Category: home security

Did you know that, according to FBI statistics, a burglary occurs every 15.4 seconds in the United States? The Phoenix, AZ area is not immune to crime. In fact, the city’s crime rate is considerably higher than the national average. Burglary in Phoenix is a significant problem — approximately 13,000 burglaries occur in the city on an annual basis.

Signs Burglars Look for When Targeting Properties

While you might think your home is safe, it may actually be an inviting target to burglars. The following list indicates the signs burglars look for when choosing their next victim:

1. Signs of inoccupancy: Burglars look for “red flags” that indicate the homeowners are on vacation or the home is unoccupied for an extended period. These can include an uncut lawn and untended landscaping, newspapers piled up on the porch and no interior lights at night.

2. Unlocked doors: Approximately one-third of burglars enter through an unlocked front door.

3. Unlocked windows: Many burglars gain entry through unlocked second-story windows that the homeowner mistakenly believes are inaccessible.

4. Regular routine: Burglars often discreetly watch a home for several days to determine when the occupants come and go.

5. High fences: You might think a privacy fence will protect your home, but burglars actually view it as a convenient form of concealment upon gaining access to your property.

6. Toys in the yard: Toys and bikes in the yard tell a burglar that the home is probably occupied by a mother who owns jewelry.

7. No exterior lighting: The absence of floodlights or other form of exterior lighting obviously makes it easier to avoid detection.

8. No daytime activity: Despite the misconception that burglars prefer the dark, many practice their craft during the daytime hours while the occupants are at work or school.

9. Uncovered windows: Burglars often look for windows with the blinds or curtains opened so they can get a good idea of what valuables are inside the home, especially during the holiday season.

10. Storm cellars: Storm cellars that enable ground access are a favorite target of burglars, especially if the owners leave them unlocked.

11. Vulnerable location: If you live on a cul-de-sac, your home is a more inviting target to a burglar due to its relative seclusion and less frequent law enforcement patrols.

12. Home type: Some burglars prefer townhouses and condominiums to stand-alone homes, as they frequently include small, enclosed backyards that provide concealment and sliding patio doors that enable easy accessibility.

13. No dogs: Burglars don’t like barking dogs, so a home with no visible signs of a dog such as a doghouse or outdoor food bowls is a more inviting target.

14. Unsecured ladders and tools: If you leave ladders alongside your home or tools in an unlocked garage or workshop, enterprising burglars will be happy to use them to their advantage.

15. No security system: A house without security is a more likely target than one that is protected by a home alarm system.

Contact Titan Alarm, Inc.: The Phoenix Home Security Leader

Titan Alarm can provide an advanced burglar alarm monitoring system that will effectively deter burglars from targeting your Phoenix home. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation home security consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on October 31, 2018.

 

Did you know that, according to National Fire Protection Association statistics, there are approximately 300,000-400,000 house fires in the U.S. each year? House fires cause thousands of deaths and billions of dollars in property damage. This underscores the need to make household fire safety a top priority.

The leading causes of domestic fires include:

• Cooking-related incidents: The NFPA reports that about 40 percent of home fires are related to cooking. Common examples include leaving food on a stove or in an oven unattended, and the ignition of cooking oil or grease.

• Malfunctioning heating units: A malfunctioning furnace poses a major fire hazard in homes during the winter. The improper use of portable space heaters can also lead to a fire, especially if they are placed too close to curtains, furniture or clothing.

• Electrical fires: There are numerous household electrical fire hazards such as faulty wiring, the improper use of electrical equipment, covering electrical cords with rugs or carpeting and the overloading of electrical sockets and circuits.

• Improper installation/maintenance of clothes dryers: The improper installation of a clothes dryer’s ventilation system can cause a buildup of heat that leads to a fire. The lint that collects in filters, under the dryer and inside the vents can also ignite and cause a fire.

• Improper use/storage of flammable liquids: Many products such as cleaning agents, paint thinners and solvents contain chemicals and other ingredients that can ignite or explode if they are exposed to a heat source.

• Careless smoking: While many smokers these days go outside to avoid impacting other household residents or to prevent the activation of the smoke detectors, careless smoking is still a leading cause of home fires. Smoking-related fire causes include failing to properly extinguish a cigarette and falling asleep while smoking in bed.

• Unattended candles: While lit candles can bring a warm, cozy feeling, they can also present a significant fire hazard in a home. Too often, people place candles within easy reach of kids or pets or do not keep them in a sturdy holder. And many people simply forget to blow them out when leaving the room.

• Kids playing with fire: Sadly, too many tragic household fires occur due to curious kids playing with matches or cigarette lighters that adults didn’t store properly.

• Arson: Not every household fire is accidental in nature. The NFPA indicates that arson in a top cause of household fires — and that nearly two-thirds of intentionally set structure fires occur when the building is occupied.

Titan Alarm, Inc. Can Help Protect Your Home Against Fire

One of the most effective household fire safety steps you can take is the installation of a reliable fire alarm system. If you live in the Phoenix, AZ area, Titan Alarm, Inc. can design and install an innovative fire alarm system that will provide your best defense against a potentially devastating household fire. Contact us to explore your alarm system options today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

A vacant property presents an inviting target for thieves, vandals and trespassers. Empty properties that are not properly maintained also pose an increased risk of fire. In this post, we will outline a few vacant property protection steps that can deter intruders and help prevent damage from occurring.

Keep Up Appearances

A vacant property that appears to be occupied is less likely to attract the attention of unwanted visitors. Keep the exterior of the building free of trash and debris, and mow the lawn and maintain the landscaping on a regular basis. Making occasional changes such as adding or removing a lawn ornament or wind chime can also enhance the lived-in effect.

Make Routine Visits

Visit the property every week or so to look for signs of possible intrusion, such as broken windows or compromised door locks. It’s also possible that thieves or vandals will see you entering or leaving the property, which can serve as a deterrent. Be certain to alter the times you visit the property to avoid making it look like a routine inspection.

Work With the Neighbors

Neighbors can prove invaluable in your vacant property security efforts. Neighbors who own homes on your block have a vested interest in the condition of your property in terms of maintaining their own property’s value. They can be a great help simply by keeping an eye out and watching for signs of suspicious activity. If there is a neighborhood watch group in the area, be sure to keep them informed of your property’s status.

Contact Law Enforcement

Let the local police department know when your property becomes vacant. Officers can monitor the property during their routine patrols and watch for signs of a break-in, trespassing or overnight occupation by squatters or homeless individuals.

Keep the Property Well-Lit

While keeping the interior of a vacant property lit at night may not be a practical option, exterior lighting can be an effective deterrent to potential intruders. Consider installing motion-sensor security lights that activate automatically upon breaching of the property’s perimeter. Security lighting should be installed so it can easily be seen from a neighboring home or business.

Install a Security System

Your empty property security efforts should also include the installation of a comprehensive, fully integrated security system. The most effective systems feature a combination of strategically placed cameras to ensure 24/7 video surveillance, intrusion detection devices such as motion sensors and state-of-the art fire and burglar alarms. Smart technology is especially important for a vacant property, as this enables the owner to remotely monitor activity at any time via smartphone, tablet or web-connected computer.

Titan Alarm Inc. Can Meet Your Vacant Property Protection Needs in Phoenix

If you own a vacant residential or commercial property in the Phoenix area, Titan Alarm can provide a cost-effective security system that will fully protect your property and give you total peace of mind. Contact us for more information regarding how to secure a vacant house or business and to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

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!

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

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.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

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.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

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.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

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.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

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

Phoenix

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

Scottsdale

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

Tempe

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

Wickenburg

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

Guadalupe

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

Youngtown

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

Contact Titan Alarm for Your Home Security Needs

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

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.