How to Prevent Crash and Smash

A crash and smash attack is a burglary tactic that focuses on your home’s security panel or keypad, using speed and brute force to prevent it from sounding the alarm. The term “crash” makes reference to the forceful entry of an intruder through a main door. And the word “smash” describes the physical action of shattering the alarm panel.

Here’s how it works:

  • The intruder “crashes” through your entry door – the one that you normally enter through and the one near your alarm security keypad.

  • Unfortunately, your alarm system cannot tell the difference between your unlocking the door and a burglar breaking in. So, as always, your system gives you a set period (usually 30-60 seconds) to key in your code and deactivate the alarm.

  • During those 30-60 seconds, your home intruder locates the alarm panel and “smashes” it. Your alarm hardware is in tatters and it is no longer hard-wired into your phone line. It has not had time to notify the alarm company or police of the break-in. The burglar can now rob you in peace.

How to prevent crash and smash

  • Go wireless – A wireless alarm system can mean one of two things: wireless components placed throughout your home, or wireless communication with your alarm company via cell phone signal. (Some systems have both wireless components and cellular monitoring). 

  • Lock it Away – You can also lock your alarm panel in another room. This works because 1) it will take a burglar longer to locate your alarm and 2) requires an intruder to crash through two doors. Keep in mind, however, that this method isn’t a foolproof solution for the smash & crash.

  • Redundancies – One of the most important aspects to protecting your home and family is redundancy. Do not put all your eggs in one security basket – don’t rely on just your alarm system to keep you safe. First of all, burglarproof your doors to prevent a “crash” (they can’t smash if they don’t get past the crash part!).

Titan Alarm’s Crash and Smash protection

Titan Alarm uses a patented crash and smash technology, that way your system will still work, even if the intruder can get to and destroy your panel.

Titan Alarm’s smart home security system is constantly monitoring activity around the home to proactively protect you from events like a burglar attempting a crash and smash burglary. All of this happens constantly and securely in a cloud storage platform, so it’s completely untouchable to a burglar so you and your security system go unharmed.

Once your smart home security system starts it’s initial countdown, the central system monitoring station takes note, if the security panel abruptly goes off-line before sending a disarm or an emergency signal, then the central station monitoring reports a suspected Crash and Smash situation in your home, and alerts the necessary first responders and emergency personnel. Crash and Smash Protection is one of the many innovative ways that Titan Alarm will protect you and your loved ones with. If you’re interested in learning more about Crash and Smash Protection or need help with a Home Security System contact Titan Alarm today!

5 Things You Might Not Know About Your Friendly Neighborhood Burglar

Burglar

We often think of burglars as dark, shady characters who prowl around neighborhoods at night and stay out of sight during the daytime hours. But the truth is that many burglars are cunning, opportunistic criminals who carefully plan their illicit activities well in advance — which is likely why police are only able to solve about 10 percent of all burglary cases.

At Titan Alarm, we believe that the more you know about your “enemies,” the easier it is to defend yourself against them. Here are a few insights into the mind of a burglar that every homeowner should know:

1. Burglars often live in the neighborhood.

The typical burglar doesn’t swoop in from out of town, rob a few houses and hit the road. He or she is more likely to be your neighbor, as this makes it easier to blend into the surroundings and become familiar with the area. It might even be someone you see or speak to every day.

 

2.They’ve already been inside your home.

Many thieves enter a home under legitimate circumstances, then come back later to rob you. In many cases, they’re employed as repairmen or members of remodeling or cleaning crews. While they’re inside your house, they’ll discreetly unlock a door or window, giving them easy entry when they return.

3.They’ll “case” your home before they break in.

Many burglars will target a residence and then watch it for several days, or even weeks. They observe the patterns of when you and your family members come and go, determining their best window of availability. That’s why so many burglaries occur during the day, while the occupants are at work or school.

4.They know the outside gives clues to what’s inside.

Crooks can tell a lot about what “goodies” might be inside a home by what they see on the exterior of the property. For example, if they spot expensive toys on the lawn or boxes that contained pricy products in the trash, they’ll figure that the house is a treasure trove of valuable items that are worth stealing.

 

5.Burglars are often social media-savvy.

These days, you need to think twice when sending or accepting a friend request on Facebook. Burglars scour social media sites to see who has just purchased a brand-new flat screen TV or is planning a two-week vacation. The prudent move is to avoid mentioning these things on social media — it’s like extending an invitation to a burglar to come and break into your home.

A Home Security System Is Your Best Defense Against Burglars

With all the threats that homeowners face nowadays, a state-of-the art-security system is essential for staying one step ahead of the crooks in the neighborhood. If you live in or around Phoenix or Tucson, AZ, Titan Alarm, Inc. can provide a “smart” security solution that meets your needs and budget. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation in-home security consultation today.

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What to Do When Someone Breaks Into Your Home While You’re There

While some burglars will “case” a home to determine when no one is there, others are more brazen and will attempt to break in while the house is occupied. This type of home invasion can occur while you’re sleeping or even when you’re having dinner or watching TV. Knowing what to do in these situations can mean the difference between life and death.

What If You’re Home Alone and Someone Tries to Break In?

It can be even more terrifying if you’re home alone, and someone breaks in. The burglar might mistakenly believe that the house is unoccupied, or they may already know you’re the only one there. Either way, it’s important to know how to react. The following tips can help you experience the best possible outcome during a home invasion:

  • Remain Quiet:

    Avoid the temptation to yell out to try to frighten the intruder — this will reveal your location and possibly put your life in danger if the individual is armed. Remain quiet and attempt to determine the intruder’s movements and whether he or she is working alone. Avoid confronting the invader, even if you have a weapon within easy reach.

Burglar Alarm Systems

  • Exit the Home if Possible:

    Once you’ve targeted the intruder’s location, determine if there is a way to get out of the house safely. For instance, if you’re in a second-floor bedroom with access to an exterior staircase or fire escape, you might be able to exit undetected if the burglar is on the first floor. Have a destination in mind, whether it’s a car (assuming you have the keys), a neighbor’s home or a nearby business.

  • Find a Hiding Place:

    If getting out of the house isn’t a viable option, look for a good place to hide. A closet with a solid door and a strong lock may be your best bet, although you may know of other “nooks and crannies” that would make good hiding spots. Most burglars will think to look under a bed, so this usually will not provide a safe haven.

  • Call for Help:

    If you have access to a phone, call 911 as soon as you’ve made it to a relatively safe location. You may have to rely on a cell phone, as many intruders will cut the lines to landline phones before entering the home. Speak as quietly and calmly as possible to the 911 operator, then stay still and wait for help to arrive. Remain in your hiding place until you’re sure the coast is clear.

  • If you Encounter the Intruder:

    If you come face-to-face with the intruder, obey his or her commands and don’t make any sudden moves. In most cases, burglars will simply take what they want and flee before the police arrive.

Commercial Burglar Alarm

Protect Yourself Against Home Invasions by Installing a Security System

An effective home security system equipped with features such as burglar alarms, automated locks and surveillance cameras can serve as an effective deterrent to home invaders. Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. to learn more about your security options in the Phoenix, AZ area.

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