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Beware of These Deceptive Home Invasion Tactics

Beware of These 3 Deceptive Home Invasion Tactics

Beware of These 3 Deceptive Home Invasion Tactics

Beware of These Deceptive Home Invasion TacticsHome invasions are on the rise and because of them, home security is a topic of concern for all homeowners and families. Criminals are becoming increasingly brazen and coming up with new tactics to deceive and trick their victims. When it comes to home security, most people are complacent. This is not good because it ultimately leads to disaster. Staying well aware of the tactics used by the home invaders is the key that will help you take the necessary protective measures to protect your family and your home.

Following are the 3 deceptive and most common home invasion tactics you should be aware of:

1. Litter Left in Front of Your House
If you see any kind of litter in front of your house, then it is highly recommended that you dispose of it. This is because criminals scouting the neighborhood leave trash indicators on properties. Things such as bags, lids, cans, etc. in front of your house could have been intentionally left by a criminal scout in order to let another criminal know that your property has been marked to have something worth stealing. This makes your home a target for a break-in.

2. Using Your Pets to Case Your Home
Criminals look for your pets, for example dogs that are left outside as this is a clear indicator that there are going to be no dogs inside, hence making it easier for the criminals to break in. To get rid of the obvious threat (the dog outside of your home), a criminal will feed the dog with meat that has been poisoned in order to kill it or make it very ill.

Criminals also look for homes where cats are present. This is because most people who have cats tend to leave their windows open and even disable their alarms so that their beloved pets can move about freely.

3. Ad Flyers and Business Cards
Never take business cards or flyers from a stranger who approaches you at your house or anywhere else. Criminals have been known to lace authentic-looking business cards or flyers with chloroform or other such substance. If that substance is absorbed by your skin, you can pass out, making you an easy target for the criminal to rob you of your valuables, money, and house keys. The keys will then give the criminal access to your house and your valuables inside.

Final Word
When it comes to home invasion, prevention is always your best bet. Being aware of the common tactics used by criminals to invade the home can help you take better protective measures and ensure the safety of your home and 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!

Important Differences Between DIY And Professionally Installed Security Systems

4 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!

Things to Not Do if You Come Home to a Burglary in Progress

3 Things to Not Do if You Come Home to a Burglary in Progress

3 Things to Not Do if You Come Home to a Burglary in Progress

Things to Not Do if You Come Home to a Burglary in ProgressMost home burglaries occur when nobody is home because it significantly reduces the chances of being caught mid-robbery. Burglars don’t want any unnecessary attention drawn to them during a break-in as an empty house is prime picking for loot, which is why most will wait until homeowners are out before breaking into their home.

Unfortunately for some people, they happen to come home during a burglary in progress, which is a terrifying situation nobody wishes to find themselves in. Yet if you come home during a burglary, you’ll need to act fast to ensure the protection of yourself and your family.

It’s easy to get caught up in the panic and chaos of a home robbery yet there are some things you need to avoid doing to reduce the risk of being attacked. Here are 3 things to no do if you come home to a burglary in progress:

Enter the House (If Possible)
If you come home and find obvious signs of a break-in don’t make the mistake of charging into your house. Many burglars leave few signs of their entry position to ensure they don’t get caught, which is why many people already enter their home before realizing there is a problem, so if you have an obvious warning sign take advantage of it.

For example, if your front door shows signs of forced entry, such as a broken lock or damaged hinges, then make sure to avoid entering and call the police immediately. Similarly, avoid entering if there is a broken or unopened window, even if to quickly look for signs of intrusion before deciding to call the cops.

Look for the Burglar
Should you not realize there is a burglary occurring when you enter the house and then discover something is wrong, don’t make the mistake of looking for the burglar to confront them or chase them off. Yes, you want to defend your home, possessions and family, yet the risk is never worth taking.

When looking for a burglar you stand the chance of getting into a physical altercation. You don’t know what the robber is capable of and whether they have a weapon, so never try to find them in the middle of a burglary.

Instead, quietly walk back outside or hide yourself in a secure location and contact the police, providing you have your phone on you. If not, wait quietly and for them to eventually leave – no burglar will stay around for too long.

Attempt to Fight the Burglar
If you walk into your home and catch a burglar in the act, the temptation to charge at the person is understandably high, especially if your family are around. In most cases, a burglary is a non-violent crime (its why most burglars wait for you to leave before breaking in) so you likely won’t need to get into a fight unless it is a last resort.

Your home security systems should act fast and you may have already called the police if you could tell a break-in was happening, so there is no need to fight the intruder – wait for the police to handle the individual.

Of course, some situations arise that are unavailable and you may find yourself fighting for your life, but if you can avoid a physical altercation then do so. If the burglar gives you instructions, simply follow them and don’t make sudden or rash movements – none of the possessions they are stealing are ever worth risking your life over.

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!

security-systems-installed-and-monitored-by-alarm-companies-are-preferred-over-the-kind-you-can-buy-at-retail-stores-for-these-4-reasons

Security Systems Installed and Monitored by Alarm Companies Are Preferred Over the Kind You Can Buy at Retail Stores for These 4 Reasons

Security Systems Installed and Monitored by Alarm Companies Are Preferred Over the Kind You Can Buy at Retail Stores for These 4 Reasons

security-systems-installed-and-monitored-by-alarm-companies-are-preferred-over-the-kind-you-can-buy-at-retail-stores-for-these-4-reasonsHome security systems are a necessity these days because the theft rate is increasing with the passage of time. These alarm systems offer much needed security and keep your home, belongings, and family safe. If you are trying to get a home alarm system for your property, you might be tempted to buy the necessary components at a retail store and then install them by yourself. It is not recommended because the installation of such systems is a lot more complicated than you may think. It’s best to leave it to professionals.

Here are 4 reasons why security systems installed and monitored by an alarm company are preferred:

1. Convenience

Probably one of the main reasons most people prefer professional home security system installation is because it is highly convenient. From the initial security assessment to the security system installation and then monitoring and alerts, an experienced alarm company will manage all the details for you. So you can sit back, relax, and rely on years of experience and expertise of the alarm company to determine the best solution for your home security. You won’t have to go through several stores to find security system components that are suitable for your home, professionals at home alarm company will take care of such hassles for you. Because of these reasons, professional installation is a smart option.

2. Reliability

A home security system monitored by an alarm company is a reliable solution. When the alarm is set off, you won’t have to worry about contacting the authorities as the alarm company will take care of that immediately. It is very helpful, especially if you are away when the unfortunate event happens. The success rate of preventing thefts/intrusions by monitored alarm systems is higher as compared to DIY security systems.

3. Proper Installation

Apart from convenience and reliability, with a professional alarm company you are assured that your home security system will be installed properly to provide the maximum surveillance and protection. While you may purchase a home alarm system from a retail store and install it yourself, it won’t guarantee that the entire system is installed properly and is providing maximum security that you and your family need. During installation, you might overlook an entry point to your house that a burglar can use to enter your house undetected. Trained security experts at reputable home alarm companies know such weak points of a house. Furthermore, there could be a component in your security system rendering the entire system weak, and you won’t know about it if you are installing it by yourself. A professional installer on the other hand, will go through each tiny detail to make sure that your home alarm system works optimally.

4. Professional Installation Takes Your Home Security to The Next Level

In addition to installing the basic security system components, many home alarm companies also provide options that take your home security to the next level. Some of these options include (but are not limited to) fire monitoring, safety packages/panic buttons for the elderly, pet-immune motion sensors, redundant alerts, battery backups, etc. It’s easy to overlook some of these components when you are installing the security system by yourself. Then there’s also the challenge of integrating such components into an existing home alarm system. You can count on a professional home alarm company for an enhanced security and monitoring of your home.

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!

stop-doing-these-4-things-and-make-your-home-more-secure

Stop Doing These 4 Things and Make Your Home More Secure

Stop Doing These 4 Things and Make Your Home More Secure

stop-doing-these-4-things-and-make-your-home-more-secureInstalling an alarmed security system is just one step that can be taken to ensure a more secure home. While it is certainly one of the most effective forms of home security, there are various ways in which you can make your home more secure, many of which involve dropping bad habits that can make your home a bigger target for any would-be intruders.

By stopping any of the following mistakes, you can easily make your home more secure:

1. Stashing a spare key outside

Any good thief knows all of the common locations where spare keys are left outside and will know immediately where to search, whether it’s under a doormat, rock, or placed inside your mail box, so be sure to avoid doing this at all costs.

Yes, having a spare key stashed outside can be very useful for emergencies, but it really isn’t worth the risk of helping someone break into your home unforced. For those that want to leave a spare key for emergencies, give it to trusted neighbor or friend living nearby.

2. Keep expensive items out of plain sight

One of the simplest mistakes homeowners make when decorating is to leave their most prized possessions in plain sight. There’s no problem with wanting to proudly display your favorite and most valued possessions, but it may be a very attractive prospect for any opportunistic thieves passing by.

Placing any overly expensive goods on your window may prove to be too tempting for some criminals, so try not to display anything too valuable in view of your windows.

3. Not preparing for a vacation

Most break-ins occur when nobody is home, making vacations a particularly dangerous time for homeowners. The reason this often happens is because people don’t prepare their home for going away, leaving many clear signs that nobody is home to deter intruders.

For instance, you may forget to cancel deliveries and end up with a pile up of water bottles or newspapers, which is a clear indicator that nobody has been home for a while. Similarly, leaving your trash bins out to be emptied without returning them is another sign you’re absent.

So, try to postpone your deliveries during this time or have a neighbor or friend take everything in. Basically, you want your home to look as if it’s still being lived in even when this isn’t the case!

4. Forgetting to lock your doors and windows

You will be shocked at the number of break-ins that happen due to unlocked doors and windows, but the simple fact is many people forget to lock up when leaving their house. Despite how obvious it is, countless intruders will simply walk through an unlocked front or rear door – it’s one of the easiest and simplest methods for trying to break in.

Windows are more problematic as it’s not always easy to remember to lock them up when leaving, especially in warmer climates. Be sure to use an AC unit to ensure you don’t have to keep windows open when you’re out the house if this is an issue, and try especially to remember to lock the riskiest windows in the house such as those on the bottom floor.

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!

secure-these-top-4-entry-points-that-burglars-target

Secure These Top 4 Entry Points That Burglars Target

Secure These Top 4 Entry Points That Burglars Target

secure-these-top-4-entry-points-that-burglars-targetMost active burglars are rather good at what they do – after all, there’s a reason they haven’t been caught! While this is partially due to their experience of breaking in and robbing a home, many times it’s because they can recognize a property that isn’t as secure as others.

Burglars gain access to a house through a targeted entry point, with some houses having more of these than others, often making them an increased risk. However, we can take necessary precautions to ensure any entry point that a burglar may target is as secure as possible.

Secure these top 4 entry points that burglars target and your home will be safer for it:

1. Front Door

Many people wrongly assume that the front door isn’t a big target for burglars, but around a third of break-ins occur through a front door. There’s a variety of reasons why this happens, from spare keys being left nearby to how easy some doors can be forced open, so be sure to secure your front door as much as possible,

You can do this in many ways, and some doors may need more securing than others, but it should be simple enough to get done. Some great examples of how to secure your front door include installing deadbolts or a strike plate to help strengthen the door from forced entry, while a door alarm is also very worthwhile.

And remember – always lock your door!

2. Back Door

The back door of a home is the preferred point of entry for most burglars, being much less visible from the prying eyes of neighbors that may catch them in the act. Whether your back door connects to a kitchen or living room (like with a patio door), it’s one of the most targeted entry points so it should be sufficiently secured.

Sliding doors can be quite an issue, as their locks are much less effective than with a typical door, so a sliding bolt is a good idea for anyone with this type of door. A glass break alarm may also be a good idea!

Standard doors can use the same tactics as with a front door, with heavy duty bolts, strike plates and additional locks being some of the best methods for extra security.

3. Bottom Floor Windows

Windows are often overlooked when it comes to home security, but around a quarter of all break-ins occur through the bottom floor windows. This is because windows are relatively weak, making them an effective point of entry in many cases.

Burglars take advantage of this fact, usually checking how secure bottom floor windows are when scoping out a target. Remember, if a burglar cannot make it in through the doors, they will try the windows next!

Securing windows may require more robust methods, such as installing reinforced glass or even upgrading to tougher plexiglass. Window bars are another option, although they are rather unsightly but still hugely effective, while window based alarms are also effective.

4. Top Floor Windows

Windows that are higher from the ground may seem like less of a target, but many opportunistic burglars will use this as their point of entry. While the chances of a break-in occurring here are much lower, it is still a possibility so it’s worth securing it when possible.

The easiest way to secure windows on the top floor of a home is to ensure there are no ladders left outside that can be used to gain access, and be mindful of any trees that could be climbed 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!

honeywell total connect keypad and home automation devices

3 Ways Home Security Systems Have Changed Over the Last 25 Years

3 Ways Home Security Systems Have Changed Over the Last 25 Years

honeywell total connect keypad and home automation devicesSociety these days has become more dependent on technology that makes the standards of everyday living more convenient. This also includes security measures for our homes and workplaces. Home security systems have evolved drastically over the last 25 years. Over the years, new tools and gadgets have been invented, we can see the evolution by the emergence of pertinent security gadgets and ultra-modern surveillance cameras. Apart from this, home security technology is now accessible by ordinary families as well and not just rich people. Homeowners these days have relatively more options when it comes to security systems to increase their security and safety within the home. Following are 3 examples of how home security systems have evolved over the years:

1. Theft Deterrent Sounds

Despite innovative inventions in home security tools and gadgets, homeowners are interested in more. One of the best examples of home security system evolution is the time-honored feature of lighting timers all through the interior and exterior of your home. Using MP3 technology, “theft deterrent sounds” can be easily programmed within your home. These sounds range from gentle conversations to the sounds of various dishes being washed, movies, TV shows, and inhabitation sounds. Furthermore, these systems can also be hooked up to motion detectors. Burglars mostly target unoccupied houses, and with this technology you can keep the thieves at bay even when you are not at home.

2. Timed Lighting Solutions

In addition to theft deterrent sounds, timed lighting solutions have also become more intelligent. New technology allows these systems to remember your lighting habits (when you turn on/off lights throughout your home), and are capable of duplicating the exact patterns while you are not present in your home. Hence, these timed lighting solutions resemble actual usage of lights by allowing every light in your home to be turned on/off with your pattern. This system works as an additional security layer and can easily deceive burglars into thinking that you are in your home, even when you are not.

3. Heat and Motion Detectors

Heat and motion detectors are evolved security options available through improved technology. These detectors are now more sensitive than ever and are capable of automatically detecting the presence of anyone who tries to bypass door and window alarms. Motion and body heat detectors also work to surround your house with additional layer of security as an alarm will sound before an intruder will ever actually have a chance to touch yourhouse.

Conclusion

Although the technology has evolved a lot in terms of enhanced security of your home; a professionally monitored home security system is still the best option. These monitored security systems not only provide protections when you are at home, but also give you peace of mind when you are not. The wide variety of system upgrades and enhancements such as two-way voice communications with monitoring center, smart motion detectors, arming and disarming options with a remote,various options for carbon monoxide detectors, smoke and fire detectors, etc. make comprehensive security a snap.

If you have a home or business in The Coachella Valley, and want to increase your safety and security, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional security 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!

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