5 Ways to Ensure Your Childs Safety To and From School

The end of summer signals a new school year and a new year of growth. Your child may be asking to walk home from school on their own, or they may be responsible for getting themselves on and off the bus. Fortunately, you can help ensure that your child gets to and from school safely with security cameras Austin TX.

Below are five tips to help the transition to a new school year run smoothly!

1. Talk to Other Parents in the Neighborhood

Once you have kids, your neighbors become more important. Now is the time to speak with other parents in the neighborhood and get an idea of how their children are getting to and from school. Buddy systems can be very helpful in these instances.

2. Practice Your Child’s Route

Do a few trial runs of your child’s route to and from school. They should be taking the most visible path (no shortcuts), and ideally the route will have other children and crossguards along the way.

3. Install a Home Security System

If you haven’t already, install a home security system with camera surveillance, particularly if your child will be home alone for a while. Teach your child how to arm and disarm the system, and program it so that you know when your child is home safely.

4. Keep Your Child Informed

Tell your child that you will always notify them of any changes with their pickups. They should never go home with someone they don’t know, and they should always get an adult’s approval before going home with someone else. Though it’s not always easy, try to keep things as consistent as possible.

5. Talk About Safety Inside the Home

Home security systems keep the bad guys out, but they also keep kids inside and safe. Your home should have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Teach your child about which appliances they can and cannot use, and encourage them to keep doors and windows shut and locked when you’re not there.

Also teach your child to look for signs that something isn’t right. If they’re just getting home from school and they notice that a door or window is ajar, they should go to a trusted neighbor’s home.

Millions of American kids come home to empty houses after school and don’t fit the traditional “latchkey” stereotype. Reviewing safety rules, talking with neighborhood parents and installing security cameras Austin TX are the best ways to keep your child safe. Call Texas Security and Surveillance to learn more about our home security options for families.

Are Fake Security Signs Enough to Keep Intruders Out?

Some people choose to place fake security signs and stickers on the front of their home so that it looks like they are protected by a home security company. Usually, people do this because they want it to look like they have a security system, but in reality, they’re not quite convinced that they actually need to pay for one.

Are fake security signs and stickers really enough? Do they do an effective job at deterring burglars from the property? After all, the worst thing you’d want to do is give yourself a fake sense of security.

Let’s discuss the pros and cons to fake security decals and signs and whether they’re enough to keep intruders out.

Pros of Using Fake Security Signs

Faking your home’s security does have a few benefits. The first is that it’s much cheaper to go this route than to invest in a complete home security system. You can purchase signs and decals for around $10 and get an authentic logo as well.

Second, it’s quick and easy to slap a few stickers on your windows and put a few signs on your yard. There are no professional installers to hire, holes to drill or wires to run. Finally, it’s possible that fake security signs could keep intruders away. Sometimes, that’s all someone needs to keep moving along.

Cons of Using Fake Security Signs

While it is cheaper to simply purchase signs for your yard, you do get what you pay for. If someone were to break into your home, there would be nothing protecting you and your family. Not to mention, because you might think you’re safe, you may be more likely to leave doors unlocked, windows open, etc.

It’s also possible that a criminal will know your sign is a fake. Many signs out there do not look authentic, and some don’t even display a brand name or logo. If this is the case, your sign may entice burglars because they know you’re faking it!

It’s also important to realize that there could be legal consequences for using material that is copyrighted. If you do choose to go this route, be sure that you are paying for something that won’t blow your cover and won’t bring you legal problems.

In the End, Don’t Fake It

Installing a home security system is the BEST way to keep intruders out. Home security systems can be very affordable, and you’re actually paying for something. If your home is broken into, your monitoring center will be alerted. When the intruder hears the alarm going off, they’ll know that they’ve entered a home that is protected, and they will either leave right away or not get very far.

A true home alarm system brings you real peace of mind, not a false sense of security. Call Texas Security & Surveillance to learn more about our affordable home alarm system protection plans.  

Prewire Your New Home for Security and Automation

Building a new home is very exciting! But it can also feel overwhelming. There are decisions to be made and hiccups along the way that you’ll have to work out with the builder and contractors.

Some of the decisions are fun, such as picking out cabinets and flooring. Others are not as fun but certainly essential. For example, plumbing and electrical wiring aren’t the most exciting features of a home, but they are much easier to install when the house is being built.

Also, if you consider what you want from your home in the long-term (i.e., bathroom in the basement, home theater system), you can have all the inner workings ready to go when the time comes, significantly reducing labor and expenses.

In this post, we want to discuss the importance of pre-wiring your new construction home for security and automation.

Let’s begin!

It’s faster and easier.

When your house is being built, it’s much quicker and simpler to run wires and cables for home automation. The walls aren’t drywalled and painted yet, so there’s not much standing in the way of an ideal setup. Plus, you don’t have to deal with messy cords on the outside of your walls in the long run.

You have more options for customization.

When you’re in the process of building your home, you have a wider range of home automation and security options available to you. Decide ahead of time what types of features you want for your home (i.e., camera surveillance) so that all products can work seamlessly together.

It’s worth noting that you don’t have to purchase everything upfront. You can have the proper wires run for future home automation, but you can choose just a security system at first.

You have time to learn the software.

Many home security and automation products do come with a small learning curve. It takes time getting used to the cameras, security system, home automation features and mobile app. If you’re going to make the investment, it’s important that you use it to the fullest potential. Installing a home alarm system early on gives you time to learn the software before moving in.

It offers peace of mind.

New construction homes are often built in newer neighborhoods. You don’t know your neighbors, so you can’t ask them to watch over your home. You may not have blinds or curtains up yet, so people can see through your windows. A home security system offers an additional layer of protection during this change in your life.

Call Texas Security & Surveillance, one of the most reputable alarm companies in Austin to learn more about installing a home security system in your new construction home.  

Can a Home Security System Lower My Insurance?

If you own a home, homeowners insurance is a must. This type of insurance policy is designed to protect your property in the event that damage occurs to either the home or the possessions inside. Homeowners insurance also provides liability coverage against accidents in the home or property.

The costs of home insurance vary widely from state to state, but there are things you can do to lower your premium each month. One of the best ways is to invest in a home security system. On average, it can reduce your monthly premium by as much as 20 percent!

Why Does a Home Security System Make a Difference?

According to the FBI, every 15 seconds, a home burglary occurs in the US. Properties without security systems are three times more likely to be targets. Insurance companies recognize that home security systems play a significant role in keeping homes safe. By having a monitored home alarm system, you send a signal to potential burglars that your home is being watched 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Furthermore, insurance companies know that a home alarm system has additional built-in features that protect a home and keep possessions safe. Monitored security systems reduce the risk of costly fire or water damage, for example.

At the end of the day, there is a lesser chance of needing to file a claim with your insurance company when you have a home security system installed. This reduces your risk significantly in the eyes of your carrier. As a result, some of the savings are passed down to you.

How Much Money Can I Save?

Many homeowners report seeing as much as 20 percent off their monthly premium. It really depends on your insurance provider and other factors.

The best thing you can do is to speak with your insurance company about the savings you can see by installing a home security system. You may even obtain several quotes to see what your monthly premium would look like with other insurance companies.

A handful of factors are taken into consideration when determining your monthly premium, but for insurance companies, it’s all about reducing your risk and making yourself and your property look good.

To learn more about installing a home security system for your property and saving money on your homeowners insurance, call Texas Security & Surveillance.  

5 Ways Security Cameras Can Make Your Home Safer this Summer

 

If you’ve been considering having a home alarm system installed, now is the best time to do it! It’s summer, which means that the risk for burglary is higher. July and August are the most frequent months for break-ins, probably because people tend to vacation at this time of the year, leaving their homes unattended. It may also be because people leave their doors and windows open more often in the warmer weather.

Let’s explore five ways that home security cameras can keep your property safer this summer.

1. Keep an eye on the kids while you’re at work.

Wouldn’t you love to check in with your kids and make sure they are OK while you’re at work? Whether you’ve hired a babysitter for the summer, or your preteen and teenage kids will be caring for themselves, security cameras offer invaluable peace of mind that the ones you love most are safe. With a security monitoring system, you can do a quick check and ensure that the sitter and the kids are following the rules and are in good hands.

2. Monitor the yard while the kids play.

Another time that you want to keep an extra eye on your kids is when they’re playing outdoors. You may feel more comfortable with a fenced-in backyard, but what about when the kids want to draw with chalk on the driveway or ride their bikes on the sidewalk?

Security cameras allow you to keep an eye on your children while they are outdoors. Even teens who are hanging around your house can use the extra eyes!

3. Secure your pool area.

If you have a swimming pool, a video surveillance system offers multiple benefits. First, it can protect your own children from drowning. Accidental drowning is the number one cause of death in children between the ages of 1-4, according to the CDC. It’s suggested that if you can’t find your child, you should look in the pool first. Second, security cameras can keep unwanted guests out of your pool.

4. Protect your home while you’re on vacation.

Having a home monitoring system lets potential burglars know that your home is protected even when you’re not there. Considering that many home burglaries are carried out by local opportunists, a home alarm system is one of the best ways to protect your home. Burglars watch for residents to go on vacation, and this is when they attempt to carry out their crimes.

5. Get fire alarm monitoring.

During the summer, there are more risks of fire thanks to bonfires, cookouts and college kids coming home and using your oven to cook pizzas and Hot Pockets. Today’s home security systems have built-in features such as carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms. With these advantages, you can feel good about having your home protected from smoke, fire and carbon monoxide.

Get your free quote for a home security system from Texas Security & Surveillance and take the steps to make your home safer this summer!

Going Out of Town? Protect Your Home in 3 Steps

Whether it’s a delayed spring break or an upcoming summer vacation, chances are that you will be going out of town in the next couple of months.

Traveling is fun, and it’s meant to give you a break from a monotonous routine. But what happens when you return home from your vacation and realize that your home has been broken into? Or what will you do if you get a call from a neighbor saying that your alarms are going off?

Fortunately, there are smart ways that you can protect your home before you head out of town. This way, you can enjoy your travels and come back to a safe, secure home.

1. Arm your home security system and notify your monitoring center.

Before you walk out the door, arm your home security system. It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised at how many people forget to do this!

Many families feel rushed as they’re packing up the car or lugging suitcases into a taxi, and they rush out without ever setting the system. If you have a checklist of things to do, be sure to add that on there.

Also notify your monitoring center that you will be leaving the home. This is extremely important because if the center gets a signal that something is going on, they know that it’s not a false alarm.

2. Automate your lighting.

One of the best ways to show activity in your home is by turning on and off the lights. Thanks to home automation, no one has to go through extreme lengths to do this like they did in Home Alone.

Using your home security system, you can make your home look lived in without actually being there. Turn on/off the lights and open/close the curtains with home automation.

Aside from the safety features that home automation provides, you can also lower your energy consumption and keep your home comfortable while you’re away.

3. Don’t advertise that you’re going to be out of town.

Hold the mail, or have a trusted neighbor collect it for you. Give your yard a good cleaning before you leave so that the grass doesn’t grow much and give your absence away.

Also be mindful of what you post on social media. Sure it can feel great to share pictures of how much fun you’re having, but it also means that everyone knows that you’re not home. Consider sharing this information with close friends and family only and/or making your posts private. Or, simply wait to post the pictures until you are home.

You deserve to come home to a safe and secure property. But, you play a role in keeping your property protected. By following the three tips above, you significantly lower the chances of break-ins, burglaries or vandalism. Be smart about who you share information with, and keep your monitoring service aware of when you’ll be leaving.

If you don’t have an Austin alarm company watching out for your home, call Texas Security and Surveillance today. We have affordable, reliable home security systems that will keep your property safe no matter where you are.

Should I Install a Security System for My Apartment?

When you hear about burglaries, single-family homes are usually the first to come to mind. According to the National Crime Prevention Council, apartments are actually 85 percent more likely to be burglarized compared to single-family homes. This statistic is a friendly reminder that people living in apartments should also consider home security systems to keep their belongings safe.

Apartments are at Risk for Break-Ins

Apartments are just as vulnerable to break-ins as single-family homes. Burglars operate in the same way. They look for units that have easy access, lots of cover and quick escape routes. They also pay attention to units that look less lived-in compared to those with a lot of foot traffic.

Burglars are often more likely to attack during the day when people aren’t home. Crime Doctor reports that 30 percent of apartment burglars gain access through an open door or window.

How to Keep Your Apartment Safe

What many renters don’t realize is that they can - and should - take matters into their own hands when it comes to the safety and security of their apartment. For some reason, homeowners feel that this is their right, but apartment renters don’t.

If you are currently renting an apartment, it’s important to consider the security options available to you.

Let’s take a look at some of the things you can do to safeguard your apartment.

●      Lock all doors and windows when you are sleeping or away

●      Use special reinforcements on sliding glass doors or balconies

●      Get to know your neighbors and agree to watch out for each other

●      Use light timers to establish occupancy

Installing an Apartment Security System

After making a few changes to your apartment, the last thing to consider is an apartment security system. A security system will alert you, your neighbors and the police that someone is trying to enter your apartment. There are different types of packages available based on your budget and needs. Some come with motion sensing lights, light timers or security cameras.

Because you are renting, a wired security system probably isn’t an option. But you can find plenty of wireless systems that are affordable, reliable and transferable.

The most important thing to remember is that your apartment depends on you to keep it safe. Don’t assume that just because you’re living in an active community means that your apartment isn’t vulnerable. Keeping doors and windows locked, knowing your neighbors and installing a security system are the best ways to ensure safety and security.

5 Simple Security Tips for Your Lake Home

 

Do you own a lake home? If so, you know all too well how often your house sits vacant. Whether you’re waiting for your next getaway, or you only visit your lake home in the summer, your investment probably spends a lot of time without anyone in it. This can be unsettling since burglars look for vacant homes.

Let’s discuss some simple security tips for keeping your second home safe from burglaries, vandalism and break-ins.

1. Make it Look Lived In

Even if you’re not at the home on a daily basis, you can still leave signs of your presence. Break-ins and vandalism is less likely to occur if people think that you check in on a routine basis.

Start by asking a trusted neighbor to look over the house. If they notice anything strange, they can alert you with a text. Also leave them with a key or the garage code so that they can access your home if need be. Invite your neighbors to use your driveway sometimes, too.

2. Maintain the Exterior

Nothing says a vacant home like unmowed grass, piled up newspapers or old holiday decor. Maintaining the outside of your home prevents it from sticking out a like a sore thumb.

Hire a lawn service to take care of watering plants in the spring, mowing the lawn in the summer and shoveling snow in the winter. Have a neighbor collect your mail or newspapers. When you visit, pull weeds, take down old decor, etc.

3. Install a Security System

Nothing protects your lake home like a security system. Post signs on your front lawn letting others know that your home is monitored 24 hours a day. If you choose to install video surveillance, you can check in on your property at any time. This gives you the ultimate peace of mind that your investment is secure, even when you can’t be there.

4. Use a Light Timer

Lights are a great way to indicate that someone is in your home. Criminals keep an eye out for repeatedly dark homes. Have at least one or two lamps plugged into a timer, and have the lights go off in the early evening, when you would typically turn them on. Also consider installing motion-sensor lights outdoors that will turn on if someone is on your property.

  

5. Watch What You Say (and Post!)

It’s inevitable that some people will know that your home is empty, but still be cautious of who you tell. If you go “into town,” don’t tell the local people that your lake home is furnished, or give them your address. Anyone can overhear your conversation, and your home can become a target.

Also be mindful of what you post on social media. It’s easy to give away the fact that your home is vacant without realizing it.

You can never be too cautious when it comes to protecting a second home. By following the tips above, you can prevent break-ins and vandalism and give yourself peace of mind when you can’t be there.