How to Avoid Triggering a False Alarm

When it comes to home security you don’t want to become the boy that cried wolf.  If your alarm goes off regularly the police and neighbours will no longer consider it a priority.  You also don’t want to be the annoying neighbour whose alarm system keeps up half the neighbourhood at inappropriate times. 

1.    Set up an alarm system maintenance and upgrades schedule. Like all electronic devices alarm systems need to be updated to work at its optimal potential. Replace all batteries every three months.

2.    Include the cleaning the alarm equipment in your house cleaning routine. Lint and dust can clog the motion sensors which can cause them to go off at inapt times.

3.    Pets are one of the main causes of false alarms. Install pet friendly sensors and keep your pets away from problem areas if possible.

4.    Keep windows and doors locked as most alarm sensors are connected to entrance ways.

5.    Study up on the interworking of your alarm system. Know how to cancel the false alarm and how to set it up again afterwards.

6.    When away let the house sitter know about all the quirks of the house and system.

7.    If you are changing anything in the home your contact your security provider, Free Alarms, like if you are planning a remodelling project that will affect the system’s operation. 

8.    Involve the whole household when installing the system. If everyone is informed decreases the likelihood of simple mistakes such as leaving windows and doors open.

Ideally an alarm system is a subtle presence that will protect your household. By following these simple tips it will be.

Shed a light on crime

 

When used strategically, the lighting fixtures in and around your house can be valuable part of your home security.  Electricity bill aside, lighting is also a relatively affordable

Outdoor

Outdoor lighting combined with sensitive motion sensors provides a sense of security, especially with a home that has numerous dark corners. Place the lights and motion sensors near doors and windows which will most likely be targeted by the burglar.

Strive to maintain an aesthetic quality when planning the lights. If the lights are to sharp or placed at the wrong angles it may prove to be bothersome to neighbors and even members of your own household. The lighting can also have the dual function of accentuating your garden.

Burglar Beacon

When out for the evening, most leave a single light on as an added security measure and in some cases as the only security measure.  A single light can literally become a beacon for burglars who have become the wiser.  It is better to leave multiple lights on around the house along with a radio of TV.

Successful burglars are those who can move around without being seen. Just by flipping on the light switch you are already on the way of creating a safe home for your family.

Strategies used by Pickpokets

pick·pock·et 
n. One who steals from pockets.

Pickpockets are petty criminals with a quick slide of hand. While they are usually not dangerous or violent one should always be aware.

Thief.org.uk recognised these four strategies used by pickpocket thieves:  

1. Fighting: where a resulting argument can occur, groups of people will naturally begin to interact and move around each other to avoid the actual fight. In the resulting confusion, pickpockets can avail themselves of your wallet, handbag or purse.

2. The helpful member of public: if you ever witness a person who loudly shouts ‘be careful of the pickpockets’ or similar phrase, they may be attempting to incite you or others to instinctively reach for their money or valuables. By doing so, easily and simply alerts pickpockets in the area to the exact location of your items.

3. Accidents: the resulting confusion which can stem from an accident which is caused by another can be all the time a thief needs to steal from you. A slipped foot or dropped possession in a crowded area are all that’s required to cause an instant episode of uncertainty in the area, leaving you a potential mark.

4. The apology: this classic is still very effectively used by the pickpocket and involves a speedy interaction where a collision on your person is planned. Performed either by way of a knock, bump, spill of food and drink or similar, the thief apologises, and then rapidly disappears with your possessions in hand.