you to adjust the system according to your specific home or business needs. For example, the master profile can give employee profiles access to arm and disarm the security system but not the authority to change the different settings for each zone.

Their products are easy to install, easy to use, easily upgradeable and equipped with the highest level of technology and most innovative features in the security industry.

The post DSC Alarms NZ appeared first on Security Search - Home and Commercial Security.

Identity Thieves Heart College Students by the team at Mailbox Big Box

The post Identity Thieves Heart College Students – Infographic appeared first on Security Search - Home and Commercial Security.

Security needs to be taken seriously. Crime happens everywhere and if we don’t take precautions we may end up as victims. Good thing that new technology has made it possible for us to make sure that we can go to work and come back to a safe home.

One of the most cost-effective ways of doing this is to install CCTV cameras. These are proven deterrents to burglars and thieves. The video footage can prevent crime or help in the investigation to solve the case. With CCTV cameras, anywhere, anything, and anyone can be captured.

The best part about having a CCTV camera is the chance to see all types of events, from the boring ones to the craziest. If you think you’ve seen the best videos on the web, from pets to people to natural disasters, watch these five crazy videos and see why having a CCTV is a must.

Video #5- Nun caught stealing beer

Somewhere out there, there’s a nun on the run. This CCTV footage that has gone viral shows a nun who went out to shop for some beer, but ended up helping herself to just a little too much. You will agree that it’s pretty shocking, especially with the fact that a nun is stealing- a beer! What was she thinking?

Video #4- Shocking CCTV footage during an earthquake in Nepal

In April this year, a 7.9 magnitude earthquake hit Kathmandu in Nepal and some parts of India. This is some shocking CCTV footage of a hotel that displays the severity of the earthquake. In the video, the water is furiously tossed around because of the tremor. Although no one is seen in the footage, many lives were lost during the disaster.

Video #3- Guy gets hit, people didn’t care

A man crossed the street and was hit by a van- twice! What’s more shocking was when the driver got out of the car and kicked the man. But as seen in the video, despite seeing what happened, these two men acted like nothing happened. Was it because of shock? Or was it because some people just don’t care?

Video #2- Robber got beaten up by a girl

Robbers should learn a lesson or two from this video. A man snatched the bag of the woman as soon as she got out of her car. Surprisingly, the snatcher got his ass kicked! This girl definitely knows how to defend herself. For all robbers out there, be sure your target doesn’t know karate.

Video #1- Man snatched a woman’s bag, ended up losing his scooter

This footage shows a woman’s quick-thinking in giving the robber what he deserves.  As the Malaysian woman walks in an alleyway, a snatcher pulls up in front of her on a scooter before grabbing the woman’s bag and ran away. The next thing happened was unexpected. It was some quick revenge for the woman as she escaped with the thief’s scooter.

This CCTV footage proves that regardless of the situation, captured evidence is helpful. Whether its purpose is to solve a crime or be a witness to a significant event, this type of security is a must for homes and businesses.

These security cameras can also be used for other purposes. For example, it can keep an eye on children and elderly folks to monitor their safety. It can also serve as a monitoring system for high-risk areas such as in factories to prevent potential damages and accidents.

As a customer, we always want to feel secure when in an establishment and the presence of CCTV cameras can do just that. It can increase the confidence of customers and their sense of safety and security. All these things and more are some of the benefits of having CCTV.

So if you want to be safe all the time and to see more of these crazy videos, have your own CCTV camera installed now.

The post 5 Nominations for the Craziest CCTV Footage on the Web appeared first on Security Search - Home and Commercial Security.

Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the whole world. Simply carrying a credit card or a driver’s license, or using a debit card in buying food, and making some online purchase can expose themselves to identity theft. Thieves are creating more sophisticated, advanced, and unpredictable methods of stealing personal information.

Identity theft happens when someone gains unauthorized access to valuable information and documents like credit cards, bank statements and utility bills and illegally uses the information to make unauthorized purchases. Although this may happen in different ways, the goal of the thief is to profit financially by using another person’s information. To protect oneself from this risk, the first step is to know and understand some basic facts about identity theft.

5 Facts to Know About Identity Theft

Thieves and hackers are always one step ahead of you

In most cases, people who commit fraud are tech-savvy and have their way of staying ahead of police. The threat evolves so quickly that before they can act on it, hackers have already moved to their new targets. The thieves can be anyone, from someone posing as a financial institution needing your information, to dumpster diving to find your old documents and bills- they can definitely be very creative.

People aged 18-24 are the most common targets

Young adults are among the groups most susceptible to identity theft. First-time credit card users are at higher risk because they may not fully understand how they can protect their personal information.

Many of them swipe their credit and debit cards more frequently than older people. There are those who tend to post their personal information on different social media sites, without realizing that they are giving access point to the thieves. Young adults often use their Smartphones to complete financial transactions, or shop online. Doing this using public Wi-Fi hotspots will increase their vulnerability to hacking

You will need five full weeks to restore your identity

Studies show that the majority of people take anywhere from 175- 600 hours to restore their identity. This equals to four to five 40-hour workweeks. The worse thing is, one out of four victims never gets to restore it. This means that 25% of the victims remain so for the rest of their lives.

Identity theft gets harder to detect

It’s difficult to detect new account fraud unless you have a credit monitoring system or you constantly look at your credit report. The longer it goes unnoticed, the more difficult it is to resolve the fraud. Third parties often identify 55% of the fraud and 45% is detected by consumers. Oftentimes, credit card companies and banks detect fraud, but this would require the cooperation of consumers for them to pinpoint the fraudulent transactions.

Prevent identity theft with security freeze

One of the best tools to prevent and protect yourself from identity theft is a security freeze. This will give you the option to freeze or lock access to your credit files against anyone who will try to open a new account or get a new credit using your name. A security freeze costs lesser than credit monitoring and will provide you with better protection against identity theft.

Identity theft is a big risk and can be really scary. It will not only money, but time to rebuild your financial reputation after it has been compromised. For you to ensure the safety of your identity, be sure to only do business with merchants that have a trusted reputation.

It is important that you monitor all your credit card statements. Most importantly, if you think that your personal information may have been compromised, immediately contact your credit card company or bank.

The post The Facts About Identify Theft appeared first on Security Search - Home and Commercial Security.

Burglary is the unlawful entry into someones home with an intention of stealing property. Burglary also represents one of the most common crimes to which police officers respond to. It’s deeply saddening when someone has to return to his home after a long day of work and find out that the doors are open and important things have gone missing. From here the police will usually be called and an investigation will take place.

In most cases, there would be no witnesses to this kind of crime, making the gathering of evidence from the scene very crucial. Police officers have their own ways of gathering evidence by applying some of their professional techniques.

Burglary Investigation- The Procedure

Approaching the Scene of Burglary

As anyone New Zealand resident who’s been burgled will know, the NZ police will often take many hours if not more than a day to respond. Generally the only time you can expect a prompt response is your arrival home causes the burglars to flee from the scene or neighbors called the police to inform them of the robbery taking place

Securing the Scene

The scene should be undisturbed to gather significant evidence. The residents or victims should be discouraged from doing any form of tidying up or cleaning. At the same time, movements inside the house should be limited to areas where there is no evidence connected to the burglary.

If it’s possible, police officers should escort the residents to a separate area and conduct the interview while the other investigators are still processing the location.

Interviewing the Witnesses

No one ever knows their house better than the victims. They are the ones who can point out the things that have been disturbed or missing. They also know the areas where the doors and windows may have been broken. Victims should be asked about recent visitors to their homes. Many times a burglar would visit a home under false pretenses just to take a look around and return after a few days to burglarize the property. If an inspector or a salesman has been to the house without appointment, it’s worth checking as well.

Police officers would also be interviewing the neighbors in case they have seen or heard anything suspicious. Although burglars would often go unnoticed, neighbors can sometimes recall seeing a suspicious vehicle in the area.

Processing the Crime Scene

It is very important to locate the point where the burglar has gained entry to the property. This area gives a lot of clues and is also the best place to gather helpful evidence. For instance, the point of forced entry can give a clue to the kind of tool or instrument the burglar used during the break in. There are times when these tools may get broken, leaving some physical evidence behind.

After finding the point of entry, all windows and doors should be checked to find out if there was an attempt to open them. Close attention should also be given to the ground outside in case of some footprints as these can tell if there were multiple burglars, and a way to estimate the weight and size of the individual.

Another clinching evidence that can help pinpoint a burglar is the fingerprint. The crime scene should be powdered to get both complete and partial fingerprints. The best way to find fingerprints would be on the smooth surfaces and glasses. The problem is most burglars are smart enough to know they should be wearing gloves and all but the most amateur or opportunistic burglars will be caught this way.

Following the Trail

In the case of burglary, cash may be difficult to trace, but not the items taken by the burglar. Credits cards for instance, leave a paper trail that can be tied to video evidence from stores which may show the burglar. Second hand stores and pawnshops on the other hand, need to be alerted with a list of stolen items and ask them to contact the investigating officer in case anyone brings an item from the list to the store.

The main focus of any burglary investigation is to recover stolen property or items and seek out evidence to ensure prosecution of offenders. However, as residents and homeowners, you also play a vital role in the safety of your home. Make sure that you lock all points of entry when leaving the house. Most of all, it pays to install a security system or a surveillance camera in the area to deter burglars and maintain the safety of your family and property at all times.

The post Burglary Investigation Techniques appeared first on Security Search - Home and Commercial Security.

Home invasion happens when criminals force their way into an occupied home to commit robbery, rape or other crimes. This is one of the most frightening and potentially dangerous crimes that can happen to a family as it violates their personal space- their home, which they consider their sanctuary. Aside from the increasing number of invasion cases every year, the worse is, thieves today are getting bolder and more violent. Their attacks are more planned so their victims will be caught surprised and unaware. Surprise is their best weapon as people do not know what to expect and were unable to prepare for the event.

Home invasions can be very traumatizing to every homeowner since they happen in their own presence. But there are ways and tips that every homeowner can employ to guarantee the safety of their family and property.

Basic Home Invasion Precautions

Install a Peephole

Before opening the door, make sure you check through the peephole to confirm the identity of the person. If someone is knocking on the door, but you cannot see anyone through the peephole or you are not expecting a guest, don’t dare open the door.

Locks

Unlike in burglaries where burglars wait for the occupants to leave, home invaders attack even while there are people at home. Given this reason, make sure that you lock all your doors and windows even when at home.

Lighting

Poor lighting encourages robbers and other criminals to observe and wait for an opportunity to strike. By improving the lighting both in and around your home, you can lessen the chances of home invasion as it will scare them away knowing that their chances of being identified is high.

Get a Big Dog

A big dog like a German shepherd will be a good layer of protection. A dog with a scary barks and trained to protect a home and the family can help deter criminals and keep them out of the house.

Have Your Mobile Handy

There are instances when burglars will cut the phone line, thus it’s best to have a mobile phone to eliminate the risk of not being able to call 911 or the nearest police station in your area when someone enters the house. Always keep your cellphone with you at all times, whether on your nightstand when sleeping or in your pocket.

Secondary Barriers

Consider installing keyed locks and solid doors on bedroom entrances. In case home invaders defeat the exterior protection of your house, you have another valuable level of protection.

Designate a Safe Room

If you are committed in protecting your family against home invasion, make sure to tell them about the safe room so they know where to go in case it happens. This room should have a flashlight and a landline phone. Also, mount doors on hinges that swing out as they are harder to reach compared to those that swing in.

Other Ways to Protect Against Home Invasion

Install a Security Camera at the Front Door

Aside from having peepholes, a security camera can greatly help in preventing criminals from entering the house. The more cameras installed at home the better. Whether it is a dummy camera or a real one, their presence can make the home less of a target.

Install an Alarm System

Choose a system that has a professional monitoring feature with several service options. Make sure that it has a panic button that will alert authorities of the trouble in your property and drive home invaders away knowing that the police are on their way. Another type of alarm you can consider to install is a door-stop alarm that sounds when a door is opened. This will prevent invaders from setting foot in your home.

Install Motion-Sensitive Outdoor Lighting

This kind of lighting comes on when a movement around the outside of the home is detected, thus alerting home owners of home potential home invaders.

The home is our castle and sanctuary. It is the only place where we feel the safest and most peaceful as it provides us the natural sense of safety and security. Every day, we go out and face the hostile, chaotic, and violent world while looking forward to return to our own personalized space. Thus the thought of home invasion that may happen anytime can be terrifying and traumatic. But, home invasion only happens to those who are not prepared. By taking the necessary steps and measures to increase the level of security, home invasion can be prevented. Make sure to employ the above mentioned precautions and step to avoid being the next victim.

The post How to Protect Against Home Invasion appeared first on Security Search - Home and Commercial Security.

There is no doubt that smoke alarms can save lives. Given that they are properly installed and maintained, they can offer one of the most inexpensive warnings when a fire starts in the home. Smoke alarms, also known as smoke detectors will alert you when there is a presence of smoke within the house or business. To guarantee maximum safety, a smoke alarm should be installed on each floor of the home, in the hallways, inside the bedrooms, and outside the sleeping areas. In addition, it needs to be mounted high on walls or on the ceiling. The good thing is that, the more smoke alarms you have, the better chances you will get of being alerted in case of fire emergencies. Aside from choosing the right kind of smoke alarm, it is important to have the right brand-a trusted one to make sure that you will be alerted as soon as possible and avoid annoying false alarms.

Smoke Alarms- The Best Brands

First Alert

First alert manufactures both photoelectric and ionization smoke alarms and dual-sensor smoke detectors. It has 75 decibel alerting systems that come with a 10-year limited warranty. There are some models that feature a remote-control function, which will enable you to test the system with a radio remote or television. It also has an additional mute button that allows you to turn off the alarm temporarily, without completely disabling it, due to a non-flaming smoke episode in the steam or kitchen escaping from the bathroom.

Kidde

Kidde, just like First Alert also manufactures ionization, photoelectric, and dual smoke detectors. Its warranty coverage is dependent on the model, so pay attention to warranty details on the package – could end up with 0-10 years warranty on your unit. On the other hand, there are some units that could be hardwired into the home’s electrical supply, along with a backup battery, while others solely rely on battery power. Kidde’s alarm sound is at 85 decibels and the company also offers a special talking alarm.

FireX

FireX was acquired by Kidde in 2007. According to the National Institute of Standards Technology, it was once the most widely installed smoke alarm company. It manufactured photoelectric and ionization smoke detectors. Although Kidde Company no longer makes FireX detectors, you may still encounter FireX smoke detectors in commercial or home setting.

Nest Protect

Nest Protect, unlike the majority of smoke detectors, Nest models are distinctively square in shape instead of round. They come in a very cool black and white and measure 5.28” tall, 5.28” wide and 1.63” deep. They can be connected to your WiFi network to send alerts and updates to the accompanying Nest app that you can install on your tablet or smartphone. To choose, you have the option of having a battery-operated model or a wired 120 V model with a battery backup. For both these models, the batteries are specifically designed to last for a lifetime.

Just like the other best smoke alarms, the Nest Protect smoke detector is capable of detecting different fire types. It utilizes various sensors for fire detection. It has a smoke chamber that uses a photoelectric sensor, while its heat sensor can sense a quick rise in temperature. It also comes with a carbon monoxide sensor.

USI

USI is round in shape and measures 5.63×5.63×1.75 inches. It has a 10-year limited warranty that will provide replacement or repair when the alarm is defective. Their smoke alarms run on 120 V of AC power and should be wired into the home’s electrical system. A green LED provides visual confirmation that the AC power is on. The ability to quickly respond to flaming and smoldering fires make their smoke alarms a great choice for the home. The self-diagnostic check makes sure that the alarm is properly functioning when powered up. What adds to the advantages of their inexpensive smoke alarms are their automatic features such as sensitivity adjustment and warning when the alarm needs replacement.

Summary

A million things could happen within the home that may put the property and family in danger, but nothing can be scarier that unexpected dangers. Without these top quality brands of smoke alarms on your side, a fire could build in the home without you ever knowing it. When this happens, you will end up losing your home, other belongings, and worst of fall possibly a family member. Smoke detectors are everyday life savers. Whether in times of a spreading electrical fire (while you are asleep) of if you happen to forget something in the oven and return to a kitchen filled with smoke, these reliable smoke detectors are available to make sure that you will be alerted in time. This priceless benefit will allow you to put out the fire, or the least, call the fire department before everything in your home is destroyed. The above mentioned smoke detectors are important additions to the home- reliable, well-made, and affordable. You can trust your life with these brands of smoke alarms.

The post Best Brands of Smoke Alarms appeared first on Security Search - Home and Commercial Security.

Fire is often unpredictable and can be deadly. This is why you need to have a full-floor and multipurpose fire extinguisher on every level of your home; one in your garage and smaller supplemental units for the kitchen and car. In order to make sure that your property is safe, whether it is residential  or commercial, it is essential to invest in a high-quality fire extinguisher. A fire extinguisher is an emergency tool that can immediately put out fire, given that it is used correctly. Below are the leading fire extinguisher brands that will provide you with reliable safety products for your safety needs.

Leading Fire Extinguisher Brands

Amerex

Amerex has been continuously providing innovative and quality firefighting products for more than 30 years. It is recognized worldwide as one of the leading manufacturers of wheeled and hand portable fire extinguishers. Amerex also offers quality pre-engineered automatic restaurant systems, industrial systems, vehicle fire suppression systems, as well as devices for fire detection that are designed for both residential and commercial use. The group is an affiliate of the McWane Inc. and has earned a reputation for excellence in the industry of fire protection.

Ansul

Ansul is another leading brand when it comes to fire extinguishers. It was first introduced in the market when they developed the very first cartridge-operated dry fire extinguisher in the year 1939. From then on, the group has been updated on the latest standards in fire safety and protection, thus establishing different preventative and suppression products.

Some companies may only provide portable extinguishers or systems. There are also a few that can offer some agents and related hardware. But Ansul manufactures a full line of fire protection products for industrial, marine, and commercial applications. Each one of them is carefully designed and manufactured in accordance to the exact standards and tested under the scrutiny of independent worldwide laboratories. Moreover, Ansul provides fire suppression systems that are highly critical for businesses.

Badger

Badger features a wide range of products and has a rich history that spanned over the past decades. The brand is approved by the leading fire safety authorities and all of their products are specifically designed for immediate use, regardless of the situation.

Badger fire extinguishers are highly versatile. They tackle most fire risks that can be found in the majority of domestic, industrial, and commercial environments. Their dry chemical extinguishers are suitable to be used on class A, B, and C fires and can be mounted on any surface with a wall hook supplied. If preferred, a vehicle bracket is another option.

The fire extinguisher is available in four different sizes: 2½-lb, 5-lb, 10-lb & 20-lb and has a chrome-plated brass valves. The handle, lever, and hose band is made of stainless steel. It also operates effectively on both high and low temperatures.

Kidde

Kidde both assembles and markets many fire safety products for all fields and utilities. They also provide building solutions and items for professional use by firefighters. Their line of product includes smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and reliable pre-engineered fire fighting systems. Moreover, they sell foam equipment and fire hoses to help professional firefighters in the field.

The brand also serves defense, aerospace and a range of commercial and industrial markets with different types of quality and fire safety products, as well as systems and services, protection, covering detection, prevention, and of firefighting.

The Kidde’s products for fire protection could be for fire detection and suppression in any industrial and commercial setting- from supermarkets and banks, to data centers and shopping malls. This also includes internet serves, trains, trucks and tankers, to refineries and oil platforms.

Summary

Fire extinguishers are important not just to the business or home, but to the society in general. Sadly, they are often ignored even by the fire community. Such overlooked life saving devices play a crucial role in keeping people and properties safe. Of course, in order for the device to be effective and efficient, one must know how to properly make use of them. Participating in some basic fire training and having a good brand of fire extinguisher at hand can make a huge different when it comes to ensuring safety. The above mentioned well-known brands are the best and highest in quality when it comes to fire fighting.

The post Top Brands of Fire Extinguishers appeared first on Security Search - Home and Commercial Security.

Installing an alarm system is your first step to better protecting your family, possessions and having a safer home. It’s no surprise then that to have a security system that fails is a very serious issue. It’s possible to prevent security breaches and to ensure that your home and belongings remain safe. Here are the five common problems that first-time home security system owners often encounter along with their easy fixes.

Problem #1 – Incomplete home coverage

This is a crucial flaw in most security systems. The majority of home owners fail to consider all possible entries because of the tempting low-cost packages offered by security companies, despite their under sufficient coverage. In most cases, these are limited to main entrances and the main hallway

Easy Fix #1

Regardless how tempting the basic packages are, make sure that your system is more reliable than simply affordable. If it can be easily bypassed, why bother have the system installed. You do an assessment on all possible entry ways- is there a balcony that is accessible via ladder or tree? Do you have a second or third entrance that can be easily accessed or is out of plain sight? All these should be taken into consideration and ensure you have enough security system sensors to cover your property

Problem #2 – Improperly calibrated sensors

Just to avoid the dreaded false alarm, many homeowners prefer to have their sensor equipment set leniently. As a result, the equipment isn’t as reliable as it should be. For instance, motion sensors are usually programmed to exclude a few feet of crawling room so pets would not trigger the alarm, in which criminals are well-aware. Or glass break sensors are set too high and can ignore the sound of a quietly broken glass window.

Easy Fix #2

Ensure an alarm professional calibrates your equipment and have it tested be sure it’s in order and functioning properly. If false alarms are happening for no apparent reason, it’s likely that the equipment needs a service. You can avoid this with a regular inspection and maintenance schedule.

Problem #3 – Easy passwords

This a common bad habit, along with using the same passwords for everything.

Easy Fix #3

Your password should only be known to those who are living with you. A good alarm system should allow you to issue temporary passwords and if your alarm is monitored you should have access records. Useful for times when you need to give a service or tradesman access to your house. Avoid simple passwords like the classic 1234, birthdays or addresses.

Problem #4 – Installing incompatible security products.

This can compromise your entire security system. For example a tracking security camera can disrupt a motion detector. Placing two pieces of equipment near one another may result in electromagnetic interference that can disrupt their function, this is particularly of concern with wireless products.

Easy Fix #4

Always stick with one installer unless you are well versed in installing equipment or when the addition is vetoed by your security provider.

Problem #5 – Failure to turn on the system to avoid false alarms

Unfortunately a large percentage of security system activations are false alarms. This is undeniably frustrating and expensive for homeowners who are inexperienced with security systems. This results in many of them deciding to avoid activating their system to avoid the inconvenience and expense of false alarms.

Easy Fix

Proper installation and maintenance is necessary to keep the system functioning properly. False alarms are typically more common in older and unmaintained systems.  Owners need to be responsible for managing the equipment to prevent false alarms and allowing the peace of mind a good alarm system provides.

Installing a security system is beneficial for the home as it serves as the best defense against break-ins and burglary. However, these devices may sometimes fail to fulfill their functions due to technical problems or our lack of knowledge in using them properly.

It’s important to know the possible problems that may occur and the measures to be taken when they happen. The above problems and easy fixes will prepare every homeowner for the most common difficulties and help them maximize the benefits of their security system.

The post Home Security System Problems and Fixes appeared first on Security Search - Home and Commercial Security.