• Call Us: (760) 568-0052
  • 73700 Dinah Shore Drive, Suite 401, Palm Desert, CA 92211
Lic: #LA-001938

Archives

Security Alarms

Important Differences Between DIY And Professionally Installed Security Systems

4 Important Differences Between DIY And Professionally Installed Security Systems

Important Differences Between DIY And Professionally Installed Security Systems The mode of installation is a big factor when it comes to choosing the best home security system that fits your needs. Homeowners are faced with the decision of choosing between a DIY security system and a professionally installed security system. There are many key differences between them and you must consider a lot of different factors when making your decision.

Following are 4 important differences between DIY and professionally installed security systems:

1. Cost
A DIY security system may seem like your best bet when you are trying to save money. DIY security systems are often sold at relatively lower prices, making them ideal for homeowners that have a limited budget. And since there are no extra installation charges, this option can be appealing to most homeowners. Professionally installed security systems on the other hand, require a contract or installation fees. So, they are relatively more expensive than DIY security systems.

2. Monitoring
Another key difference between DIY and professionally installed security systems is quality monitoring service. When you purchase a DIY security system, you are basically purchasing a security system that will alert you and your family to break-ins and other dangers. Unfortunately, that’s all a DIY security system is able to do, aside from possibly being able to purchase some kind of a cheap monitoring program. Professionally installed security systems on the other hand, are connected with a highly rated professional security monitoring company. So, when the alarm is triggered, not only does the security system alert you and your family, it also be trusted to immediately alert the monitoring center that will then send the proper authorities. Because of this, a professionally installed security system helps the family feel more secure when they are at home, but also when they are not.

3. Tech Support
If you choose a DIY security system, then you are pretty much on your own. The company may be able to answer simple questions, but you won’t have access to equipment replacement options and tech support. Apart from this, if something goes wrong with your DIY security system, it will be you out on the lawn in the middle of the night trying to figure out the cause of the problem. As opposed to this, professionally installed security system has many advantages. With it, you will have access to professional support. The installer will make sure that the equipment is set up properly and will be available any time to answer your questions. Furthermore, if something goes wrong, you will know who to call. The professional installer will be more than happy to walk you through the diagnosis of your security system or come to your house and fix it if necessary.

4. Security System Grading
DIY security systems generally tend to not be graded. Because of this, these security systems often don’t meet the requirements of insurance companies. So, your valuables may not be covered if you experience a break in. On the other hand, professionally installed security systems are graded and they are also connected with a monitoring center. Because of this, these systems satisfy the requirements of insurance companies.

For your further consideration, here is an actual story of a situation that recently occurred with one of our customers, as told by the owner of our company:

We had a commercial customer, for whom we installed and monitored a very good alarm system with glassbreak and motion detectors, etc. A little less than a year ago they switched their phones to IP so they needed another way for the alarm to communicate. We told them it would be $150 to install a cellular communicator for alarm communication and $10 a month for the cell service charges. That is pretty standard and the install cost is just about the price of parts. So anyway, they cancelled and went to a DIY system. They put that system in and got some cheap monitoring. About two weeks ago they had a break-in. It just so happens that our new office location is right around the corner from their office and I didn’t even realize it. One of their employees came out the next morning and told one of our techs that they had been broken into and the alarm never went off. The person broke the glass out of the front door (which is why glassbreak detectors are important) and left and then went back two hours later and busted up file cabinets, took a cash box and some stuff out of the refrigerator. It was likely a homeless person who hangs out around the train tracks right behind the industrial park we are in. But the alarm did not go off either time. One of our employees went by and just talked to them about what happened and at that point they still had no idea why the alarm didn’t go off. They had cameras that did work and that is how they knew the guy left for two hours and then returned. However, he had his face covered so the video is useless.

Final Word
Choosing between DIY and a professionally installed security system is not easy and you have to consider many factors. However, whatever your decision may be, you should know that you are making the right choice by having a security system to secure your home and protect your family.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

Spring-Cleaning-Maintenance-Tips-for-Your-Security-Alarm

Spring-Cleaning-Maintenance-Tips-for-Your-Security-Alarm

Spring-Cleaning-Maintenance-Tips-for-Your-Security-AlarmSpring is the time of the year when a lot of homeowners clean and freshen their homes both inside and out. While organizing and cleaning, it is also a good time to consider how good your home security is. A security alarm is a vital part of a property and you should definitely think about it during your spring cleaning maintenance.

Following are 7 spring cleaning maintenance tips for your security alarm:

1. Perform a Detection Test
Walk around your home and trigger all the detection devices such as beams and passives and open all the windows and doors. Confirm that the device reflects on your keypad’s respective zone number. You should also pay careful attention to old devices that have poor detection. If any old devices are damaged, replace them.

2. Perform a Signal Test
Contact the control center of your security alarm’s company and ask them to place your account on test for about half an hour. After that, arm your security alarm system in Away mode. Wait until the exit delay expires. Then walk through your home and trigger all the zones by walking past all the detection devices and opening all windows and doors. Apart from this, you should also test the fixed panic buttons. Now disarm your alarm system and contact the control to confirm whether they have received signals from all zones.

3. Replace Batteries in Devices
It would be a good idea to perform an inspection of batteries in your security devices during the spring cleaning maintenance. Make sure the batteries in the important security devices are working properly. Replace the batteries that may have expired.

4. Clean All Camera Lenses
Cleaning the camera lenses is another important spring cleaning maintenance task that you can perform for your security alarm system. Security cameras are susceptible to grime and dirt, so make sure to remove any sign of these so that your security cameras keep functioning at their best.

5. Dust DVRs
The DVR is a vital component of a security alarm system as it stores the footage from all the connected cameras as well as allows you to review the footage at any time so you can use it as evidence. Because of these reasons, you want the digital video recorder to always be working as intended. So, don’t forget to dust your DVRs during your spring cleaning maintenance. Use a microfiber cloth to dust the top. For removing any internal dust build-ups, you should use an electric computer blower.

6. Inspect Landscaping
Landscape features overgrow with time and can block camera views. So, if there are any vines, trees, bushes, and other forms of foliage and plants surrounding your premises, then it is recommended that you inspect them to see whether they have impaired the camera feed.

7. Update Your Codes and Information
It is recommended that you update the user codes of your security alarm system during your spring cleaning maintenance. Apart from these, challenge codes should also be updated with the control center. Don’t forget to update all contact numbers and key-holder details as well.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

Top Security Threats at Retail Businesses

Beware of These 6 Top Security Threats at Retail Businesses

Top Security Threats at Retail BusinessesThere is no shortage of security threats for retail businesses. As if running a retail store wasn’t challenging enough, there is a daily threat of various security risks that will take their toll on even the most successful retail businesses.

Nobody is free from these threats – businesses small and large face constant security threats that they must be prepared for.
It’s why the retail industry relies so heavily on various security processes and equipment, which can help to minimize the risks they face. However, knowing about the threats is also important as it gives you a better chance of preventing them.

Shoplifting
It’s one of the most common form of thefts that retail businesses face, with shoplifters stealing billions of dollars’ worth of products every year. While security processes like CCTV, creating few blind spots, training employees to spot these threats can minimize the risks, the threat of shoplifters is an ever-present one in retail.

Employee Theft
A lot of theft in retail is internal, with employees taking advantage of their inside knowledge to exploit security weaknesses and steal from their employer. This could be anything from stock to cash from the register, which is why its important to keep detailed inventory and bookkeeping so any theft is noticed quickly.

Security cameras and controlled access are another few methods that can help reduce these risks, allowing employers to see what their employees are doing and who is entering and leaving stock rooms etc.

Break-Ins
After hours break-ins are less common thanks to strong security measures in many retail businesses, although smaller retailers often face increased threats of after hour break ins due to less robust security systems.

Break-ins can be significantly damaging, espiecally when hold high volume and high value inventory, so always take appropriate measures such as increased CCTV, reinforced doors and locks, gates and fences around the premises etc.

Lawsuits
Many criminals target retail businesses with fake lawsuits, claiming on-site injuries in the hopes of suing for compensation. Cameras mostly negate these risks, although not every criminal is aware of security cameras so they may attempt a fake lawsuit anyway.

Robbery
Holding retail businesses at gunpoint is far less prominent thanks to increased presence of cameras that make it difficult to get away with it, but the sad truth is the threat of armed robbery remains for many businesses.

Scams
From fake cash bills and coupons to fraudulent refunds, there are various scams that savvy criminals use to steal from unwitting retail businesses. These scams typically occur during point of sale processing, so educating employees on common scams and providing equipment such as counterfeit note detectors should help minimize the threats.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

Best Types of Home Security When Your Home is in a Country Club

4 Best Types of Home Security When Your Home is in a Country Club

Best Types of Home Security When Your Home is in a Country ClubWhile a country club usually has a dedicated security team in place and various security measures to protect residents, it’s always a good idea to invest in your own home security devices. Yes, there may be less likelihood of security breaches given the security measures already in place, but that doesn’t mean your country club home is risk-free.

After all, countless visitors pass through a country club on any given day. Most are residents or club members, but there is always the chance of unwanted individuals making their way onto the premises. In fact, with such a large area to monitor and many homes within, you cannot expect your country club home to be free from potential break-ins from opportunistic criminals.

To make things safer, here are 4 of the best types of home security when your home is in a country club:

1. Monitored Home Security System
A monitored home security system is your best line of defense and protection when it comes to protecting your country club home from intruders. Many options are available when it comes to the types of sensors that are able to detect break ins or intrusions through all points of entry to your home. The monitoring feature means that any alarm activity is immediately reported to our 24/7 monitoring center who will dispatch emergency personnel to your country club residence immediately. These systems have the option for the devices mentioned below as well.

2. Video Doorbell
Smart technology has provided us with many great home security devices, and few are better for a country club home than a video doorbell. These devices consist of a high definition camera, speaker system, and ringer. When your doorbell is rung, you’re sent a video feed from the camera, allowing for remote viewing anywhere in the country club.

With so many people wandering through the golf course throughout the day, you never know who could end up at your front door. A video doorbell means you never need to guess, while the ability to speak to people at the door from your phone gives the impression you’re always home.

3. Indoor Camera
There are likely countless security cameras throughout the premises of the country club – but none are inside your home. While this is an obvious choice for your own privacy, it does mean country club homes are often a blind spot on the club’s CCTV system, so investing in an indoor camera is always recommended.

The camera could be installed as part of a wired security system, but there are many wireless cameras that are easy to install yourself. Most modern indoor home security cameras connect directly to your phone and computer, allowing you to constantly monitor your home, even from the fairway or clubhouse.

4. Window and Door Sensors
Again, smart technology has produced many great wireless door and window sensors that are perfect for a country club home.
They don’t need to be hardwired into a security system, meaning there are no monthly fees for the service, while they come with various security features to keep your home safe, including loud alarms, silent alarms that alert you via your phone, and even integrated cameras.

It’s easy to leave a window cranked when going for a walk across the country club grounds or playing a few holes, but there are still security risks even when part of a country club. Unlocked windows and doors give an opportunistic burglar all the encouragement they need, so investing in good door and window sensors is very worthwhile.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

home and business security alarms

5 Differences Between Home and Business Security Alarm Systems

home and business security alarmsThere are two types of alarms systems, home and business. Over the last few years, the features of both home and business security alarms have started to merge. Many of the advanced features that were initially available in business security alarms are nowadays offered in home security alarms as well. However, there are still many differences between the two.

Following are 5 differences between home and business security alarm systems:

1. Business Security Alarms Are Generally More Complex
When it comes to security, there is no doubt that businesses have more complex needs as compared to homes. Commercial buildings are usually in high-traffic areas and depending on the services a business offers, it could be a lot more attractive to burglars than a home. That’s why businesses require more safety measures in order to maintain safety and security.

Since the needs of businesses are complex when it comes to security, business security alarms are more advanced and comprehensive as compared to home security alarms. They are equipped with relatively more features such as controlled access cards to allow employees to move throughout the facility, relatively more surveillance cameras, imposing limitss to where people can go, etc.

2. Certification

Being certified and non-certified is a key difference between a home and a business security alarm system. Certified alarm systems are those that are suited for small applications such as retail stores or small offices to high high-end applications such as airports and banks. Home alarm systems are not certified but business security alarms are.

3. Home Security Alarms Can Be Placed Anywhere

Home security alarms are designed in such a way that allows the homeowners to place them anywhere in the house. They feature small size and discreet design that fits-in well with the overall home décor. These features are not really a concern when it comes to business security.

4. Business Security Alarms Offer Relatively More Data Storage

You cannot always predict when an important piece of information will be needed. Unfortunate and unexpected things can occur at any time and you want to know that you have the ability to easily find and view the information that you need. Businesses especially, require their video surveillance system to store a lot of data because of the 24/7 high-traffic and activity in the facility. That’s why most security alarm companies design alarm systems to have relatively more storage, allowing businesses to keep a lot of important data with ease. Homeowners don’t need that much data storage, unless the home is empty for a long period of time, which doesn’t happen very often.

5. Business Security Alarms Are Relatively Costlier

Since business security alarms are a lot more complex and are also equipped with more features, it is not surprising that they are relatively costlier as compared to home security alarms. The cost of a security alarm system depends on the specific areas being monitored as well as the required number of features. Businesses require additional monitoring features such as panic button monitoring, access control monitoring, video monitoring, water monitoring, temperature monitoring, etc. so the cost of a business security alarm is relatively higher.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

keep your security system working properly

Keep Your Security System Working Properly with These 5 Maintenance Tips

keep your security system working properlyMaintaining the good working condition of your security system is an essential part of good home security practice. This includes cleaning, examining, testing, and replacement (if needed) of all the components of the system. You can either hire professional help for this or perform the maintenance yourself. Either way, it is recommended that you make a habit of making sure that your home security system is performing optimally.

Following are 5 maintenance tips that will help you make sure that your security system is working properly:

1. Develop a Scheduled Maintenance Plan

Developing a scheduled maintenance plan should be your first step to keeping your security system in optimal working order. You should also keep track of system checks and replacements via a maintenance log. It is recommended that you make a check list for parts and steps to use when testing your security system, so that you don’t miss anything or create more work for yourself.

2. Check the Batteries

An alarm system cannot function without batteries and that’s what makes them so important. You should check the batteries before anything else during your security system maintenance. If your home alarm panels contain batteries that cannot be easily changed, then it is recommended that you call the company or technician who installed your alarm system to come and test them. If needed, the technician will replace the batteries. On the other hand, if it’s possible to change the batteries yourself, then simply purchase them and replace the old ones with the new ones to keep your home security system running as expected.

3. Check the Light Bulbs

Most security alarm systems nowadays come with motion-sensitive lighting timers. These can be a great deterrent to any intruder who is trying to hide behind the bushes or lurk in the shadows. But they cannot do their job if the bulbs are burned out, so thoroughly test them and if they need to be replaced, then invest in the sort of light bulbs that have a longer life. You don’t need to have someone come from the alarm company for this job as they are easy to replace and you can change them yourself.

4. Check the Sensors

Sometimes sensors in particular rooms aren’t working to their optimal potential or they stop working altogether, but you are likely not to notice unless there is a break-in. The purpose of checking those sensors is to make sure that you are getting the most out of your investment. Make sure that all the sensors are still doing their job by having someone from the alarm company come over and test them.

5. Keep an Eye on the Latest Developments

This is a very important step and should be part of your scheduled security system maintenance. Keep an eye on the latest developments in the home security system niche because if you don’t, you might miss out on something useful that could be very beneficial for your home security – often at a much friendlier price. Keep your alarm system up-to-date with the latest monitoring devices so that you and your family can stay protected via enhanced features that the new technology has to offer.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

protect from theft when selling home

Selling Your Home? Protect Your Belongings From Theft By Fake Home Shoppers With These Five Security Tips

protect from theft when selling homeSelling property is always a stressful process, so it’s understandable that many overlook their home security when conducting a sale. This most commonly occurs during the viewing process, when people are free to come and go from the property, often without a second thought of how secure possessions are.

While most people are likely viewing the property as honest buyers, there is always the chance that someone comes to your home as a fake shopper, and these people will take the opportunity to steal whatever belongings they can.
So, be sure to protect your belongings from theft by fake home shoppers with these five security tips:

Remove Valuable Belongings Prior To Viewings
It’s common sense but still worth mentioning – always remove any valuables before viewing your home for a buyer. This is easy enough to do as you probably want to give your home a look over to make sure it’s in top condition for the viewing, so simply take note of anything valuable that you want to keep safe and remove it from the premises or place into a locked container.

Consider locking away valuables such a jewelery, credit cards, cash, car and house keys, etc. Also, removing personal belongings is a good idea, as this helps to protect your personal information and privacy, which is often the target of thieves.

Be Mindful of Documents And Medicine
While these may not be considered valuable belongings, things such as prescription medicine and personal documents should always be kept out of sight for a house viewing.

Identify theft is a huge risk today and fake shoppers are using house viewings to get personal information from documents lying around homes – be mindful of this and keep all personal documents, letters, bills, and other mail out of reach.

Know Who Is Viewing
Unless conducting an open house viewing, you can request your real estate agent to get personal details from any viewers, including a name, address, current employer, etc. This serves mostly as a deterrent, as those unwilling to give this information may have the wrong intentions, while most will be happy to give this.

Try to Have Viewings Early As Possible
The earlier the house viewing the better, as daylight is often the biggest deterrent for a fake house shopper. Daylight hours are the busiest, so your street will likely have more activity throughout the day that thieves will find off-putting – most want to remain unseen so a room flooded with daylight is always a good form of protection!

Invest in Good Security Systems
If you don’t already have a security system in place for your home, now could be the perfect time to get one. Yes, you are moving out and won’t be needing it for long, but the added protection is well worth the price, while it may add value to your home or you can take it with you, depending on the type of system.

For instance, a basic security camera can make a world of a difference for home security during house viewings. Not only are they a good preventive measure for opportunistic thieves but could provide evidence of a theft should it occur.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

home security when the weather is hot

Four Extra Home Security Precautions You Should Take When the Weather is Hot

home security when the weather is hotWarm weather isn’t without its setbacks. From dehydration to heat stroke, there are plenty of hazards that come with the hot weather, so many people understandably take precautions around their home to help cope with the heat.

Opening windows and doors is a common fix, as is cranking the air conditioning up to full, but these may pose unexpected risks to your home’s security. In fact, there are many opportunistic thieves that take advantage of the hot weather and the possible lowering of home security that comes with it.

Here are four extra home security precautions you should take when the weather is hot:

Close all ground windows at night
The most common reason that homes are more susceptible to break-ins during hot weather is that more windows remain open than normal. This makes sense, as most of us that want to cool down from the heat simply open the windows across the house.
However, many tend to leave them open throughout the day and night, which creates a big risk for homeowners. Windows on the ground floor are the biggest culprit in this regard, as they make entering the home much easier, so always keep them closed at night no matter how hot it gets!

Check second floor windows for easy access
It is normally safe to leave second floor windows open overnight as they are quite difficult to access so most burglars don’t take the risk. However, some windows on the second floor could still pose a risk is they have easier access, typically in the shape of a tree, wall, or fence near to window.

Check to see if there are any risks near a second-floor window you want to leave open, paying attention to trees and fences in particular. For trees, consider trimming branches that are near windows, while applying spikes to the top of a fence helps detract would-be intruders.

Keep your garage door down when working in the yard
The hot weather is great for getting work done around the yard, whether cutting grass, planting new flowers, or making repairs to fences. Most people store tools and lawnmowers in the garage, and don’t think twice of leaving it open as they get to work outside the home.

However, this does pose a risk from opportunistic thieves that see the open door and nobody close by to stop them. For instance, taking a bathroom break could give a burglar the chance they are waiting for, so always leave your garage door shut when working outside!

Don’t leave ladders lying around
Chances are you are going to do some work to your home’s exterior during the hot weather. It’s a great time to repaint the house or clean out the gutter after a long winter, so you may be using a ladder during this time.

Ladders are a big risk for homeowners when left outside, so always make sure you never leave ladders unattended when doing work outside the home. If using frequently during the summer, chain them up at night so nobody tries to use them to break in!

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

home invasion

3 Types of Home Invasions That Home Security Alarms Can Protect Against

home invasionHome security is one of the primary concerns of every homeowner. The concern to enhance residential security has increased in the last few years due to the increasing number of home invasions that end in violence against a home’s occupants. Everyone should take the security of their home seriously and consider installing a reliable home security alarm for protection against home invasions.

Following are 3 types of home invasions that home security alarms can protect against:

1. Home Invasion by Forced Entry
In this type of home invasion, the intruder does not use any deception and tries to force his way into a home. For instance, the intruder rings the doorbell and when the homeowner opens the door, he forces his way in. In other cases, the invader does not even bother to ring the doorbell or knock on the front door, instead he simply kicks in the front door of the house and tries to take over the home. The most common entry point for home invasion by forced entry is the front door.

A home security alarm can protect you and your family against this type of home invasion. With installation and proper placement of your surveillance cameras, you will be able to see the invader before he attempts to gain entry. And if the invader simply starts kicking in your front door, then you will know thanks to home security system’s surveillance cameras. In most cases, the alarm will trigger if someone tried to gain forced entry. And if for some reason it doesn’t, then you can use the panic button of your home alarm system to alert the authorities of the threat.

2. Home Invasion by Ruse
This is the type of home invasion in which the invader uses ruses or deceptive tricks to get inside your home. Usually, the intruder fakes his identity in order to gain the trust of the homeowner and lower their guard. For example, he can dress up in a cable company uniform, knock on your door and tell that he is here to fix a problem with your cable. In this way, he will request entry into your home and once he gains entry, he will drop the act and try to overpower you and other occupants of your home with fear and violence to obtain cash, credit cards, cell phones, expensive jewelry, or anything else of value.

In most cases, your surveillance cameras at the front of your property as well as signs of the security system will be enough to deter such invaders and protect you against this type of home invasion. Apart from this, you will have access to the panic button of your home security system to quickly call for help if such an unfortunate incident occurs.

3. Break, Enter, and Steal
This is usually not considered as a type of home invasion but it could be categorized as such when the alleged offender is armed with a weapon and the circumstances aggravate. Generally, the intruder’s intensions are to enter the house without breaking or attracting attention. A home security alarm will deter such intruders from attempting to gain entry into your home. The motion sensors as well as surveillance equipment of your home security alarm will detect the intruder as soon as he enters your property.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

leaving-home-for-an-extended-period-of-time-make-sure-you-do-these-six-things-to-make-sure-everything-is-in-order-when-you-return

Leaving Home For An Extended Period Of Time? Make Sure You Do These Six Things To Make Sure Everything Is In Order When You Return.

leaving-home-for-an-extended-period-of-time-make-sure-you-do-these-six-things-to-make-sure-everything-is-in-order-when-you-returnWhen leaving your home unattended for an extended period, it is understandable to be nervous. With nobody home, your property is at an increased risk from theft or damage, meaning you could return home and see things aren’t what they were when you left.

This is a nightmare that not only causes a great deal of stress but also has serious financial consequences. So, to avoid any problems with your home when leaving for an extended period you should take the time to adequately prepare.

Make sure you do these six things to make sure everything is in order when you return:

1. Secure All Locks

A no-brainer but one worth mentioning – lock everything throughout your home. This includes front and back doors along with any connecting doors, such as those between your home and garage – not to mention the garage itself. Lock all windows and patio doors, and any outdoor buildings such as a shed or workshop.

2. Never Leave Keys Outside

Leaving a spare key outside is handy for the odd occasion – going on a long trip is not one of them. Even the best hiding spots may be detected, leaving your home at incredible risk where an intruder could get in and out without even breaking a sweat. Leave spare keys with a family member or a neighbor if need be.

3. Ask Friends to Check-In

Getting a friend, relative, or neighbor to occasionally check in with your property should give you a good peace of mind when away for a long time. It means you home won’t be empty for weeks on end, which may be spotted by a would-be burglar, while they can also inspect the home for signs of damage.

Plus, in the worst-case scenario you have someone that can immediately contact you and the authorities, meaning no nasty surprises when you get home.

4. Consider Installing a Security System

Security systems are for everyone, but it something that should be seriously considered when going away for a longer period. Professional security systems offer enhanced security unlike anything else, so is one of the surest ways to keep your home safe and secure upon your return.

This could be a professional alarm that alerts the police of a break-in or a smart camera system that you can view from a computer, any of which provide quality security that should prevent the worst from happening.

5. Set the Thermostat

Not all risks are security based when leaving home – it could be an accident with the house itself. For instance, when living in a colder region you may want to leave the thermostat to an appropriate temperature to avoid pipes freezing and bursting.

6. Turn Water Off

When leaving for a long period, it’s often recommended to turn the entire water system off to avoid accidental leaks, which could be one of the worst things to happen when left unchecked. Water damage can quickly escalate and costs thousands of dollars in damage, so because nobody is using the water you may as well turn it off.

If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!

Call Now Button