Summer storm season is here and so are our efforts to prevent false alarms based on those storms.
Every summer, we field numerous preventable false alarm calls during storms. Be sure to check all batteries in your system to keep your alarm from tripping during a thunderstorm. Another tip: make sure all doors and windows close and lock securely so that they don’t blow open in high winds. Finally, pick up tarps and trash if you have outside motion detectors.
Help us meet our goal of lowering false alarms this summer. If you have questions, call Monitronics at 800-447-9239.
Posted in: Business Security, Home Security, Industry Happenings
As a brief diversion we thought it’d be worthwhile to suggest some best-practices for building your home which could negate or reduce the need for an electronic security system altogether. For instance, simply building a moat around your house could reduce chances of break-ins by a factor of about 85%, according to our scientists’ estimates, and it could also be used for swimming. Introducing the “Swimming Moat” (Est. cost $275,000 to $650,000, depending on size of home):
"Swimming Moat" - Copyright © Steven M. Johnson. Used by permission.
For a more protective home-surround-system which includes aggressive, autonomous-agents (canines) which could fight off potential intruders, we recommend this feature –
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Posted in: Home Security
It may be blazing hot in Texas, but that hasn’t stopped me from venturing outside for a little yard work and landscaping. Unfortunately, hedge-trimming and a momentary lapse in concentration meant I sliced my finger open; I’m lucky I didn’t cut it to the bone. I forgot two big safety rules: two hands on the power tools and take your time. It got me to thinking about what else I am forgetting as I go about with home improvements and DIY projects. Check out these basic tips and keep all your fingers and stay safe as you renovate.
DIY with safety in mind
- Take your time. Rushing things can lead to careless mistakes. Like hammering your hand or cutting yourself with tools.
- Get a first aid kit. If you do have an accident, this is essential. Check out the American Red Cross recommendations.
- Get smart with power tools. This is a big one: Never leave it unattended. Store tools away from kids and pets. Follow instructions and read the owner’s manual. Make sure the tool is off before you plug it in. Inspect it for frayed cords or damage. Finally, look for UL mark on your tool; that means it’s been tested for fire, electric shock and other safety hazards.
- Know your surroundings. What’s around you? People? Pets? Power lines? Be in-the-know.
- Dork out. Disregard how you look and get on those safety glasses, earplugs, or hard hats. Take off jewelry that could catch in moving parts and roll up long sleeves.
- Stay a beginner at heart. Even if you’ve done it a hundred times, maintain the caution and care you exercised the first time you did a DIY project. Too much confidence has led to more than one accident.
- Know when to say when. Don’t let your pride keep you from calling in the professionals when a job is too big. Know your limits to stay comfortable and safe.
Posted in: Home Security
Child drownings are devastating and preventable–drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death among children ages one to 14.
Things like pool fence laws have helped lower the numbers since the 1970s. While there are no federal pool fence laws in place in the US, several states, including New York, Florida, California, and Arizona, have their own individual ones. Some municipalities have their own laws, as well, and the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act governs public pools. (Side note: you can petition for stricter pool safety. Read about it at the Pool Safety Council.)
But even if every pool had a fence, child drownings would not stop. These are a few safety tips to follow:
- Adults need to be present and paying attention when young children are in the pool, bathtub, or playing around water. Put down the iPhone, don’t mow the lawn, set aside the margarita and watch closely. Alcohol in particular impairs your ability to effectively monitor kids.
- Get your kids in swimming lessons early. Some places even offer “mommy-and-me” classes for infants. But be aware that the American Academy of Pediatrics says that swimming classes should not be considered drowning prevention for children younger than four.
- Get a barrier around your pool and teach your children to respect that boundary. Never prop the door open.
- Keep a life jacket on your child while he or she is in the pool. “Noodles,” “water wings,” rafts, inner tubes and the like are not sufficient.
- Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). You might save a child’s life in the time it takes emergency responders to arrive.
Posted in: Home Security, Tuesday tip
Did you know that around 80% of all burns occurs in or around the home? They’re totally preventable in both adults and children! Getting burned is a traumatic experience both physically and mentally, so be cautious and stay safe.
Burn prevention tips from Monitronics
* Keep water heater temperature at 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lower
* Don’t cook at the stove with kids underfoot
* Turn handles of pots toward the back of the store and don’t leave pots unattended
* Never pour hot liquids while holding a child
* Check temperature of bath water before placing a child in it and don’t ever leave a child unattended in the tub
* Put matches and lighters in unreachable or locked location
* Keep key out of the gas control and put a heavy cover in front of the fireplace
* Use safety plugs in electrical outlets
* Avoid chemical burns by moving all dangerous products to an unreachable place
* Slather on the sunscreen when outside
* Install smoke alarms in multiple locations around the house (each floor and bedroom) and test monthly
* Candles are dangerous. Don’t leave them unattended.
Posted in: Home Security, Tuesday tip
I recently noticed that the back metal wall in our fireplace looks loose. When I push on it with a fire poker, it bows a little. Freak out! I love our cozy winter fires, but am acutely aware that our delightful fire could burn the house down. So what to do? Clearly we need to get a chimney check, which turns out to be tip #1 in the top ten provided by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Here’s how to stay safe, from their site.
1. Get an annual chimney check. Have chimneys inspected annually, and cleaned as necessary, by a qualified professional chimney service technician. This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys.
2. Keep it clear. Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney.
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Posted in: Home Security, Tuesday tip
When you’re buying a home security system, you’re bound to ask yourself, which is right for me: wired or wireless? Both systems have a lot of popular features in common, however, your individual home and needs may determine your best fit. Here is a little guide with the advantages of each type and few items to consider. Read on to see the differences.
Hardwire
• No large transmitters exposed for customers concerned about aesthetics
• Keypad has a smaller footprint on the customer’s wall
• More user codes available
• Only one battery to change
• Most new homes have pre-wiring in place for hard-wire systems
• Less cost on parts to add additional devices to a basic system
Wireless
• Two-way is included and does not require additional cost
• Keyfobs and medical pendants are easily added
• Fewer/no exposed wires for customers concerned about aesthetics
• Shorter installation time means less interruption of the customer’s day
• Easier placement of equipment in desired locations
• Some parts can be sent directly to the customer, eliminating a service call
• Slightly higher installation investment due to cost of equipment
Installing either a wired or wireless monitored alarm system is one of the best things you can do to protect your home and your family from crime, fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, and help with response to a medical emergency. Plus, a monitored alarm system can lower your homeowners insurance rates up to 20% annually. You can’t go wrong, no matter which style system you choose. If you would like to discuss further any of these differences, please call one of our customer support specialists at 800-447-9239.
Posted in: Business Security, Home Security
