Things to Do in Tucson

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There’s no doubt that beautiful Tucson, AZ is one of the best places to live and work in the Southwest. But with a population of more than 500,000, even the most hardcore Tucsonans may feel the need to escape the city to enjoy an occasional weekend getaway. The good news is there are plenty of close vacation spots to Tucson that are perfect for a couple of days of adventure — or a little rest and relaxation.

  1. Kartchner Caverns State Park

Located about 50 miles southeast of Tucson, Kartchner Caverns State Park is the site of a spectacular limestone cave filled with nearly 2.5 miles of winding passages. Featured attractions include the Throne Room, which houses one of the largest soda straw stalactites in the world, and the Big Room, known for its expansive brushite moonmilk formation. The surrounding park offers numerous opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing and exploration. If you’re not up for camping, fully-appointed private cabins are available for your weekend accommodations.

  1. Kitt Peak National Observatory

If stargazing is your thing, the observatory, situated in the Quinlin Mountains at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet, features the world’s largest collection of optical telescopes. During the day, you can enjoy the guided and self-guided walking tours or spend time exploring the surrounding mountainside or the breathtaking Sonoran Desert far below.

  1. Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail

The area south of Tucson is a wine lover’s paradise! The Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail includes a dozen vineyards and wineries where you can sample some of the finest vino the Southwest has to offer. You can also venture east of Tucson to navigate the Willcox Wine Trail to try out another dozen or so excellent wineries. You’ll also want to explore the historic town of Willcox where you can visit tourist favorites such as the Willcox Playa Wildlife Area, the Rex Allen Arizona Cowboy Museum and the Friends of Marty Robbins Museum.

  1. Tombstone

Anyone who is fond of the Old West will want to visit Tombstone, AZ. Located about 70 miles southeast of Tucson, Tombstone is the site of the famous (or infamous) O.K. Corral and the legendary shootout between Wyatt Earp and his group of lawmen and the notorious Cowboys. Tombstone is also a popular tourist destination offering an assortment of Western-themed performance events and attractions.

  1. Bisbee

Located in the Mule Mountains about 90 miles southeast of Tucson, the small city of Bisbee is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing weekend mountain excursion. Once a booming gold, silver and copper mining town, Bisbee now features a thriving downtown area that offers an assortment of cultural attractions and historical sites. A 2016 USA Today poll named Bisbee “Best Historic Small Town.”

Don’t Forget About Home Security During a Trip

Don’t overlook the importance of home safety during a vacation — even a short one. Titan Alarm, Inc. can provide a custom security solution that will protect your home while you’re away. Contact us to schedule a free in-home consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

Historical Sites in Tucson

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The beautiful city of Tucson, AZ has much to offer for history buffs. Sometimes referred to as “The Old Pueblo,” Tucson is Arizona’s second-largest city, trailing only Phoenix in population. The name “Tucson” is an Americanized version of the Spanish word “Tucsón,” which is derived from a Native American phrase that means “base of the black hill.” This refers to Tucson’s location near a basalt-covered hill known as Sentinel Peak.

The original settlers of the area that eventually became Tucson were the Paleo-Indians, who arrived approximately 12,000 years ago. A Jesuit missionary named Eusebio Francisco Kino founded a settlement near the Tucson area in the late 17th century. Tucson’s “founding father” is Hugo O’Connor, who was appointed governor of the Texas territory by the Spanish viceroy in 1767 and authorized the construction of a military fort called Presidio San Agustín del Tucsón in 1775.

This unique convergence of Native American, Spanish and Mexican heritage has resulted in numerous historical sites throughout the Tucson area. One of the best things to do in Tucson for any history fan is to check out these popular attractions:

  • Presidio District – Located in historic downtown Tucson, the Presidio District is the site of the partially restored Presidio San Agustín del Tucsón fort. The Historic Block represents the heart of the Presidio District and includes the Tucson Museum of Art and numerous older homes dating back to the 18th century. The museum showcases a permanent exhibit of pre-Columbian, Western, Latin American and Asian art.
  • Arizona Historical Society Museum – This museum is adjacent to the University of Arizona campus in Tucson. It’s filled with artifacts from the days of the arrival of Tucson’s first settlers through Arizona’s time as a U.S. territory in the 19th century until attaining statehood in 1912.
  • Tumacácori National Historical Park – A part of the U.S. National Park Service, this former Native American village eventually became the site of the mission established by the Jesuit priest, Eusebio Francisco Kino. The site includes the mission’s ruins, which is a well-preserved adobe church. There is also a visitor center that houses a small museum containing artifacts from the era.
  • Tombstone – The city of Tombstone is firmly embedded in Western lore. Located about 70 miles southeast of Tucson, Tombstone was the site of the famous gunfight at the OK Corral. Today, Tombstone is a major tourist town that includes a host of shops, restaurants and B & B’s, as well as Western-themed attractions such as horseback and stagecoach tours, gunfight shows, museums and more.
  • Tubac Presidio State Historic Park – Located about 50 miles south of Tucson near the town of Tubac, this state park dates back to the mid-18th century. The site includes numerous archeological exhibits that capture the history of the area. You can also hike the breathtaking three-mile Anza Trail, which connects the park with the neighboring Tumacácori National Historical Park.

Titan Alarm can provide a reliable security system that will keep your home safe while you’re off visiting all the Tucson historical sites. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today.

Learn More About Protecting Your Home While You’re Away

Updated by Titan Alarm on October 31, 2018.

Neighborhood Guide to Tucson

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Living in Tucson, AZ can be a walk in the park — literally! Tucson Parks and Recreations operates and maintains several parks in and around the city that are perfect for exercising, picnicking, relaxing or seeking refuge from the oppressive Tucson heat. We’ve put together a list of some of the top parks in the Tucson area.

  1. Reid Park

Gene C. Reid Park, originally known as Randolph Park, is one of the best Tucson parks to visit for adults as well as children. Situated on 131 acres in central Tucson, Reid Park contains an outdoor performance center, a 9,500-seat baseball stadium, two man-made lakes and a zoo that’s 24-acres in size. The park occupies approximately one-third of a sprawling complex that also contains two 18-hole golf courses, an indoor recreational center and other amenities.

  1. Rillito River Park

This 12-mile-long linear park runs along the banks of the Rillito River in Tucson. Perfect for the outdoor exercise enthusiast, the park features an assortment of amenities such as walking paths, horseback riding trails and a series of exercise stations.

  1. Highland Vista Park

Located at 350 N. Cloverland Ave., Highland Vista Park includes a walking path, a multipurpose field for athletic and recreational activities, a covered playground with swings and a play structure. There’s a community garden as well. Avid readers will appreciate the on-site Little Free Library that enables you to share and exchange books with others in the community.

  1. 20-30 Club Park

Located adjacent to Highland Vista Park, this park was conceived as a water harvesting project to alleviate the storm water runoff issue in the area. Known for its crescent-shaped “boomerang” berms, the 20-30 Club Park’s amenities include a half-mile walking trail that loops around the two parks.

  1. Morris K. Udall Park

Are you looking for a great spot to take your furry companion for a little fun and exercise? Morris K. Udall Park in northeast Tucson features a one-acre turf area that gives you and Fido plenty of room to roam. Other park amenities include a dance/exercise area, an outdoor amphitheater, lighted volleyball courts, ramadas and baseball, football and soccer fields.

  1. Christopher Columbus Park

If boating or fishing is your thing, Christopher Columbus Park, located in Tucson’s Eastside District, has you covered. The park is the site of the 13-acre Silverbell Lake where you can fish for bass, trout, catfish and sunfish, or enjoy a day of swimming or canoeing. Amenities include a dog park and a playground for the kids, as well as model boat and model plane areas.

  1. Tucson Birding Trail

Birdwatchers will want to explore the Tucson Birding Trail to catch a glimpse of some of the more than 350 bird species that inhabit the Tucson area. You can also enjoy some of the most beautiful natural areas in the entire region.

Titan Alarm, Inc. Can Keep Your Tucson Home Safe

The last thing you want is to worry about the safety of your home while you’re recreating in Tucson. Titan Alarm can provide a well-designed security system that will keep your property safe during your days in the park. Contact us to learn more today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

How To Keep Your New Restaurant Secure

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Tucson, AZ features a varied and eclectic food scene — you’ll find everything from traditional Southwest and Mexican fare to an assortment of Italian eateries, steakhouses, barbecue shacks and much more. If you’re planning to open a restaurant in the Tucson area, here are a few tips that can help you stand out from the crowd — and ensure you are creating a clean, safe and secure environment for your patrons and employees:

  1. Choose the Location Wisely

 Many aspiring restaurateurs cling to the notion that location doesn’t matter — if you have great food, attentive service and an interesting concept, diners will keep coming back. However, the most successful eating establishments are often the most accessible — people want a place that is easy to get to, located in a safe neighborhood and has ample parking.

  1. Choose the Right Chef

 Your choice of chef can make or break your restaurant. Select a chef who possesses superior culinary skills — and is willing to be flexible to meet your diners’ evolving tastes.

  1. Have Sufficient Capital

 New restaurant owners often make the mistake that the initial buzz that accompanies the opening will last forever. However, most new eateries experience a significant drop-off in business once the excitement subsides. Opening with six to nine months of working capital in reserve will help you weather the storm during that crucial first year in business.

  1. Make Enhancing the Dining Experience a Top Priority

 Doing the little things that add value to the customer experience can deliver long-term dividends. Letting diners sample new dishes or beverages or giving out gift cards are inexpensive touches that go a long way toward establishing and maintaining customer loyalty.

  1. Implement a System-Based Operating Approach

 Too many restaurateurs run their establishment “by the seat of their pants,” which results in inefficiency and waste. The most successful restaurants typically operate like a company and have systems in place to control and monitor every aspect of the business.

  1. Don’t Take Shortcuts When It Comes to Health and Safety

 Tucson has strict restaurant codes and regulations in place regarding health and safety. A significant violation can put your diners and employees at risk and possibly shut down your business. Areas of focus should include fire prevention in the restaurant kitchen, kitchen hood safety and implementing comprehensive sanitation procedures.

  1. Create a Secure Environment

 A state-of-the-art security system for restaurants will increase safety and give you peace of mind. Key security system features include video surveillance cameras at high-risk spots such as entrances, cash-handling areas and parking lots, fire alarms in the kitchen and burglar alarms to protect the property when the restaurant is closed. The system should also have 24/7 remote monitoring to ensure a timely response when a fire, break-in or other security emergency occurs.

Titan Alarm, Inc. Can Meet Your Restaurant Security Needs in Tucson, AZ

 Titan Alarm can provide a reliable, cost-effective monitored security solution for your Tucson restaurant. We’re also a leading supplier of restaurant safety equipment such as kitchen hoods and fire extinguishers. Contact us to schedule a free on-site security consultation today.

Learn More About Commercial Security

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 2, 2018.

How to Prevent Car Break-Ins

Did you know that nearly two million incidents involving theft from vehicles occur in the United States each year? The value of the stolen items totals to more than $1.25 billion and encompasses everything from wallets and credit cards to clothing and stereo equipment.

How to Keep My Car Safe

Here are some helpful tips that can keep you from becoming the next victim of a would-be thief:

  • Park in a “Safe” Area: While no parking spot is totally secure, you can reduce the odds of a break-in by selecting a safer area with visible security cameras. A high-traffic location offers better protection than a back alley or out-of-the-way spot. When parking at night, choose a well-lit lot, or park under a streetlight if possible.
  • Secure Your Car: While this might sound obvious, always lock your car, even if you’re only running into the convenience store for a minute or two. Thieves often lurk in parking lots, waiting for the opportunity to enter an unsecured vehicle. According to law enforcement statistics, approximately 25 percent of thefts from vehicles occur in unlocked cars.
  • Hide Your Valuables: Remembering the adage “out of sight, out of mind,” store all valuable items under the seat or in the glove compartment or trunk. Also, avoid cluttering the inside of your car with trash or “junk” – these items might entice a thief to embark on a “treasure hunt” to see what else might be inside the vehicle.
  • Avoid Installing Aftermarket Stereo Equipment: Aftermarket equipment has long been a target of thieves who make money by reselling it. Stick with the original factory equipment — it’s in much less demand and is often more difficult to steal than poorly installed aftermarket products. The high quality of today’s factory stereo system can meet the listening requirements of even the most discerning audiophile.
  • Install Theft-Deterrent Devices: Do everything possible to make the thief’s job more difficult. Products such as steering wheel locks, steering column collars and brake pedal locks will require criminals to spend additional time to thwart these defenses. These roadblocks are often enough to make them bypass a vehicle and seek out a less challenging target.
  • Don’t Forget the Car Alarm: While many newer vehicles come with a factory-installed alarm system, some older models may not be equipped with one. Thieves are not discerning — an older vehicle can be as inviting a target as one that has just rolled off the showroom floor. And no thief will stick around for long when a blaring alarm announces their presence.
  • Install an Outside Security Camera: A good way to prevent car break-in at home is by installing an outside security camera that provides an unobstructed view of the street or driveway where you park your vehicle. A well-placed camera can also help you detect the presence of home intruders.

If you reside in the Phoenix or Tucson, AZ area, Titan Alarm, Inc. can provide a high-tech outside security camera that can keep your vehicle safe. Contact us to learn more today.

Learn More About Home Video Surveillance

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

5 Things to Look for in Your Video Surveillance System

“What should my security system have?”

That’s one of the most frequently asked questions we hear at Titan Alarm, Inc. An advanced system consists of various integrated devices that can include burglar alarms, smoke detectors, motion sensors and what many experts consider to be “must-have” components of any security system: video surveillance cameras. Security cameras provide live and recorded video feeds on a 24/7 basis — today, you can even use your smartphone as a remote monitor to view your property while you’re away.

Elements of an Effective Video Surveillance System

There are several factors to consider when designing the right video surveillance system and choosing the proper cameras and equipment:

  • Where to Place the Cameras: No two properties are exactly alike, and each has its own areas of vulnerability. You’ll need to determine your high-risk spots — this can include front and rear exits, first-floor windows and hidden locations that are out of sight from the street. You may also need to install cameras inside your home, as well. If you have small children who you leave in the care of babysitters or nannies, for instance, cameras enable you to monitor their activities while you’re away.
  • Wired vs. Wireless: A traditional video surveillance camera setup consists of devices that are hardwired into your home’s electrical system. While this type of system offers excellent consistency and reliability, it can be difficult and expensive to install. Many homeowners are choosing a wireless camera system that provides greater installation flexibility and eliminates the need to run wiring throughout your home.
  • Viewing Needs and Preferences: You’ll also need to think about how you want to view the footage. For example, do you only want to watch camera feeds while you’re at home, or do you also want to monitor your property while you’re at work or traveling? If you plan on recording video feeds for viewing later, you also need to ensure you have sufficient storage space.
  • Camera Selection: Home surveillance cameras come in many shapes and sizes these days, and they also feature a wide range of capabilities. You’ll need to consider whether you want visible or hidden cameras, as well as factors such as range, nighttime viewing capabilities, resolution, frame rates, pan/tilt/zoom and facial recognition. Also, you’ll have to choose between old-fashioned analog and state-of-the-art digital IP cameras. While analog cameras are less expensive, they can’t match digital cameras regarding picture quality and advanced technological capabilities.
  • Video Verification: Finally, you’ll have to decide if you want video-verified alarms for your surveillance system. In addition to allowing you to use Internet connectivity to view your camera feeds, this feature allows a central monitoring service to respond to verify alarm conditions and immediately dispatch first responders to your home if needed.

Contact Titan Alarm for Help With Your Video Surveillance System

At Titan Alarm, we know what to look for in surveillance systems. We have the expertise to design and install the right video surveillance system for your Phoenix-area home. Contact us for more information and to schedule a free in-home security consultation today.

Learn More About Home Video Surveillance

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

Security Cameras in Public Places: A Good or Bad Thing?

Like it or not, if you’re in an airport, school, airport, grocery store or nightclub, there’s a good chance there’s at least one security camera keeping a watchful eye on you. The increasing presence of security cameras in our society has fueled a heated debate regarding whether this is a positive or negative development. In this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using surveillance cameras in public places.

Pros of Security Cameras in Public

There are several advantages to having cameras monitor public places. Cameras can help benefit homeowners, business owners, law enforcement and any private citizen that uses public spaces.

Perhaps the most obvious benefit of installing cameras in public places is enhanced safety. Cameras can provide a sweeping panoramic view of a wide area or target specific locations noted for heavy criminal activity. A visible camera can also serve as a deterrent that can prevent crimes such as shoplifting, muggings and thefts from occurring. If a criminal sees a camera, it may be enough to stop them from doing whatever illegal activity they were planning. And in a time where we live with the constant threat of terrorism, security cameras can spot suspicious individuals before they can act. This proactive approach to crime can help prevent losses and unnecessary suffering. If you know that there is a way to stop something bad from ever happening, why wouldn’t you do it?

When crimes are committed, video cameras with recording capabilities can provide valuable evidence to law enforcement and prosecutors. Law enforcement can use the footage to identify and apprehend the offenders, while prosecutors can use it as proof of alleged perpetrator’s guilt. This knowledge can save law enforcement from identifying the wrong person and arresting the wrong people. In a legal setting, it is very difficult to argue against video footage of a crime. It’s a pretty foolproof piece of evidence. Security cameras can also prevent false claims and fraud. If a person is lying about an incident, security camera footage can easily disprove their claim. This can help law enforcement get back to solving real cases faster.

“Is the government recording me in public?” That’s a common concern many people have regarding the use of cameras in public places. While the short answer is no, some municipalities do use video cameras to catch drivers who run red lights and to monitor the flow of traffic in congested areas. The former can increase driver and pedestrian safety, while the latter can provide timely traffic and road condition information to commuters. Cameras monitoring road activity can also help identify stolen vehicles quicker. Without security cameras, law enforcement must rely only on eyewitness reports of sightings of the stolen vehicle. With cameras, officials can monitor cameras in the area around the time of the crime to find the vehicle a lot faster.

Security cameras can also lower insurance costs for homeowners and businesses. However, this is up to your insurance company. If you are considering installing security cameras at your home or business, you should consult with an insurance representative to see if they offer discounts or incentives for doing so. If your insurance company does offer these perks, they are doing so because it is a cost-effective practice. For example, if you have cameras posted around your home or business, you are less likely to have a break-in or other crime committed on your property. Therefore, you are less likely to have to file an insurance claim. It saves both you and your insurance company money when you install security cameras at your home or place of business.

There is not a lot of large-scale data about the effectiveness of security cameras in public places, but some smaller-scale data collection has shown that these cameras lower crime rates and are effective in their areas. The presence of a video camera in a public place could be enough of a deterrent to a criminal, or even a sign posted that states the area is under video surveillance. However, more data is necessary to show whether security cameras are as effective as we think they are. It should be a priority to collect more data to back up the idea that security cameras are effective in every scenario and area. Figuring out if security cameras, or other monitoring practices, are the most effective will help make public areas the safest they can be for all citizens.

Cons of Security Cameras in Public

While security cameras posted in public areas can provide many benefits to the public, they do pose some concerns that are necessary to take into consideration.

Security cameras monitoring public areas can appear to some as an invasion of privacy. If an innocent person is being monitored who has absolutely no intention of committing a crime, they will still be monitored. The person watching the video cannot tell whether something will happen or not. This uncertainty can cause many bystanders to be monitored needlessly. However, this is necessary in order to catch crimes. While most people agree that we face serious security challenges these days, not everyone believes installing security cameras in public places is an acceptable method for protecting our citizens. These folks would rather maintain their privacy than having the uneasy feeling that “Big Brother” is watching their every move.

It can cost a lot of money to install security cameras, monitors and related equipment in a public area. This equipment is expensive to purchase and must also be maintained. Many of these cameras are outdoors, so they are weathering rain, snow, wind and every other natural phenomenon. When the cameras are not working properly, they are basically useless. Costs can increase with this extra maintenance and the need to replace equipment when it breaks. Besides the cost of purchasing the equipment and maintaining it, there is also the cost of labor. Someone has to be on the receiving end of the security camera footage to make them effective at all. The more cameras there are, the more people you need to watch the surveillance footage. This means an even higher cost. In a time where budgets are tight, and businesses and government entities must make every dollar count, many people wonder if cameras are worth the investment.

In some cases, it can be difficult to prove that a security camera is an effective tool for deterring or preventing criminal activity. Brazen criminals may still apply their trade regardless of whether they spot a camera. Additionally, terrorists or suicide bombers are not concerned about the presence of cameras — in fact, many hope their heinous acts will be recorded for the world to see. Currently, there is not a great deal of hard data backing up the effectiveness of security cameras. Once there have been more studies done on the effectiveness of security cameras in public places, we must rely on the ideas behind their implementation. However, it is important to make sure the theories behind those ideas are indeed correct.

Another con of security cameras in public areas is that they are not currently considered a type of public record. If you have a concern as a private citizen, you cannot request a copy of video surveillance like you could another type of public record, like a marriage certificate. When your tax dollars are being used to collect and monitor a type of information, some people would argue they have a right to access that information.

However, this could also be seen as a pro, depending on your point of view. If any person could access copies of video surveillance taken at public areas, it would be a huge privacy issue. Any type of information, including video collected from cameras posted in public areas, can easily be used for malicious reasons. For example, a woman attempting to flee from an abusive partner could be tracked by accessing video information if it was available for public access. It would be very sad to see something that was intended to keep people safe actually cause something bad to happen.

Like many other forms of technology, security cameras can be hacked. This poses a serious threat to public safety, especially if criminals were to access the cameras to use for their benefit. Imagine this: a hacker breaks the security of a public camera and either turns it off or turns it away from the area where they plan to commit a crime. This would make it much easier for that person to get away with a robbery or another type of crime. However, even though security cameras can be hacked, there are also preventative measures that can keep this from happening. Installing firewalls, secure passwords and other cybersecurity measures can help keep video surveillance footage safe from falling into the wrong hands.

Titan Alarm Can Meet Your Security Camera Needs

If you believe the pros of security cameras outweigh the cons, Titan Alarm, Inc. can design and install a state-of-the-art camera system that meets your unique security requirements. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

What to Look for in a Kitchen Hood System

If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, you’re probably more concerned about choosing cabinets and appliances than deciding which range hood is right for your home. However, a hood system is essential for keeping your kitchen free of cooking odors and pollutants, and it also enhances kitchen security. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in the kitchen hood selection process.

  1. Configuration of Your Kitchen

 There are many flexible options for installing and mounting range hoods, making it easy to find one you can integrate into your kitchen’s layout. You can find hoods that mount on walls, over cooking islands or into your cabinets. Telescoping retractable models are also available that you can conceal when not in use.

Most kitchen security experts recommend mounting a hood approximately 24-30 inches above the cooking surface, so you’ll need to take that into account when choosing your hood system.

  1. Duct vs. Duct-Free

 You can choose between ducted and ductless kitchen hood systems. The former uses a ventilation system that transports air away from the cooking area to the outside of your home — therefore, it is typically mounted on an exterior wall. A ductless hood filters the air and returns it to the interior of your home. A ducted model is generally more efficient and requires less maintenance than a ductless hood.

  1. Fan Power

Your kitchen hood should have a fan that’s powerful enough to remove odors based on the size of your kitchen. Range hood power/performance is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), which indicates the amount of air the hood can remove per minute of operation.

To determine the appropriate range hood CFM for your kitchen, simply calculate the volume of the room by multiplying the length, height and width. For example, if your kitchen measures 10’ x 10’ x 12’, you should choose a hood system with a CFM of at least 1200.

  1. Noise

 If you’re not fond of the noise that many kitchen hood systems produce, choosing a model with adjustable settings will allow you to control the volume to a degree. If possible, purchase your system from a vendor or store with a showroom where you can see/hear the system in action before making a purchase.

  1. Safety Features to Look for in a Kitchen Hood System

There are numerous kitchen hood system safety features that vary based on the manufacturer and model. Key features include temperature sensors that automatically shut the unit off if the temperature exceeds a certain level, automated fire extinguishing systems and LED lighting for enhanced illumination and visibility while cooking.

  1. Style/Price

 Kitchen hoods come in a wide range of styles to fit just about any kitchen design. The price you end up paying will depend on factors such as size, power and which kitchen hood system features you prefer.

Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. to Learn More

 Titan Alarm offers high-quality kitchen hood systems for sale in Phoenix and Tuscon, AZ. We can also provide helpful advice regarding how to make your kitchen safe. Contact us to learn more today.

Learn More About Kitchen Hood Systems

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

Choosing the Right Fire Alarm System for Your Business

You’ve worked hard to build your business. All it takes is one out-of-control inferno to destroy the fruits of your labor — and possibly put the lives of your employees and customers at risk. A well-designed, high-quality fire alarm system can provide the early warning that protects both people and property. It will give you the peace of mind of knowing you’re doing everything possible to keep your property safe.

How to Choose a Commercial Fire Alarm System

There are several factors to consider when choosing a commercial fire alarm system for your business:

  1. Do you need to protect people, assets or both?

It’s likely you’ll need an alarm system that will protect both people and property. Your system design should incorporate the features that apply to specific areas of your establishment. For example, you will need smoke detectors in heavily populated areas of your facility and audible fire alarms in remote storage/warehousing locations containing valuable items but little human traffic.

  1. Does the system comply with all applicable fire codes?

Your fire alarm system must comply with the fire codes in your jurisdiction. A reputable fire alarm provider in your area can ensure your alarms are up to code. Keep in mind that the fire codes only outline bare-minimum protection standards. You’ll probably need a more advanced system to meet your safety requirements.

  1. Have you conducted a comprehensive fire risk assessment?

A risk assessment will identify your business’s specific fire hazards and help you determine the types of fires that pose the biggest threats. You can then tailor the design of your fire alarm system accordingly. For example, if an area of your property contains materials that produce a heavy volume of smoke when they burn, you’ll need to install high-quality smoke detectors.

  1. Does your business have any unique fire alarm requirements?

Choosing a commercial fire alarm system should also consider any unusual requirements that pertain to your business. For instance, if you operate a fragile structure or one that contains expensive items, you may need to install a wireless system to avoid possible damage from installing electrical wiring. If you employ physically or mentally challenged individuals, you will need a system design that accounts for their special needs.

  1. Does your alarm system include 24/7 monitoring?

Unless your business operates around the clock, there will probably be times when the property is vacant. Professional 24/7 monitoring ensures any fire is detected in the early stages, as well as the prompt dispatching of first responders if necessary. You’ll sleep better at night knowing that someone is keeping a close eye on your business.

Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. for Professional Commercial Fire Alarm System Design in Phoenix

If you need help choosing a fire alarm system for business use in Phoenix, AZ, contact the pros at Titan Alarm, Inc. We can perform a comprehensive on-site assessment and recommend the best product for your needs and budget. We also provide complete design, installation, maintenance and monitoring services. Contact us to learn more today.

Learn More About Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 2, 2018.

What to Do If You Discover Fraud in Your Business

Fraud is an all-too-common occurrence in businesses of all types and sizes across the United States. The numerous forms of fraud include the manipulation of financial statements, the misappropriation of company assets, the skimming of cash and the theft of intellectual property and trade secrets to name just a few.

The consequences of any form of fraud can be devastating for a company — according to a 2016 study conducted by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, the median fraud loss per individual case is $150,000.

The Difficulty of Identifying Fraud in Your Business

In many cases, business owners are not aware of fraud until it’s too late, and hundreds, or even millions, of dollars are missing. Fraud is often perpetrated over a period of months or perhaps years by trusted employees who have access to critical information.

In addition to the financial ramifications, fraud can cause irreparable damage to a company’s reputation and create a sense of mistrust that permeates the entire organization.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Fraud

While your initial reaction to a fraud discovery may be to confront or terminate the individuals(s), this can actually do more harm than good — if you don’t have clear proof, you could face a harassment or wrongful termination lawsuit. Instead, consult with your legal/financial team to implement a thorough, discreet investigation and build a solid case against the perpetrator. If you do not have the internal resources to conduct an investigation, consider enlisting the services of a certified fraud examiner.

If the investigation provides clear evidence of fraud, you’ll need to take the appropriate action. Depending on the circumstances and your organization’s policies, this can range from termination to reporting the incident to law enforcement.

Preventing Fraud in the Workplace

Taking the following steps to prevent fraud in your business can significantly reduce the likelihood of a disastrous situation:

  • Conduct regular audits – Signs of fraud are often discovered during a routine review of financial records. Make a practice of conducting monthly audits and personally examining the results.
  • Use a system of checks and balances Relying on a single person to perform/manage financial transactions increases your vulnerability to fraud. Implementing a series of checks and balances where individuals review the work of others provides a built-in fraud protection.
  • Monitor payroll closely – If your organization experiences high employee turnover, monitor your payroll department to ensure the wages of terminated employees aren’t being “misapplied.”
  • Place surveillance cameras in high-risk areas – Placing security cameras in areas where cash/financial transactions occur minimize your fraud risk. Recorded footage from cameras can also provide evidence in suspected fraud cases. Even a visible “dummy” camera can serve as an effective fraud deterrent, as employees will believe someone is watching them.

Contact Titan Alarm for Your Business Security Needs in Phoenix, AZ

As a leading commercial security solutions provider in the Phoenix area, Titan Alarm can help you design and implement a state-of-the-art security system that can help to prevent fraud and other threats to your business. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 2, 2018.