Author: GuardMe Security

Valentine’s Day Safety Tips

Written by GuardMe Security on February 6, 2018. Posted in Blog.

It is easy to be caught up in the romance of Valentine’s Day. From the chocolates to the flowers to the romantic candlelight dinners, you have a lot going on. Small errors or neglect is all it takes for huge safety and security issues. This Valentine’s Day, you can have a lovely time while still staying on top of everyone’s well-being.

Candle and Fire Safety—Kindle Up the Romance, but Not Your Home

If you are partial to candlelight during your Valentine’s Day activities or even a crackling fire, you need to practice caution. While a fireplace, outdoor torches and indoor candles pose minimum risk when used properly, the chances are you will be more occupied with your party guests or your private dinner.

Do not leave candles burning; instead, blow them out if you leave a room.
Do not leave blankets or clothing next to an open flame – including your fireplace.
Inspect your fireplace before using it, especially if you have not turned it on in a few months. A dirty fireplace is a serious fire hazard.
Keep an eye on meals on the stovetop or in the oven – set timers if you have a hard time remembering.
Check your home’s smoke detectors to ensure they are working properly.

This Valentine’s Day, you can have a lovely time while still staying on top of everyone’s well-being.

Protecting Your Home While You Are Away

Whether you are off to a romantic getaway, headed out to dinner or just going to a party with friends, burglars are on the lookout for vacant homes on Valentine’s. You can keep your home off their radar just by being prepared.

Use your home’s automation system to set timers for interior and exterior lights. Turn them on so that burglars think you are home.
If leaving for a few days, put a hold on your mail or have a trusted neighbor collect the mail for you.
Do a quick walk-through and make sure all points of entry (including basements and garages) are locked.
Activate your home security system before you take off; even if you are leaving for a few hours.

About GuardMe Security

Home security systems and fire alarms are a great way to ensure you have a safe Valentine’s Day celebration this year. GuardMe Security offers free in-home estimates and can help you choose the right system so that you are ready to celebrate without any mishaps.

Call GuardMe Security experts today at (800) 235-0644.

How To Protect Your Family From Home Invasion

Written by GuardMe Security on February 1, 2018. Posted in Blog.

Authorities have been on the hunt for the perpetrators of recent aggressive home invasions in Old Bridge. Just in the past month, there have been two in Old Bridge, one in Edison, and one in South Plainfield. But, these are not just any type of home invasion; the burglars are violent and have already injured two people and terrified three separate communities.

What Police Do Know

While the investigation is ongoing, police have little to offer concerned residents regarding this string of home invasions. In fact, police are not even sure if it is the same group or a coincidence that these have all happened around the same time. But, what they do know is that two residents were assaulted in their homes and one was hospitalized briefly to recover from their injuries.

What Can You Do About Your Home’s Safety?

Old Bridge residents can protect themselves from these vicious home invasions by following these simple steps:

Lights – Keep your exterior lights on, including those for porches and backyard sitting areas. By leaving the lights on, you allow less privacy for robbers to sneak around the perimeter of your property and it may even deter them from picking your home altogether.
Look First – Before opening your doors to exit your home, look around to make sure there is no one hiding outside. Also, if you can, pull into your garage and make sure it is secured before getting out of your car and entering your home.
Keep Gates Locked – Any access gates to your property should be locked so that burglars cannot gain easy access to your backyard or the back of your home.

Contact the Authorities – If you see anyone around the neighborhood you do not know or see something suspicious, call 911 the local authorities right away. Police have been urging residents for assistance to help catch these robbers.

Install a Home Security System – With perimeter monitoring, security lights and even surveillance cameras, you may be able to provide your family with a little peace of mind. Also, burglars may be deterred if they know you have an alarm system.

About GuardMe Security

For more information about how you can protect your home from home invasions and robberies, meet with the home security experts at GuardMe Security.

Give us a call at (800) 235-0644 or feel free to ask a question online and a specialist will be in touch shortly.

Your Home is Your Window to the World…and to Burglars?

Written by GuardMe Security on January 30, 2018. Posted in Blog.

Your home’s windows are what open you up to the world. They make your home feel bigger, brighter and more enjoyable. Unfortunately, what you enjoy about windows is also what potential burglars enjoy: the view. Luckily, you can still enjoy a home with many windows just by knowing how to properly secure them.

Secure Your Windows to Ensure Greater Home Security

From peeping toms to potential thieves, your windows let others see in just as much as you see out. By properly securing those windows, you can deter burglars and even catch those lurking on your property in the act. To secure your windows, you need to take precautions based on the type of window you are securing.

Double Hung Windows – These types of windows have two operable sections that slide up and down. Secure these with a window sensor placed on the side pane that is connected to the frame of the window, and another sensor on the inner frame. These should be lined up so that the magnetic strips are in line with one another. If they become misaligned, it will trip your home’s alarm.
Awning Windows – These are windows that are hinged and open out (typically using a crank handle to open/close). Sensors are placed in the same location on awning windows as they are for double hung windows. Just be sure to place the sensor where it separates as the window opens.
Casement Windows – These also swing outward, but only open on one side. Use a similar technique to awning windows for arming casement windows.
Horizontally Sliding Windows – These windows slide open horizontally, similar to a sliding glass door. Place a security bar in the track when the window is closed to keep anyone from sliding it open. As for sensors, place one on the side frame and one on the inner pane. You can also add a glass-breaking sensor to these types of windows.
Sealed Windows – Some homes have windows that do not open. These types of windows should be secured with a glass-breaking sensor.

Deciding how to secure your windows can be difficult on your own. Your local home security experts can assess each window in your home, offer tips and insights, and even help wire your home security system to monitor when windows open and close as well as if the glass is broken.

About GuardMe Security

GuardMe Security offers free in-home estimates and can help you keep the world out, while you enjoy the view. Call the GuardMe Security experts today at (800) 235-0644 today.

Home Automation For The Busy Parent

Written by GuardMe Security on January 25, 2018. Posted in Blog.

Modern parents are always on-the-go and looking for the next smart technology that can make their lives just a little bit easier. There are home technology upgrades that can be made for practically every part of the parenting process. Today’s parents are the trendsetters when it comes to home technology and two-thirds of parents who own homes say that they’re interested in owning home tech. One big reason for this is because parents are often very focused on keeping their household and family as safe as possible.

Comfort level also plays a big role – home technology can be used to make everyone comfortable and keep the day running smoothly. Another reason why parents are so in-the-know about current home tech is because due to their busy lives, they only have time to invest in the best.

There’s not a lot of technology that’s allowed into the home, especially if it’s not going to be completely helpful and worthwhile. Reliability and usability are both important, and tech cannot waste a parent’s precious time. Here’s how to know if you’re a good match for home automation from GuardMe:

1. Safety is a priority in your house.

Safety and security are the two most important aspects of GuardMe Security. Your smart home will benefit from a host of safety features, including professional monitoring, protection from crashes and smashes, automatic safeguards, protection from smoke and CO, and a cellular connection. There’s also plenty of child-proofing that goes into GuardMe Security systems, including contact sensors with alerts in real-time, plus motion-activated lights.

2. You wish household tasks could be made easier.

It’s not always easy to take a full day off of work because you have to wait around for a contractor to show up. With GuardMe Security, you can use user codes and smart locks to remotely let in the contractors you trust. See who’s at your door with the WiFi-enabled doorbell camera, speak with them via your smartphone and open your garage door so that deliveries can be safely left inside.

3. You want to automate everyday tasks.

GuardMe Security uses geo-technology to perform routine tasks in the house based on your location. For example, when you get home, your outdoor lights can automatically turn on and your garage door can open. When you’re on your way home from the office, your thermostat can change to that your home’s temperature is just right.

4. You love easy-to-use technology.

GuardMe Security technology powered by Alarm.com isn’t just useful, but it’s also easy to use. You can control everything from your smartphone. Plus, everyone in the family can be setup to access the system through their smartphone.

GuardMe Security is your local home security and automation company, leading the way in advanced home automation technologies. Contact us today for a free consultation and schedule installation.

How Does Alarm Monitoring Work?

Written by GuardMe Security on January 23, 2018. Posted in Blog.

While shopping for a home security system, you will notice that most services advertise their alarms with “monitoring”, but what does that really mean?

A security system is only as reliable as the monitoring behind it; therefore, understanding how it works is important. Doing so allows you to compare each service, their monitoring practices, and then decide if they are the right company for you. After all, a home security system with inadequate monitoring will just make noise, but never alert the proper authorities.

Monitoring 101

Alarm monitoring is the communication between your security provider and your home’s security system. The communication is quick and ensures that emergency personnel are dispatched to your home.

Monitoring goes through several steps, all which occur within minutes. These steps include:

The control panel inside your home registers an emergency.
The panel sends a signal to your central monitoring station.
The station assesses the emergency type (fire, burglar alarm activation, etc.) and then notifies the proper authorities and dispatches them to your address.

When your home security system is installed, the company installs sensors. These sensors are what send signals to your home’s control panel. Sensors can include smoke detectors, carbon monoxide, heat sensors, motion detection, etc. The type of sensors depends on the level of security system you have installed.

Is Alarm Monitoring Critical?

Alarm monitoring does not just notify the police of a potential burglar, it can also be the difference between a fire that gets out of control and devours your home and a fire that is easily managed. Alarm monitoring can quickly report to the fire department, possibly even before you notice there is a fire.

Not all companies offer around-the-clock monitoring and fast response times. GuardMe Security’s alarm systems use innovative, 24/7 monitoring, two-way voice control that lets you speak to an operator and real-time alerts, thus ensuring your home is fully monitored.

Learn more about alarm monitoring by calling GuardMe Security experts today at (800) 235-0644. Ask us a question online and one of our team members will get in touch with you as soon as possible.

A Security System is Top Priority When Buying a New Home

Written by GuardMe Security on January 21, 2018. Posted in Blog.

Buying a new home is exciting, but also there are plenty of unknowns. You are most likely not familiar with your new neighbors or even the area. That is why one of your top priorities for the new house should be installing a home security system.

While picking the paint colors and measuring space for new furniture is important, protecting your belongings and your new home are equally important. Just some reasons to consider a home security system include:

The House Will Sit Vacant – When you buy a home, you still have to pack and move from another location. That means your newly purchased home is likely to sit vacant a few days or even a few weeks. This makes it a prime target for squatters, vandals and burglars. By installing a home security system, you can ensure everything is safe even if it sits empty for a little while.
Deter Crime – The more home security systems in a neighborhood, the less chances of crime. Take a look at your neighborhood and see how many homes have alarms. Adding one to your home will not only protect you, but help protect the neighborhood.
Opportunity for Home Automation – Why not add a layer of convenience to your new home as well as security? When you install a home security system, you can add home automation, such as lighting control, temperature monitoring, and more. It is easier to prepare a home for home automation while it is empty too.
Get a Break on Homeowner’s Insurance Premiums – Your new home may have an increased homeowner’s insurance cost or you may be new to paying for insurance altogether. Regardless, installing a home security system can lower your insurance premium annually by as much as 20 percent.

About GuardMe Security

Your new home and new neighborhood should be inviting and welcoming, not intimidating. With the right combination of security solutions, you can protect your newest investment and add peace of mind. GuardMe Security offers residential security systems, fire alarms and even security cameras so that you can protect your new home and your loved ones.

Coping After a Burglary

Written by GuardMe Security on January 21, 2018. Posted in Blog.

Whether you come home and find your home has been broken into, or you are at home when an intruder breaks into your home, both scenarios are extremely frightening for you, your children, and anyone else in your home. The strong feeling of violation, fear, and even anger can be difficult to shake and these emotions can have lasting consequences.

While you and your family are facing a whirlwind of emotion and trying to heal, it’s important to take some critical steps at the very earliest opportunity to protect yourself so it doesn’t happen again.

Re-evaluate your Home Security

If you do not have a home security system, it is time to get one installed. If you already have a residential security system in place, it’s time to re-assess that system’s effectiveness.

Are all entry points covered – not just the one the intruder used to enter your home?
Can your home security system be activated remotely, in case you leave for work and forget to set the alarm?
Does your home security system need an upgrade for glass-break sensors, wireless activation, or security cameras to be more burglar-proof?

After a break-in, it is important to step back and make sure that your home security system is working for you in the best way possible.

Law Enforcement Advice for Burglary Prevention

When a burglary occurs, the local police investigating the crime may have some updated recommendations for your home security as well.

Criminals are always honing their craft, so if there is some new technique being used in your area, now is the time to learn about it and take the steps to upgrade your home security.

If you don’t already have a home security system in place, don’t be surprised if your local law enforcement recommends it. They may also tell you what features you should have installed with it for the best burglary prevention—a simple home alarm is no longer enough if crime is on the rise in your neighborhood.

Learn more about how a home security system can prevent future burglaries and break-ins. Call the team at GuardMe Security: (800) 235-0644. Or click here to ask a question about burglary prevention and protection from break-ins and intruders.

Effectiveness of Smoke Alarms: Are You Getting the Most From Yours?

Written by GuardMe Security on January 19, 2018. Posted in Blog.

You have smoke alarms installed, but if you do not properly maintain them, they will not do your home any good. Smoke alarms are your home’s first line of defense against fire, but in order to get the most out of them, you need to ensure they are in operation.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Home’s Smoke Alarms

Install Them Properly – Smoke alarms need to be installed strategically. You should have one outside each bedroom and on every level of the home.
Test Frequently – Smoke alarms should be tested once a month to make sure they are still in operation. You can do so by pressing the red test button on the device.
Replace Batteries – If the test does not work, replace the batteries right away. You should also replace the batteries at least once a year. Only place brand new batteries into the smoke alarm.
Interconnected Devices – Today you can install interconnected smoke alarms, which means if one sounds, all of them sound. This is extremely beneficial, especially if the smoke detector is going off on a separate floor where you may not hear it.
Connect Smoke Alarms to Fire Alarm Systems – A fire alarm system can be connected to your home’s smoke alarms for all-point coverage. Not only will you be notified of a fire (whether you are in or out of the home), but fire officials will be notified the moment your fire alarm system is triggered. This will ensure faster response and possibly a better chance of saving your home and possessions.

About GuardMe Security

Fire alarm systems are more affordable than homeowners realize. Plus, when you connect them to your home’s smoke alarms, you could receive significant homeowner’s insurance discounts. GuardMe Security offers free consultations and can help you pick the right fire alarm system based on the needs of your home.

Get a free consultation on fire alarms by calling GuardMe Security at (800) 235-0644 or feel free to ask a question online.

How a home security system deters burglars

Written by GuardMe Security on January 11, 2018. Posted in Blog.

What makes your home a target for residential burglary? It may not be the things you’re thinking of. For example, many people believe that if their home is a modest, one-story residence on an “average street,” they are less vulnerable to home invasion than those who live in an upscale neighborhood. But the idea that criminals only target “rich” neighborhoods is a myth.

In fact, experts say that middle class neighborhoods are prime targets for thieves, since those homeowners are more likely to leave windows open, doors unlocked and keys under doormats. Middle class homes are also more likely to have foreclosed homes sitting empty next door (in other words, they don’t always have neighbors watching out for each other). More importantly, they are less likely to be protected by a home security system. Remember, burglars like easy targets. Contrary to what we see in movies, they aren’t typically looking for a challenge. They want to get in, steal something valuable and get out; your “average” home provides the perfect opportunity for that if it is not armed with a security system.

What would burglars take from you?

Most likely, Of course, cash and jewelry will be the first things they look for. After that, equipment and electronics are the next best thing to them. Gaming systems are popular items among burglars, as are laptop computers, smartphones and other high tech devices. And perhaps surprisingly, bicycle theft is on the rise. All across the country, thieves are taking off with bikes in the blink of an eye, both in public and at private residences.

A home security system from GuardMe is the answer.

Fortunately, all of these risks can be reduced just by owning a security system. When potential criminals see a surveillance camera, keyless entry pad or other “hint” that a security system is protecting the home, they often flee without ever attempting to break in, or look elsewhere for an easier target. And if they do force entry, the alarm is nearly guaranteed to scare them away. For more information on a home security system, contact GuardMe Security today.