Peace of Mind Newsletter - Past Issues

How Medical Alarms Provide Peace of Mind

It can sometimes be scary or worrying to leave an elderly relative home alone. Unfortunately, some seniors have difficulty walking up and down stairs, getting in and out of the bathtub and performing other daily tasks. There is also the risk of a medical emergency. However, many seniors also wish to remain in their own homes and have the independence to live life the way they see fit. How do you balance these two conflicting scenarios?

Medical alarm systems can greatly reduce the stress and worry that can be associated with seniors living at home alone. With an emergency medical alarm, your elderly relatives can continue to live the independent lives they are used to without being concerned about health problems or slips and falls. You’ll also be able to relax since you’ll know that your loved ones are just a button press away from emergency help, 24 hours a day.

SafeTech Alarm Systems offers lightweight, compact and waterproof emergency response pendants and wireless emergency wall communicators that allow seniors to live lives without worry. Medical alarms make it easier for seniors to live the lives they’re accustomed and they give family members the peace of mind that their loved ones are being protected.

Emergency medical alarm systems from SafeTech have the best range in the industry, so they’ll even work in your driveway, garage or backyard. This means that you can be a button push away from emergency help even when you’re doing yardwork, gardening or working outside your home for any reason. You’ll be able to do all of the tasks you’re used to with the added protection of two-way voice support from our central monitoring station.

Two-way voice medical alarms from SafeTech feature:

• The worlds smallest two-way voice personal communicator pendant
• Direct communication with our central monitoring station 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• The best range in the industry: Hundreds of feet from the base station
• Crystal clear two-way voice communication with the central station
• All pendants and wall communicators check in with the base every 13 hours
• The central station is contacted in the event of a power outage, low battery or RFC signal loss Unlimited talk time with the central monitoring station.

Medical alarm pendants are small enough to be worn on your wrist or on a chain around your neck. They’re completely waterproof, so you can even wear one in the shower or bath.

Please contact SafeTech Alarm Systems for more information.

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

There are a number of ways to prevent criminals from breaking into your home or business. Alarm systems, security cameras, window bars and gates and other security technology are vital to keeping your property safe from criminals. However, it has also been proven that proper design can reduce crime and the fear of crime in a neighbourhood or a particular property. Read our tips for crime prevention through environmental design. A combination of security technology and natural surveillance, access control and other techniques can make an area safer and drastically reduce crime. Crime prevention through environmental design is a multi-disciplinary approach to determine criminal behaviour through design techniques. The ideas of crime prevention through environmental design have been practiced and refined for quite some time. Today these tactics are used in both residential and commercial environments to limit the opportunity for crime and to also reduce the fear of crime in a given area. Urban planners and those designing neighbourhoods and commercial areas such as office parks or shopping centers often take safety and security into account when creating a design.

There are several ways that you can use these tactics to protect your home or office. For example, a key aspect of crime prevention through environmental design is the idea of “natural surveillance.” This means creating an environment that maximizes visibility and increases the ability to spot suspicious people or activities. This technique can be used in your home quite effectively.

For example, you should ensure that your home’s main entrance is clearly visible from the street and that there are no bushes or shrubs located nearby where criminals could hide. Installing motion-activated security lighting over all entrances will increase visibility at night and make it more difficult for criminals to act without being caught. There are many safety benefits of environmental design.

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Hazardous Gases in your Home

Criminals are not the only danger to your home that could strike at any time. They’re also not the only issue that you can protect yourself from by utilizing the right technology. Hazardous gases such as carbon monoxide can be incredibly dangerous and even lethal if they allowed to build up in your home undetected.

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odorless, tasteless and initially non-irritating gas that is very difficult for people to detect without specialized equipment. On average, 170 people in the United States die each year from carbon monoxide produced by non-automotive consumer products and thousands more are hospitalized with non-lethal carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide can be produced by a number of different consumer products. Furnaces, ranges, water heaters, gas and kesosene heaters, portable generators, fireplaced and a number of other fuel-burning appliances can produce carbon monoxide, especially if the appliance is malfunctioning.

The symptoms of mild carbon monoxide poisoning include lightheadedness, confusion, headaches, vertigo and flu-like symptoms as well as depression, confusion, and memory loss. Greater exposure can lead to central nervous system and heart damage as well as death.

Carbon monoxide is best detected with a functioning carbon monoxide detector. For more information on carbon monoxide and monitored carbon monoxide detectors, please visit our website.

However carbon monoxide isn’t the only hazardous gas that you will need to watch out for. For example, elevated levels of radon gas also lead to health problems and even death. Like carbon monoxide, radon gas is colourless, odorless and tasteless. It is a radioactive gas and can cause lung cancer. Radon comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. It can get into any type of building through cracks and holes. Radon can get trapped inside a building and build up to incredibly dangerous levels without you even noticing.

Nearly 1-in-15 homes in the United States has elevated radon levels. Thankfully, there are a number of different radon test kits that you can use to check for elevated radon levels.

Workplace Security

Most people spend a large percentage of their lives in the workplace. Other than your own home, you likely spend more time in your workplace than in any other location. Therefore, it makes sense that you would want to stay safe at work.

Whether you are an employee or an employer, there are several things you can do to improve workplace security. Employers often set up the company’s security systems, maintain these systems and set the tone for a safe workplace, but that doesn’t mean employees cannot help with these security efforts.

Accurate and consistent risk assessment is important in every workplace. Every company, no matter the size, should carry out its own risk assessment study to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the company, the building that the company is located it and the organization’s practices. SafeTech Alarm Systems offers a free risk assessment for both homes and businesses. Please contact us for more information. A company should also formulate contingency plans that can come into effect should an emergency situation occur. Additional security measures may be required in an emergency.

All employees should be trained and made aware of a company’s security policies and emergency plans. They should also be aware of how to correctly act if their security is threatened. Employees that are assigned specific roles in a company’s security policy (such as locking the office doors for the night, activating the office’s alarm system, securing company documents in a locked room or filing cabinet, etc.) should be given detailed instructions on their roles and all employees should practice their security roles regularly to ensure that they understand their duties exactly.

Employees play another vital role in maintaining security in the workplace. All employees should be trained to recognize threats and properly report them. For example, employees in a retail store should be trained to identify potential shoplifters. There should be a procedure in place to report suspicious customers without causing a panic or scaring customers out of the store. Employees should also be trained to look out for weaknesses in a company’s security technology. For example, if an employee notices that an exterior light is burned out or that a window does not lock properly, the employee should promptly report this flaw to the correct person who can arrange for it to be fixed.

Information security is also incredibly important. Your company should have detailed information technology security procedures and all employees should be trained to follow these procedures. Some tips include choosing safe passwords for your computer, always storing critical information in password protected files and safe Internet browsing. Physical documents that contain personal or private information should be stored securely and access to these documents should be strictly controlled.

Five Ways Security Systems Can Help – Beyond Catching Criminals

Home alarm systems and commercial alarm systems are obviously very effective at deterring and stopping crime. It’s possible to protect business and home with technology. Studies show that having an alarm system reduces the chance of a break and enter by 10 times and that combining an alarm system with another form of security technology (such as video surveillance cameras) makes it 40 times less likely that your home or office will be broken into.

However, keeping you safe from criminals isn’t all that alarm systems and security cameras can do. There are a number of other ways that your home or business security system can help you. For example, you can use your alarm system and your security cameras to tell you when people are entering or leaving your home. You’ll know when your babysitter, contractor, housekeeper or any other person working inside your home arrives for a shift and how long they remain in your house. This is a great way to make sure that people are working the right number of hours each day. You’ll also be able to tell exactly when your children arrive home from school giving you true peace of mind. Modern alarm systems and security cameras allow you to monitor activity from any location with an Internet connection. You can even get alerts sent to your cell phone or email address when your alarm is activated or deactivated so you’ll always know what is taking place in your house.

If you have a monitored security system, did you know that you can monitor other devices in your home, not just your security services? A centrally monitored system can also keep watch on your smoke detectors, heat detectors, flood detectors and numerous other systems in your home. A fire or flood when you are away from home can be incredibly costly and dangerous. You may have a smoke detector or flood alarm, but if no one is around to hear it, your entire home could be destroyed. Thankfully, you can have these devices monitored by a central monitoring station. In the event of a fire or flood the central station will assess the situation and alert you and/or the appropriate authorities. You can even have your carbon monoxide detectors monitored if you choose. Please visit our monitoring section for more information.

Centrally monitored security systems and Internet enabled systems do more than just protect your home from criminals. They can keep every aspect of your home safe and secure and give you the peace of mind that you deserve. There is no need to worry while you are away from home. You won’t have to guess whether or not people working in your home are putting in a full shift. You won’t have to wonder if your children or other loved ones have arrived home safely. There will be no need to worry about your home or office being damaged while you are away. Security systems offer additional protection for businesses. Surveillance cameras for example can protect business. They are a great way to prevent theft (including employee theft) but they can also help you manage your business. You can use your security cameras to make sure that your staff members are at their desks working when they are supposed to be. You can also use cameras to make sure that employees are taking appropriate lunch breaks and other breaks. This saves you from having to actively be in numerous locations or to hire someone to keep track of your employees. You can also use your security system to verify when employees and visitors enter and leave your location.

If you manage a retail store, surveillance cameras can help you track customer tendencies. You will be able to see which sections of the store are visited the most often and which displays are the most frequently noticed. This will help you with the layout of your store. You can also use this information to position store staff where they are most needed. Security cameras can help you improve your business and keep your customers happy. There is many ways to protect business.

For more information on surveillance cameras, centrally-monitored security systems and other security technology, please contact us today.

Cost-Effective Ways to Protect Business

Protecting your business is incredibly important. Security systems, commercial alarms, surveillance cameras and other security services are all incredibly important and effective ways to protect business. Fortunately, these services can also be quite cost-effective. Read our tips to protect business.

While protecting your company can seem like an expensive and time-consuming ordeal, it doesn’t have to be. In fact, having a safe and functional security system can actually save you money. For example, in properties with security cameras that still become victims of break ins, the amount of property stolen is 50% less than in locations that only have a security alarm. When you compare this to a property that has no alarm system or security camera set-up at all, there is an 80% reduction in the loss of property. These savings are significant and should more than pay for the cost of installing a security system. The added security will also prevent loss of business due to theft or damage caused by vandals.

You’ll also find that having a monitored security system as well as surveillance cameras will result in lower insurance premiums. Almost all insurance companies will give you a break on your fees if your business is properly protected from theft, vandalism, fire and other issues.

There are several other ways to protect business as well. It sounds simple, but it is important to remember to lock your doors. This includes locking exterior doors when the business is closed, but also locking doors to stock rooms and areas that contain sensitive information. Only certain staff members should have keys to these rooms and employees should be asked to sign in and sign out whenever they need to enter these areas. This will cut down on employee theft and make it more difficult for strangers to enter restricted regions.

You’ll also want to make sure that you change your locks, access codes and passwords regularly. Keeping this information the same for an extended period of time increases the chance of it falling into the wrong hands. Some former employees may hold a grudge against your business and attempt to use the information they have to hurt you. Regularly changing locks, access codes and computer passwords makes this much less likely.

A simple way to protect business and keep it safe is to keep it organized and clean. If you have a organized supply room, for example, you will be able to save money by avoiding duplicate orders. If your filing system is well-managed you will be able to track your finances more accurately. It will also be more difficult for employees to steal from your business since you will have accurate and easily-accessible records. Finally, keeping your office clean will reduce the number of accidents, slips, falls and mishaps that take place. This will keep your employees safe, lower you insurance costs and reduce the number of hours lost to injury. We can help protect business.

Securing your Smartphone

There is an incredible amount of important data stored on the average smartphone. From phone numbers and email addresses to social networking and bank passwords to other important business and personal data, the information stored on the average smartphone is vast. This information could seriously harm you if it fell into the wrong hands.

Someone could alienate or steal your entire contact list, log into your bank and conduct transactions, damage your personal relationships, commit fraud and even steal your identity just by gaining access to your smartphone. This is why it is so important to secure your phone. Here are a few tips for securing your smartphone:

Password protect your phone

It may be slightly less convenient to use your phone quickly when it is protected by a password, but it is also a step that you should take to protect your valuable data. iPhones, Android phones, Blackberry phones and Windows Phones all have built in password settings. Enable the password protection feature and make sure that you choose a password that is difficult for someone else to figure out. “1234” and “111111” are far too common and easy to guess. Try and come up with a password that is easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess.

Enable “Remote Wipe” and “Find My Phone” Options

Most modern smartphones allow you to lock or completely wipe the data off of your phone in an emergency. You can also enable GPS tracking on your phone so that it can be found in case it is misplaced or stolen. You should use your phone’s online back-up feature as well. In case your phone is lost and you need to wipe all of the data from it remotely, you can feel safer doing so if you know that your data is backed up online.

Watch What You Download

Certain applications can contain viruses or other malicious code. Make sure that you only install applications and programs that come from your phone’s official application marketplace. You should also watch which websites you visit from your phone as some can cause problems, damage your phone or corrupt your data. Just like on a desktop computer, do not download attachments or click unknown links, even if you know the sender. Hackers can sometimes send emails or instant messages to you so that they look like they are coming from someone you trust. If something looks suspicious, do not download it.

Install Updated Software

You should run the most updated version of your phone’s operating system that your phone can handle. If you have an older phone, you may not be able to upgrade to the absolute newest version, but you should stay as current as possible. Most phone manufacturers list how long they support a particular software version on their websites. As long as a software version is supported, the vendor will continue to provide security updates and repair possible security flaws. Depending on which smartphone you have, you may also wish to install additional security software such as a virus scanner or a spyware scanner. Different versions of these programs are available for different phones. It’s possible to protect business and your home with your smartphone.

Protect Your Phone

Your smartphone contains a lot of important data. You should remember this and protect like it like you would protect your wallet or other important documents. Do not leave it unattended for any period of time. Carry your phone on you whenever you are in public and place it inside your pocket, purse or briefcase so that you are less likely to leave it behind somewhere. If you must leave your phone behind, lock it in a desk drawer if possible.

Safety Around Lakes, Ponds & Streams

Now that the weather is getting warmer, people are spending more and more time outdoors. While it can certainly be enjoyable to spend time near a lake, pond, stream or creek, it’s also important to stay safe around these bodies of water. Drowning is the second leading cause of death among children aged one-to-four and children aged two-to-four have the highest risk of drowning out of every age group. However, not only children are in danger. Everyone should be careful around bodies of water. In July 2011 a 34-year-old man drowned in a creek running through a Toronto neighbourhood. He was walking with his wife near Highland Creek in the Scarborough area of the city when he stopped to take some photos. He slipped and hit his head on the pavement. He was disoriented when he stood up and he fell into the nearby creek. He was trapped underneath the rushing waters and drowned. It took five police officers to get him out of the powerful water.

This tragic situation shows how important it is to exercise caution around streams, lakes, creeks, ponds and other bodies of water. It also shows just how powerful and dangerous water can be.

It is important to stay away from fast-moving water. While creeks and streams are beautiful to look at from afar, they can also be very deadly. Rushing water is often more powerful than it looks and it can be incredibly difficult to get out from under a strong stream of water. During the early spring, water run off from melting snow and ice can cause stronger than usual currents. This can make bodies of water that are usually very calm much more dangerous than normal.

You should also check for hazards around the water. Items like sticks and rocks as well as holes and uneven ground could cause you to slip and fall into the water. Be very cautious when walking around bodies of water.

Children should be taught about the dangers of water and they should never be left alone around a body of water. Make sure to always supervise your children when they are playing outside and to keep them away from ponds, streams and creeks. Children should be in arms reach at all times when you are near any body of water. You can drown in just a few inches of water, so even very small streams can be deadly. In addition to natural water formations, backyard pools can be incredibly dangerous as well.

Four out of every ten child drownings happens within two meters of the shore or pool side and one quarter of drownings happen in water that is one meter in depth or less. One-third of water deaths take place at night, so be on guard at all times.

If you live in an apartment or a high-rise condominium, you may feel that typical home security systems and home security tips do not apply to you. There is some truth to this as many high-rise condominium apartment security tips differ from tips for those living in single-family homes. However, it’s incorrect to assume that you do not need to be concerned with home condominium apartment security if you live in a large apartment building or condominium complex.

There are a number of condominium apartment security concerns that you will need to pay attention to when you are living in a large building. While you don’t have as many doors or windows as a standard house and you may have more barriers to entry than you would in a house, you also have a great number of people living in proximity to one another. This not only makes high-rise buildings tempting targets for criminals, but it also means that you never know who else is in the building at any given time. It also makes it much more difficult to determine if someone belongs in your building or if they have broken in.

Just like when you first move into a house, you should have your locks changed as soon as you move into an apartment or condominium, if possible. If you are not able to physically change the lock on the door you can get a locksmith to adjust the tumblers so that old keys cannot open your unit.

Tips for Condominium Apartment Security

It’s also important that you do not allow anyone into your building unless you personally know them. Letting a stranger into your condominium complex is the same as inviting a complete stranger into your home. If someone calls up to your suite an asks for entry, don’t let them in unless you know who they are and you can verify this fact. Many large buildings allow you to view a “lobby cam” on your television so that you can see who is calling you. Sometimes criminals will pretend to be delivery people as well. Even if you are expecting a delivery, it’s safer to tell the person to leave your package at the concierge desk or offer to come down and pick it up. There are many ways to increase condo and condominium apartment security.

Criminals and burglars sometimes try to sneak into a building by following someone inside. If you see someone hanging outside your building, be sure to close the door tightly behind you so that they cannot get inside. If someone tells you that they forgot their keys or that they are just stepping inside to meet a friend, apologize and let them know that you can unfortunately not let them inside. Everyone who lives in the building should appreciate your focus on safety. Report any damaged lightning, doors, locks or other condominium apartment security tools to management or the building superintendent. These measures are important to protecting your building and they should be in working order at all times.

If you have a smoke alarm inside your suite (and you should) make sure that it is in working order. If it requires batteries, make sure that they are replaced with new ones twice a year. You should test your smoke alarm regularly to ensure that it is functioning properly. If you have an alarm that is hardwired into your electrical system, be sure to alert building management or the superintendent if the alarm is not functioning properly. A fire can cause serious damage very quickly in a high-rise building.

Always close and lock your windows when you are not home and secure sliding windows so that they cannot be opened from the outside. You may feel that this is unnecessary in a high rise building, but criminals have been known to climb onto higher floors as these windows are often left unlocked. If you have a balcony, make sure you lock the door that leads outside. Criminals can enter your balcony from a neighbouring unit and gain easy access to your home if the door is not properly secured.

Finally, you should always use the peephole on your door. Remember that strangers could have entered your building in a number of different ways, so you should never just open the door without finding out who is knocking. Criminals will sometimes pretend to be representatives of the building’s management office in order to trick you into letting them inside. Always verify all unannounced visits with management before you open the door. A simple phone call can protect you from a break-in.

What To Do When Faced With Fraud

March is “Fraud Awareness Month” and therefore it’s important to note that there are many more ways to become a victim of fraud than ever before. Even if you follow all of the traditional rules for protecting yourself (not giving out information to people who randomly call or email you, protecting your financial information, keeping your social insurance number private, etc.) you could still be faced with fraud. Bank fraud, credit card fraud and identity fraud are far more common now and there are a greater number of ways to be hit. How can you protect yourself? What can you do if you’re faced with fraud?

“The best thing is precaution,” says Sonja Schindeler, vice-president of fraud solutions of Trans Union of Canada. “There are lot of services you can buy to help you fix a problem after you have one.”

Credit agencies offer monitoring services that allow you to look at your credit rating and ensure that someone hasn’t set up an unauthorized loan or credit card in your name. You can even get a monthly credit report sent to you for a fee.

A number of insurance companies also offer services that can help you. An identity theft protection program will allow you to quickly re-establish your identity if it has been compromised. The insurance company will deal with the lawyers in order to speed up the process. You can also purchase insurance that will protect your from financial harm if your identity is stolen. Different companies offer different services and you should check with your insurance provider for a list of options. Banks and credit card companies often cover financial losses due to identity fraud as well.

Some insurance packages cover other financial losses that stem from identity theft as well. These costs can include lawyer fees, notary fees and the time you spend reestablishing your identity.

“If you have to take three days off work, we can pay up to $5,000 for indirect losses like lost income or vacation time,” says Henry Blumenthal, vice-president of TD Insurance.

Insurance companies can handle the entire process for you. Re-establishing your identity can take months and having an insurance company take care of the steps can make it a bit less painful and a faster as well.

Protecting your Home or Business from Fires

Fires can cause a great deal of damage to your home or business in a very short period of time. Not only can a fire destroy your property and perhaps even the building inside, but you could lose irreplaceable valuables in a fire. If you run a business, you could lose all of your company’s finances and client information. A fire in your home could destroy your personal documents and other valuables. Here are a few ways that you can protect your home or business from fire.

It is important to verify that your smoke alarm in functioning at all times. You should test your unit monthly and, if it runs on batteries, be sure to replace· these batteries with new ones twice a year. A good way to remember to change the batteries in your smoke alarm is to change them at the beginning and the end of daylight savings time. If you didn’t do so recently when you switched your clocks ahead an hour, you should do so now. In addition to smoke detectors, you may wish to install heat detectors in kitchens or utility areas where smoke alarms should not be installed. You may also wish to install a carbon monoxide detector. Businesses and office buildings should have working sprinkler systems as well. For more information on these devices, please visit the fire detection page on our website.

You can also protect your home or office by having a working fire extinguisher on site. There should be at least one on your property and it should be in an easily-accessible location. Mounting one on the wall is an excellent idea. Fire extinguishers should be regularly maintained and fully charged at all times. In most areas businesses are required to have their extinguishers checked each month and detailed records should be kept.

It is also important to protect your valuables in case there is a fire. Fire-resistant safes are an excellent place to store important documents such as passports, birth certificates and business information. Make sure that you purchase a safe that has been tested by an independent agency such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL.) There are different levels of fire-resistant safes and some can last longer in intense heat than others. You can also store important documents (or copies of documents, depending on the type of document) in a safety deposit box in a separate location.

Of course, not all important information is stored in a physical form. Many important documents are stored on computers. There are several steps that you can take to protect your important digital documents. Printing them out and placing them inside a fire-resistant safe is one method. You can also store a copy of the information on a hard drive, flash drive, DVD or CD and place this inside your safe. You may also want to look into an online back-up service. These services allow you to store copies of your important documents on their servers. This will keep them safe in case of a fire. Do some research on different online back-up services before you choose one to trust with your data.

Finally, whether you are in a home or an office, you should have an emergency escape plan for everyone in the building. This plan should include two escape routes from each room. The door will be your first escape route and, in many cases, the window will be your second. Make sure that all sleeping areas have windows that can be opened wide enough for a person to fit out. It’s important that you make sure that any security devices (such as bars and gates) can be easily and quickly removed from inside. You will also need to choose a meeting place out of harm’s way where everyone can meet up after escaping. This will make it easier for you to notice if anyone is missing. Make sure that everyone is familiar with your emergency escape plan and practice it every six months or so to ensure that everyone memorizes it.

Positioning Security Cameras For Maximum Protection

A security camera is an excellent way to keep your home, office or any property secure. Security cameras are able to capture important details on video and produce powerful evidence that can be used for a variety of purposes. Surveillance cameras also act as a deterrent. People understand exactly how powerful security cameras are and they will be less likely to commit criminal or dishonest acts if they know they are being recorded.

However, the location and positioning of security cameras is incredibly important. You want to position your camera in locations where they can capture video clearly. You also want to make sure that all important areas are covered and that there are no significant “blind spots” where criminals can hide.

You will want to place your cameras up high enough that they cannot be easily tampered with, but you do not want to place them so high that they cannot capture details (like faces and license plate numbers.) You will need to take a look at your property and determine the right height for your particular situation as it varies between different locations. Building entrances and exits are key places where you should install security cameras. Criminals will more-than-likely use a door or a window to enter your property. By installing cameras in these locations, you increase the effectiveness of the entire system. You should not leave any potential entry points unsecured by video surveillance. Doing so creates a “blind spot” that criminals will target. Many criminals scope out their targets before committing a crime and they will notice an unmonitored door quite quickly.

It’s also important to consider lighting factors when installing security cameras. You want to choose different cameras depending on the lighting in a particular area. In well-lit situations, full colour cameras will likely provide the best quality video. Black and white cameras often function better in low-light situations. You may wish to install additional lighting as well. Only only will this make it easier for your cameras to record high-quality video, but criminals tend to stay away from well-lit areas where they can be seen. You’ll also want to determine if there is any mixed lighting or changing light in your area. For example, in some locations opening a door to the outside can flood a previously dark area with light. You may find that the sun shines directly into your camera at a certain point in the day. These are all factors you will need to consider when positioning security cameras.

Finally, you’ll want to ensure that your cameras have an unobstructed view. Look for trees, awnings and other obstructions that can get in the way of your cameras. It is a good idea to check out the field of view from each location before you install a permanent camera. SafeTech Alarm Systems has years of experience in properly installing and positioning security cameras. Visit our security cameras section for more information or contact us today.

You may have a home security system installed in your home. When you installed it you may have made sure that it was the highest quality system available. You might have installed a system very recently and assume that you’re completely protected. Unfortunately, you may not be. It’s always smart to take the time every so often to double check your security system and its features. You may find out that new tools have come onto the market. It might now be cheaper or easier to improve your system. You may even find that you’ve missed something or overlooked an important security flaw. Conducting a home security audit is the perfect way to determine if you need to do anything to improve your home security system.

When you conduct a home security audit, it’s important to think like a criminal. Take a look at your home closely and think about how you would attempt to break into it if you were a burglar. This will help you determine if you have any weak points.

Here are Some Tips for Performing a Home Security Audit

Check for covered areas and hiding spots

There are many benefits of home security audit. Trees or bushes that obscure your doors and windows from the street may be good for privacy, but they also let burglars work without being seen. These areas can also become hiding places for criminals who may want to attack you. Trimming back bushes and trees is important, but so installing lightning. Motion-activated lighting is a great way to keep your home safe. All points of entry should be illuminated and it should be impossible to hide from passersby.

Check your locks

Are all of your doors and windows locked from the inside? Make sure that you use strong dead bolts on all exterior doors. You’ll also want to make sure that your garage and shed lock securely as well. Criminals sometimes break into these structures in order to get tools such as shovels and axes that they can use to help them break into your home. Follow our tips for home security audit performance.

Is anything broken or malfunctioning?

Take a walk around your home. Is everything functioning the way it should be? If any of your windows are broken or damaged, you should have them repaired or replaced. If your security system is not working correctly, you will want to get the problems fixed immediately.

Are your valuables easy to see?

Look at your house from the outside. Can you easily see your big screen TV and expensive sound system through the windows? When you get closer, is it easy to spot jewelry, electronics and other expensive goods? If a criminal looks at your home and easily spots several items worth stealing, your house automatically becomes a more attractive target. Keep valuables out of sight.

If you have any questions about home audit security or would like some tips on how to protect your property, please contact SafeTech Alarms today.

Facebook Security Tips

Facebook is popular. You likely have an account and so do most people you know. Facebook is a convenient and popular way to stay in touch with friends, share photos and videos and make new connections. However, you’ve probably also heard about some of the security risks associated with Facebook. There are several risks to using the service and you need to use some caution on Facebook. Here are a few Facebook security tips that will keep your privacy and your computer safe. One thing that you should always remember on Facebook (and pretty much anywhere else) is that anything you do online can possibly be shared with the world. Even if you have your privacy settings set and you only have small group of friends, your information could still get out. A friend could accidentally leave his or her Facebook page logged in on a public computer, letting the next user see your entire profile. Also, computers can be hacked and information can get out. Therefore it is always important to think before you post something online. If you don’t post information or comments that could hurt you, you will have less to worry about and fewer security concerns.

In general, it’s important that you do not supply any incredibly personal details such as your social insurance number or any financial information on Facebook. You should also be weary of sharing information with people you do not know. Never give an unknown source personal information and check your privacy settings to ensure that they are set correctly to prevent strangers from viewing your account details. Do not accept friend requests from people you don’t know.

It’s also important to be careful when clicking links that are posted on Facebook. These links often lead to external sites and Facebook does not control their content. Even if a friend or other reputable source posts a link, use caution before clicking it. Some websites can hijack Facebook accounts and automatically post links of behalf of users without their permission. If a friend shares a link that looks strange or out of the ordinary, ignore the link and alert your friend.

Never enter your Facebook login information into any website other than www.facebook.com. Some sites are set up to spoof Facebook in attempt to steal user login information.

Finally, always make sure that all of your programs are up-to-date before using Facebook or any other website. Your web browser, firewall, virus scanner and spyware scanner should all be updated regularly. Make sure that you scan your computer for issues every so often in order to catch anything.

Security for Retail Businesses

If you have a retail business, you understand exactly how many security concerns you have to be aware of at any given time. Whether your store is a stand-alone location or part of a shopping mall, there are many different things to focus on when you are trying to protect your retail business. Video surveillance is a key to keeping your retail business safe. Security cameras allow you to watch several areas of your store at the same time. They aren’t distracted by other tasks and they don’t miss a thing if they are installed and positioned correctly. Modern video surveillance cameras also offer remote monitoring. This means you can watch what is going on in your store from any location with an Internet connection. This is the perfect solution for those who own several businesses or who are on the road a lot.

Prominently-positioned security cameras also work as a deterrent as criminals are much less likely to steal from a company that they know is watching them. It’s simply not worth the risk. In addition, security cameras can make your employees and customers feel safer as they know that they are protected. Remember to place security cameras in stock rooms and storage areas so that you can keep an eye on your stock. For more information on security cameras, please visit our security cameras page.

You also want to consider installing an access control system in your retail location. This will let you monitor who enters your stock room or storage area and keep track of employees and staff as the move through your building. Find out more information on access control systems here.. Article surveillance is also incredibly important. These systems allow you to accurately track merchandise and ensure that it does not leave your store without being purchased. Electronic article surveillance systems should definitely be a part of your retail store’s loss prevention system. For more information visit the article surveillance section of our website.

Wi-Fi Safety Tips

Wi-Fi is almost everywhere these days, from coffee shops and fast food restaurants to libraries, airports and a number of other locations. If you have a laptop or mobile device there’s a good chance that you’ve connected to a public Wi-Fi network in the past. While Wi-Fi is very convenient, it also comes with a few risks. Before logging on at that coffee shop or signing in at that airport, it’s important to take a few precautions.

Always use a firewall when connecting to a public Wi-Fi network. Most modern operating systems come with a firewall program installed and activated by default. Make sure that this program is running before you use a public network and check the settings to make sure that you’re getting the protection you need. Most firewalls allow you to set specific settings that offer additional security when you are logged onto a public network.

If you regularly share files over your home or office network, make sure that all file sharing is turned off when you are using a public Wi-Fi hotspot. Again, most operating systems allow you to turn filesharing off automatically when you connect to a public network or a network other than your standard “home” or “office” location. Also do not set your computer or mobile device to automatically connect to available Wi-Fi networks. Make sure that you log in manually each time.

When you are connecting to a public network, make sure that you are signing on to the official network and not a spoofed network. For example, if you are in the airport in Toronto you may see both “Toronto Airport,” “Toronto Airport Wi-Fi” and “TO Air Network” when searching for networks. One of these networks could be the official network and the others are likely networks set up by someone else in the airport in order to steal personal information. Before logging onto a public network verify the name of the network with someone who works there.

Do not enter any personal or financial information when you are connected to a public Wi-Fi network. Despite your best intentions, someone could be watching every move you make on a public network. Use Wi-Fi networks for surfing the Internet only. Do not use them for banking and do not enter your credit card information. If you are checking your email on a Wi-Fi network make sure that you select “secure connection” from the log in screen and that you sign out when you are done. It’s also important to disconnect from the Wi-Fi network when you are done using it and turn off your wireless network card when you no longer need it. Encrypting your personal data can help protect it from anyone who is spying on your Wi-Fi session. Doing so makes it more difficult to access if someone should gain entry to your computer.

In mid-February, police in southern Ontario arrested six men and charged them with more than 500 charges in connection with a vehicle theft, chop shop and automobile insurance fraud operation. The men allegedly fused the parts of more than 100 stolen cars with parts from vehicles trashed vehicles. They then gave the vehicles fraudulent insurance and certification documents and sold them at used car dealerships. Police say the men worked out of Toronto and the Niagara region.

“They were taking stolen vehicles,” Sgt. Tim Burrows alleged on Thursday. “They were taking vehicles that had been written off in collisions and assembling the parts using the documentation of one to cover up the tracks and put these vehicles back on the road.” Here are some tips on preventing automobile theft.

Preventing Automobile Theft

Automobile theft and robbery are lucrative and relatively common crime. Hundreds of thousands or cars are broken into each year. Some cars are robbed of valuables and some are stolen and resold or used for parts. While automobile thieves are constantly adapting their methods to steal cars faster and with less hassle, there are still things you can do to protect your vehicle. Never leave the keys in your car when it is unattended. This includes “warming up your car” in the morning during the winter and running into the store to make a quick purchase. A thief only needs a few seconds to steal your car if the keys are already in it. For that same reason, do not leave a spare key in your car or in a magnetic “keybox” on your vehicle. Always keep spare keys in a secure location in your home or office.

Always lock your car doors and roll up the windows when you’re leaving the car parked to prevent automobile theft and robbery. It can be tempting to leave the window open a crack to keep the car cool or to leave the doors unlocked while you run a quick errand, but it’s simply not safe to do. You should also keep your vehicle in your garage whenever possible and make sure that you garage is properly locked. If you have to park your vehicle outside, always park it in a well-lit area where it can be easily seen by many. Parking your car in a dark alley makes it a much easier target for a criminal who would much rather work in private.

In order to prevent automobile theft, it is also important to install an anti-theft system on your car. Whether you decide to have an audible alarm, a GPS tracking device or an anti-mobilization system installed, a security service can help protect your car. You should also make sure that you know your vehicle identification number (VIN) and keep a record of it in a safe place. You may want to have your VIN etched on the window or on other parts of the vehicle to make it less desirable to thieves and easier to track if it is ever stolen.

Protecting your Personal Information Online

If you’re like most people today, you probably have a large amount of personal data online. In fact, you may not even remember exactly what information is out there, who you gave it to and what they are doing with it. You likely enter sensitive information into your computer several times a day. Whether you are conducting an online banking session, using a web-based email service, signing into a social network or filling out an online survey, you offer personal information to a variety of different companies each day.

Reputable companies have strong privacy policies that dictate how they use your personal information and provide protection for anyone entering this information online. Such companies require personal information for a variety of reasons and in general it makes sense to trust a reputable company with your information. However, before handing over any personal information, you should always consider who you are giving it to and determine exactly how your information will be used and protected.

Always read a website’s privacy policy before entering any personal information. SafeTech Alarm Systems’ privacy policy can be found here. A company privacy policy tells you exactly what information is collected, how the information is used and provides you with important details about how your privacy is protected.

If you trust a website and decide to enter your personal information into a site (such as credit card information, login credentials, etc.) first verify that you’re actually on the correct website. Sometimes criminals will set up similar-looking websites at similar domain names in an attempt to trick people. You’ll also want to make sure that you only enter sensitive information over a secure connection. Check to make sure the address in your browser’s address bar starts with “https://” rather than “http://”. This is especially important if you are using a public network rather than your home network.

Whenever you use a public Internet connect, such as at a library or a public WiFi spot, make sure that your firewall is turned on, that you always log out of all websites after you are done using them and that you turn off any “sharing” features that your computer may have.

Pet Safety Tips

On February 17, Toronto police issued a warning to pet owners after three dogs died from possible poisonings. The dogs each went into seizures following walks and died shortly after. In 2004, 16 dogs in the same area were poisoned by hot dogs laced with insecticide that were left in a nearby park.

It’s always important to prevent your pets from eat anything strange while you are walking them. Letting your dog take a bite out of a spare sandwich that you find on the sidewalk may not seem like a big deal, but you never know what may be in that sandwich. You’ll also want to watch out for antifreeze or windshield washer fluid. These liquids are sometimes spilled on sidewalks or driveways and they can poison your pets. Keep them away from such spills. If you spill antifreeze yourself, clean it up immediately. You’ll also want to keep your pets away from cigarette butts and ashtrays. Animals can get nicotine poisoning if they eat cigarettes that they find on the ground. If your pet ingests anything suspicious outside, call a veterinarian immediately.

You’ll also want to watch out for substances and items that could damage your pet’s paws. Road salt and chemicals that are used to melt ice on sidewalks, roads and driveways can irritate or injure a pet’s feet. Be aware of broken bottles and other debris as well.

It’s also very important to keep your pets off of the road. Always keep your animals on leashes near roadways and do not place them in the back of moving vehicles unless they are in a pet-safe kennel. No matter how trained your animal is, he or she may jump out of a moving vehicle at any time. This could result in serious injury or death. Keep a close eye on pets at all times. You should also make sure that your pet’s collar clearly identifies your pet and provides a current phone number that can be called in an emergency. If your pet is lost or injured this tag could be the only way that you can be notified. If your pet is injured, you may want to place a towel or blanket over its head when trying to move it to safety or into a vehicle. An injured animal could attempt to bite anyone who comes near it. Telephone animal control, a veterinarian or a 24-hour emergency clinic immediately and ask for help.

Traveling Safely

There can be a lot to take care of when you’re traveling. Even before you leave you’ll need to pack, wrap up any projects you have ongoing, find someone to look after your home, children and pets, put your mail on hold and more. With all of this activity and planning going on it can be easy to overlook security. However, security and safety while traveling are incredibly important so it makes sense to have a plan.

When you travel, it is a good idea to bring a “Travel Emergency Card” with you. This is a card that has local police, fire department, hospital and other emergency information written on it. You’ll also want to put your own information on the card and provide an emergency contact number that can be called if something happens to you. Keep this card on your person at all times.

It is also very important that you secure your identification when you are traveling. If your luggage or wallet is stolen, you could lose your credit cards, driver’s license and – perhaps worst of all – your passport. When you travel make sure that you only bring essential identification items with you and do not carry more cash than you will need for the day. Keep your cards, passport and wallet with you at all times and do not leave them in a purse or bag that can be easily stolen. Bags with long straps that hang away from the body are much easier to steal than bags that hang close to your body. You may want to purchase a hanging “passport wallet” that you can secure to your belt. This will make it much more difficult to lose and protect it from thieves. Some country’s passports now contain Radio-frequency identification (RFID) chips that can be read from a distance by someone with the right technology. Securing your passport in an RFID blocking wallet or case can keep a criminal from reading your personal information.

When you are in another country, you may find unmarked or unlicensed taxi cabs. These are usually cheaper than official taxes, but they’re often not worth the trouble. You could end up in danger if you get into the wrong vehicle. Whenever you take a taxi, make sure to ask what the fare will be in advance and ask the driver what route will be taken before you head out. This will prevent you from being “surprised” by the charges when you get to your destination. It helps to know where you’re going so that you are not taken advantage of.

If you take any medication, make sure that you have extra bottles and that you keep these in your purse or carry on bag. Always keep medication in the original, labeled bottles and bring copies of all prescriptions as well as a list of generic names for the drugs. Not only will this help you clear customs faster, but it will allow you to replace medication in an emergency.

It is also important to keep your home secure while you are on vacation. Use motion-activated lighting and/or lighting on timers to keep your house looking occupied while you are gone and make sure to activate your security system before you go. If you have security cameras at home, you may want to opt for Internet-enabled security cameras that will let you check in on your home from a smart phone, laptop or tablet computer while you are away.

For more information on home security, please contact our loss prevention experts today.

VoIP, Touchscreens, Smart Phone Access & More: The Modern Security System

Like most technology, security systems technology rapidly changes and improves. In some cases, consumers adjust their lifestyles to incorporate new technology. However, in most cases technology adapts to meet the changing needs of consumers. Alarm systems and security technology is no different. Read more about modern security system.

SafeTech Alarm Systems has been protecting people and property for over 20 years and we pride ourselves on offering new technology that clients want. Lifestyles have changed over the last few years and more and more consumers are looking for alarm systems and security services that meet today’s modern lifestyles. The modern security system has adapted to these needs and your next alarm system could likely include a touchscreen keypad, smartphone access and VoIP communication.

Modern Security System Benefits

There are many benefits of modern security system. More and more customers are dropping traditional landlines and using only mobile phones. Consumers are also switching to VoIP (voice over IP) services and therefore they looking for alarm systems that communicate through VoIP rather than through traditional phone lines. Touchscreen smartphones such as those from Apple, Google and Microsoft have also influenced security technology. Touchscreen keypads are incredibly popular today. Rather than having a static keypad with a series of buttons, more and more alarm systems are using multi-function touchscreen keypads. Not only do these keypads look more aesthetically-pleasing than ever before, but they are also more intuitive, more powerful and easier to use.

Customers are used to using touchscreens on smart phones, bank ATMs, self-serve check out lines, gas stations and in a number of other places. It simply makes sense to have touchscreens on alarm systems as well. The graphical interface makes it easier than ever to use your alarm system and this puts more power in the hands of the user, where it belongs. Touchscreens make it easy to perform a variety of functions and this gives you more control over exactly how you alarm system functions. Everything from setting the alarm to changing your security code can now be done in an easy, intuitive and accessible manner. That’s the importance of modern security system.

And you don’t have to be at home to control and monitor your alarm system any longer. Smartphones, laptops and mobile Internet access now make it possible for you to arm your modern security system, view images and video from your security cameras, turn off lights and other devices and be alerted when your alarm or motion detectors are activated no matter where you are. For more information on alarm systems and security technology, please contact SafeTech Alarm Systems today.

Securing Your Electronics

Electronics are becoming more and more sophisticated and expensive. They’re also becoming smaller, lighter and more mobile. This combination makes them a frequent target of thieves. Not only are electronics expensive, but they also contain valuable data. A thief who steals your laptop or smartphone could access your email, your social networking sites, your banking information, your private contact list and more. There is enough valuable information on a laptop or smartphone to steal your identity. Criminals also use the information they obtain from stolen electronics to plan break ins based on their new-found knowledge of your life.

Your first step in your defense of your electronics and your information is to keep them nearby at all times. Don’t leave your laptop, tablet or smartphone on the table while you go get a coffee refill, go outside for a smoke or use the restroom. Keep your electronics on your person whenever possible. Cell phones should be in your pocket or inside your bag when you are not using them. Laptops and tablets should be placed inside your bag as well and you should wear this bag close to your body so it cannot be easily grabbed. You may want to consider placing a lock on your bag as well. If you’re seated, don’t place your electronics on the floor beside you. Keep them on the table where you can see them at all times.

There are also alarm systems for electronics that sound once they are a certain distance away from you. Some are even motion-activated. You can keep your devices safe by adding modern security system such as this one.

It’s also important that you keep your information safe. Always lock your devices when you’re not using them and use a password to secure them. When choosing a password, make sure that it is something that is difficult to guess. Common dictionary words and personal information such as your middle name or postal code should not be used as passwords. These are two easy to guess. “123456,” “Password” and “Qwerty” should also not be used as they are very common. Be sure to include a mix of letters and numbers in your password. Some laptops and phones allow you to use a fingerprint or facial recognition software to add extra security. Be sure that your virus scanner, spyware scanner and firewall are all up-to-date to prevent hackers from stealing your information without coming anywhere near your computer.

You can also install a GPS tracker program onto your device that will allow you to track it if it is stolen. Most smartphone manufacturers offer a “find my phone” service that will let you track your phone and even lock, deactivate or delete it if it is stolen.

Monitor Your Home From Anywhere

How would you like to double check that your door is locked while you’re traveling to work?How about checking your security cameras and making sure everything is okay at home while you’re on vacation? Would you like to receive a text message when your children arrive home from school and deactivate the alarm? Modern technology lets you keep tabs on exactly what is taking place in your home from anywhere in the world with an Internet connection. You can use your laptop, smartphone or tablet to verify that everything is going well at home or to take action if there’s a problem.

If your video surveillance cameras are Internet-enabled, you can log in and view them using any Internet-connected device. This gives you peace of mind as you’ll never have to guess about what’s happening at home. You’ll know exactly what’s taking place in real time. You can even set up your system to send you a text message whenever a motion sensor is tipped. You can then log into your cameras directly and see if the sensor was activated by a burglar or by your cat knocking over a chair. If there’s a problem, you’ll be able to contact the police immediately from wherever you are and give them video evidence that a break-in is in progress.

Whether you have an iPad or iPhone, an Android device, a Windows Phone or a Blackberry, you’ll be able to find a variety of different apps that will help you keep your home secure. Each phone operating system has a selection of security camera monitoring applications that you can use along with your security system. You can also use your laptop. Monitoring your alarm system with your cell phone isn’t just useful for trouble conditions either. You can use this technology to ensure that your children arrived home from school safely, to make sure that your contractor or housekeeper is working the right hours, to check on your pets or elderly relatives or for a variety of other reasons. You’ll be able to relax no matter where you know when you know that you’re only a click away from home.

How To Prepare For An Emergency

Unfortunately, disaster can strike at any time. Power outages, floods, ice storms, hurricanes and other natural disasters often happen with little-to-no warning. This doesn’t give you much time to prepare. However, putting together an emergency preparedness kit and having a plan for an emergency will go a long way to keeping you safe. Your emergency kit is incredibly important and every home should have one. You kit should contain a number of essentials that will keep you safe should an emergency occur. Here are a few things that should go inside your emergency kit:

• A first aid kit including adhesive bandages, bandage wrap, gauze, tweezers, antiseptic, scissors, a thermometer, a blanket and a number of other items
• If you take any medications, you should have an emergency supply on hand. Make sure that you check this supply regularly and replace any expired medications.
• Candles, matches and a lighter.
• A flashlight and batteries.
• Water and canned food. You should make sure to replace these items before they expire.
• Toiletries, warm clothing, pillows and sleeping bags.
• An emergency whistle to attract attention.
• Copies of all important identification along with some extra cash. Keep these items securely locked up.

You’ll also want to ensure that you have a home evacuation plan and that every member of your family has read and understood the plan in detail. The plan should include a written escape route from your home as well as details on where household members should meet up in the event of an emergency. A good meeting place is a shopping mall, parking lot or other landmark. This will prevent you from getting separated from your loved ones for an extended period of time and frantically searching for them should you be split up.

Having a detailed plan will keep you and your family from panicking or losing one another during an emergency. While natural disasters and other emergencies can occur without warning, if you prepare yourself in advance you have a much better chance of surviving.

Serial Robber Arrested in BC

A 36-year-old man from Burnaby, British Columbia is facing 27 charges in relation to a series of armed robberies. The nine robberies took place over the past two months in Burnaby and Richmond, British Columbia. All of the crimes occurred at currency exchanges or financial institutions. The man has been charged with 11 counts of robbery, nine counts of wearing a disguise in the commission of an indictable offence and seven counts of using an imitation firearm in the commission of an indictable offence.

He was caught after Richmond RCMP were notified of an attempted robbery in progress. The man allegedly tried to enter a currency exchange business through the rear door with a weapon and the authorities were called. Police in the area saw the man fleeing the premises and he was arrested. Both Burnaby and Richmond police had been looking for the man. The two police forces recognized that there were similarities between the four robberies in Burnaby and the five that took place in Richmond and realized that the same person could be responsible.

“Burnaby and Richmond RCMP investigators quickly realized they could both be looking for the same suspect – the suspect description was similar, though he took pains to disguise his features, and there were similarities in the way the crimes were committed,” said Sgt. Peter Thiessen in a press release. In each robbery, the man walked into the institution wearing a mask. He threatened those inside with a knife or a fake gun and demanded cash. The man has been remanded in custody until he returns to court later in February. The man was not known to police before these robberies.

Business owners can protect their offices from crime and provide assistance to law enforcement officials by installing security systems and video surveillance cameras in their businesses. Not only to security cameras work as a deterrent, but they also provide detailed and very credible evidence to law enforcement officials. For information on which cameras will work best for you, please contact us today and we can set you up with the right security camera system for your needs.

Stopping Employee Theft

Companies spend a lot of time and money protecting their businesses and offices from intruders and employee theft. That’s a smart thing to do. Keeping your property safe from the outside world is definitely necessary. However, while your office may be protected from outsiders, is it protected from people inside your own company?

According to the US Department of Commerce, employee theft costs businesses up to $50 billion each year. While shoplifters, robbers, thieves and other intruders can harm your business greatly, those who work in your organization can potentially cause even greater damage. Protecting your business from employee theft is important.

Employee theft can be difficult to detect. Employees are often given free reign within stores or offices. They are also frequently alone in areas that contain valuables and sensitive information. While most employees can be trusted to refrain from stealing and to prevent others from stealing, that’s not true for every staff member. Here are a few tips to prevent employee theft:

Install and monitor security cameras. Video surveillance is not just useful for keeping your business safe from intruders. Security cameras can also prevent employee theft. You simply can’t be everywhere at once, but security cameras can be. There is no more powerful evidence than video evidence. Installing security cameras in your place of business will also deter employees from attempting to steal company property as they will know that they are being watched. Let all of your employees know that the surveillance cameras in your building are being monitored regularly and this will decrease or eliminate employee theft.

Access control and proper locks are also critical for preventing employee theft. Your stock room should be locked at all times and only those employees who need access should be given keys or passcodes. Consider providing only managers with keys to locations holding valuables and have them record who requests to enter the room. An access control system that utilizes key tags or key cards is also a very efficient way to limit access to certain areas. These systems can be set up to only allow certain employees into certain areas of a building. This not only restricts access for some but it also gives employers the ability to monitor the movement of all employees within the organization. For more information, please visit the access control section of our website.

It is important that you create a culture of responsibility in your office. Make sure that employees understand that theft hurts every member of an organization and ensure that everyone feels comfortable enough with management to come forward with an evidence of employee theft without having to worry about the ramifications.

If you suspect that an employee is stealing from your company, allowing someone to steal without reporting it or aiding the criminal efforts of an outsider, ensure that you get legal advice before making accusations. Employee thefts should be reported to the police department. Law enforcement authorities can also offer advice on the legal process.

Staying Secure on a University Campus

Unfortunately, university campuses can sometimes be dangerous places. For example, two students were robbed on the University of Toronto Scarborough campus in late January 2012. At around the same time, a rash of thefts from automobiles took place at the University of Windsor. University campus crimes can be even more severe and violent as well. In April 2010 a female student was attacked and raped near the York University campus. However, there are several safety measures you can take to keep yourself safe on your university campus.

It’s very important to remain alert at all times, even if you are in a location that you know very well. You can never be sure of the intentions of those around you. Keep your head up and your eyes open and be aware of your environment. It also helps to stick to areas where there are other people. You do not want to end up becoming a crime victim in an isolated or deserted part of campus. This is especially true at night. You should always plan your route in advance so that you can get to your destination quickly without getting lost or sidetracked and make a plan that involves avoiding dark, isolated or deserted areas.

Many campuses have installed emergency phones and lights around campus. Always know where these phones are and how to properly operate them. Program the phone numbers for campus security and the police department into your cell phone and have it ready at all times, especially if you are forced to walk alone or through a deserted area. Walk with other people whenever possible. If you must travel through an isolated part of campus by yourself, find out if your university offers special escorts that can walk with you. Many universities and college now offer this service to students.

If you live on campus or near campus, be sure to always lock your doors and windows. Criminals can use an open door or window to invade your home. The same goes for your car if you have one. Always lock your vehicle and avoid leaving valuables inside. If you must leave items in your car, leave them in a place where they cannot be easily spotted from outside the car. Do not flash valuables or large sums of money around and keep items such as cell phones, laptops and other expensive electronics close to your body at all times.

Do not allow anyone into your room/home without permission. Avoid being alone with anyone you do not know well enough to trust. If you are going to leave campus by yourself (for a blind date, to attend a party, to visit a friend, etc.) make sure that you let someone you trust know exactly where you will be and when you will return. Never agree to meet a stranger in a private place (such as their home) and do not allow them into your home. Always meet in a public place where other people will be around.

It’s also important to be aware of the intentions of those around you. Never take food or drink from a stranger or someone you do not know very well. You never know what could be in it. Most importantly, always trust your instincts. If a situation feels dangerous, leave it immediately. Do not allow yourself to be talked into a scenario that feels wrong. Trust yourself and have confidence to leave these situations as soon as you can. Call a friend or campus security if you need help. Keep your company safe with our employee theft tips.

Online Banking Safety

Online banking is a great way to pay bills, manage your money, keep track of your spending and more. However, it is important to take a few precautions when banking online. Above all, always keep your password confidential. Giving your password to anyone for any reason immediately reduces the security of your account. When choosing your password, do not pick something that will be easy to guess such as your middle name or street name. Always add numbers, a mixture of lower case and upper case letters and other differentiators if possible. Make sure your password is unique to your bank account and not the same password that you use for any other service. Don’t write this password down anywhere. If you’re worried about forgetting it, a good password method is to use a word you will always remember and then to change it slightly. For example, instead of using your middle name “Steve” as your password, use “s1t2e3v4E567.” That’s the word “stevE” with a different number between each letter and at the end. This is easy to remember, but difficult to guess. You should also change your password regularly, especially if you log in a public computers. Always make sure you log out and close the browser window if you bank on a public computer.

Make sure that you only supply your login and password to your bank’s official website. There are many ways to spoof a bank website and some methods are very convincing. Do not click links in emails that look like they are coming from your bank. Many of these emails are scams that will send you to a similar address with a look alike website. These websites are created to steal login information. A common trick is to change the address slightly in an attempt to confuse a customer. For example, if your bank’s website address is www.bankwebsite.com, a scam website may be set up at www.bamkwebsite.com or bankwebsite.othersite.com. If you receive an email saying that there is a problem with your account and that you must enter your login information into a different site, call your bank immediately to verify before giving away any information. The same is true if anyone calls you asking for your information. Do not provide it to them. Ask for their number and tell them you will call them back. Then call the bank and let them know what has just happened. They will be able to verify if the call came from their organization.

It is also very important to update your computer’s virus and spyware scanners and to run regular scans. Some viruses can track keyboard actions and steal your password without you even knowing about it. You’ll want to make sure that your computer’s firewall is functioning properly as well.

SafeTech’s 2012 City Crime Report Now Available

Protect yourself! Find out where and what type of crime is happening in your neighbourhood and your city with SafeTech’s 2012 City Crime Report. Use the 2012 City Crime Report to:

• Determine exactly where crime is happening in Canada
• Examine the types of crime taking place in your region and across the country
• Compare different areas of the country on several different types of crime
• Recognize the severity and likelihood of crime taking place in your city
• Understand the overall crime situation in this country

Crime statistics vary drastically across the country and only by knowing the information for your region can you properly protect yourself, your family and your possessions.

SafeTech Alarm Systems has been protecting people and property for over 20 years. We have compiled crime statistics from across Canada, broken them down by province and city and presented them in a straightforward manner that will help keep you safe!·· To receive a free copy of SafeTech Alarm Systems’ Canadian City Crime Report 2012, please click here.

What Do You Want to See?

Do you have a question, comment or story idea for “Peace of Mind“? Do you have some news regarding recent crimes or break-ins? Email us and let us know!

Online Technical Support, Special Promotions and More!

On the SafeTech Alarm Systems website, you’ll have access to special product promotions as well! Don’t miss out on exciting deals and promotional offers!We’re always working to add and improve website features in order make our website more appealing, more functional and easier to navigate. We invite you to visit the new site and let us know what you think. Stay tuned for even more enhancements to the SafeTech Alarm Systems website over the next few months!

Need help troubleshooting your alarm system?

The safetechalarms.com online technical support features and live online help that will guide you through any issue!

Now you can solve any problems you may have with your alarm system quickly, easily and without picking up the phone or waiting for a technician to arrive! We even offer live online chat with members of our technical support team if you have any questions. Visit our technical support page here.

Stay Up-To-Date With SafeTech

• Stay up-to-date with the latest security news
• Hear about upcoming events
• Find out about new products, services and promotions first
• Access technical support services
• And much more!

To contact us online, please visit http://safetechalarms.ca/contact-us.html or

SafeTech Alarm System 121 Willowdale, Suite # 202 North York, ON, M2N 6A3, Canada

Toronto Barber Shot & Killed

A barber in his 30s has been shot and killed in Toronto’s east end. Chris Thompson was shot several times while cutting a customer’s hair at the “Cut Creator” barbershop in Malvern Town Centre on Tapscott Road in Toronto.

“There’s no doubt this was a very cool, cold-blooded crime,” said Det.-Sgt. Dan Nielsen. “The shooter was very discriminating. There was no other people shot. It’s very clear that he was targeting Chris.”

“We don’t know why he was targeted.”

Toronto Police released security footage of the murder a few days after it occurred. They hope that the footage will allow the public to help them identify the killer who appears on the video. There is no video from inside the barbershop, but cameras outside show the killer walking up to the barbershop outside. He drops a bag to the ground in front of the shop, pulls out a shotgun and enters.

Later he is seen leaving the barbershop, putting the gun back in the bag and running from the scene.

“The video is shot from a distance, but you can see his clothing, his stature and how he moves,” Nielsen said.

Security cameras are incredibly powerful tools for law enforcement officials. In many cases, security camera footage is one of the first pieces of evidence that police ask for when arriving at the scene of a crime. Police often use footage to identify an individual at a place and time and to determine exactly what happened at a crime scene. This leads to a conviction.

There are a number of different types of security cameras and different types work best in different locations and situations. If you’re looking to install security cameras in your home or business and you are wondering which cameras will work best for you, please contact us today and we can set you up with the right camera for your needs.

Winnipeg Senior Attacked in her Apartment

88-year-old Lena Stetwick was attacked in her Winnipeg apartment building on January 21st. Now her family is urging seniors to take precautions and stay safe from a break-in.

Stetwick was entering her apartment unit when she was knocked to the ground. The break-in thief forced his way into her home and then stepped on her chest while exiting with her belongings.

She was found by a neighbour after he heard her crying. The neighbour said that “her face was covered in blood” when he found her. She is now recovering in hospital and is in stable condition. A 22-year-old man has been charged in connection with the robbery and assault. The man is also believed to be responsible for another robbery that took place in early January. In that crime a 65-year-old woman was the victim.

“Our hope is that this would never again happen to anyone, however unrealistic that hope is,” read a statement from Stetwick’s family. “Please, all seniors out there take all the best steps you can to keep yourself safe.”

If you have a family member or friend who is a senior, or if you’re a senior yourself, here are a few tips for staying safe at home.

As with all homes, it is incredibly important to have secure locks on all doors and windows. You should lock all doors with dead bolts and ensure door and window frames are sturdy. You will also want to install a peep hole on your front door so that you can identify anyone who is knocking. Never open the door for a stranger. If you live in an apartment building, you may have building security. Contact them immediately if a stranger knocks on your door or tries to enter your apartment.

Personal emergency alarms can provide safety, security and peace of mind to seniors. SafeTech Alarm Systems offers a number of different personal security alarms. Contact us for more information.

What to do After A Break-In

Unfortunately sometimes homes and businesses are broken into. Maybe you forgot to set your alarm system, a component wasn’t working properly or you overlooked a factor of your system. Maybe you don’t have an alarm system installed at all. Whatever the reason, a break-in took place. A break-in is a traumatic experience for anyone. This is especially true if it is your home that was broken into. Your home is meant to be your sanctuary and your safe place. Knowing that a stranger has been inside without permission is frightening. Valuable and sentimental items may have been stolen as well.

Here are a few tips for what you should do after a break-in.

If you return home to find your door or window smashed open, assess the situation properly. Dangerous criminals may still be inside your home. If you have a cellular phone, call the police immediately before heading inside. You may want to stay outside or go to a friend or relative’s home until the police arrive. This will prevent you from contaminating any possible evidence as well.

Once you enter your home, you’ll want to take full inventory of anything that was stolen or damaged in the break-in. You should let the police know exactly what is stolen in case it is later found. Your insurance company will need this information as well for when you file a claim.

You’ll then need to repair any damage that has been done to your home. If your doors or windows have been tampered with or destroyed, you should get them repaired or replaced as well. This is also an excellent time to reinforce all door and window frames and to replace door locks with more secure dead bolts. You’ll also want to make sure that your windows lock and that they cannot be opened from the outside.

This is also the time to eliminate as many possible weaknesses from your home or office security system as possible. If you do not have an alarm system at all, this is certainly the time to install one. If your security system only covers part of your home (such as the ground floor but not the second floor) you may want to change that to keep yourself safe. Installing bars and gates on windows and doors can certainly help as well, as can adding security cameras to your security services. A loss prevention professional should be able to take a look at your current system and suggest ways that it can be improved. Visit our website for more information and to book a free risk assessment. Our tips can help you if a break-in occurs. Keep your family and your home safe from the break-in.

Keeping Children Safe in Public

There are a number of dangers that your children could encounter in public. Sometimes this is a fightening thought for a parent. Nothing is scarier than possibly putting your child in danger. However, if you take some precautions you can keep your children safe and secure when in public.

While you’ll always want to keep younger children by your side and in your sights, there wil inevitably be a time when your childn wanders off or the two of you become separated some other way. For this reason, it is important to teach your children what to do if·you are split up. First of all, tell your child never to leave the location you are currently in without you. If you are in a store, a shopping mall, a park or anywhere, make sure you children know to stay in that location until you leave with them. Let them know that if a stranger tries to make them leave that they should never go with them. This will also make it easier to find them should the two of you get separated. You’ll know that your child didn’t try to head to the car to wait for you.

When you enter a location point out the people that work there (security guards, receptionists, guides, etc.) and let your child know that these are the only strangers he or she should go to for help. A blanket “don’t talk to strangers” doesn’t work because a police officer or security guard may want to find out your child’s name in order to reunite you. However, as note earlier, children should know that that they should not leave their current location with anyone unless you are also present.

It is difficult to find a moving target. For this reason, tell your children to stay still as soon as· they notice that they have been separated from you. This will make it much easier for you to spot them. If you cannot find your child, ask the staff or employees of whatever you location you are at to help you. Most shopping malls and public places have a system for spotting lost children and this can help you out a great deal. You’ll need to be able to provide an accurate description of your child if you need help, so remember exactly what he or she is wearing. You may wish to give your child a cell phone for emergency situations. There are mobile phones that are made specifically for young children. They can typically only receive calls or call certain pre-programmed numbers. These phones can help if you’ve lost your child.

Above all, stay calm. Being separated from your child is terrifying, but if you stay calm and rational you have a much better chance of being reunited quickly.

SafeTech’s 2012 City Crime Report Now Available

Protect yourself! Find out where and what type of crime is happening in your neighbourhood and your city with SafeTech’s 2012 City Crime Report. Use the 2012 City Crime Report to:

• Determine exactly where crime is happening in Canada
• Examine the types of crime taking place in your region and across the country
• Compare different areas of the country on several different types of crime
• Recognize the severity and likelihood of crime taking place in your city
• Understand the overall crime situation in this country

Crime statistics vary drastically across the country and only by knowing the information for your region can you properly protect yourself, your family and your possessions.

SafeTech Alarm Systems has been protecting people and property for over 20 years. We have compiled crime statistics from across Canada, broken them down by province and city and presented them in a straightforward manner that will help keep you safe! To receive a free copy of SafeTech Alarm Systems’ Canadian City Crime Report 2012, please click here.

What Do You Want to See?

Do you have a question, comment or story idea for “Peace of Mind“? Do you have some news regarding recent crimes or break-ins? Have you had a break-in recently? Email us and let us know!

Online Technical Support, Special Promotions and More!

On the SafeTech Alarm Systems website, you’ll have access to special product promotions as well! Don’t miss out on exciting deals and promotional offers!We’re always working to add and improve website features in order make our website more appealing, more functional and easier to navigate.

We invite you to visit the new site and let us know what you think.

Stay tuned for even more enhancements to the SafeTech Alarm Systems website over the next few months!

Need help troubleshooting your alarm system?

The safetechalarms.com online technical support features and live online help that will guide you through any issue!

Now you can solve any problems you may have with your alarm system quickly, easily and without picking up the phone or waiting for a technician to arrive! We even offer live online chat with members of our technical support team if you have any questions. Visit our technical support page here.

Stay Up-To-Date With SafeTech

• Stay up-to-date with the latest security news
• Hear about upcoming events
• Find out about new products, services and promotions first
• Access technical support services
• And much more!

How? It’s simple! There are many ways to stay up to date with SafeTech Alarm Systems.You can Like us on Facebook, Follow us on Twitter, Subscribe to our Youtube Channel or get the latest news by visiting our website at www.safetechalarms.ca

To contact us online, please visit http://safetechalarms.ca/contact-us.html or

SafeTech Alarm System 121 Willowdale, Suite # 202 North York, ON, M2N 6A3, Canada