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    Month: October 2016

    What You to Need Know About Fire System Tests and Inspections

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    fire-system-testing-and-inspection

    If you’re a commercial building owner or manager, then you’re probably familiar with the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, otherwise known as NFPA 72. This code lists the most current safety provisions regarding the installation, performance and testing of fire alarm and detection systems in a business establishment.

    Why Should You Have Your Fire Alarm Systems Inspected on a Regular Basis?

    Some business owners and business managers may wonder why they need to make the effort and bear the expense of having their alarm systems inspected. Why test fire alarms? Why inspect fire extinguishers? Here are just a few of the many important reasons:

    • It’s the law: Noncompliance with NFPA 72 can result in fines or imprisonment — or both.
    • Protecting lives: The failure to maintain an effective, properly operating fire alarm and detection system places the lives of your employees and customers at risk.
    • Complying with local fire codes: Regardless of where your establishment is located, NFPA 72 compliance is necessary to meet the requirements of fire and building inspectors.
    • Limiting liability exposure: If an injury or fatality occurs due to a fire at your property, you could be held legally liable if it is determined you did not take appropriate steps to maintain NFPA 72 compliance.
    • Rejection of insurance coverage: Per above, even if you have liability insurance coverage, your carrier is likely to reject your claim if you fail to provide adequate proof of an annual fire system inspection.

    Fire System Inspection Checklist

    To help building managers ensure compliance with fire system testing and inspection standards, the National Fire Prevention Association has developed an extensive checklist of items that require attention. Depending on the system component, it may require testing on a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual basis. A total of 23 components are included on the current fire alarm testing checklist:

    1. Control equipment for buildings connected to supervising station
    2. Control equipment for buildings not connected to supervising station
    3. Engine driven generator — central station facilities and fire alarm systems
    4. Engine-driven generator — public fire alarm reporting system
    5. Batteries — central station facilities
    6. Batteries — fire alarm systems
    7. Batteries — public fire alarm reporting systems
    8. Fiber-optic cable power
    9. Control unit trouble signals
    10. Conductors — metallic
    11. Conductors — nonmetallic
    12. Emergency voice/alarm communications equipment
    13. Retransmission equipment
    14. Remote annunciators
    15. Initiating devices
    16. Guard’s tour equipment
    17. Interface equipment
    18. Special hazard equipment
    19. Alarm notification appliances
    20. Off-premises transmission equipment
    21. Supervising station fire alarm systems — transmitters
    22. Special procedures
    23. Supervising station fire alarm systems — receivers

    Titan Alarm, Inc. Can Handle All Your Fire Alarm System Inspection and Testing Needs

    It is critical your fire alarm system inspection is conducted by a reputable, professional company. In addition to installing high-quality alarm systems, Titan Alarm, Inc. can provide reliable inspection and testing services for businesses throughout the Phoenix, AZ area. Contact us for more detailed information regarding the items on the NFPA 72 fire system inspection checklist and to schedule an inspection at your facility today.

    Learn More About Testing & Inspection

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    Best Places to Live in Maricopa County

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    best-places-to-live-in-maricopa-county

    Are you considering relocating to Maricopa County, Arizona — a beautiful, rapidly growing region of the U.S. that is often referred to as The Valley of the Sun? Whether you’re moving to begin a new job, start a business or simply enjoy your retirement years in a warm, sunny climate, this truly unique part of the country has much to offer. What follows is a sampling of some of the best places to live in Maricopa County.

    Phoenix

    Phoenix is the largest and most well-known city in Maricopa County, and many people feel it is one of the best places to live. Phoenix has everything you would expect from a major metropolitan area — there is no shortage of options when it comes to dining, entertainment, attractions and cultural events. It’s the perfect choice for anyone who prefers the hustle and bustle of the big city.

    Scottsdale

    A northeastern suburb of Phoenix with a population of more than 217,000, Scottsdale is a major city in its own right. Scottsdale can provide a suitable alternative if you want to be close to the big city but prefer more of a suburban lifestyle.

    Tempe

    Located in the East Valley region of the Phoenix Metro area, Tempe is the site of Arizona State University, giving this city of approximately 162,000 a decidedly collegiate vibe. Along with the abundance of job and economic opportunities, this makes the Tempe area extremely attractive to the millennial generation.

    Wickenburg

    If you’re looking for an alternative to the big city or the sprawling suburbs, the small town of Wickenburg — approximately 6,700 residents — may be a good fit. An hour’s drive from the Phoenix metro area, you’ll be far enough away to enjoy a quiet lifestyle, yet close enough to venture to the big city whenever you wish. If you’re looking for a safe place to live, Wickenburg can meet your needs.

    Guadalupe

    Guadalupe can be considered one of the best places to live in Maricopa County if you’re looking for a town that is a bit on the unique side. Steeped in Mexican and Native American heritage, Guadalupe’s motto is Where Three Cultures Flourish. However, the area is strictly residential, so you will likely need to commute to the Phoenix metro area for work

    Youngtown

    Known as the first master-planned retirement community in the United States, Youngtown can be a good place for retirees who are looking for a quiet place to live in a warm, sunny climate. The small population and laid-back lifestyle help to make Youngtown a safe place to live in Maricopa County.

    Contact Titan Alarm for Your Home Security Needs

    While there are many safe places to live in Phoenix and other cities in Maricopa County, property crime can still pose a problem in certain areas. Contact the Maricopa County security professionals at Titan Alarm Inc. for all your home security system needs. We will work with you to design and install an integrated security solution that will keep you and your family safe and give you total peace of mind.

    Learn More About Home Security

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    Moving Checklist: Fire Safety & Home Security

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    fire-safety-and-home-security

    There’s a lot to think about when moving into a new home, and one of the most important elements is your new home’s security. However, with all the attention on the details such as hiring a moving company and packing up your belongings, you might not have time to think about it.

    The following checklist provides tips for new homeowners that cover many of the home safety and security essentials:

    • Exterior doors: All your exterior doors should have high-quality deadbolt locks. It’s also a good idea to have the locks changed — you never know if there are extra keys to the existing locks still floating around. If your new home has sliding glass doors, make sure they are equipped with at least one of the following: insertion pin lock, track lock, hinged door bar, wooden or metal dowel in the door track.
    • Garage door: One of the most important tips for home security is to ensure your new home’s overhead garage door is equipped with an automatic opener, as this can prevent intruders from gaining access. Also be certain the main door as well as the door that leads from the garage into your home have top-quality deadbolt locks.
    • Windows: Unlocked windows are a favorite entry point for burglars. Another essential security tip for new homebuyers is to make sure all windows are equipped with keyed locks. Also be certain the keys are easily accessible in case of an emergency.
    • Lighting: Your home’s front entrance should have sufficient lighting to allow you to easily identify nighttime visitors. Floodlights or motion sensor-controlled exterior lighting are an extremely effective intruder deterrent. Equipping the interior of your home with smart lighting technology that allows you to automatically turn the lights on and off at predetermined intervals is another reliable home security measure.
    • Fire safety: Perhaps the most critical safety tip for home security is making sure your fire and smoke detection equipment is in good working order. You should have smoke detectors installed in the kitchen, hallways near bedrooms, at the top of all stairways and inside the garage. Additionally, place fire extinguishers in the kitchen, basement and garage. Another key safety feature is a monitored fire alarm system that will provide an immediate alert to first responders.
    • Home security system: One last important tip for new homebuyers: If your new home has an outdated security system — or no security system at all — strongly consider having one installed before you move in. A state-of-the-art security system should include features such as strategically placed high-tech video surveillance cameras, motion sensors, access control devices and energy management solutions. Integrating these features with the implementation of smart technology allows you to control and monitor your security system on a 24/7 basis via smartphone app.

    We’re Here to Assist You With Your Home Security

    If you’re planning to move to the Phoenix, AZ area, Titan Alarm can handle all your home security needs. We offer a wide selection of security cameras, motion detectors, fire alarms and other security essentials. Contact us for more valuable moving tips for new house buyers and to schedule a no-obligation security consultation.

    Learn More About Home Security

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    Top Smart Home Technologies to Consider as You Build Your New Home

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    smart-home-technologies-for-new-home

    If you’re in the process of designing your dream home, you’ve probably spent a lot of time thinking about things like the size of the rooms and whether or not you want to install a fireplace. For many homeowners, though, the implementation of smart technology also deserves strong consideration. What is smart home technology? Simply put, a smart home is equipped with lighting, heating and cooling units, electronics, appliances and security systems that are able to communicate with one another and can be programmed and controlled remotely with a computer, smartphone, tablet or smartwatch.

    Examples of the Best Smart Home Technology

    Specific examples of new smart home technology include:

    • Lighting: Smart home lighting systems feature Wi-Fi-enabled LED light bulbs that can significantly reduce your home energy bills. You can also program your lights to turn on and off at specified times, which also helps to conserve energy and serves as an effective home security measure.
    • Thermostats: A smart thermostat enables you to more easily control your home’s heating and cooling system and maintain the optimum temperature throughout the year. It has the ability to automatically adjust the system’s operation whenever the interior temperature rises or falls — you won’t have to worry about getting up in the middle of the night because the house is too hot or too cold.
    • Household appliances: Smart household appliances include everything from washers and dryers that can be programmed to automatically start loads to refrigerators equipped with cameras that can take pictures and email them to your smartphone — so you’ll know whether you need to pick up a gallon of milk on your way home from work. You can even get a smart crock pot that allows you to control the settings remotely with your computer or mobile device.
    • Beds: A smart bed allows you to improve sleep quality by using embedded sensors to track your movements and vital signs and make recommendations for improvements. It can also be integrated with your heating and cooling system so you can maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.
    • Security systems: What is the best smart home technology solution in terms of a security system? A fully integrated smart home security system typically consists of devices such as wireless video surveillance cameras, motion sensors, door locks, fire alarms and smoke detectors. An example of how an integrated smart security system works is when an intruder trips a motion sensor that causes the lights to turn on, while simultaneously triggering the video cameras to begin recording.

    Trust Titan Alarm With Your Smart Home

    If you are building your new home in the Phoenix, AZ area, Titan Alarm, Inc. has all your smart home technology needs covered. We can work with you to design and install a fully integrated smart home system that encompasses security, energy management, appliance operation and much more. You’ll also have the ability to easily monitor and control your system via a downloadable mobile app.

    Contact Titan Alarm today to learn more about what the best smart home technology options are for your new home.

    Learn More About Smart Home Technology

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    How To Make Your Moving Experience Easier

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    make-moving-easier

    If you’re in the process of moving, security systems may not be your top priority. After all, you already have enough to worry about – finding a moving company, getting everything packed, making sure everything with your old house is in order and so forth. However, security for a new home is not something that should be overlooked. You want to be sure your family and property will be fully protected against break-ins, fire and the wide range of risks every homeowner faces these days.

    The good news is that if you are moving to Maricopa County, Arizona, Titan Alarm Inc. is available to handle all your home security needs. We can design and install a fully integrated security system for a new house featuring advanced smart technology. We also have the expertise to recommend the best security system for your needs and budget. We’ll handle all the details so you can focus more of your time and energy on the moving process.

    Video Surveillance for 24/7 Property Monitoring

    Our security systems for a new home can include IP video surveillance cameras featuring cutting-edge wireless technology for maximum placement flexibility. You will get the benefit of clear HD images along with the ability to view live and recorded camera feeds at any time via your smartphone. Adding intuitive video verification sensors can ensure a prompt response by law enforcement and virtually eliminate the possibility of a false alarm.

    Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

    A devastating house fire can occur at any time. Titan Alarm can install reliable fire alarms and smoke detectors that will provide the early warning to you and first responders that can save your home – and more importantly – the lives of your family. Detectors are also available that can alert you to the presence of carbon monoxide, that invisible, odorless but extremely deadly gas that kills hundreds of Americans each year.

    Motion and Intrusion Sensors

    The best way to stop intruders is to detect their presence before they can enter your home. We offer a wide variety of motion detection devices that will provide immediate alerts to you and local law enforcement should an uninvited guest attempt to breach your property. These devices can also be designed to trigger your exterior lighting system to frighten intruders away.

    Energy Management Solutions

    Titan Alarm is your headquarters for technologically advanced energy management systems that can help you reduce your home heating, cooling and electricity costs. These systems allow you to establish automated schedules for when your HVAC system and lights go on and off and make immediate adjustments with your smartphone or tablet.

    Contact Titan Alarm Inc. to Explore Your Home Security System Options

    Titan Alarm has more than a decade of providing state-of-the-art, fully integrated security solutions for homeowners in the Phoenix area and beyond. If you’re planning a move to Maricopa County and you need a security system for your new home, contact us to learn more about how we can make your moving experience so much easier.

    Learn More About Home Security

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    Best Smart Home Technology for 2016

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    best-smart-home-technologies

    When you hear the term smart technology, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the smartphone you use on a daily basis. You might not know that this same intuitive, user-friendly technology can be found in a wide range of household products and devices that are changing the way people live. Here are a few of the many gadgets that represent that the latest advancements in smart home technology as of 2016.

    Robot Vacuum Cleaners

    A robot vacuum cleaner can eliminate the drudgery associated with this essential household chore. Vacuums equipped with robotic smart home technology do not require human operation and are capable of detecting and navigating obstacles and even automatically emptying their dustbins.

    Smart Refrigerators

    Are you tired of having to throw away long-forgotten perishable items that seem to get lost inside your refrigerator? A smart refrigerator includes a touch-screen monitor that interacts with a smartphone app. This allows you to keep an inventory of fresh vegetables, dairy products and other perishable items, while also getting access to useful information regarding the refrigerator’s energy consumption.

    Wireless Lightbulbs

    A wireless LED lighting system can be a big energy-saver – you also get the convenience of controlling your entire home lighting system via your smartphone. You will even be able to set up a schedule for when your lights go on and off, which is an important home security benefit.

    Smart Thermostats

    Smart thermostats also provide an excellent way to keep your home energy costs under control. They have the ability to work with your home heating and cooling system to automatically adjust the temperature to suit your preferences, and you can also manually increase or decrease the temperature at any time with your smartphone.

    Wireless Door/Window Sensors

    Wireless door and window sensors detect intruders who attempt to gain access to your home via these vulnerable points of entry. They also send immediate text and/or email alerts that allow for a prompt response when a break-in occurs.

    Wireless Security Cameras

    Smart security cameras offer the advantage of wireless connectivity so you can place them exactly where you need them. You can also use your smartphone to monitor your camera feeds remotely – you can keep a close watch on your home while you’re at work, running errands or traveling.

    How to Upgrade My Home to a Smart Home

    If you live in the Phoenix, Arizona, area, Titan Alarm Inc. has the know-how to transform your home into a smart home. We can work with you to develop a fully integrated smart home technology system that incorporates security solutions such as video cameras, intrusion detection devices and lighting systems, as well as a variety of other home automation gadgets. We’re also the best smart home installation provider in the area – we can set up your entire system, as well as deliver timely maintenance and repair service when needed.

    Contact Titan Alarm for fast, efficient smart home installation in Arizona. We’ll be happy to schedule a no-obligation in-home consultation at your convenience.

    Learn More About Smart Home Technology

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    Types of Construction Site Crimes

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    construction-site-crimes

    Crime at construction sites poses a constant problem. The vulnerability of these sites makes them highly susceptible to theft and other criminal activity that result in millions of dollars lost to construction companies and contractors each year. In this post, we will explore some of the most common types of construction crime, as well as provide a few helpful construction site crime-prevention tips.

    Theft

     Construction-site crime statistics routinely show theft to be the top threat to construction company owners and contractors. The lack of adequate security measures can serve as an open invitation to thieves who help themselves to unprotected machinery, tools and equipment. The high employee turnover that is commonplace in the industry can also contribute to the rampant theft at construction sites.

    Vandalism

     The list of construction crimes also includes vandalism. Heavy equipment, such as bulldozers, backhoes, excavators and skid steer loaders, is a prime target for vandals, particularly during the nighttime hours when the site is unoccupied and the darkness offers concealment to the perpetrators. It is also not uncommon for the building under construction to be covered with graffiti or be damaged in more substantial ways by vandals.

    Failure to Comply With Health and Safety Regulations

    Construction industry crime can also take the form of a violation of worker safety laws. Companies that do not take adequate safety measures could be found negligent if unsafe practices cause or contribute to an injury or illness. This could result in substantial fines or even the filing of criminal charges against the negligent parties.

    Helpful Construction Site Crime-Prevention Steps

     There are a number of steps your company can take to limit your risk for construction crime and catch criminals:

    • Identify and Track Assets and Property: Emblazoning all equipment with your company’s logo can help deter thieves. Consider developing some type of numbering system to help you inventory and keep track of your assets.
    • Ramp up Gate Security: Many larger construction sites have fences with gates to control and monitor the entry and exit of personnel and vehicles. Keep the number of gates to a minimum, and if practical, enlist the services of uniformed security guards to check vehicles. Be sure the gates are closed and locked when not in use.
    • Provide Adequate Lighting: Keeping your site well-lit at night is another extremely effective way to prevent construction crime. Key areas of focus for your lighting should include office trailers and equipment and material storage yards, as well as any buildings under construction.

    Enlisting the Services of a Professional Commercial Security Company

    The best way to fully protect your site against construction crime is by enlisting the services of an experienced, reputable security company. If you operate construction sites in the Phoenix, Arizona, area, Titan Alarm Inc. can provide an integrated security solution you can rely on. Our commercial security systems include video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection and video verification. We also have the expertise to provide complete design and installation service.

    Contact us to learn more about the best ways to prevent construction crime at your jobsites.

    Learn More About Commercial Security

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 2, 2018.

    How To Prepare for Next Summer’s Heat

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    how-to-prepare-for-summer-heat

    The beautiful Phoenix, AZ area can be one of the most pleasant places to live in the entire country — if you don’t mind a little heat! With an average high temperature of over 100°F from June through September, even the most avid sun worshipers could find the summer heat a bit on the oppressive side. Here are some helpful tips you can start working on now to help you beat the heat next summer in Arizona, with a focus on keeping your home cool and comfortable.

    Install Solar Screens

    Did you know that approximately half of the heat that enters your home comes in through the windows? However, one way to beat the heat in Phoenix is by installing solar screens on your windows, particularly those facing south and west. As an added benefit, solar screens will protect your home against interior sun damage. The screens can be removed during the cooler times of the year.

    Use Awnings to Block the Sun

    Strategically placed awnings can reduce your Phoenix home’s cooling energy requirements by 20 percent or more. The two basic types of awnings are fixed and adjustable, with the latter providing the added flexibility of being able to adjust the level of shade throughout the day. As with solar screens, awnings are most effective when placed on the south and west sides of your home.

    Let Ceiling Fans Do the Work

    How can you keep your house cold with ceiling fans? Use of ceiling fans can complement your air conditioning system by dispersing the chilled air throughout a room. You’re also likely to find that you can set your thermostat a little higher, which can help to reduce your energy costs. Since ceiling fans are designed for use in specific rooms, you can turn them off when you exit the room, which also lowers your energy consumption.

    Provide Shade for Your AC Unit

    If you are installing a new AC unit, try to place in a location that receives shade during the heat of the day. Because your unit won’t have to work as hard, this can increase its efficiency by as much as 10 percent.

    Plant Trees

    While planting trees won’t pay immediate dividends since it will obviously take some time for them to grow, it will ultimately provide significant benefits in the long run. In addition to serving as an excellent source of natural shade, the evaporating moisture from the leaves helps to cool the air that surrounds your home. The best types of trees are ones that lose their leaves during the winter, as this will allow the sun to warm your home during those colder months.

    Contact Titan Alarm to Learn More About How to Beat the Heat in Phoenix

    Knowing how to stay cool in Arizona during the summer can be a challenge, but these tips can help you beat the heat — and reduce your energy bills in the process. Feel free to contact us at Titan Alarm to learn more about how a home energy management system can give you greater control over your home’s climate during summer and throughout the year.

    Learn More About Energy Management

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

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