http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/protecting-your-family-during-a-break-in.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/protecting-your-family-during-a-break-in.html Tue, 13 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Just the mere thought is terrifying. Truly, no one can imagine the horror that goes through your mind when you realize your home is being broken into. According to the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Training & Education, a home, apartment or condominium is broken into every 11 seconds. Over 60% of burglaries occur during daylight hours when no one is home. But what about the other 40%?

Think about it for a minute. It's the middle of the night. You hear noises. Then footsteps. Who is it? Is he on drugs? Does he have weapons? Has he woken the kids? How will you escape? Did he trigger the home security alarm system? The middle of a crisis is not the time to create a plan of action. The time is now!

Police departments, defense training professionals and citizen safety groups all agree on several fundamentals when it comes to dealing with intruders. Use this information to develop a safety plan to apply in the unfortunate event that your house is broken into while you're home.

If You Have Home Security Alarms

Depending on how they are programmed, home security alarm systems will most often engage when your door or window is broken into. With most companies, the monitoring center will receive the alert then phone your home. If you're in the middle of a burglary, don't answer! You won't need to.

The phone ringing will probably signal the burglar that a security company is calling and he'll flee. The monitoring center will take action if they don't get a response from you. Help will be dispatched without you having to do anything.

If You Don't Use Home Security Alarm Systems

For those who don't use home security alarms, you'll need to make arrangements to call for help yourself. A cell phone is your best bet. With landlines, an intruder can simply take an extension off the hook to prevent you from calling the police. Give the authorities as much information as you can and do it quickly. Be as specific as possible.

Stay or Go?

The decision of whether to try and escape or stay put is a subjective one. You'll have to evaluate your situation and make that decision for yourself. Professionals suggest considering these factors:

· Is your bedroom on a first floor or second (or higher) floor? If a first floor, you may be able to escape through a window. If a second-story floor, you might be able to use a fire escape ladder. Any higher and it would not be safe to flee through a window.

· Does your bedroom window open to a safe place? You wouldn't want to climb down into prickly holly bushes, a steep slope or other dangerous area.

If you stay, get to a safe room. Any room with a lockable door (preferably a deadbolt) that opens out is good. Charge your cell phone in that room every night so it will be available if you need it. Reinforce the door with heavy furniture or a metal brace (you can get this at home improvement stores). You may also want to install deadbolts and door braces in the rooms of your children and instruct them on when and how to lock the doors.

No one likes to think about burglary or home invasion. However, planning now can literally save your life later. Walk through your house or apartment. Then, develop a safety strategy that fits your family and surroundings so you can be prepared in the event of a robbery.



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Jill Steele works for Monitronics, one of the largest home alarm system monitoring companies in the US. Monitronics offers protection against emergencies with state-of-the-art home security alarm systems and monitoring services. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com.

© 2007, All Rights Reserved



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/protect-your-family-from-the-invisible-killer-found-in-every-home.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/protect-your-family-from-the-invisible-killer-found-in-every-home.html Fri, 19 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Though it happens more during fall and winter months, it still threatens families year round. Silent, odorless and tasteless, carbon monoxide is an ever-present danger in our homes. Sadly, an estimated 15,000 people are confirmed with carbon monoxide poisoning every year according to the Center for Disease Control. Even more concerning is the 200-300 carbon monoxide-related deaths reported each year.

Battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors can offer a good deal of protection, as do home security alarm systems equipped to monitor carbon monoxide levels. But education and preparation are the most valuable types of protection you can have.

Sources of Carbon Monoxide

According to the Office of Homeland Security and the U. S. Fire Administration, carbon monoxide is produced by gas furnaces, heaters, generators, power tools, water heaters, gas-, oil- and coal-burning home appliances, charcoal grills, camp stoves, cars, trucks other vehicles, and more. As you can see, carbon monoxide (CO) is everywhere.

Home security alarms with CO monitors should be placed in every area where the above-mentioned items are used or stored. This will help provide a warning in the event CO levels rise too high.

Who Is At Risk?

Everyone is at risk for CO poisoning, but certain groups of people are more likely to succumb or die from exposure to CO. The Center for Disease Control reports, “The CO poisoning death rate was highest among people over 65 and likely attributed to their being at higher risk for undetected CO exposure. Symptoms of CO exposure often resemble those associated with other health conditions that are common among the elderly and they may not seek prompt medical attention for undetected CO exposures.”

Likewise, it was also found that men have a higher risk of death. “Although males and females were equally likely to visit emergency departments for CO exposure, males were 2.3 times more likely to die from CO exposure.”

In addition, infants and small children are at greater risk of getting CO poisoning.

What Are the Symptoms?

Carbon monoxide poisoning is often overlooked because its symptoms emulate those of other common illnesses. Nausea, headache, dizziness and sleepiness are most often reported early on. These can be attributed to the flu or a stomach virus. In advanced stages, shortness of breath, loss of muscle control, weakness and unconsciousness can occur.

What To Do In the Event of CO Poisoning

As stated above, carbon monoxide detectors are a first step in protecting your family. However, it is important to realize that these monitors simply sound an alarm. Home security alarm systems equipped with CO detectors go one step further in automatically alerting authorities about CO-related emergencies at your home. In the event you or your family members are rendered unconscious by this deadly gas, help will still be notified.

Don’t overlook the effects of carbon monoxide on you and you family. Take the necessary measures to help prevent deadly CO poisoning. Contact your home security alarm company today to discuss available CO protection services. When you do, you can sleep better knowing your family is being guarded against an invisible killer.



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Jill Steele works for Monitronics, one of the largest home alarm system monitoring companies in the US. Monitronics offers protection against emergencies with state-of-the-art home security alarm systems and monitoring services. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com. © 2007, All Rights Reserved





Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/protect-your-family-with-a-new-years-home-safety-checkup.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/protect-your-family-with-a-new-years-home-safety-checkup.html Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
The celebration of the New Year is the perfect time to conduct an annual inspection of your home security alarm systems. By making sure you have equipment that functions properly, as well as plans-of-action for various emergencies, you can be confident that your family will be adequately protected and well prepared should the unthinkable happen.

Test Smoke Alarms

If you use battery operated smoke detectors instead of hard wired home security alarm systems, now is a great time to walk through your house and inspect them all. Does each one sound an alarm when the test button is pressed? Are the batteries fresh or do they need to be replaced? Do you have smoke alarms in the most advantageous places throughout your home, including outside each bedroom?

Have you created an escape plan in case of fire? Does each person know how to get out of the house safely and where to meet once they are outside? Have you conducted fire drills in order to practice this routine?

Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors

The National Safety Council reports that 200-300 unintentional injuries or deaths occur annually due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Most people assume this is caused by large amounts of carbon monoxide leaking into their homes at one time. However, it is also possible to suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning by receiving small doses of the toxin over a long period of time.

As mentioned with smoke detectors, if you use battery operated equipment rather than permanent home security alarms you’ll want to check each one to ensure they are working as they should.

Also, educate yourself and your family about the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. If these symptoms become evident in any family member, seek medical help immediately.

Theft Prevention

Take a walk around the parameter of your house. As you do, look for places a burglar might hide while attempting to gain entry into your house. Trim shrubs that are taller than three-feet high, de-clutter doorways and porches, and add motion detector lights to illuminate dark places that might conceal burglars.

If you have home security alarm system monitoring, review your current home protection plan with your provider. Have you added a garage, a room or other improvements that might benefit from the installation of sensors? Would a home video surveillance system provide needed monitoring of pools or outlying buildings? Do you now have school-aged children who will be staying alone after school? Has an older family member moved in with you who might need added protection? These are issues you and your monitoring company can discuss.

Change Your Password

Passwords are given for all home security alarms. When the alert is activated, you normally receive a phone call from the monitoring company. In order to cancel the alarm, you must provide the correct password. How many people have you shared your password with throughout the year? Are these people still in need of that information? If not, it may be time to change your password.

We often make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, stop smoking or exercise more. This year, make – and keep – a resolution that can have a profound impact on your family. Plan an annual safety review to ensure you are protected against fire, carbon monoxide poisoning and burglary so you and your family can rest easy.



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Jill Steele works for Monitronics, one of the largest home alarm system monitoring companies in the US. Monitronics offers protection against emergencies with state-of-the-art home security alarm systems and monitoring services. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com.
© 2006, All Rights Reserved




Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/keeping-your-home-safe-during-the-holidays.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/keeping-your-home-safe-during-the-holidays.html Tue, 21 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0600
The Lights Are On, But Nobody's Home

Most families who use home security alarms don't realize that this season causes changes in our schedules and behaviors that might invite criminals to our homes. Without thinking, family members send dangerous signals to robbers.

For example, most families only operate their Christmas tree lights when at home. When you turn the lights off, you are giving a direct indication to robbers that you are sleeping or away. Even families that are protected by home security alarm systems don't want to blatantly provide this information. Rather than announcing your presence to criminals, invest in a timer that can randomly turn your Christmas tree (and outdoor holiday lights) on or off.

Keep Up Your Routine

Burglars are counting on the fact that, during the holidays, families that use home security alarms alter their security routines. Because Aunt Essie is staying with you, you might choose not to enable the burglar alarm at night, so as not to startle her if she opens a door or window during the night. Or, if Cousin Fred will be coming home after you are asleep, you might leave the alarm off rather than explaining to Fred how to deactivate and reactivate it.

These are opportunities criminals look for. It may be a little extra trouble, but if at all possible, keep up your security routine, even if guests are staying with you.

Protection For Outside Your Home

Presents are supposed to be surprises. Lots of moms and dads face a challenge every year of finding new places to stash the goods, so little ones can't find them. The trunk of a car has become a popular hiding place. While your kids and spouse might not think to look there, criminals will!

Unfortunately, cars and other vehicles cannot receive protection from home security alarms. That means your car is susceptible to burglary, along with the presents you hide in it. If you have an auto alarm, turn it on. You'll also want to lock your doors for added safety measures.

In addition, when ordering gifts online or through a catalog, be sure to leave instructions requesting that the delivery service leave the packages out of sight. Perhaps boxes could be placed on your back porch rather than your front porch or left at a neighbor's house who is home during the day. Most retailers have the ability to accept special delivery instructions. Take advantage of that benefit if you can.

During the upcoming holidays, pay extra attention to your surroundings then stop and consider whether your routines will give clues to criminals about your whereabouts. With a little added attention to detail, you and your family can have a safe and happy holiday season.



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Jill Steele works for Monitronics, one of the largest home alarm system monitoring companies in the US. Monitronics offers protection against emergencies with state-of-the-art home security alarm systems and monitoring services. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com.

© 2006, All Rights Reserved



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/a-fall-home-checkup-can-save-your-life.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/a-fall-home-checkup-can-save-your-life.html Tue, 31 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0600
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment is the leading cause of fires in homes during December, January and February. Why the rise? Because when the chill of fall sets in, most people break out some source of heat. Whether a fireplace, heating & air unit or space heater, any time you increase the use of heat there is a greater likelihood of fire.

In addition, rising fuel costs may tempt some to use alternate means of heating their homes in order to save money. However, the risk far outweighs any small monetary benefits you will receive.

Even if home security alarm systems are in use, it only makes good sense to take precautions. Let's look at the most common sources of heat used during cold months and how to prepare them for safe use in your home.

Fireplaces

The NFPA Journal states that chimneys and fireplaces rank number one as the causes of fires among all other types of heating equipment. This is because a chemical called creosote builds up in chimneys over time. This highly flammable castoff of wood lines the top of your fireplace and the sides of your chimney and can easily combust into a raging fire.

While home security alarms can certainly detect smoke and heat from these fires, it is always best to keep fires from erupting to begin with. Every fall, have your chimney and fireplace cleaned by a professional. This way you can ensure safety for you and your family as you snuggle close to that warm, flickering glow.

Another cause for concern when using fireplaces is the sparks they can produce. Often, in wood-burning fireplaces, the wood can pop, sending hot embers out into the room. The use of fireplace rugs is a common practice; however, if the rug isn't fire resistant, it will do little good. Make sure you use a fireplace screen and a fire-retardant rug as well.

Heating & Air Units

Just as you do in the spring before the blazing heat of summer sets in, call your heating & air service representative and schedule a seasonal inspection for fall. Because heating your home uses different elements of the unit than cooling does, it is always best to have a professional clean the coils to remove dust and debris that have built up over the spring and summer. This not only helps prevent some of the smell associated with turning the heat on for the first time, but also will aid in energy efficiency.

Space Heaters

In recent years, the NFPA has reported that heating equipment involvement was the cause of an estimated 45,500 home structure fires, causing 220 deaths and over $449 million in property damage. Portable and fixed space heaters were named as the cause of 74% of the deaths.

Thoroughly read all instructions included with any electric, gas or propane space heaters before beginning operation. While home security alarm systems can include carbon monoxide detectors and other helpful features, it is always best to turn space heaters off when you leave the room or go to bed. Also, never use gas heaters in an enclosed area. They require a good source of ventilation to avoid the buildup of explosive and harmful gases.

Even if the home security alarm you use offers smoke and fire detection, it is never wise to take chances. With a little precaution, your home and family can make it safely - and warmly - through the fall and winter months.




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Jill Steele works for Monitronics, one of the largest home alarm system monitoring companies in the US. Monitronics offers protection against emergencies with state-of-the-art home security alarm systems and monitoring services. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com.
© 2006, All Rights Reserved



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/affordable-home-protection-tips-for-single-parents.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/affordable-home-protection-tips-for-single-parents.html Thu, 14 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
A little pre-planning can help you overcome a situation that might otherwise turn into an emergency. With just a few simple tips that work in addition to security alarm systems, single parents can quickly help alleviate worry and instill a greater sense of safety without spending a ton of money.

Securing Your Home

An FBI study shows burglars enter your home through:

· the front door, 34% of the time

· a first-floor window, 23% of the time

· the back door, 22% of the time

Other entry points (such as a garage door, basement door or second-floor window) receive minimal forced entry attempts. This means your primary attention needs to focus on these three targets.

Those with a home alarm system almost always have their doors connected to the appropriate sensors by default. Windows, however, are sometimes overlooked. If you haven't had your windows linked to your security alarm system, contact the company today and have it done.

Also, pay attention to what type and style of door you use. Steel doors are more secure than wooden doors. Make sure doors with large windows are equipped with shatterproof glass. Most manufacturers today are required to use this special glass, but older doors may still contain windows that can be easily broken. Also use deadbolt locks that open and close with a key on the inside and outside. Get into the habit of locking the deadbolts whenever you leave and at night when you sleep.

Protecting Your Kids

As a single parent, there is simply no way you can keep your kids within eyesight at all times. The next best thing is to make sure you've done all you can to ensure their safety when you're not at home. Education is the best - and least expensive - preventative for disaster.

Choose a secret password that only you and your kids know. This way, your children will know without a doubt they can trust any adult who tells them the correct password. Teach your children (no matter what age) never to open doors for strangers unless they give the password, regardless of what the stranger might say.

Train your kids about the proper use of your home alarm system and how and when to phone 911. They should know where the pass code for your system is and they should also know how to activate the alarm in the event they need help. Additionally, children should be instructed on when to call 911 and what to expect when they phone.

Reducing Insurance Rates

Most insurance companies now offer discounts on policies for homes that use security alarm systems. Some companies have stipulations about how the system is connected, whether it is used in conjunction with a monitoring service, etc. Check with your insurance agent to find out if you're receiving all applicable discounts for the use of your fire and burglar alarms.

With work, school, cooking, cleaning and spending time with your kids, you already have your hands full. Emergencies are one thing you certainly don't need to add to that list. By implementing these simple tips, you can help alleviate a little stress from your life while, at the same time, guarding your children and your home against harm.



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Jill Steele works for Monitronics, one of the largest home alarm system monitoring companies in the US. Focused on quality & service, Monitronics offers protection against emergencies with state-of-the-art home security alarm systems and monitoring services. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com.
© 2006, All Rights Reserved


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/keeping-seniors-safe-at-home.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/keeping-seniors-safe-at-home.html Fri, 25 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0500
What's the bad news? Unfortunately, there are daily reports of seniors who have been taken advantage of. Seniors routinely have accidents at home alone with no way to reach help. And there's the dangerous situation of intruders entering your senior's home. Security alarm systems are certainly a big plus, but there are also other things you can do to help ensure your senior is safe at home.

Secure the Two Most Dangerous Rooms in the House

The bathroom tops them all for slips and falls. A close second is the kitchen: ranking high in fires and injuries. Make sure both of these danger zones are senior-friendly by asking the following questions:

Bathroom

_____ Is there a home security alarm monitor in the bathroom? Is it within easy reach or can it be voice activated?

_____ Are handrails installed outside and inside the shower and tub areas?

_____ Are nonskid bath mats placed on the floor?

_____ Has the water heater been turned below 120 degrees to avoid accidental scalds?

Kitchen

____ Do you regularly watch your senior cook or reheat meals to ensure he or she is still capable of doing so safely?

____ Do you review kitchen safety techniques, including putting out grease fires, not wearing loose clothing while cooking, stopping the bleeding of cuts, etc.?

____ Are there working fire extinguishers in the kitchen?

____ Are timers loud enough so that hearing-impaired seniors can hear them?

Intruders

No one likes the thought of an intruder breaking into their homes. That thought is especially unbearable when your parents or other seniors are involved.

____ Are home security alarm monitors placed throughout the house for easy access?

____ Is there someone who lives close by that your senior can phone in case of an intruder or other emergency?

____ Have you designated a "safe room" or some place your senior can hide in the event an intruder breaks in?

Other emergencies can occur also. You'll want to be prepared for anything. Ask yourself:

____ Does your senior's home security alarm system offer a portable device that can be worn around the neck?

____ Does someone come by on a regular basis to check on your senior?

____ If needed, how quickly could someone be at your senior's house?

____ Have you checked various home security alarm systems and monitoring companies to see which offers the most beneficial features for your senior?

Many seniors live well into their 80s and 90s at home with great success and comfort. The freedom to enjoy life on their terms is one of the things that helps them stay energetic and active. Planning for life's uncertainties is one way to ensure your senior's golden years will be fun-filled and trouble-free



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Jill Steele works for Monitronics International, one of the largest and fastest growing home security alarm monitoring companies in the United States. Focused on quality and customer service, Monitronics offers protection against all types of emergencies with state-of-the-art home security alarm systems and monitoring services. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com. © 2006, All Rights Reserved


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/three-vital-steps-to-keeping-latchkey-kids-safe.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/three-vital-steps-to-keeping-latchkey-kids-safe.html Thu, 13 Jul 2006 00:00:00 -0500
Watch the nightly news and you'll quickly hear enough scary tales to make your skin crawl. Kids that never made it home from school, emergencies happening that they weren't equipped to handle and other disturbing problems that most parents don't want to think about. The truth is, the only way to navigate around these horrors is for you and your kid(s) to think about them and to prepare for them.

A lack of control is what makes most situations frightening. When you empower yourself and your children, you gain back control and are better equipped to overcome the circumstances at hand. Let's look at the three areas where most problems occur for latchkey kids and how to ensure your children don't fall victim.

1. Know When Your Kid(s) Get Home - Make it a practice for your children to call you the minute they walk in the door. If they leave later (to go to a friend's house or to play ball with the neighborhood crowd), repeat the routine. As soon as they get back, they should phone you.

What if your kids simply don't remember? There are many home security alarm systems equipped with automatic notification settings. This allows you to be sent a text message or email when your kids enter the house. That will certainly put an end to the "Sorry, Mom. I forgot!" excuse.

2. Plan Ahead for Emergencies - Strangers ringing the bell, a cooking mishap that leads to fire or roughhousing that goes too far are all pathways to disaster. What would your child do in these instances? Would s/he know what to do? Could s/he handle the situation if no adults were around?

Take time to write down then think through each type of emergency your child might encounter. If A happens, your child should know to do B. Then review the settings on your home security alarms. Many offer different programming options for various areas of your home. Does yours provide special settings to keep unwanted visitors out of the house? Can it automatically notify the proper authorities? Understanding what's available to you can make all the difference in the world.

3. Have Help Available - Kids are still kids. Even with a great deal of planning, they may simply panic, especially if they are younger children. There should always be help available. Is there a neighbor close by you can trust? Do your parents live just a few minutes away? You'll want to have an adult readily available and able to get to your house within a short period of time, just in case something drastic happens.

Another option - for those that have home security alarms - is to enable the two-way communication feature. That way, without even picking up the phone, your kids can instantly speak with trained professionals about whatever type of emergency they are having.

Plan, prepare, empower. When you take time to think through the scary stuff, you enable yourself and your child to create a substantially safer environment you'll both feel better about.



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Jill Steele works for Monitronics International, one of the largest and fastest growing home security alarm monitoring companies in the United States. Focused on quality and customer service, Monitronics offers protection against all types of emergencies with state-of-the-art home security alarm systems and monitoring services. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-improvement/protecting-your-family-from-fire-hazards-in-your-home.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-improvement/protecting-your-family-from-fire-hazards-in-your-home.html Mon, 19 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0500
The Home Safety Council reports that fires and burns are the third leading cause of home injury in the United States. The sad fact is, much of the time, these fires could have been prevented. Many homeowners have fire alarm systems and - while the fire alarms are effective
in notifying you and your monitoring company of a fire in progress - the alarms don't prevent fires.

Don't put yourself and your family at unnecessary risk. If you know where the primary trouble spots for fire are, you can do a room-by-room assessment and make any needed changes before you and your family become victims.

Most people focus on the kitchen when it comes to fire safety. They make sure their fire alarm systems include smoke and fire detectors in the kitchen as well as fire extinguishers. Most people already know they should:

· never leave the kitchen while cooking

· never wear loose clothing around burners or gas flames

· always carefully watch splattering oils during frying

· never have paper, plastic or other flammables near burners

However, the majority of homeowners stop there. Unfortunately, we all have fire hazards throughout our homes. Each room needs to be given due attention in order to prevent fires from occurring. Installing fire alarms is a great idea, but you can't stop there. To be thorough, use the following checklist to conduct a room-by-room survey. Once you're finished, you can feel much more confident that you and your family are safe from potential fires.

Living Room

___ Fireplace has a screen, glass door or other protective device to prevent sparks from exiting the fireplace.

___ Matches and lighters are stored in a locked cabinet if small children are in the home.

___ The fireplace has been inspected annually and cleaned by a professional as needed.

Garage or Outdoor Area

___ Chemicals (including fertilizers) are locked and out of reach of children.

___ Gasoline and kerosene are stored outside the home in a cool place in properly ventilated containers.

___ Grills are kept at least two feet away from anything flammable including bushes and tree branches.

___ Grills have been cleaned of all grease drippings, inside and out.

All Rooms

___ Cigarettes are dipped in water before being disposed of.

___ Candles are never left unattended.

___ Space heaters are kept several feet away from curtains and drapes, newspapers, magazines, books, blankets, towels or other flammables.

___ Electrical outlets are not overloaded.

___ Power cords are in good condition and are not frayed.

When you take just an hour or two to inspect your home, you can dramatically reduce your chances of falling victim to a fire. Alarm systems are a tremendous help in times of trouble, but by taking a few preventative steps, you greatly reduce the likelihood of an accident happening in your home



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Jill Steele works for Monitronics International, one of the largest and fastest growing manufacturers and monitors of fire alarm systems in the United States. Focused on quality and customer service, Monitronics offers protection against fire with state-of-the-art fire alarms and monitoring services. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com.



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/simple-tips-for-preventing-break-ins-at-your-home.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-security/simple-tips-for-preventing-break-ins-at-your-home.html Mon, 12 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0500
This is a situation all too many people find themselves in every year. The middle of a potentially life-threatening emergency with no security alarm system is no time to discover you need additional help. The best time to work those things through is right now when all is well. There are some simple ideas you can put into place right now that can help prevent break-ins at your home. Even if you have a home alarm system, these tips go a long way to give added safety.

Leave the Outside Lights On Every Night

Most people never turn on the outside lights unless they are leaving. While they believe turning outdoor lights on when they leave is a safety measure, they are only partially correct. Why? Because if the only time you turn the outdoor lights on is when you leave, you're sending a glaring signal to burglars that says, "Hey! I've gone out for several hours tonight so help yourself. I'll turn the lights off when I get back so you and your buddies will know not to come around."

Turn your porch lights and other outdoor lights on *every* night, whether you're leaving your home or not. This way, you accomplish two things. First, you shed light on dark areas that might otherwise help to camouflage burglars. Second, you take away the signal burglars are waiting to see that tells them you're away from home. Alarm systems are fabulous for helping in times of emergency, but prevention is still the number-one cure for break-ins.

Un-Clutter Windows and Doorways

When you give burglars plenty of cover, they will likely take advantage of it. Tall bushes and shrubs that fully or partially cover windows make great hiding places. Burglars can easily squat behind a bush as they work on prying open a window for entry. Likewise, tall topiaries, statues or other objects that offer cover to burglars should be removed from around your doorways. Don't provide anything that would give a robber a hiding place.

Make It Too Much Trouble

Most burglars are looking for an easy score. If they think entry will be too difficult or that there is a high risk of being caught (as is the case with security alarm systems), they will probably move on to another house. If you currently have a home alarm system, place the signs and window stickers in prominent places where they can be readily seen. This practice is frequently recommended by police departments because of its effectiveness. Motion detector lights are also good deterrents. Security pins for sliding doors and windows would definitely be too much trouble for your average burglar to fuss with. In addition, double-paned windows are extra trouble to break (and extra noisy!) giving burglars yet another reason to look elsewhere for a victim.

Another good idea is to survey your home and think like a burglar. If you were trying to break into your own house, how would you do it? What would you need to be successful? If you find easy ways to break into your home, chances are a burglar will, too. Make notes as you walk around your house and then take immediate action to stop trouble before it starts.



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Jill Steele works for Monitronics International, one of the largest and fastest growing security alarm system monitoring companies in the United States. Focused on quality and customer service, Monitronics home alarm systems offer protection against burglary, fire and medical emergencies. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com.


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>