SafeTech’s Peace of Mind publication includes security tips from SafeTech’s loss prevention experts as well as in-depth statistical crime reports and facts on safety and security such as apartment building security. Peace of Mind is the only way to get this exhaustive resource of security, crime, safety and loss prevention delivered to your inbox for absolutely free. In this issue, we focus on apartment building security and much more. Peace of Mind is the definitive resource for loss prevention advice and the most recognized and trusted authority on safety and security, just as SafeTech has established itself as the premiere loss prevention company in North America.

Apartment Building Security

By Sean O’Leary People think about security differently when they live in an apartment building. After all, you’re surrounded by other people, so it feels like it’s more likely that someone will spot an intruder. Also, unless you live on the first floor, it’s pretty difficult for someone to break in through your windows. Many apartment units only have one entrance, the front door, so they’re are fewer points of entry into a unit. However, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be concerned with apartment building security. Like with all homes, apartment building security starts with the front door. If you don’t already have a strong deadbolt, you should definitely get one. Your building manager or superintendent should be able to help or advise you on this matter. Having a peephole definitely helps as well. While apartments do not have backyards, many of them do have balconies. It can often be quite easy for someone to get onto your balcony from another unit, so it’s important to always lock your balcony door. You should not leave valuables on your balcony at all. This is a big apartment building security tip. Most apartment buildings have a buzzer system at the front door. If someone buzzes your unit, make sure you know exactly who they are before you let them into the building. In many apartments you can see who is at the buzzer through a closed-circuit camera system. Also, ensure that no one sneaks in after you when you buzz someone in or when you enter the building yourself. Even if you have security guards in your building, remember that they can’t possibly see everything. You’ll need to remain vigilant and focus on apartment building security. The building’s elevator is another place you should be mindful of. If you feel threatened or in danger in the elevator, exit as soon as possible. Stand near the elevator controls and call for help if necessary. Do not enter an elevator if there is a suspicious person inside. SafeTech Alarm Systems offers apartment building security services as well!

Did You Know? There were 9,320,971 violent crimes in the United States in 2009 (Source: Disaster Center)

Holiday Lighting safety

Holiday lighting is the perfect way to set a festive mood around your house. However, like with anything involving electricity, the potential for danger exists. Here are a few tips for holiday lighting safety. Examine your lights before you hang them Make sure you give all light a good inspection. If the cords are worn, frayed or otherwise damaged, do not use the lights. If any bulbs are broken, replace them before using the lights. If everything looks good, test the lights out before hanging them up. Be careful when hanging them up Don’t place nails or staples through any cords. You can always use specially-designed clips to hang your lights safely. Watch where you put them Always keep lights away from flammable materials. Use the right lights for the right conditions Place indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors. Outdoor lights are weather proof, but they are usually hotter so they belong outside. Enjoy the holidays!

Preventing Cooking Fires

Nothing ruins a meal like a cooking fire. Not only could you burn your food, but you could also damage your oven, stove, cookware or kitchen. A serious fire could even damage your entire home! About one-third of fires start in the kitchen, so it’s very important to pay attention and do everything you can to avoid kitchen fires. One of the best ways to avoid kitchen fires is to stay in the kitchen whenever you are broiling, frying or grilling food. You never know when something could jump off of the pan or grill and cause a fire. If you are using the oven for baking or roasting your meal, make sure that you stay home while the food is being cooked and that you check on it regularly. Keep flammable materials like papers, books, apron or oven mitts away from the stovetop. These can be set on fire quite easily. You’ll also want to make sure that the stove and the oven is clean. Leftover food, grease or oil can catch on fire. It’s also very important that you have the right equipment on hand just in case a fire breaks out. For small fires, you can usually solve the problem by turning off the stove and smothering the flames with a pot lid. For larger fires, you may need to use a fire extinguisher. You should always keep a fire extinguisher on hand in the kitchen. You will also want to ensure that you have a working fire alarm near the kitchen in case a large fire breaks out. You probably don’t want to place the alarm directly in the kitchen though, as the steam or smoke from ordinary cooking could set it off. For more information on fire protection, please click here.

SafeTech’s City Crime Report Available

Protect yourself! Find out where and what type of crime is happening in your neighbourhood and your city with SafeTech’s City Crime Report. Use the 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. This information is important for home, business and apartment building security. 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 2010, please click here.

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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 hope you enjoyed this newsletter and our security tips, such as our apartment building security tips. We invite you to visit the new site and let us know what you think. Stay tuned for even more enhancements to SafeTech Alarm Systems website over the next few months! The safetechalarms.ca online technical support features and live online help that will guide you guide you through any issue! Visit our technical support page here.

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