Author: Taylor

What season is common for house fires? While a devastating fire can occur at any time, more home fires happen during the winter, especially during the holiday season. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, winter fires result in more than 900 deaths and $2 billion in property damage each year. And many of these blazes could have been prevented if the property owners had taken the appropriate precautions.

Common Causes of House Fires in Winter

 Did you know cooking is the most common cause of house fires during the winter months? People tend to bake more over the Christmas holidays, which can lead to people leaving food unattended in the oven. And in the colder climates, folks tend to do most or all their cooking indoors instead of on the backyard grill.

Other leading causes of winter house fires include:

• Improper Use of Portable Space Heaters: Many homeowners rely on portable space heaters to supplement their HVAC system or keep colder areas of the residence warm. To avoid a space heater-related house fire, never leave the unit unattended and don’t let it run overnight. Keep at least three feet between the heater and other objects, and teach young children to stay away from it. Purchase a heating unit that will shut off automatically if it gets too hot.

• Malfunctioning Heating Systems: Poorly maintained furnaces cause overheating, which can lead to a fire. Have your furnace or HVAC unit professionally inspected every year in the fall before the cold weather arrives. Replace your system’s filter at least once a month during the peak of the winter home fire season. You should upgrade your heating system every 10 to 15 years, depending on the type of unit.

• Holiday Decorations: The holiday season is the time we ramp up our use of electrical lighting. This can overload electrical outlets and possibly cause a house fire. Many of us also use candles to create a more inviting environment throughout the home during the colder months. Make judicious use of Christmas lights and other electrically powered ornamentation and keep extension cords out of harm’s way — never run them underneath rugs or carpeting. And, of course, never leave burning candles unattended.

• Dirty Chimneys: There nothing quite like a fireplace to provide a warm, cozy ambiance on a chilly winter night. But a wood-burning fireplace will cause a highly flammable material called creosote to accumulate inside the chimney’s liner, which can be a significant fire hazard. An annual chimney inspection and cleaning can remove the creosote building and ensure your chimney and fireplace are safe to use throughout the winter.

• Frayed Power Cords: The shorter days of winter lead us to use our lighting and household appliances more often. Frayed or worn power cords increase the risk of an electrical fire during the winter months. Be sure to inspect the cords and replace them if necessary.

Titan Alarm, Inc. can install a reliable fire alarm system that will help keep you and your family safe during the winter home fire season and throughout the year. Contact us to learn more today.

Learn More About Fire Alarm Systems

• How To Fireproof Your Decorations
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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

The thriving southern Arizona city of Tucson is home to approximately 500,000 residents, a figure that swells to around one million when you consider the entire Tucson metro area. All these folks share one thing in common —  they need to eat!

While Tucson is renowned for its Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine, the abundance of food options means there is something for everyone. Here is a brief glimpse of some of the top restaurants in Tucson:

• BK Tacos – One of the most popular Tucson eats is the Sonoran dog, a hot dog wrapped in bacon and smothered with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, jalapeño salsa and other goodies. BK Tacos is one of the best restaurants in Tucson for an authentic Sonoran dog and other palate-pleasing Mexican-style dishes such as tacos, burros, tortas, toritos, caramelos and more.

• The Oink Café – The Oink Café is a bacon lover’s dream come true! Bacon is the key ingredient in just about every menu item — you’ll find everything from bacon-filled omelets and breakfast burgers to eggs Benedict and maple bacon donuts and donut holes. Even the drinks contain bacon. A favorite is the one-of-a-kind Oink Bacon Bloody Mary.

• Bobo’s Restaurant – Bobo’s is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an inexpensive, yet satisfying breakfast or lunch option. Featuring an assortment of all-American fare, Bobo’s offers mouthwatering pancakes and omelets and a variety of hot and cold lunch menu items. A Bobo’s favorite is the early-bird breakfast special consisting of two eggs, home fries and toast that’s available Monday through Friday before 8 a.m.

• Cup Café in Hotel Congress – If you prefer to sample the local Tucson cuisine, the Cup Café, located inside the historic Hotel Congress, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Select menu items include huevos rancheros (breakfast), southwest salad (lunch) and drunken fish tacos (dinner). And if you have a sweet tooth, you won’t want to miss the pie case and bakery that’s filled with delectable desserts.

• Azul Restaurant and Lounge – For an unforgettable upscale dining experience, the Azul Restaurant and Lounge combines taste-tempting Southwest cuisine with a breathtaking view of the Santa Catalina Mountains from the patio. Diners rave about the Sunrise Buffet featuring lemon ricotta pancakes and cinnamon brioche French toast. Health-conscious diners will love Westin Fresh by The Juicery, which offers a variety of custom juice blends to fuel the body and promote wellness.

• Vivace Restaurant – Specializing in Italian fare, the Vivace features numerous moderately-priced menu items such as penne with sausage, chicken and asparagus risotto and chicken meatballs with capellini. There’s also a selection of tantalizing beef, seafood, pork and chicken options.

Titan Alarm Can Meet Your Home Security Needs in Tucson, Arizona

The last thing you want is to worry about your home’s security while you’re out enjoying a fine meal. Titan Alarm, Inc. can design and install a high-tech security system that will protect your property whether you’re home or away. And who knows — we might even be able to offer a few tips regarding where to eat in Tucson!

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

If you own a home in the Phoenix area, finding ways to lower those spiraling energy costs is probably a top concern. What you might not know is that the same security system that protects your property can also make it more energy-efficient.

Advancements in technology have led to the development of home automation, which makes it easier to control the operation of your heating and cooling system, lighting and other energy-related functions — even while you’re away. Here are a few examples of the many ways a security system saves money by reducing energy expenses:

• Automated temperature control: Do you find that you must frequently adjust the thermostat to keep your home at a comfortable temperature? A security system with home automation can include a programmable thermostat that automatically raises or lowers the temperature to keep it at predetermined settings throughout the day and night. In addition to providing convenience, a programmable thermostat can prevent the waste of energy that occurs when running your HVAC at a too high or too low temperature when no one is home.

• Turn lights on and off automatically: Unnecessary lighting is another big energy waster in many homes. A security system equipped with automated lighting can save money at home by turning the lights off when they’re not in use. Sensors that are synchronized with the lighting can determine when someone leaves a room and automatically dim or shut off the lights. Timers are also available that will automate the operation of lights at preset intervals. In addition to helping you save on energy bills, this feature can provide additional security by making it appear that the home is occupied while you’re away.

• Control lighting with geo-fencing: Do you often forget to turn out the light when you leave home? Geo-fencing technology automatically controls your home’s lighting based on your geographical location. For instance, this smart technology can sense when you get into your vehicle and drive away and will respond by shutting off the lights in your home.

• Use apps to control security system functions remotely: Today’s “smart” security systems provide access to a downloadable app that allows you to control energy-related functions with your smartphone or tablet. You can raise or lower the thermostat or turn lights on or off with just a couple of clicks, even when you’re at work, running errands or away on vacation.

Titan Alarm, Inc. Can Help You Save Money at Home

Titan Alarm can help you lower your energy bill by designing and installing an advanced security system equipped with home automation technology. You will also have access to the intuitive, easy-to-use Alarm.com app that enables you to control all automation functions remotely with your mobile device.

Titan Alarm has been providing the best security solutions to homeowners throughout Maricopa County, AZ for more than a decade. You can count on us to recommend the right security product for your needs and budget. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

The holiday season is rapidly approaching — and that means it’s soon time to figure what gifts to get for your family members and friends. If your list includes someone who is conscious about home security, there are several fantastic gift ideas that are sure to be a big hit:

• Nest Thermostat: This programmable digital thermostat is the perfect complement to a home security system that features home automation. The Nest enables the user to keep every area of the home at the ideal temperature throughout the day and night, while also increasing energy efficiency.

• Canary All-in-One Home Security Device: The wireless Canary combines a video surveillance camera that sends an alert with a siren whenever someone is outside the home. The Canary is also simple to install — there are no wires to run inside or around the home.

• Dropcam Video Camera: This small camera is one of the best tech security gifts for anyone who wants an inconspicuous, easy-to-install home monitoring device. The Dropcam features a sweeping, 130-degree camera angle that provides a wide view of the home’s interior that the owner can monitor via smartphone, tablet or laptop.

• Schlage Keyless Door Lock: If you know someone who always seems to be forgetting or losing their keys, this keyless door lock offers the ideal solution. The user can unlock the door by entering a passcode and receive text or email alerts whenever someone else uses the code to get inside.

• Spiked Sprinkler Head Hide-A-Key: For people who would rather keep a spare key around than go keyless, this inexpensive device offers a better alternative to hiding a key under a doormat or in a flower pot. The Hide-A-Key looks just like a real sprinkler head — which is probably the last place a burglar would look for a key. Hide-A-Key is also easy to install, as no digging is required.

• Wine Bottle Fire Extinguisher: This innovative device is one of the best gifts for a security nut who is also a wine connoisseur — while it looks like an authentic wine bottle, it is a fully functioning fire extinguisher that can quickly put out a stove or oven fire. It’s also classy enough to display out in the open where it’s within easy reach if a fire breaks out.

• Scout HD Security Camera: The Scout is a WiFi-enabled thermal security camera that allows the owner to view streaming 1080p HD video via computer, smartphone or tablet. The Scout is also equipped with a two-way audio feature that enables the owner to communicate with a visitor — or frighten away an intruder.

• SALT Self-Defense Gun: The SALT offers a non-lethal, but effective alternative to a real gun. Instead of bullets, this self-defense gun fires rounds that contain a chemical compound that causes temporary blindness and lung constriction. The manufacturer claims that the compound is more potent than the materials used by the Department of Homeland Security and the military.

Contact Titan Alarm to learn more ways to keep your home safe throughout the year.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

Every year, flooding causes extensive damage to residences in Phoenix, Tucson, and throughout Arizona. A flood can also have tragic consequences involving the loss of life.

A July 2017 flash flood in Payson, AZ that resulted from a monsoon-like rainstorm claimed the lives of nine members of an extended family. Taking steps to prevent flooding in your house can literally mean the difference between life and death.

How Can You Secure Your Home From Flooding?

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to “flood-proof” your home and possibly prevent a disaster from occurring:

• Install sump pumps – A sump pump is essential for keeping a basement from flooding. Be sure to choose a pump that can operate via batteries or backup generator, as a flood could knock out your home’s main power supply for several hours or even days.

• Raise electrical components above your home’s flood elevation level – Electrocution is a significant danger during a flood. Contact a licensed electrician and have them raise all electrical components (wiring, outlets, circuit breakers, etc.) at least one foot above your home’s estimated flood level.

• Waterproof your basement – Waterproofing your basement and basement entrances can minimize your risk of flood damage. Specific waterproofing steps include keeping gutters, downspouts and storm drains free of debris and ensuring the slope of your property will channel water away from your home. Installing foundation vents can also prevent water from entering the basement.

• Purchase flood insurance – Many property owners mistakenly believe that their homeowner’s insurance policy covers flooding, when in fact, most do not. Review your policy with your agent, and if necessary, purchase additional flood insurance protection if it’s available in your area.

What to Do When Flood Waters Are Rising

There are several actions you should take when flooding is imminent:

• Move your belongings to higher ground – Move as many household items as possible to elevated areas such as second- or third-story rooms and the attic. Focus on moving valuable furniture pieces, electronic devices that could cause electrocution, and important papers and documents such as your home’s deed, insurance policies and financial records.

• Elevate appliances – While you probably won’t be able to move your refrigerator, washing machine or stove to higher ground, you can use concrete blocks to raise them off the ground and possibly prevent the floodwaters from reaching them.

• Turn off utilities – Turn off your home’s electrical power supply to lower your risk of electrocution, as well as plumbing fixtures and gas lines.

• Open your windows – Closed windows will not keep the floodwaters out. Opening your windows will prevent them from breaking due to the water pressure.

• Relocate to a safe place – Trying to ride out the storm is not a good idea, especially during severe flooding. The last thing you want is to be trapped inside your home while the waters are rising. Once you’ve made your last-minute home preparations, move to higher ground and wait for the floodwaters to recede before returning. Determine the locations of the emergency shelters in your area before the storm arrives.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

Most folks who choose burglary as a profession aren’t necessarily the sharpest knives in the drawer. Perhaps that’s why they resort to breaking into homes instead of pursuing nuclear physics or biochemical engineering as a career path. What follows is a sampling of some of our favorite “idiot intruders” that is sure to bring a smile to your face — assuming you’re not one of them!

• Albuquerque, NM – A burglar attempting to steal computer hardware from Central New Mexico Community College was unable to escape when he became ensnared in the window blinds. One has to wonder if the culprit possessed the brain power to know what to do with the hardware even if he managed to break free from his much smarter “captor.”

• Portland, OR – Proving that it’s always good to know whom to call when you’re in trouble, a burglar dialed 9-1-1 to ask for help after breaking into a home. It appears that this mental giant was startled when the homeowners arrived unexpectedly in the middle of his attempted burglary and believed that the police might be able to get him out of the jam.

• Centralia, WA – A dog may be man’s best friend — except when his owner is a burglar who takes his dog with him as he practices his craft. A dimwitted crook in Washington State made off with a pile of loot from a home, but left his dog behind. The police officer who responded to the call recognized the dog — he’d seen the owner walking it earlier in the day — and was able to track down the owner with minimal effort.

• Carroll, IA – Two misguided burglars in Iowa felt that covering the faces with black magic marker would be enough to conceal their identity. Unfortunately for them, a witness saw the pair speeding away in a vehicle and was able to provide an accurate description to police. It wasn’t hard for the cops to figure out that two men with magic marker on their face were probably up to no good. The burglary attempt did occur in October, so maybe the crooks were confused and thought it was Halloween.

• Madrid, Spain – It’s an indisputable fact that most burglaries are committed by living, breathing human beings and not corpses. When police in Madrid responded to a report of a break-in at a funeral home, they found the would-be burglar lying in a glass chamber used for viewings. The perpetrator’s drab, dirty clothes and the fact that he was breathing were both “dead” giveaways.

Titan Alarm: Home Security That Works

While these unsuccessful break-in attempts may be humous, most burglaries are no laughing matter. Titan Alarm, Inc. can provide a comprehensive security solution that will protect your property against burglary and home invasion. We can provide a video surveillance system that will enable a home invasion to be caught on camera, as well as burglar alarms, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, motion sensors and more. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today.

Learn More about Burglar Alarms for Your Home

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Updated by Titan Alarm on October 31, 2018.

It seems technology changes almost at the speed of light these days, and it impacts every aspect of our lives — including the way we protect our homes. While some of us still rely on locks and keys or maybe even our canine companions to keep us safe from intruders, advanced technology in home security offers much more reliable solutions.

Some of the more noteworthy changes in home security today include:

• Sensors: Sensors play a vital role in the function of today’s home security systems and make them more dependable than ever. For example, outdoor motion sensors can instantly detect the presence of intruders and activate your security lighting and alarms. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors will provide an immediate alert to warn you of the danger of fire and potentially lethal carbon monoxide gas.

• IP Cameras: Internet protocol cameras are the new technology in home surveillance. Unlike traditional analog CCTV (closed-circuit television), digital IP camera systems can transmit and receive digital data via the Internet. You have greater flexibility for camera placement and the ability to store recorded images in the cloud for future viewing.

• Remote Monitoring Capabilities: Do you ever worry about what’s going on in and around your home when you’re not there? Remote monitoring enables you to use your smartphone or tablet as an extension of your home security system. You can perform functions such as watching live or recorded video camera feeds and monitoring your burglar and fire alarms while you’re at work or on the go, giving you additional peace of mind.

• Access Control: An access control system allows you to manage your home’s entry points and locks while you’re away. For example, you can use your smartphone to unlock a door to allow a repairman inside while you’re at work or let a neighbor in to feed your pets when you’re on vacation. You no longer have to worry about hiding a spare key under the mat or entrusting it to someone else — you’ll have complete control over who enters your home at all times.

• Home Automation: Home automation technology allows you to preschedule the operation of the various aspects of your security system — cameras, sensors, locks, lighting, etc. — as well as your appliances and other electronic devices. This gives you greater control over their functionality and enables them to work more efficiently, which can make your home more secure and reduce your energy bills.

• Remote Monitoring: New technology in home surveillance now makes it easier than ever for central monitoring stations to observe camera feeds and respond to alarms. Wireless technology can prevent burglars from cutting phone lines or storms from knocking out your home’s power supply, ensuring a timely, uninterrupted feed between your home and the monitoring station.

Titan Alarm Remains at the Forefront of Technology in Home Security

Phoenix and Tucson area residents trust the experts at Titan Alarm to keep their homes safe. We can design and install an advanced security system featuring the latest technological innovations. Contact us to schedule your free in-home security consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

No matter where you live in Arizona, you face the risk of becoming the next victim of a home invasion or burglary. A home invasion is defined as an unlawful entry while the residents are occupying the property and can involve the commission of crimes such as robbery, rape, kidnapping or assault. A burglary entails breaking into the home with the intent to steal money or household items. In this post, we’ll explore a few of the common house invasion myths and untrue facts about burglary.

Myth #1: Invasions and Burglaries Only Occur at the Homes of the Wealthy

In fact, homeowners in lower and middle-class neighborhoods are more likely to be targeted by criminals than the affluent. Most burglars live within the communities where they perpetrate their crimes — and most of these folks do not reside in wealthy areas. Plus, many affluent homeowners these days have sophisticated security systems in place to deter break-ins.

Myth #2: Burglaries Only Occur at Night

Many people believe that burglars prefer to ply their craft at night under the cover of darkness. The truth is that many burglaries occur during the day between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. A burglar will usually watch a home for several days to make sure the occupants are at work and that no one will be there when they break in.

Myth #3: Burglars Only Covet Expensive Electronics and Other Larger Items

Another common misconception is that burglars will head straight for your flat screen TV or stereo system. However, one of the numerous misunderstood home burglary facts is that thieves prefer smaller items such as cash and jewelry – it’s easier to get these out of the home, and the payoff can be much greater. That’s why so many burglars make a beeline to the master bedroom, where these valuable items are often stored.

Myth #4: Home Intruders and Burglars Usually Enter Through the Back Door

Some folks believe intruders prefer entering through the back door so they can’t be seen from the street. In reality, about one-third of break-ins occur via the front door, as it is normally the easiest access point. Twenty-three percent of intruders use a window, while only 22 percent enter through the back door.

Myth #5: Dogs Are the Best Defense Against Home Invaders and Burglars

While a growling or barking dogs might deter some intruders, the pros know how to divert their attention with food or treats. And even the most trusted watchdog could sleep through a break-in!

Myth #6: Home Security Systems Won’t Keep Intruders Out

The truth is, a well-designed and professionally installed security system is the best way to protect against home invaders and burglars. Approximately 90 percent of convicted home intruders say they would avoid homes with security systems in place.

Titan Alarm, Inc. is your best source for a reliable, affordable home security system in the Phoenix area. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today.

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