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    Month: November 2016

    How To Keep Your Home Safe Over the Holidays

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    home-safe-over-holidays

    Planning to head out for the holidays? The holidays are meant for having fun and enjoying time with your family — not worrying about whether your home is safe and secure while you’re away. Taking a little extra time to prepare prior to embarking on that long-awaited trip can ensure that you won’t return to an unpleasant situation.

    Following these home safety tips while on your holiday vacation can minimize your risk.

    • Have someone watch your home while you’re away: Enlist the help of someone you trust — a neighbor, friend or relative — to keep an eye on things. Have the person stop by to take in your mail and newspapers, feed your pets, water the plants, etc. This will make the home look lived in, which can be an effective deterrent to burglars.
    • Notify the police: Let your local police department know if you plan to be away for a week or more. Depending on where you live and the availability of police coverage in your area, it’s possible that a cruiser could pass by on a regular basis during routine patrols.
    • Control the lights: Lights that continuously remain on or off are a telltale sign to burglars that a home is unoccupied. Consider installing a light switch timer that automatically turns lights on and off at predetermined intervals.
    • Unplug appliances: Unplug household appliances such as televisions, computers, coffee pots and microwave ovens, as this will protect them against power surges and prevent a needless use of electricity while you’re gone.
    • Stop deliveries: If you’re unable to arrange for someone to stop by while you’re away, contact the post office, local newspaper office and other service providers to have them stop deliveries until you return. A pile of newspapers on the front porch is like a billboard that broadcasts a clear message that no one is home.
    • Keep up the lawn and landscaping: If you’re going on an extended trip, your “leaving home” checklist should include arranging to have your lawn cut and your landscaping maintained. An overgrown lawn is another sign of an empty house to a burglar.
    • Don’t broadcast your trip to the world: While you may be tempted to tell everyone that you’re about to go on a fantastic trip, plastering the news all over social media can be like sending an invitation to criminals to break into your home. Wait until you get back to make your friends jealous by posting all your fabulous vacation photos on Facebook!

    Consider Installing a Home Security System

    If you’ve been thinking of installing a home security system, there’s no better time than just before you go on your holiday vacation. If you live in the Phoenix area, Titan Alarm, Inc. can install an innovative security system featuring smart technology and home automation. You’ll be able to monitor your home and even control the lights and security cameras with your smartphone or tablet while you’re away.

    Contact us for more home safety tips and to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today!

    Learn More About Smart Home Technology

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    Best Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    best-neighborhoods-in-phoenix

    Are you among of the many people who are attracted to the beautiful climate, scenic desert landscapes and excellent career and lifestyle opportunities found in the Phoenix, AZ area? If you’re planning a move to Phoenix, the first order of business is finding a suitable place to live. In this post, we’ll explore the some of the best neighborhoods in Phoenix and the surrounding communities.

    Arcadia

    Located to the northeast of downtown Phoenix near Scottsdale, Arcadia is an upscale suburb known for its abundance of fruit trees, mature landscapes and high-end homes. Arcadia also offers easy access to the Camelback Mountain, an ideal place for hiking, rock climbing and other recreational activities.

    Downtown Phoenix

    If you prefer city living at its finest, downtown Phoenix has much to offer in terms of commerce, art and culture. Millennials will surely be attracted to the nightlife and bar scene, and there is no shortage of opportunities for fine dining. You can easily get around the downtown area via public transportation or even walking.

    Central Corridor

    The Central Corridor neighborhood in Phoenix is kind of like a self-contained small town located within the boundaries of a big city. Originally home to Phoenix’s first wealthy residents, Central Corridor is on its way to becoming a historic district. It’s also one of the best neighborhoods in Phoenix for people who don’t own a car. Central Corridor is littered with light rail train stops and lighted bike paths, and many residents walk to work.

    Robson Historic District

    Located in Mesa, AZ, Robson is one of the best neighborhoods outside Phoenix for history buffs. Robson’s streets are lined with bungalows featuring the eclectic architectural style of the 1930s. Most of these homes have been impeccably maintained and are typically more affordable those found in the historic districts of neighboring Phoenix.

    Las Sendas

    For those who love the wide-open spaces, the East Valley community of Las Sendas is spread out among 2,500 acres of beautiful Usery Mountain land. You will have easy access to the nearby Usery Mountain Park and its assortment of hiking and biking trails, including the breathtaking three-mile Wind Cave Trail. The rural lifestyle also makes Las Sendas one of the safest neighborhoods near Phoenix, AZ, making it an excellent place to raise a family.

    Anthem

    A Del Webb master-planned development built in 1999, Anthem is a family-oriented community of 40,000 located approximately 35 miles south of Phoenix. Anthem is also another safe neighborhood and has earned the distinction of being named one of the best places to raise a family by Parenting magazine. The area features a water park and recreation center and a wide assortment of hiking and biking trails.

    Trust Titan Alarm, Inc. for Your Home Security Needs

    These are just a few of the many good neighborhoods around Phoenix. But regardless of where you choose to live in the Phoenix area, Titan Alarm Inc. can provide a technologically advanced home security solution that will fully protect your family and property. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation security consultation.

    Learn More About Home Security

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    How to Update Your New Home’s Security System

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    update-new-home-security-system

    An often overlooked, but extremely important consideration when moving into a new house is determining whether you need to update the existing home security system. You want to be sure that the system adequately protects your family against break-ins, fire and all the other threats to your family’s safety. You’ll likely want the system to have the latest technological innovations, while also being easy to operate and maintain.

    If your new home has a hard-wired system in place, you will need to decide whether you want to upgrade to one that features the latest wireless technology. With a wired system, you won’t have to worry about replacing any batteries. And if you need to add cameras or other devices, you will find that products for wired systems typically cost less than their wireless counterparts.

    On the other hand, wireless systems give you greater installation flexibility. For instance, you won’t be restricted by wires and cables when setting up your video surveillance cameras, making it easier to place them exactly where you need them the most. Expanding or reconfiguring your system as your security needs change over time is a simpler task. Wireless systems also offer the advantage of easy portability should you decide to move in the future. What’s more, you will be able to create a fully integrated “smart” security system featuring home automation that allows you to remotely control and monitor video surveillance, alarms, temperature, appliance operation and more with your smartphone or tablet.

    How to Upgrade a Wired Security System

    If keeping an existing wired security system makes the most sense, make sure that the technology isn’t completely outdated and verify that it provides adequate protection for your most vulnerable areas. Another option is to create a hybrid wired and wireless system. This method allows you to take advantage of your home’s existing pre-wired security system and add wireless equipment where needed. You will likely need to check with the company that provided the wired security system to determine the best type of hybrid configuration for your home. Keep in mind that there are relatively few companies that work with hybrid systems, so this may not be a viable solution.

    Can I Convert My Home Security System to Wireless?

    If you’ve arrived at the conclusion that going totally wireless is your best security solution, it may be possible to convert your existing hard-wired system to wireless. There are devices on the market that can complete the conversion simply by plugging them in to your existing system. However, this will not work with every type of security system. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the existing hardwire contacts prior to conversion.

    Titan Alarm, Inc. Can Help You Update Your Home Security System

    The most prudent course of action is to have a professional evaluate your new home’s security system prior to making an upgrade. Titan Alarm is an experienced security solutions provider serving the Phoenix, AZ area that can provide reliable advice regarding how to improve you home security. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation in home consultation today.

    Learn More About Home Security

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    Moving Your Security System

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    moving-your-security-system

    With all that is involved with moving into a new home, figuring out what to do with your old home security system may not be at the top of your moving needs checklist. However, you will need to decide whether you prefer to leave the system intact for the new owner – assuming this wasn’t already covered and agreed upon during the sales process – or take it with you so it can protect your new residence.

    Tips for Self-Moving a Security System

    What happens if you decide to take your system with you? While most reputable security system providers have a policy in place for moving a security system they install, a low-budget provider may not take care of the move for you. If yours is a self-installed system, you will need to manage the move on your own. The following tips can help you manage the process:

    • Contact your system provider to see if they can at least offer some guidance or walk you through the process of disconnecting and packing the system’s components to avoid possible damage
    • Turn off the battery backup power prior to disconnecting the system, as this will help conserve the battery
    • Examine all system sensors to ensure they are in good working condition
    • Make plans to replace any malfunctioning sensors so you will have them when you’re ready to install the system in your new home
    • If you are moving security camera systems, you will need to plan the camera placement in your new home and purchase any additional cameras and mounting equipment if needed
    • If yours is a wireless security system, contact the internet provider to ensure the service is turned on and ready to go as soon as you move in
    • Be sure to install the system as soon as possible upon moving. Many thieves target homes where new owners are in the process of moving in, knowing they are often preoccupied with a long list of details and may neglect to take appropriate security measures

    Titan Alarm Inc. Takes the Hassle Out of Moving Security Systems

    A great thing about choosing Titan Alarm as your residential security solutions provider in the Phoenix area is that you’ll never have to worry about moving your security system when the time comes. As a reputable full-service system designer and installer with more than a decade of experience, you can count on us to handle all aspects of the move for you.

    Our customers our covered by our comprehensive move policy that applies to all residential and most small-business systems that are purchased from us. You’ll also have the flexibility to purchase certain types of new equipment at discounted prices if needed. With our move policy, you will have the freedom to focus on other aspects of the moving process.

    Learn more about our move policy, and feel free to contact us for additional information about our state-of-the-art security systems.

    Learn More About Home Security

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    Top Construction Site Surveillance Systems

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    construction-site-surveillance

    If you are a builder, construction company operator or contractor, you know how difficult it is to monitor the activities of workers and visitors – some of whom may feel free to help themselves to any tools and equipment they can get their hands on. A construction site can also be a prime target for theft, vandalism and other criminal activities when no one is there. Fortunately, you can use construction site remote video surveillance to keep your sites under constant watch at all times.

    What to Consider When Implementing a Construction Jobsite Surveillance System

    With the advancements in security system technology, it is now easier than ever to create an effective, fully customized construction site surveillance system consisting of wireless video cameras and other high-tech devices. However, it is important to take several important factors into consideration prior to making an investment in surveillance equipment:

    • What are your most critical security risks? Is your jobsite located in a high-crime area where theft and vandalism pose a constant threat? Have you had a lingering problem with internal theft, perhaps due to the inability to keep a close eye on your workers?
    • What security measures do you currently institute at your jobsites? Evaluate your current security procedures and protocols to determine their strengths, and more importantly, their vulnerabilities. For instance, if your jobsites typically have many blind spots or hidden areas, you may need to place highly visible security cameras at these locations to deter theft and/or unauthorized access.
    • Do you seem to have an issue with perimeter breaches? There’s a good chance that if the perimeter at your jobsite has one vulnerable areas, an enterprising thief will find it. Placing cameras that can closely monitor gaps in fencing and other unsecured areas can prove to be an extremely effective perimeter security step.
    • Do you have any unguarded tool/equipment storage areas at your jobsites? It may be impractical at many temporary construction sites to keep tools and equipment under lock and key. Implementing a fixed video surveillance camera system at storage areas may be the only way to prevent expensive theft losses at your jobsites.
    • Are you choosing a reputable, experienced construction jobsite-surveillance system provider? When selecting a video surveillance system provider, it is imperative to choose a company that understands the risks that are specific to construction sites, and that also offers the most reliable, technologically advanced security solutions on the market.

    Reasons You Need Video Surveillance for Your Construction Site

    Do construction sites need video surveillance? When you consider the numerous risks that are present at virtually every site such as theft, vandalism and liability, it’s easy to see why installing an advanced camera system makes good sense for site owners, project managers and safety coordinators.

    Construction site video surveillance benefits include:

    1. Theft prevention: Construction sites typically contain lumber, steel, copper pipes, power tools and other valuable materials and equipment — all of which make attractive targets for enterprising thieves. A construction site surveillance system can deter internal and external theft and provide video evidence when a theft occurs.
    2. Vandalism prevention: Vandalism is a serious issue at many construction sites, and the resulting damage to the structure or heavy equipment can derail the progress of a building project. A camera system will provide 24/7 monitoring that enables the detection of vandals and trespassers even when the site is unoccupied.
    3. Improved site safety: Worker safety is always a concern at construction sites. Video surveillance gives site safety coordinators the opportunity to monitor workers to ensure they are adhering to all applicable safety guidelines. It can also help to identify areas where additional training is necessary.
    4. Increased efficiency: Project managers and supervisors cannot monitor the actions of every worker throughout the entire day. However, video surveillance does enable a review of live and recorded camera feeds so they can target specific areas of the site and determine if the work is progressing in an efficient manner.
    5. Liability protection: Construction sites present the risk of injury to workers and passersby — which poses a potential liability issue for site owners. Video surveillance can help to prevent unfounded worker’s compensation claims and frivolous liability lawsuits.
    6. Remote monitoring capabilities: Another valuable benefit of video surveillance for construction sites is the ability to monitor camera feeds via smartphone, tablet or Web-enabled computer. The site management team can monitor activities on a 24/7 basis from home, the office or anywhere else.

    Elements of a Construction Site Surveillance System

    Wireless surveillance systems work well for construction site security, as they provide flexibility for camera placement to cover the most vulnerable areas. They also enable a faster setup and removal than hard-wired systems, which is more compatible with use at temporary job sites. Vandal-proof night vision security cameras with HD resolution ensure clear video feeds around the clock.

    While remote monitoring is an optional feature with most video surveillance systems, it makes sense for construction site environments due to their high risk and the fact that they are usually unoccupied during the nighttime hours.

    Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. for Your Construction Site Surveillance Needs in Phoenix

    If you operate construction sites in the Phoenix, AZ area, Titan Alarm can develop and install a video surveillance system that will provide the around-the-clock protection you need to protect your workers and equipment and reduce your liability risk. Contact us for more information and to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today.

    Learn More About Commercial Video Surveillance

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    Smart Homes Help Homes Sell Faster

    Posted on by Titan Alarm

    smart-home-selling

    Are you thinking of equipping your home with “smart” technology such as thermostats that automatically adjust the temperature, wireless video surveillance systems and doors you can lock and unlock via your smartphone or tablet even when you’re at work or on vacation? Then you’re probably also pondering this important question: Are smart homes worth it? In addition to improving the quality of life, do smart homes sell faster and for more money than traditional homes?

    Are “Connected” Homes Better Homes?

    Several survey findings seem to indicate that smart homes are the wave of the future, which essentially means homes containing smart gadgets and systems are likely to become increasingly popular with homebuyers in the years to come. According to a survey conducted by Better Homes and Gardens magazine, 64 percent of millennials — classified as individuals born from 1982 to 2004 — indicated that smart technology makes a home much safer and more enjoyable to live in.

    As far as whether millennials believe smart home technology is a wise investment, the BH & G survey points out that 57 percent believe this to be the case, compared to only 35 percent of the respondents who were age 55 and older. Additionally, 59 percent of millennials stated that smart home technology could easily be integrated into their lifestyles, while only 29 percent of the 55+ crowd thought this to be true.

    So, do smart homes sell faster? When one considers that millennials represent the next generation of home buyers, it stands to reason that you are likely to sell your home faster if it includes smart technology, especially if it’s located in a city or neighborhood that appeals to the younger generation.

    What Are the Most Popular Smart Devices?

    What types of smart devices are prospective home buyers looking for these days? According to a 2015 survey of 4,000 U.S. consumers conducted by Coldwell Banker Real Estate, when asked what they considered to be smart technology, the leading choices were security devices such as alarms and locks (63 percent), lighting systems (58 percent) and safety gadgets (56 percent). The top smart technology currently found in homes was entertainment products including television and speaker systems.

    Does Smart Technology Increase a Home’s Market Value?

    The consensus among many real estate professionals is that, unlike traditional home improvements such as adding a bedroom or remodeling a bathroom, smart technology may not necessarily boost the sale price of a home. However, it can make a home more attractive to buyers who are seeking these features so they can live more comfortably and reduce their energy costs — and that can give a smart home an important competitive advantage in the marketplace, allowing it to sell faster.

    Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. to Transform Your Home Into a Smart Home

    If you own a home in the Phoenix, AZ area, Titan Alarm can work with you to create a fully integrated smart home featuring the latest smart technologies. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation in-home consultation today.

    Learn More About Smart Home Technology

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

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