4 Essential Elements of Home Security

Home security is becoming more and more critical for everyone. Even the neighborhoods that traditionally were secure are no longer as safe as before. Criminals seem to lurk everywhere looking to take from you. And if you live in a high crime area then you dont really have a choice but to pay attention to how secure your home is. But protection from criminals is not the only aspect of home security that you need to consider.

The pointers below will help you design an action plan to make your home a safer place to live.

First Aid Kit

Im told that most accidents happen in the home now I dont know if its true but it is amazing how often accidents do happen in a home. I guess if you figure that the kitchen is full of chemicals, electrical appliances, sharp objects designed to cut, boiling water, hot fat,the list is endless. Then take the bathrooms where there are often slippery floor surfaces, more boiling water, more razor edges, medicines and we havent got to the garage yet with machines and gas and ..yowza. Its amazing that any of us survive. The you have to add the kids to the whole package.

So before you need it and the odds are that you will need it get a first aid kit. Any family chemist of clinic will help you with a list of suitable stuff. In many cases you will even be able to buy a complete kit. However you chose to get a kit get one. Because when you need it you are going to need it quickly.

Smoke Alarms

Fire is another real hazard in the home. Not that it happens every day but it can. And face it fire is often a part of our normal living. Maybe a fire in the fireplace. How about in the barbeque or burning the garden refuse. Maybe the fat catches fire in the kitchen. A candle falls over. Then there are the kids again and matches and curiosity. How about falling asleep with a cigarette or cigar. Electrical shorts. The list goes on and on. So consider a smoke alarm system. Get a good system and keep an eye on the batteries to make sure they are still able to run the sensors. And get a fire extinguisher. Get one for the garage at the same time. You may never need it. But if you do you will need it fast. No time to go looking under cupboards and stairwells. It needs to be right there.

Locks

Get good locks on the doors. .Deadbolt locks are good. If you are not sure about the lock quality that is suitable for your home then talk to your local hardware store or locksmith. I know it may sound crazy but all to often the locks on exterior doors may be inferior and offer little resistance to an experienced house breaker. Make sure your locks are solid. But also make sure that everyone in the home knows how to get the lock open in a hurry. Circumstances may come about where you need to get out in a hurry and it may be pitch black at night. Practice drills on evacuation.

And get a good solid torch or flashlight. Get a couple. Stash them around the home where everyone can get their hands on one if necessary. If they are really solid they can double as a club. Now I know you may not be Rambo but you never know. If you do surprise a burglar or need to break a window to escape then a club with a light on one end will be useful.

Get a list of support telephone numbers.

Nothing like stating the obvious but. I watched a car thief breaking into my car and realized I didnt know the telephone number of the local police station or my security company. Too late to go paging through the phone book. Put the numbers on the fridge, in your cell phone anywhere. So when you need them you have them. ( Needless to say my torch and a strong sense of indignant protesting was enough to chase the car thief away ) but next time Ill have the telephone numbers I need.

For more on Home Security Tips and Strategies visit http://www.homesecurity.cctv-security-systems.info/

How To Protect Your Home From Destruction From Fire

While the threat from the outside world to your house can sometimes seem great, one of the most frightening things that can occur in your home is a fire. More so than natural disasters such as floods, fires damage homes across the nation in ways that are avoidable if only people would take the right steps to ensure that they do not occur.

The first thing that you need to do is to realize that nothing you can do will possibly reduce the risk of a fire to zero, so you will need to purchase adequate insurance to cover your home. This will help you, in the disastrous event of a fire at your house, cover the costs of the damage and help you get back on track. If you do not have fire protection you may find yourself in a tough situation, as your home may have been destroyed, your property damaged, or the like. Fire insurance may not be able to make it like there never was a fire at your house, but it can help ease the pain of what was lost.

In addition to a general fire insurance you will want to be sure to get specific insurance on the valuables that are inside your home. Things that are truly irreplaceable, such as heirlooms, paintings, antiques and the like are what you will want to insure in this area.

After you have insured your home and your belongings, you should begin taking the steps that are necessary to reduce the risk of fire as much as you can. Some of the more common methods of doing so are to install smoke detectors in each room of your house. While it can be a bit bothersome keeping these devices stocked with fresh batteries, there are models available that are extremely energy efficient, and the warning given by them has saved many homes, and more importantly, lives.

Another way to protect your home from fire is to have fire protection added onto the plan for your home security system. This way, the same technicians who monitor your home for intruders will also make sure that the system that warns of fire in your home is in working order. This method will work even when you are away from home, as a fire in your house will alert the security company, who will then pass the word on to whoever needs to be informed in your local area and get the fire taken care of.

Some other things that you can do involve good common sense. If you are not using your gas or electric powered equipment, then turn it off. If it will be out of use for a long period of time, disconnect it from the gas or electric line and store it properly. As you leave your home, check and make sure that you've left nothing plugged in or on that might start a fire. And never smoke in bed, if you are a smoker.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about this as well as a fire extinguishers at http://www.rechargeablefireextinguishers.com.

A Look At How Fire Alarm Systems Work

By Gregg Hall

It seems like the question of how a fire alarm system works passes through everyone's mind at some point or another. Before that question can be answered, it is even more important for a person to know exactly what a fire alarm system is. Fire alarm systems are devices or series of devices that are meant to alert people and institutions to the presence of a fire within some building or another. In the industry, these systems are referred to as active fire protection, which basically translates to mean that the system can be turned on or off, that is, activated, in some way or another. Every single fire alarm system in the world operates on a simple principle, no matter what sort of form it takes. There are things working in it that tell it there is a fire, so called alarm initiating devices, things that let people who use it know there is a fire, the so called alarm notification appliances, things that it uses to try to prevent the spread of fire, the so called fire control units, and all the infrastructure that holds these three things together, all the electricity and wires that runs throughout the whole affair. All these things working in unison and correctly have often saved the lives of people who were in buildings that have caught fire. Then, how does a fire alarm system work? Basically, it works by having the devices looking for fire being tripped. This can mean that a smoke alarm sniffs smoke and sends the signal to the system, or it can mean that someone sees a fire and pulls the alarm lever to let the system know that something is burning. At this point a sound too loud to be ignored is raised so that people will know there is a fire and can begin to get out of the building in an orderly fashion. Some fire alarm systems are equipped with strobe lights or the like so that people who are deaf can be alerted as well. Nearly every single fire alarm system has a smoke detector installed on it in some location. This is because, as the old adage goes, where there is smoke there is fire. So one of the best ways to spot a nascent fire is to look for sign of smoke. Smoke detectors come in two flavors, those that use light and those that use air. The smoke detectors that use air look out the world with a beam of light and can detect when smoke scatters the signal of the light in a particular way. Those that use air sniff for smoke by analyzing the ionization of the air in the location where they are stored. Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about this as well as a how to use a fire extinguisher at http://www.rechargeablefireextinguishers.com

Some Of The Key Points You Need To Know About Fire Extinguishers

There has been much controversy recently over the revelation that many home fire extinguishers actually contain the gas halon. This is, on the surface, alarming. But in fact, the amount of halon that is contained within fire extinguishers is not a risk to the health of humans in most cases. Those who are young or old, or people who have problems with their respiratory system, however, are advised to avoid the fumes from fire extinguishers if at all possible.

It is also important to know that as the temperature in an area rises, it becomes more dangerous. As the temperature of halon rises, it becomes more toxic. Therefore, do not remain in an area where a fire extinguisher has been used if at all possible. Halon has been shown to be corrosive to the ozone layer. Using it is not particularly healthy for the environment.

When you are looking at a fire extinguisher, most of the information you need will be printed on its label. All extinguishers are rated according to standards set by the industry. These standards will tell you what sort of fire the extinguisher is mean to put out, and, as such, should be consulted before using the extinguisher. Using the wrong type can actually exacerbate the intensity of a fire.

Most labels will warn you of the types of fires that can be worsened by the extinguisher. In addition to the type of fire that they are meant to combat, extinguishers are rated with the size of fire that they can handle. You should never use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire that is too large for it to handle. Ratings proceed in a linear fashion according to their type. A 1A can put out a certain amount of regular fire, while a 2A can put out twice as much of a regular fire. A 2B will put out a certain amount of liquid fire, and a C will put out an electrical fire. C rated extinguishers are not given a numerical rating.

Also on the label will be illustrated and printed information about how to properly use an extinguisher. You would be well advised to get familiar with this information.

Most fire extinguishers that are sold today are single use extinguishers. These models tend to be filled with halon. Also, these models do not undergo the same rigorous tests that reusable extinguishers must undergo to be used. And even those that do not score very high. Almost none of the disposable are all purpose extinguishers.

Using the above information as a guide, you can purchase the type of extinguisher that you need for your own personal or business use. Make sure that you get one that will work to overcome the fires that could arise in your location. If not, there isn't much purpose of getting a fire extinguisher.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about this as well as a rechargeable fire extinguisher at http://www.rechargeablefireextinguishers.com

How To Determine The Correct Fire Extinguisher For Your Home

By Gregg Hall

Do you know that there are three different types of fire extinguishers that are each meant to tackle three different types of fires? In your home, do you have the right type of extinguisher to handle a fire that sparks from faulty wiring? What if your car's engine caught on fire, would have the right one in that case? Can you recognize which extinguisher works with which fire?

If you can't answer all the above queries with satisfactory answers, then it is likely that you are not as informed as you should be about fire extinguishers and how to safely employ them. However, in the article below you will find all the information you need to help prevent a minor flare up from becoming a home consuming conflagration.

The first thing you need to do is to get the right type of extinguisher for the particular location you are seeking to protect. This is of paramount importance, as using an incorrect extinguisher on a fire can actually make the blaze worse and harder to control, or even put your life in peril.

To use a classic example, water, you might think, puts out all fire. And it works well on fires that are burning wood or wood products. But for fires that are burning grease or oil, or that are caused by electricity, using water as an extinguisher is an exceptionally bad idea. It exacerbates grease fires and can cause you to get a nasty, if not fatal, jolt from electrical fires.

There are essentially three classifications of types of fires. These are from the system designed by Underwriters Laboratories, and are as follows. The first type of fire, or Class A fires, are those that arise when the most common household products ignite. These include fires that are burning wood, paper, fabric, rubber, or plastics. Class B fires are liquid fires. Class C fires are those that either burn liquids or solids, but which are ignited by a source of electricity. The method of extinguishing fires varies according to the type of fire.

To put out fires there are three common methods, the first of which sprays out a mixture of chemical dust and the latter two of which spray the fire with gas. The dust based fire extinguishers have the drawbacks of coating everything they spray with a fine patina of chemical residue, which can be very difficult to clean up and which can ruin some consumer electronics. The first type of gas extinguisher is made from the gas carbon dioxide. It works by smothering the fire. Carbon dioxide extinguishers can get frigidly cold at the nozzle, so never, ever, touch the nozzle of the extinguisher. The last type of extinguisher is halon. Halon has been linked to some health problems.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about this as well as a how to use a fire extinguisher at http://www.rechargeablefireextinguishers.com

The Advantages Of The Wireless Video Security Camera

The incidence of security cameras is fast becoming part of our everyday landscape. Whether you visit a public building, a shopping center or even private homes, security cameras will be watching your every move more often than not.

Don't be surprised though; it's a legacy of increased crime rates whether they be physical or white collar and you cannot blame home or business owners for taking every precaution to protect their property and possessions. Security cameras have improved significantly with the rapid increase in technology and more and more people are discovering the benefits of the wireless video security camera.

Wireless Security Camera Vs. Wired

While wires are still predominantly used the wireless video security camera is becoming a great option given that it's much easier to set up. Let's look at some of the advantages with going wireless:

- Easier setup. Less noticeable as you don't have to hide the wiring.

- More cost effective. In many cases, a wired security camera has to be adapted to a particular environment which means the need to go through either walls or windows. A wireless video security camera can practically be placed or moved anywhere you like.

- Less limitation on where you can place the non-wired version. Being near a power source is virtually eliminated as a factor as well as having to be reasonably close to the viewing and recording device. With a wireless video security camera, the opportunity to log in to a computer and view from just about anywhere is high tech stuff.

- Easier to hide than the wireless models.

What's Available In Wireless?

If you are considering a wireless video security camera you need to decide between two basic types. The first type will come as a package that includes a transmitter and receiver with the advantage being that the cable usually used with a television camera is replaced by the transmitter and receiver with the camera aligned to the transmitter. The receiver then is connected to the recording and viewing object.

For those looking to spend a little more, the second version operates like an IP camera. This is an obviously less messy way to use a security camera as they come equipped with a wireless network adaptor and allows the operator to look in via computer, virtually from anywhere on the planet, provided they have internet access.

Further benefits of a wireless video security camera are there portable capabilities. Being able to move them around to suit specific needs makes them more logical. As far as expense is concerned then you may be paying a little more but again, if you want the technology then you may have to spend a little more. Determine what job you want your camera to perform before making a final decision.

Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. Discover the many advantages of a wireless video security camera plus security camera news and reviews at http://www.securitycameraline.com

Easy Ways to Increase the Security of Your Home

While home security devices may be the most obvious way in which to protect your home from intruders, there are other improvements you can make and practices you can employ in order to keep criminals away.

First of all, make sure your doors are secure. Any loose doorknobs, hinges, or doorframes may be an invitation for a robbery. Secure these fixtures or purchase new ones. If necessary, purchase a new door preferably steel, with windows that cannot be broken in order to unlock the door from the inside. A door with windows, however, can still contain a deadbolt that locks from the interior with a key (instead of a turn-dial), and still be secure.

A storm or screen door may do little to prevent a break-in. You may want to invest in a wrought-iron or metal scrollwork door. While someone who really wants in still might find a way to get past the metal door, they will be deterred by the potential time it would take to do so.

Window locks should be in working order. It may be desirable to install bars on lower-level windows. In addition, windows should have the proper interior coverings blinds or curtains so that potential burglars are unable to see what is inside the home. Burglars are less likely to break into a home if they dont know what valuables are contained within.

Its a tried-and-true practice, but leave a light or two on while youre gone. If it looks like someone is home, most potential intruders will stay away. In addition, a Beware of Dog sign will deter many criminals even if you dont own a dog. The possibility of being bitten by an angry beast does not appeal to even those who would try to steal your valuables.

Keep money, jewelry, and other expensive items well-hidden or under lock-and-key in a safe. In the event of a break-in, you will suffer fewer damages than if your valuables were in plain site. Especially valuable items should be taken to a safety deposit box at a bank.

If you are worried about home security, there are many things you can do to make you and your home more secure. Using multiple thief-deterrent practices can increase safety and thwart break-ins before they start.

House Sitters

Even if you have an alarm system, house sitters are invaluable. If you leave your home to to on vacation, your best defense is having actual people in your home. The majority of burglaries in the United States happen during the day while people are at work. Criminals will take the easiest route. If people are in their targeted home, they will move on to a house that appears empty. The problem with traditional house sitting services is that they simply make one or two trips to your home a day to collect mail, open curtains, water plants, and throw off criminals. That still leaves about 23 hours in the day that your home is vulnerable to intrusion or fires.

The best house sitting option is to have people living in your home. If you have house sitter stay at your home full-time throughout the length of your vacation, you will worry less about burglaries, fires, and other problems such as coming back to a flooded home because of a broken hot water heater.

Having a house sitter also cuts down on preparation time and expenses before your vacation. You wont have to have your mail stopped (all a criminal has to do is watch your postal carrier skip your house to assume youre on vacation), buy and set light-timers, or even board the dog.

Dont have a friend or family member who can stay at your home? There are services available that match up people and live-in house sitters. Its as though someone is renting your house while youre on vacation, only they generally dont pay you rent. They will pay utilities, mow the lawn, take care of your mail, pets, and home while youre away. They will notify you of any problems. The services help you screen candidates and find the perfect person, couple, or family willing to take care of your home.

Author Ian White is founder of housecarers.com Housesitting Directory Find responsible House Sitters to Secure your Home and care for your Gardens and pets while you are away. You deserve a break from the responsibilites of home ownership.

Home Security - Having Basically Secure Doors

Doors and window security are an integral part of any home security system. If you had a top-notch home security system but the basic structure of all exterior doors were flimsy and week then you have a problem as an expert burglar can break-in very easily. Some homeowners have opted for a decorative, glass-paneled door, which looks good, but not worth risking personal safety and other valuables in the house. While considering home security issues do check if your doors and windows are secure, if not, make sure they are secured.

Doors

All the external doors of the house have to be made of solid wood, or a metal wrapped construction or wrought iron for home security reasons. There must be no gaps between the door and the frame, ensuring no burglar can pry it open. The doors will be much sturdier if they are about 13/4 thick. If there are glass panels or decorative glasswork, ensure that it has sturdy iron grills on the inside. It will be better if all exterior doors are secured by sturdy wrought-iron door. Make sure that doors and windows have secure locks such as sash locks that are not easy to take apart. For the main door a cylinder night latch, a dead-bolt lock, a rim lock or a mortise Lock, press-locking bolt, a door chain and a spy hole viewer could provide adequate security.

Windows

Windows need extra security too, in order to get maximum home security. Please remember to lock all windows before leaving your house. Window need secure hardy locks such as track locks or dual screw window locks and appropriately sturdy bolts too.

Locks

Smart locks and keys that are programmed to let only the bearer of the key access to the house could be used to lock exterior doors. An electronic keypad-dead bolt combination may be another home security enhancer. There are latest fingerprint controlled locks that have taken home security enhancement to another level.

Be sure to secure all your doors and windows to minimize chances of a burglary. The garage door could have an alarm too, to warn you of trespassers. As many burglars have used garage doors to gain access, be very careful in locking them when not in use. Other home security equipment could be installed as per your desire. If there are trees in your house make certain that their branches are trimmed away from your windows. By taking such tiny precautionary measures, you are enhancing home security. When you know your house is reasonably secure, you could rest easy in peace.

Milos Pesic is an expert in the field of Home Security and runs a highly popular and comprehensive Home Security web site. For more articles and resources on Home Security related topics, Home Security Equipment and Systems visit his site at: =>http://home-security.need-to-know.net/

Using a Stun Gun Taser for Self Protection

A stun gun taser is a relatively inexpensive, convenient and powerful way to ward off attackers. The sight and sound of a stun gun taser going off is usually enough to scare an attacker away. Stun gun tasers repel your attacker with high voltage yet low amperage shock. You cannot be shocked even if you are touching the attacker.

A stun gun taser looks like a pistol but uses compressed air to fire two darts that trail electric cable back to the handset. When the darts strike, a five-second 50,000-volt charge is released down the cable, causing the suspect's muscles to contract uncontrollably. Electrical signals -Taser waves or T-Waves - overpower the body's normal electrical signals, temporarily confusing the nervous system. A laser helps target the suspect and the Taser works at ranges up to 21 feet.

Stun gun tasers come in compact sizes for your convenience and usually have safety switches and wrist straps. You need to supply batteries strong enough to power your device.

Get familiar with your stun gun taser before you might need to use it on an assailant. Test it in a safe environment and learn how to press the switch that will fire the voltage across the probes, making sure you don't get a shock. It's always recommended that you be prepared while walking through dangerous places like parking lots at night or even walking your dog in your local area. Have your stun gun out and ready.

If you are confronted or assaulted, the best points of contact to go for are the upper hip, upper shoulders or rib cage. All of these areas have more nerve endings than other spots on the body but other targets also will stop your attacker. Keep the stun gun taser going as long as it takes to incapacitate the assailant so that you can safely escape (usually 1-5 seconds, depending on the voltage).

Be Safe - Have A HeatWave Pepper Spray Handy!

Crimes are facts of life. They happen everyday. And statistically speaking, it is possible for you to become a victim of a crime at least once in your life. Crimes happen, regardless of place, time, situation, your social status, age, or gender.

Listed below are some of the crime rates and facts in America:

- Rapes occur at a rate of 78 cases per hour all throughout America.

- 17 of 100 boys and 1 out of 4 girls will experience sexual assaults when they reach the age of 18.

- One of four cases of rape happens in public places.

- Murder Rate in America increased 2 percent early this year.

- There is a possibility that you will be stalked, even if you are not a star.

Crimes have a higher probability of success because of the element of surprise and the failure of the victims to be prepared for troublesome incidents.

Thus, you can reduce the risks that can be inflicted to you if you are prepared for these things and if you are capable of defending yourself.

Out of all the self-defense techniques available for you to use, it is noteworthy to give attention to Security Plus HeatWave Pepper Spray that can be of great help on the road, at home, or in the car.

What is the Active Ingredient in Security Plus HeatWave Pepper Spray?

HeatWave Pepper Spray contains an active ingredient Oleoresin Capsicum or O.C that is extracted from hot cayenne peppers. According to use and situation, consumers can choose from 10 percent or 15 percent concentration. They may have the same 2 million Scoville Heat Unit rating, but they differ in the capacity to stick due to consistency.

Which concentration should I choose?

The 10 percent concentration HeatWave Pepper Spray is best for human assailants. On the other hand, the 15 percent concentration is the one to use when faced with wild animals in the outdoor. The thick consistency allows the solution not to drip from the animals.

How does Security Plus HeatWave Pepper Spray Work?

The active ingredient Oleoresin Capsicum (O.C.) gives uncomfortable burning sensation when applied to assailants. It really hurts, making the attacker disoriented. The effect lasts for 20 to 45 minutes, giving enough time for victims to move to a safer place and ask for help from the authorities.

When sprayed on the face, it will cause temporary blindness, coughing, choking and depressed breathing for your attacker.

The pepper spray does not have long term effects, and contrary to hearsays, it does not cause total blindness.

What makes Security Plus HeatWave Pepper Spray different from other Sprays?

What makes Security Plus stand out from competitors is the way it measures the potency of the spray. They acquired a measure system that allows them to get the effective rate of the spray after it leaves the nozzle. They actually use the unit nozzle SHU.

Which form should I use?

Security Plus HeatWave Pepper Spray comes in different forms: keychain, canisters, etc to conceal the spray and make it less visible from attackers and to cater to the different needs of the consumers as well. It does not matter what you choose. What is important is the spray concentration itself.

What is the dispersion mechanism used by Security Plus HeatWave Pepper Spray and what are its advantages?

Security Plus HeatWave Pepper Spray uses the stream dispersion mechanism similar to water gun mechanism. The canister has the capacity to give off ten one-second bursts. It gives the following advantages:

- It can hit multiple attackers.

- It can still work in the dark, even if you are not aware where your attackers are.

- When you miss your attackers, you can fan the mist towards their direction.

What are the disadvantages of this type of dispersion mechanism?

When you are inside the car and you sprayed on a partially opened window, there is a possibility that the spray will bounce at you, though it is only minimal.

Is there an expiration date for pepper sprays?

Yes, there is an expiration date. It is still usable within 3 to 4 years. But to be sure, check the date on the pepper spray canister.

With all the things said about Security Plus HeatWave Pepper Spray a more effective or affordable personal protection solution would be hard to find.

Sheri Gray is writer and webmaster for J & S Enterprises an online force in the personal self-defense products market. Serving the personal protection industry since 2004 J & S Enterprises offers the Taser X26c Citizen Defense System, Security Plus Stun Guns, Heatwave Pepper Sprays, and Mace Defense Sprays. For more information on the products offered by J & S Enterprises and a link to check for Sex Offenders in your area go to: http://www.safeselfdefense.com, for more information on the Taser X26c Citizen Defense System go to: http://www.taser-x26c.com

Is Your Wireless Network a Home Security Breach?

Wireless networks for home computers are becoming more and more popular but do you know how to protect your Wi-Fi network?

A recent survey from www.wi-fi.org shows that protecting your wireless network has become one of the top three issues in home security. According to the survey the top three concerns about home security was:

* Locking windows and doors

* Installing a home alarm system

* Securing your wireless network.

More than 40 percent of the survey respondents felt that a protected Wi-Fi network was an important part of creating a safe home.

Is your neighbor using your Wi-Fi network?

Did you know that 17 percent of Americans thinks it's ok to use someone else's network. The wast majority thinks using your neighbor's Wi-Fi is like stealing. They don't like their neighbors borrowing their signal without their knowledge.

Most new laptop computers have access to Wi-Fi networks as a standard feature. Try taking your laptop for a drive in the neighborhood and you'll probably discover that your computer can connect to several networks - especially if you live in the city. Some Wi-Fi snatchers even put small graffitti marks on walls indicating where your can find an open network.

Only seven out of 10 respondents in the survey had activated their Wi-Fi network security - that leaves 30% of networks wide open. Securing you network does require a little technical knowledge, but most systems come with an easy step-by-step guide for setting up the network security. When you have secured your network you can really enjoy the freedom of Wi-Fi without worrying about bandwidth theft.

Have you checked if your Wi-Fi network is secure?

Can you take your laptop computer across the street and still access your home network? Does using your network require you to logon to the network? If not your network is probably wide open so everyone in the neighborhood can use your network. Maybe it's time to find the manual to your system and start doing something about your Wi-Fi security before someone starts stealing your bandwidth or worse - gets access to you computer.

About the author: Jan Sepstrup is the editor of http://www.homesecuritysystemtips.com - A website with free information on home security & home safety. Visit this site for more informative articles on Home Security.

Locks vs Alarms

With the emphasis now-a-days leaning on good home security, where do we go from here? Many lock experts are telling us that locks are the priority; after all, we want to discourage an intruder before he or she makes their grand entrance. Locks can surely stop a would-be intruder at stage one (a locked door) before they have the opportunity to test the waters in stage two (an alarm system).

Or do they? Careful consideration must be made as to the type of locks you install in your home. There are several types of locks and lock-enhancing hardware on the market, so the consumer must be careful when selecting the right combinations to assure maximum protection against the bad guys. Many homeowners have opted to let budget prevail over security by purchasing cheap locks. Burglars love this mindset, making a break-and-enter quick and easy. Consumers need to realize when selecting good locks they should consult a security professional. Locksmiths are not only able to advise which lock would best suit their needs, but which other security features should be considered.

Maybe you should opt for an alarm system, and forget about the lock upgrades. This will possibly give you the most bang for your buck. Many alarm salesmen are quick to point out that for only $25.00 or $30.00 a month in monitoring fees, presto, you have a monitored alarm system.......just sign on the dotted line!

If you are prepared to lock into a three year contract because you are away from home quite often, perhaps this is the avenue you should be traveling. But keep in mind that most free alarm packages offer bare bones coverage. You may need to spend a little more to guarantee you have the utmost home protection.

If you are sitting in a home with cheap locks and a bare bones alarm system, chances are an intruder could blow through your door, take off with your valuables and be gone long before the police arrive. This is not what I would call good home security; in fact, it's not even mediocre. Good home security involves a culmination of good locks and a well-covered alarm system. The first line of defence is still the locks, so make sure to install good-quality deadbolts with all the strength-enhancing hardware to ensure a stronger defence against physical attack.

Once you have secured your home with all the physical security, it's time to install a good alarm system. Do not get caught with the cheapest system; cheaper is not necessarily better. So don't feel obligated to sign on with any one company right off the bat. Get three or four quotes from alarm companies and ask lots of questions. This will be a learning experience for you and will certainly help with your final decision.

Also, remember that there will never be a winner in the locks vs. alarms skirmish. No matter how you slice it, this bout will always come up a draw.

For more information on your home security check out http://www.yourhomesecurity.ca

Frank Fourchalk is widely recognized for his sustained commitment to education in Home and Business security throughout North America as a result of his syndicated newspaper columns. Mr. Fourchalk has written for The Toronto Star, The Vancouver Province, and several other daily newspapsers including the New York Post.

New Home Buyers Beware

Home owners need to make sure that their locks are installed and operating properly before moving valuables into their new home. Improper lock installation could have devastating results and could play havoc with insurance companies. These deficiencies seem to miraculously slip through the cracks of builders and building inspectors alike.

Unfortunately, it's up to homeowners to address these hidden problems that often result in breached home security.

A good example of improper lock installation lies within the deadbolt itself. The bolt must fully extend into the strike plate (the plate that accepts the bolt), located on the door jam. Upon opening the door and turning the deadbolt key, the bolt will fully extend from the door about an inch. Once the deadbolt is fully extended you will feel a slight click. This signifies that the bolt is now in the deadlocked position. Thus, the terminology, deadlocking bolt. If you now try to push the bolt back into the door, you will find that it will not move. This prevents an intruder from sliding the bolt into the open position from the outside of the door.

An easy way to assure that your deadbolt is locking properly is to open the door once more and extend the bolt with the inside thumb turn while the door is open. Note the position of the thumb turn, now lock the door. The thumb turn should be in the exact same position as when the door was open. If it is not, you need to dig a little more wood out of the strike side to allow the bolt to fully extend.

Locks installed upside down are another common occurrence, although not a serious problem, most residential locks require that the lock be installed so that when the key is inserted, the teeth of the key are facing up. If this is not the case, chances are your lock is installed upside down.

The problems associated with upside-down locks are not always apparent right away. However, dirt will eventually jam into the cylinder of the lock and cause the lock to stick or jam over time.

Hinges are another weak area in new home construction. Make sure that your door hinges are not missing any screws. Open the door and look at the frame side of the hinge as well as the door side to make sure you have all the screws required. Now is a good time to check and see the size of the screws used to fasten the door onto the frame. If your builder did not install three-inch screws, make sure that you install at least two three-inch screws in every hinge.

Most new sliding glass doors, whether the aluminum or vinyl type have some sort of auxiliary lock installed on the inside of the door. However, I rarely find anti-lift devices installed in the header of the frame to help prevent an intruder from lifting these doors out of the track. Self-tapping screws, available at most hardware stores will help remedy this problem by eliminating the gap between the top of the door and the header.

Lastly, don't forget to change the codes on your garage door opener. If your not sure how to change the frequency codes, call your garage-door installer for assistance.

For more information on your home security check out http://www.yourhomesecurity.ca

Frank Fourchalk is widely recognized for his sustained commitment to education in Home and Business security throughout North America as a result of his syndicated newspaper columns. Mr. Fourchalk has written for The Toronto Star, The Vancouver Province and several other daily newspapsers including the New York Post.

Postal-Lock Timers Are A Good Way To Thwart Thieves

There was a break-in at an apartment building. The residents couldn't figure out how the thieves penetrated the security. There were no signs of forcible entry and the apartment owners had ruled out the possibility of the building key falling into the wrong hands.

The strata council did everything to ensure the security of the building. How did the intruder defeat their efforts? Did somebody buzz them in through the enterphone system or was it a sneak thief who followed behind somebody entering the building? Maybe the criminal picked the lock open or knew somebody in the building. Perhaps a swollen exterior door wasn't fitting properly or a door closer was just too tired to do its job.

These are all conceivable scenarios, but one likely possibility many don't consider is the vulnerability of the postal lock that allows access into the building. These locks are located on the enterphone panel for the sole purpose of allowing the letter carrier entry into the building. The key that operates this lock is called a postal-lock key. When a postal worker slides his or her key into the postal lock and turns, it activates the electric release on the main entry door allowing access into the building.

One postal-lock key may access several apartment buildings in an area creating a nightmare if in the wrong hands. Unfortunately, these keys are not exempt from being lost or stolen. Unaccounted for keys often find themselves in the hands of thieves who use them to enter apartment buildings for the purposes of stealing mail, personal property and even automobiles. A bi-product of stolen or lost postal-lock keys is car theft. Once a burglar enters the building, he or she targets the parkade area and quite often makes off with a new automobile.

One way to dampen a thief's fun is to shut down the postal lock after a certain time. This can be accomplished easily and inexpensively by installing a timer in the electrical room where the leads from the postal timer to the electric door release meet.

These timers allow you to set specific times allowing a post office worker to enter the building within those designated times with the postal key. If the postman delivers the mail around 10am, you could set the timer to allow mail delivery between the hours of 8am to 12pm. This would allow a four hour window for mail delivery. The postal-lock key would not allow access into the building during the other 20 hours of the day.

Counterfeit postal keys are another problem. These are keys that are made by crooks to fit postal locks. These homemade keys are another reason to ensure that restrictions are put into place to limit the times that these locks are operable. There is no doubt about the fact that postal-lock timers thwart thieves, so apartment building owners and strata councils should definitely consider this feasible option.

Frank Fourchalk is widely recognized for his sustained commitment to education in Home and Business security throughout North America as a result of his syndicated newspaper columns. Mr.Fourchalk has written for The Toronto Star, The Vancouver Province and several other daily newspapsers including the New York Post.

For more information on your home security check out http://www.yourhomesecurity.ca

Christmas: A Season For Giving, Receiving, and Taking

The weeks leading up to Christmas are the biggest shopping weeks of the year. Many retailers solely survive on these weeks because they often account for 70 percent of their annual revenue. Because of this, retail stores tend to hype this festive season to the hilt creating a buying frenzy.

Stocking our homes with the latest electronic gadgets, computers, jewelry and clothing is a given.

Unfortunately while we are in the mood for giving and receiving, somebody is in the mood for taking. Taking, is definitely on the home burglar's mind as he or she views the holiday season through different eyes. Eyes that are focused on your home to complete their own shopping list.

Christmas is a magical time of year when family and friends come together to celebrate the season. To help preserve your special times and thwart intruders, I have compiled a Christmas Home Security Check List.

Do not display your Christmas tree and gifts in the front window. This is an invitation for burglars to check out the inventory.

If you must place your tree in front of the window, make sure that you don't display gifts under it until closer to Christmas.

Do not hide door keys under mats. The first place a burglar will look for a house key is under a mat. Rocks, flower pots and door ledges are next on a burglars search list, so don't get caught being security complacent.

If you must leave a key for emergency purposes make sure that you leave it with a trusted friend or neighbor.

Christmas tends to bring out the handyman in some of us. Don't get caught feeding an extension through a locking window and jeopardizing your home's security. If you must, install outside electrical outlets for your outside lights and decorative Christmas fixtures.

Make sure that you lock all windows and doors, even if just leaving your home for a few minutes. Intruders only need a few seconds to ruin your day.

Don't give information on answering machines. It is best just to say that you are busy at the moment and to leave your name and number and you will return the call.

If you can, call forward your home phone number to your cell or neighbor for the duration of your absence.

Keep your drapes or window blinds closed at night. When going out for the evening make use of inexpensive timers to give the illusion of occupancy.

Photo cell lighting is also an inexpensive way of simulating activity.

Do not let newspapers pile up on your front door step. Try to keep the front door area swept and clean. Messy front door entrances can give the wrong message to a burglar.

Conceal all gift boxes after Christmas, so as not to alert burglars. Make sure that you cut up all boxes and place them in solid plastic bags for garbage pick-up.

Make sure that you have target hardened your home by installing the proper hardware - hardware like deadbolts, strike plates, window locks, door hinges, door viewers, and even alarm systems.

Frank Fourchalk is widely recognized for his sustained commitment to education in Home and Business security throughout North America as a result of his syndicated newspaper columns. Mr.Fourchalk has written for The Toronto Star, The Vancouver Province and several other daily newspapsers including the New York Post.

For more information on your home security check out http://www.yourhomesecurity.ca

Are Hidden Cameras Watching You Right Now

I was enjoying a meal with my wife the other day at a local restaurant. After we ate, we decided to sit at the bar and have a drink while watching the local band play a few numbers. As I looked around at the small crowd of people, I couldnt help but wonder if there were any hidden surveillance cameras in the bar. As I glanced over at the display of liquor bottles on the shelf, there it was, a dark bottle of wine with a small hole not much bigger than a pencil eraser right in the side of the bottle.

I leaned forward and gave a little smile, then I waved, and then I stuck my tongue out at the bottle. After a few minutes of my peculiar behavior, the manager came over to ask me if I was O.K. When I explained that I was just showing off for the camera, he seemed clearly surprised that I knew it was there. When I explained what I did for a living, he gave me a perceptive nod of his head and asked if I would please not tell anyone else about the hidden camera. Its there for security purposes he said just to keep an eye on things. I agreed not to let his secret out, and the free drinks he gave to my wife, and me sealed the deal. I wasnt going to say anything.

While it was easy to spot cameras twenty or thirty years ago due to their large size, this has become increasingly difficult in recent years. Cameras have become much smaller and consume a fraction of the power that they did just a few years ago. Due to this, hidden cameras can be installed in nearly any place you can imagine.

Hidden cameras are easy to use, readily available, and the dropping prices are making them very affordable. In fact hidden cameras can be purchased, installed and operated even by the average citizen these days.

Hidden cameras are very easy to hide due to the fact that the basic unit is generally nothing more than a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) board camera. A board camera is a camera fully contained on a single circuit board including camera optics and all the electronics needed for generating the video signal. Board cameras range in size but on the average they are approximately 1 X 1 inches, which makes them very easy to hide in even the most inconspicuous places. Most of these board cameras only need an opening of about 1mm in their hiding places for complete room surveillance. From there, the video signal can be sent to the receiver and either watched in real time or recorded for later viewing, or both.

Another type of camera that has shown up more recently is based on CMOS technology. CMOS cameras are gaining ground with consumer products such as handheld devices, photo capable cell phones, and webcams.

Miniature CMOS cameras usually come as modules packaged in small plastic cases, and are about half the price of CCD cameras, less sensitive to electrical distortions and consume far less power. They can also be built much smaller than CCD cameras. CMOS cameras have disadvantages as well. CMOS cameras are not as light sensitive, which mean that the image quality is not as good under low light conditions.

Another disadvantage is the lower picture quality in general, as the individual pixels can be quite noisy. Technology is catching up with this issue though, and CMOS cameras are likely to supersede CCD cameras within the next few years.

Due to the small size of these imaging devices, they can be placed into compact everyday items such as alarm clocks, wall clocks, and even small kitchen appliances can house a hidden camera.

To make a long story short, miniature cameras are small, very small, and they can be hidden in more places than you could ever possibly imagine looking for them. So the next time youre out at a restaurant, or in a business meeting, or even at a friends house, look around and ask yourself, am I being watched? Or maybe just paranoid?

SA Rubin is the owner of North American Security Products, LLC. A company dedicated to providing you with the means to protect and defend yourself against crime. For more information on Hidden cameras, visit http://www.nasecurityproducts.com where youll find a complete line of surveillance equipment for your home and business.

Batons for Self Defense

Contemplating a method of protection is a very serious undertaking. If you are considering such a purchase you need to evaluate your options very carefully. When selecting a tool for self defense the first thing is to consider your own level of strength. For example, a tool that requires minimal strength such as a stun gun would be ideal for a small woman, whereas someone confident in their strength may be more drawn to items such as batons.

A baton is a very simple and effective tool. In the most generic form it is a blunt stick that is used for close contact defense. There are a wide variety of batons on the market that vary in length and offer different features. For example, an asp baton is a lightweight and conspicuous tool that can be comfortably carried. This added consideration for comfort allows citizens to carry an effective self defense tool without drawing attention to themselves.

The baton you choose should have an easy to grip, no slip handle so that it can be wielded effectively with agility. It is also important that the baton have a low profile appearance so it does not announce itself to the attacker. Finally, the baton should not have any sharp edges that could cut you, the assailant, or an innocent bystander. Your goal is to defend yourself long enough to get away to safety and a blunt baton will achieve this effectively without resorting to permanent damage.

One of the most important effects of any self defense tool is the deterrence effect. It has been said over and over again that criminals are cowards and they look for easy victims. A person who carries a self defense weapon walks with confidence because they know they are safe. In addition, the very site of a tool such as a baton will make the assailant think twice. Why would they attack you and risk injury to themselves when there are hundreds of unarmed victims? Arming yourself sends the message to assailants everywhere that you are not a victim.

When searching for a merchant that carries batons it is important that you seek one who is reputable and abides by national laws. A great place to look is at www.bljsselfdefense.com . This company offers a wide variety of items, including batons, and provides consumers with education on self defense. In addition to the online resources, BLJs Enterprises supplies its customers with personal attention to help ensure that they receive the self defense tool that is right for them.

BLJs Enterprises is a top provider of self defense tools, including batons, in the United States. At their website, www.bljsselfdefense.com , you will find quality products as well as free in-depth information regarding personal protection. Because BLJs Enterprises is dedicated to matching everyone with the right self defense method, customer comments and questions can be directed to the owner, Barry Jenkins himself, at barry@bljsselfdefense.com.