Extra Info about DIY Security Systems
Small business owners in Monroe County, NY and the surrounding areas strive to protect what they have worked hard to build. That’s why so many purchase a DIY security system. They’re looking for a quick install at a minimal cost. However, these systems aren’t as simple as you might think and have the potential cost more than a professionally installed security system. Below, is information on DIY security systems. The following is a list of dangers that come with DIY security systems: 1. The DIY Security System Lacks Professional Precision Professional security system installers in Monroe County have years of experience that can’t be obtained by reading a user manual or watching YouTube videos. Instead, the professionals bring priceless expertise. This experience lends itself to a precise install. It’s important for sensors to be placed in the correct locations and cameras to be angled properly. Additionally, doing a DIY install requires answers to these questions: What are the most vulnerable areas? How many cameras are needed to cover the vulnerable areas? Where should motion and glass break sensors be placed? Are you able to hide wiring so it isn’t accessible to criminals? Does installing equipment yourself void the parts warranty? How will an emergency be handled if you’re unable to tend to it? Another question to ask is what will happen if a motion sensor or camera stops working? Many DIY systems operate on a single frequency, so there isn’t a failsafe if it stops working. Fortunately, a professional security system company will take care of the details, installation, and set you up on a 24/7 monitoring plan so that emergencies are taken care of quickly. These are a few of the major differences between DIY and professional installation. 2. No or Minimal 24/7 Monitoring Since 24/7 monitoring was just mentioned in this article, it’s a good time to talk about it in more detail. This is one of the most important parts of working with a security company. Yes, the upfront costs of DIY security systems might be less, but 24/7 monitoring is a feature that is usually missing. Even if a system says that monitoring is available with a subscription, do your research. It’s typical to learn that it’s not the same monitoring you get with a professional installer. 3. Questionable Equipment Quality and Reliability Many people who have purchased security cameras from the local Costco or Walmart found that the systems have some issues. Common problems include cameras that freeze, false notifications, and complete equipment failure. Some common DIY security system problems include faulty sensors and no contact with authorities when a break-in occurs. One major issue is that these systems are commonly hacked. With a professionally installed system, you get high-quality equipment that comes with guarantees and service. Furthermore, the installation comes with great service and a commitment to the security of your business. It’s personal service you don’t get otherwise. With that said, it is worth the additional upfront cost to properly secure your business. In the meantime, you build a relationship with a reliable company. That in itself comes with many benefits. Contact A Monroe County, NY Security System Installer Having a DIY system isn’t better than having nothing at all. Such systems have vulnerabilities that can result in significant losses. Contact SPS Fire & Security today at 585-770-0348 today to learn more about the options available to you.
What You Need to Know About Security System Apps
Every day, you use many apps on your smartphone. From shopping online and Facebook to banking and games, your phone is an important part of your life. This is why a mobile security app would make a great addition to your repertoire of apps. You especially want to keep your phone secure when accessing your home security or business security app. The last thing you want is for a hacker tapping your phone to gain access to your security system. But first, here’s something for you to keep in mind: Security system mobile apps, particularly those provided by a reputable security system provider, are secure in themselves. Breaches don’t typically happen via the app itself but through a doorway opened by an insecurity in the mobile device. To avoid these insecurities, it’s important to keep your software up-to-date to close any doorways that hackers can walk through. You also want to use a security app to lock down your phone even more. Android devices, especially, need to have added security. Top Mobile Security Apps Some of the top mobile security apps include: Norton Mobile Security Avast Mobile Security for Android Kapersky Mobile Antivirus for Android McAfee Mobile Security Google Play Protect These programs will help keep your device clean of viruses and other programs that give hackers access to your phone. Unfortunately, the signs that a hacker has tapped your phone can be very subtle, which is why it’s important to have a security app. iPhone users: Make sure you update your phone to the most recent iOS version. Doing so will close security vulnerabilities. Fact: Android phones are more likely to be hacked because Google Play apps aren’t held to the same standards as Apple App Store apps. Even so, Android apps that are in the Google Play store are safer than those that require you to alter your security settings in order to acquire. If an app is not available in the App store, make sure it is provided to you by a reputable company. If you know nothing about the company, avoid it. VPN usage: Even iOS users will benefit from the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN). You can connect one to your iPhone or iPad relatively easily. It’s even an option in your settings. Android users will also benefit from this because it hides your device’s IP address. Signs That Your Mobile Device Is Tapped Although the signs that your phone has been tapped can be subtle, there are ways for you to identify a possible breach. They are: Listen for unusual background noises when you’re on calls. Common noises associated with hacking are humming or static. If the phone makes static noises when you’re not on a call, there might be serious issues. Check your data usage on your phone bill. If the data use is higher than what you’re actually using, that means it’s likely you’ve been hacked. Listen for interference other than the radio interference your phone causes when you’re on a call. If the phone causes interference when it’s not in use, it’s possible someone is listening to you. Reboot regularly so you can check how the device is restarting. If there are issues during restart, that’s a sign of possible hacking. Monitor Your Home Securely When you know your phone is secure, you have the peace of mind that a hacker isn’t going to access important information about your security system. What’s more is that a hacker can’t obtain information about any aspect of your life when you’ve taken the proper measures to keep your device secure. This means that you can use your security system mobile app and check your home while on vacation, at work, or when you’re having an evening out with friends or family. Contact A Professional Rochester Security System Installer At SPS Fire & Security, we take your safety seriously. In times when hackers are looking for every possible doorway to gain access to peoples’ lives, you need to know that your security monitoring app is secure. While the apps associated with our equipment are secure in themselves, the rest of that security lies in the integrity of your mobile device’s security. To learn more about our systems, monitoring, and the mobile apps associated with these systems or to schedule an appointment, call us at 585-770-0348.
How Reliable are Wireless Home Security Systems?
The Wired vs. Wireless Debate How reliable are wireless home security systems, is always a huge debate. There are wired home security systems and wireless home security systems, which is something you probably already know. The question is which one do you choose? Below, is information on How Reliable are Wireless Home Security Systems? Well, we’re going to make it easy. There are people that choose wired over wireless, but there are advantages of a wireless security system. Three of those key advantages are: lower cost, installation flexibility, and better reliability. With nearly 4 million burglaries happening per year, it’s imperative to have a home security system.When you have such a deterrent in place, it makes your home a less likely target. When burglars see a security system, especially a wireless home security system, they are more likely to turn away. Just take a look at this video where a convicted burglar talks about what he looked for (we posted this on our Facebook page because this has some seriously good information you need to know): Wireless Home Security System Reliability The main reason why burglars fear wireless systems is because they don’t just need electricity to remain powered. If there is a power outage, a wired home security system will turn off. This would leave your home vulnerable at that time. So, if you are at home, at work, or on vacation, you don’t have to worry about a power outage opening your home up to burglars. Unfortunately, burglars look for wired systems because all they have to do is cut the phone lines outside to make the system useless. Flexible Installation and Use of Wireless Alarm Systems Flexible installation factors into the cost reduction. When your wireless home security system installer isn’t having to run a lot of wires in difficult places, the amount of time it takes to install the system is reduced. The absence of wires cuts down the materials that must be used and allows for installation in some of those places that wired systems won’t allow. Wired security systems also won’t allow you to take it with you if you move without incurring a significant expense. Wireless systems can move with you. There’s also the added convenience of being able to access wireless home security systems from smartphones. You can keep track of surveillance cameras and more or less monitor your entire system when you are gone. You then have 24/7 monitoring on top of that so that help is summoned to your residence as soon as possible. As the former burglar in the video stated, he wouldn’t mess with wireless systems because he couldn’t disarm them and the authorities would be on the way too fast. Instead, he would simply move on. Contact A Rochester Wireless Security Systems Installer When faced with the choice between wired and wireless home security systems, it is worth giving wireless a look. You can weigh the pros and cons by asking an experienced security system installer about how the benefits that are specific to you. SPS Fire & Security serves the Rochester, Syracuse, Buffalo, and surrounding areas and you can call 585-770-0348 or use the contact form to get your free, no obligation consultation.
How to Avoid Getting Locked Out of Your Home or Business
Prevent Lock Outs How to avoid getting locked out of your home or business, is a question that everyone asks. Have you ever walked out of your house and accidentally locked the door without meaning to? Maybe you left the keys lying on the kitchen table, got to your car, and realized you had no keys to start the car. It’s a nightmare because you then have to call a locksmith or crawl through a window (which should be closed and locked). Even if you leave a spare key outside to avoid getting locked out of your home, that in itself isn’t safe because burglars look for keys. Perhaps you’re a business owner or manager who arrived at your business and realized you left the keys at home. This can happen, especially among those that keep their keys separate from their personal keys. However, personal keys can get lost or, like the scenario above, be locked in the house or even, somehow, locked inside the business. It would be awful to lose business due to not being able to open on time because of misplaced or locked up keys. Worse: what if your key broke? That happens and it’s not a pleasant situation at all. How to Avoid Getting Locked Out of Your Home or Business There are some basic ways that you can keep from getting locked out of your home or business: Give trusted friends and family members spare keys. It’s ideal if they live nearby so they can arrive quickly. The downfall to this is that you might not get fast help if they are busy with something else, such as work. Keep a spare key in your car. The only issue with this is that your car should be locked when it is parked and not in use. If you lock your keys in the house, you can’t unlock your car. This can work better for business keys since you need your car to get to work. Consider the Smart Lock The safest solution out of them all is to install smart locks. You don’t have to have a key to control the locks on your home or business when you have this high-tech solution in place. A smart phone or tablet can be used to access the home or business remotely. We are all more likely to forget our keys than we are to forget our phones, although it goes both ways at times, but having a good service behind your smart lock can ensure you are taken care of if your keys and your smart phone decide to hang out somewhere you’re not. Plus, multiple people in the household can have the app. That way, they can remotely unlock the door for you if you’re locked out. This is a much more affordable solution than having to call a locksmith, break a window, or dangerously crawl through a window. Contact A Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse Security System Installer At SPS Fire & Security, your safety is #1. We carry and install the latest security systems so you can have the peace of mind you need at home and at work. To learn more about our products and services, call us at 585-770-0348.
Exciting Impacts of Winter Weather On Your Home Security
Protect Yourself Before the Next Storm Winter weather has already hit Rochester, Syracuse, and Buffalo this year and it is going to do it again. The winter storms that hit the area can come with high winds and large amounts of snow, which can cause power outages and a wide range of other issues that can affect your home security. Basically, winter weather can have an impact on your daily life. Snow, sleet, freezing rain, and subzero temperatures can affect heating bills, driving conditions, and the security of your home. To make sure winter weather doesn’t make your home vulnerable, there are some things that you need to know. 1. Power Outages Very cold temperatures and high wind can cause power outages. If you have a security system, it probably operates on electricity. Due to the number of power outages in the area, a back-up power source is necessary. That back-up power source can come in the form of battery power. Fortunately, there are security systems that have battery backup. If the power goes out, the system switches over to battery mode. When the electricity is restored, the system switches back to electric power. This gives you constant protection all year round (summer storms are notorious for causing power outages). 2. Communication Issues Communications are usually affected during a winter storm. This can be critical for 24/7 monitored security services. It is ideal to add cellular monitoring to your home security system so your security monitoring service is able to switch to your cellular connection in case your Wi-Fi connection fails. This helps you prevent burglaries or theft because the bad weather isn’t bringing down your home security system. You must also consider the fact that emergency services receive a lot of calls during a weather event. use.com, power outages are increasing in Upstate New York Basically, there are many ways to keep your system up and running during a storm, which amplifies every reason why professional security system installation is necessary. 3. Outside Lights and Surveillance Lights and outdoor video surveillance can be seriously affected by bad weather. Security lights can be damaged by wind or ice. Professional video surveillance installers tend to place cameras in the necessary places under as much protection as possible to minimize or eliminate damage. However, once again, it can come down to electricity. Any kind of battery backup that can be instituted can make an incredible difference. You might also want to consider a backup generator so that you can operate other areas of your home when you need to. Having lights on is a fantastic burglar deterrent. A burglar is less likely to target a home, or even a business, that is lit up when the power is out all around. 4. Protect Yourself More diligence is also needed when protecting yourself. For instance: Have a battery-powered radio on-hand so you can get updates, storm news, and other information. Make sure your cell phone is charged. Create an emergency kit that has food, water, hats, gloves, blankets, batteries, a flashlight, and matches. Make sure there’s enough to last a few days. Keep all windows and doors locked when inside and outside of the home. If you don’t already have a security system installed, call a professional immediately. These systems not only include video surveillance, but carbon monoxide and fire protection. Contact A Syracuse, Buffalo, and Rochester Security System Installer SPS Fire & Security wants you to be safe whether the electric is on or off. That is why affordable home security options are available that are customizable and scalable. To learn more, use our contact form or call us at 585-770-0348.
Exclusive Fire Safety Tips This Thanksgiving Holiday
Tips that Go Beyond the Kitchen Thanksgiving is a delicious time of year in which we give special attention to the many things that we are thankful for. It’s also a time in which we must be extra vigilant about fire risks and safety so that those people and things that we love are protected. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to ensure that your home is safe during this chaotic and joyful time without adding too much to an already very long to-do list. These are also measures that can protect you, your family, and your home year round. Protect Yourself Against Fire, Flood & CO Every Day! But First, A Look at Some Numbers Before we get into the tips, it’s good to get a solid understanding of why you need to make extra sure that you prevent a Thanksgiving fire, which will help you prevent a fire at any time. The U.S. Fire Administration published a report on Thanksgiving fires in residential buildings from 2014 to 2016 and this is what they found: For every year (2014, 2015, and 2016), there were approximately 2,400 residential fires reported to U.S. fire departments on Thanksgiving day, which caused $19 million in property loss in addition to the 25 injuries and 5 deaths. There are 1.8 Thanksgiving Day fires per 1,000 fires compare to 5.8 non-Thanksgiving Day fires per 1,000 fires. There are 11 injuries per 1,000 Thanksgiving fires compared to 25.7 injuries per 1,000 non-Thanksgiving fires. $7,800 is the average loss per fire compared to $17,560 for non-Thanksgiving Day fires. Multifamily dwellings account for 32.1% of Thanksgiving Day fires. One- and two-family dwellings account for 62.6% of Thanksgiving Day fires, while the remaining 5.3% is reserved for other types of homes. Thanksgiving fire alarm numbers begin to increase at 7:00 a.m. and peak from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 77% of Thanksgiving fires are limited to the object of origin, which means it is contained where it begins. However, this doesn’t minimize the extent of injury. Cooking is responsible for 76.5% of Thanksgiving fires. You can see here that the pattern of Thanksgiving fires is different from a random fire that happens any other time of the year. Knowing the profile of what makes a Thanksgiving fire different can help you with prevention. Just don’t let the fact that there are fewer deaths or injuries per 1,000 fires get your guard down because Thanksgiving is one day a year and nearly 3,000 fires on one day is a lot. Fire Safety Tips to Keep You Safe on Thanksgiving Now it’s time for some quick tips. For instance, HAVE A WORKING SMOKE ALARM. This is key in fire containment and overall safety. Security alarms have built-in smoke detectors that can detect smoke or fire anywhere in the house all year round. Second, make sure you have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen close to the stove and oven. Before you start cooking, make sure your fire extinguisher is safe to use. Third, don’t cook with long, loose sleeves since loose clothing can catch fire. Some other tips: Don’t leave cooking food unattended. Yes, it is tempting to make that quick trip to the grocery store, but either have another adult watch the kitchen or send them on an errand. Kids and the cooking of a huge meal aren’t compatible. It’s best that the little ones stay away from all of the sharp objects and hot things. Face pot and pan handles toward the back of the stove so they aren’t over any burners. Be mindful of towel placement so they don’t touch a burner and catch fire. If a fire occurs, your 24/7 monitored security system can alert the authorities. Don’t yet have a system? Call 911 immediately. If the fire is a grease or oil fire, don’t throw the contents outside. Instead, place a lid over the flames to snuff them out and turn off the heat. The lid shouldn’t be removed until the pan cools. You can also put out an oven fire by keeping the door closed and turning off the heat so it smothers. Opening the door simply gives the fire oxygen to thrive. Baking soda is also another good thing to have to put out a food fire. You don’t want to use flour or water because the reaction could be a violent one that causes the fire to spread. Contact An Expert Rochester Fire Alarm Company By keeping the above fire safety tips in mind, you should have a much safer Thanksgiving. If you don’t have an alarm system that can detect smoke or fire anywhere in your home, SPS Fire & Security has some great options that will help you protect your family and your home. Call us for more information at 585-770-0348. Happy Thanksgiving!
Love Dogs? Here’s How Alarm Systems Help Dog Families
How Effective are Dogs as Alarm Systems? Being a dog parent is hard work, but the effort is well rewarded by the love that you and that cuddly bundle of fur have for each other. A result of this love is your desire to protect your furry family member because you don’t want anything bad to happen to them. What’s amazing is that alarm systems can be instrumental in providing this protection But wait… Aren’t dogs great at protecting their homes? Yes, they can be, but a dog isn’t always sufficient in keeping an intruder away. A dog is merely an inconvenience to a burglar and that can bring more harm to the dog than the dog brings to the intruder. A Few Startling Facts Here are some eye-opening bits of info that might interest you: 34% of burglars state that a dog inside the house changes their mind before breaking into a home. This means that 66% are still not deterred. According to the Department of Justice, a dog is a theft deterrent if a burglar is afraid of dogs. As evidenced by the previous statistics, that’s not the majority of burglars. Dogs that bark at the right times can be effective at scaring off intruders, but dogs that bark at random things tend to not scare off intruders that have cased the house and know the dog’s habits. Habitual barkers are also more likely to be ignored by neighbors. Unfortunately, intruders can calm a dog easily with treats or meat containing a tranquilizer. In some tests, trained guard dogs failed to resist this distraction. Intruders have been known to harm dogs or take their lives. Here is an Inside Edition investigation that put dogs to the test: Getting to the Bottom of Dog Senses The fact is that dog senses aren’t always foolproof. They have fantastic senses of smell and hearing, but some breeds of dogs can fall short when it comes to making certain decisions. As illustrated in the Inside Edition investigation, the smallest dogs in the test were the ones that displayed the greatest guard dog characteristics. Unfortunately, their small size still makes them targets. Reliable Intruder Alarms Monitored 24/7 We just have to face the fact that dogs are vulnerable. This in itself is frightening considering you want to protect your dog and your property. You can have the smartest dog on the planet, but something as simple as dangling a tasty treat in front of them can be a game changer. It simply isn’t fair to put them in charge of home security, as they are family members that want to relax, play, and make you happy. The Right Tools for Protecting Your Home and Dog So, what you need to do is put the right tools in place and that starts with a professionally installed home security system. Many residences throughout Rochester, Syracuse, and Buffalo have these systems in place. Seeing that a system is installed deters 60% of burglars, but a majority of 86 burglars interviewed by KTVB said they would immediately leave if an alarm system began sounding. Basically, a good combination of video cameras, 24/7 monitoring, alarms, and motion sensors can give you a greater degree of security, protect your dog, and give you better peace of mind. Plus, cameras installed inside of the home can be monitored remotely via your smartphone, allowing you to keep an eye on your home and your dog. Contact An Experienced Rochester Alarm System Company All-in-all, you can take the pressure off of Fido and let a professionally installed alarm system do the work for you both. The reliability and level of security are outstanding. To learn more about how SPS Fire & Security can help you, call 585-770-0348 or complete our contact form and we will get back to you. Also serving the Syracuse and Buffalo areas.
Interesting Carbon Monoxide Info That Could Save Your Life
Knowledge Is the Key to Fighting this Silent Killer Carbon monoxide (CO) is called a “silent killer” because it’s colorless and odorless. Now that it’s September, it’s important to bring up this very important topic because winter is getting closer and that’s the time of year when CO-related deaths increase. But before we go more in-depth into the answers to the most frequently asked questions about carbon monoxide and the poisoning it can cause: Solid carbon monoxide detection is ALWAYS the most reliable way to ensure exposure doesn’t cause health issues or death. Unfortunately, you can put many preventative measures in place, but that doesn’t necessarily prevent something from going wrong that causes deadly exposure. Good detection will alert you of the presence of CO so you can immediately take action. Because the gas is odorless and colorless, there is really no other way to know it is in the air without getting very ill first. Still, many people don’t realize that their illness is related to carbon monoxide poisoning and will go take a nap (extremely dangerous) or eventually lose consciousness. Where Can You Find CO? CO is produced anywhere fuel is burned. In a homes and even businesses, stoves, lanterns, fireplaces, grills, gas ranges, and gas furnaces are sources of CO. When operating properly, these items emit levels so low they aren’t harmful. However, nothing operates well forever. Some businesses, such as industrial environments where there are fuel-burning machines used inside, CO can build up and make workers sick. Think of an auto mechanic and how they work on vehicles inside. According to the CDC, nearly 20% of CO-related incidents occur in different types of businesses, while 50% of incidents occur in homes. Who Is Most At Risk for CO Poisoning? Everyone! However, a person with breathing problems or a heart problem or a person of very young or advanced age is more likely to get sick or sicker. Every year 400 AMERICANS DIE FROM ACCIDENTAL CO POISONING. This poisoning isn’t fire-related. MORE THAN 20,000 PEOPLE end up in the emergency room and more than 4,000 of them must stay in the hospital. That’s A LOT of people! Check out this extremely informational video on how CO poisoning happens and how it starves the body of oxygen, leading to CO poisoning: How to Prevent CO Poisoning CO detector installation is the best place to start. Professional CO detector installation is even better because you end up with a system that works at all times with sensors in all the right places. When CO detection is a part of your security system, the 24/7 monitoring center can alert the authorities on your behalf in the event of an emergency. Other things to do include: Have your heating system, hot water tank, and anything else that operates on gas or burns coal serviced each year. While not 100% effective, inspection and service greatly increases safety. Don’t use flameless chemical heaters inside. If you smell gas and you don’t know the source, get out. If you know the source, turn it off if you can safely do so. Have that item professionally serviced. Only buy gas equipment that has a national testing agency seal. Gas appliances should be properly vented. Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned annually. Vent pipes should never be patched with unauthorized materials or CO could build up. Gas ranges or ovens should never be used for heating. Charcoal or portable camp stoves should never be burned indoors. Generators should never be used indoors (including the basement or less than 20 feet from a vent, door, or window) What Are the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning? The most common symptoms can mimic other conditions, which is why so many people miss that what they are experiencing is CO poisoning. This amplifies why having a detector in place can save your life. If you have a dull headache, feel week, feel dizzy, start vomiting, feel nauseous, are confused, or your vision is blurred, you could be experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning. A detector will tell you for sure so you know to get out of the home or business as soon as possible. Depending on how long and how intense the exposure, CO poisoning can cause fetal death or miscarriage in a pregnant woman, heart damage, and even brain damage. The ultimate consequence is death, which is most common among people who are sleeping or intoxicated. Rochester, NY Carbon Monoxide Detector Installation If you live in Rochester, Buffalo, or Syracuse and you don’t have the proper CO detection in place, it’s imperative to take action as soon as possible. This is the best time of year to do it because the use of gas-burning appliances and other tools increase when the temperatures start dropping in the fall. To learn about the differences between a DIY CO detector and professional carbon monoxide detector installation or to begin protecting yourself and everyone you care about ASAP, call SPS Fire & Security at 585-770-0348.
DIY Video Surveillance vs. Professional CCTV Installation
Which Video Surveillance Route Should You Take? The home security industry is growing rapidly, which means there are more property protection options available to homeowners every day. The debate, however, is to whether go with professional security system installation or a DIY alarm system. Chances are, you’ve encountered this debate before, so we’re going to take a look at the surveillance system. Video surveillance has become such a significant part of the overall alarm system because it allows you to keep an eye on your property when away and potentially identify a person who commits a burglary or other property crime. But notice the word used there was “potentially” and here’s why: The video surveillance cameras that you have installed can have a major impact on the likelihood a criminal will be caught. Here’s a good example: Because of the high prevalence of property crimes, more people are turning to social media to catch criminals. Video surveillance images are posted on Facebook every single day, but the criminals are very difficult to identify even if the images are taken in broad daylight. Picture quality is one of the HUGE differences between DIY systems that are bought at Sam’s Club, Walmart, or Amazon versus a professionally installed system. Professional installation puts an emphasis on picture quality so the probability of a criminal being caught raises. The Unmonitored System vs. The Monitored System Another issue to look at is monitoring. Yes, there are many DIY CCTV systems that allow you to record and even monitor in real-time. There are also some that allow you to connect via your smart phone. The element missing is the 24/7 monitoring. You can’t look at your phone or sit in front of a television or computer screen every single minute of every single day. When video surveillance is part of your security system package, the 24/7 monitoring service is alerted so that action can be taken on your behalf. Even if you have push notifications sent to your phone, you run the risk of being in an area with no signal, your phone battery dying, or being in a situation where you might not hear the notification. When you have professional monitoring, you have another set of eyes on everything that matters to you. The Lowdown on Installation Then, of course, there’s the installation. You can put a DIY camera exactly where you want it. This makes buying that type of system at the local hardware store very tempting. However, the absence of the certified technician who can evaluate the property and identify key areas could be the difference between dealing with a break-in and not dealing with one. The quality of the camera can also be the difference between identifying the burglar or not identifying them. Right now, there are many criminals NOT being identified even when they look directly at the cameras. And you should know: Burglars are becoming very camera savvy, easily identifying those that have been purchased locally or on the internet versus a professionally installed system. Burglars almost ALWAYS do their research prior to breaking into a structure because they want to minimize their risk. According to Architectural Digest, burglars do their homework. Looking for Video Surveillance Options In Rochester, Syracuse, or Buffalo? Finding yourself at this point means you are exploring your options. This means it is time to ask questions. If you’re torn between a DIY system and professionally installed, compare the pros and cons of both. Call SPS Fire & Security at 585-770-0348 to learn more
Doorbell Camera Buying Guide: What You Need to Know
When you have a doorbell camera, you have better security A doorbell camera gives you a view of what is going on outside and who is passing through. Because it can be integrated into your home security system, home security is enhanced. The main feature is being able to see who is at the door via a mobile application when you’re away. An example of how the doorbell camera and application work together: Let’s say you’re at the beach and someone rings your doorbell. You will get an alert on your smartphone telling you someone is at your door. A video feed will allow you to see that person. Burglars tend to ring the doorbell before breaking into a home. This device is a great way to get ahead of a potential burglary. However, some burglars prefer to sneak around. Motional detection triggers the doorbell camera and sends you a notification. Although the creeper can’t see you, you can see them. Doorbell cameras also: Protect packages from porch pirates. Catch suspicious activity in the front yard and porch area. Help you keep an eye on your children. Have a “do not disturb” option so sleeping children aren’t disturbed. The list of benefits goes beyond this short list. Ask the following questions to find answers specific to you. 1. What does the installation process entail? You can have a battery powered or hard-wired doorbell camera. If you choose a battery powered system, the installation process takes less time. A hard-wired system is integrated into the home’s electrical system by a professional, and is the most reliable type because batteries can fail. 2. What are the doorbell camera components? A doorbell camera with a microphone and speakers allows you to interact with the person at the door no matter where you are. These cameras often include night vision, motion detectors, and there doorbell button. 3. How does a doorbell camera stand up to the weather? The Rochester, Syracuse, and Buffalo area has been known for its tough weather. There are ways to further weatherproof your doorbell camera: Purchase of tamper- and weather-proof cases: Most doorbell cameras are built to stand up to tough conditions since they are made to be outside. If you decide you want to further protect the unit, ensure the case is specifically designed for your model. 4. Couldn’t a thief pry the unit off of the house? Thieves have definitely tried and are usually unsuccessful. Even if a thief broke or removed the camera, the recordings are stored externally. Taking out the camera doesn’t have any effect on the recordings. This is also another reason why professional installation is better than DIY installation. The installation goes beyond that of a store-bought camera. 5. Can I have a doorbell camera integrated into my existing home security system? The one true way to know if you can integrate a doorbell system into your existing security system is to talk to a home security professional. This is so compatibility is determined before making the investment. Adding this type of component to your system initiates a much-needed system upgrade if you are using an older system. Upgrades result in better security. In fact, it was reported in 2017 that video doorbell sales were expected to grow 28% per year for the next five years, and primarily as a component integrated into existing security systems. At one time, it was expected that this level of security was limited to the United States. Since 2017, the global doorbell camera market grew to $1.2 billion. The figure is expected to reach $4.6 billion by 2031. The growth is a reflection of society’s realization that doorbell cameras equal safety. It is nice to be on vacation and see who is at the door. What’s more, is the ability to speak to the visitor. With doorbell cameras being more prevalent, the sight of one makes burglars turn around. Contact Your Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse Home Security Installer Today At SPS Fire & Security, we take your home security as seriously as we do our own by ensuring you have the best of the best. To learn more about doorbell camera integration or simply improving the level of security at home, call us at 585-770-0348 for a free consultation or complete our contact form and a professional from our office will get back to you.