Personalized Home Security

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Customized Home Security Solutions

When it comes to protecting our homes and loved ones, one size does not fit all. That is why customized home security solutions are becoming the new standard for homes today. Instead of relying on a generic system that may not address your specific needs and concerns, a personalized approach allows you to tailor your security measures to fit your lifestyle and budget. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” With a customized home security plan, you can proactively protect your home and loved ones, giving you peace of mind and the ability to live your life worry free. From smart locks and cameras to advanced intrusion detection and remote monitoring, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating a customized home security plan. In this blog post, we will explore the latest trends and technologies in personalized home security and include the most common scenarios of a system that works for you and your family.

As a homeowner, you want to do everything possible to keep your family safe and your home secure. One of the best ways to do that is to install a home security system. But with so many distinct types and features available, how do you know which one is right for your home?

The good news is that there are now companies that specialize in personalized home security systems to meet your specific needs. They will consider the layout of your home, the type of doors and windows you have, and even the neighbourhood you live in. Then they will design a system that will help give you the maximum protection possible.

Here are 4 ways you can make home security a more personalized experience.

Your security system, Your way

A tailored home security system can be an effective way to help make sure that your family is safe and secure. It is important to choose the right components and make sure they are professionally installed. Intrusion, life safety, automation and video devices are some of the most popular components used in securing a home.
Intrusion devices include contacts and sensors that detect when windows or doors have been opened or closed. When armed, motion detectors will trigger an alarm if they detect movement within your home. Glass break sensors detect the sound of an acoustic smash.

Life safety systems like carbon monoxide detectors, smoke detectors and flood sensors help warn you of potential dangers at home. Where you place these devices is important because if they are not in the right areas in your home, they may trigger false alarms or not properly detect environmental triggers.

Cameras provide visual analytics of specific movements (most of the time people and cars) and can alert you of suspicious activity of what is happening both in and around your property, during the day and at night.

Smart home automation devices let you control appliances and gadgets from one location, like an app on your smart phone. These devices work together to help make your home more comfortable, more convenient, and secure.

When configuring a home security system, it is important to tailor the system to your specific needs and preferences.

Did you know – After you install your home security system and receive an insurance certificate, a monitored system with added life safety devices, you may receive a higher discount from your insurance company.

Use smart home technology
The rise of smart home technology has revolutionized how we can protect our homes from intruders. Smart locks can be accessed by three methods. One can be directly from your phone via the app, you can use a code to lock and unlock your door. An added security measure can be to program the system to arm or disarm when entering the code on the door. Finally, you can customize your existing key to the new lock instead of having an additional key.

Smart lights and smart outlets provide you remote access via the app both inside and outside your home. Common devices can be accessed via the app to ensure they are off when you are away. E.g., Your coffee is good to go at the right time with your programmable switch and your lights are automated to go on at dusk and off at dawn.

Geo-fencing is a virtual geographic boundary that enables you to set up both location-based alerts and rules based on the location of one or more smart phones with an app. You can program rules based on your desired radius to either lock up, change the temperature, or even close your garage door in case you have forgotten to do so.

With that same single app, you can customize and automate your home security devices, so they are all working together towards one goal: to help keep your home safe. Giving you peace of mind that your home is connected when you’re away.

Planning a trip away? A personalized home security system can give you valuable information about the status of your home without inconveniencing your friends or family to come check on your home while away.

What’s more, insurance companies prefer a monitored system if you leave your home for more than a month.

Homeowners with holiday homes or cottages use cameras in areas to protect their property while they are away. As well as providing reliable protection from theft and vandalism, video analytics can also help identify potential safety hazards and even predict when maintenance may be needed on equipment or other structures. This makes it easy for homeowners to check on their premises at any time without needing someone physically present on site.

Did you know you can integrate more than one property in the app?

 

Utilize home security cameras

Wilsons Security recommends cameras with analytics as they will provide you with valuable information to protect your property. With modern technology, cameras can easily be incorporated into the home and provide an increased sense of safety.
Placement of the camera is important to get a clear view of your property and receive valuable information from it. Placing them in key locations such as entrances, exits, hallways and living rooms allows for better protection and coverage for your home and family members. For outdoor use, you can place them with good Wi-Fi connection around key areas outside like driveways, swimming pools, and main points of entry so that any suspicious activity outside your house can be detected.

The latest versions of smart cameras are built with advanced analytics and infrared night vision. Based on your notification settings, they provide you with a motion clip of information that is relevant to you. Footage can be accessed remotely through a smartphone app.

Homeowners use their cameras in a variety of situations and below are just a few examples.
– Know when their kids are back home from school
– Communicate with whomever is at the door instead of opening it to an unexpected visitor
– Make sure their pets are not trying to sneak a nap on the couch

 

Personalize your notification preferences
Customizing your home security system’s notification preferences is an important part of staying safe. By choosing the types of alerts you receive and how they are delivered, you can be sure to prioritize information that matters most to you. Notifications are essential for alerting you when a threat or suspicious activity is detected in your home. Whenever someone enters the premises, opens a door, window, or cabinet, triggers a motion sensor or smoke alarm, etc., notifications provide useful information regarding the activity taking place in your house.

 

Most home security systems allow you to customize the types of alerts you receive and how you receive them (e.g. text, email, push notification) – ensuring your safety is always in check.  Most homeowners add an extra layer of security with sensors like on cabinets or a safe.

Conclusion

When choosing a Personalized Home Security system, below are the important factors to consider:
A security system that fits your household
Integrate smart home technology
Cameras with analytics that provide you with valuable information
Notifications that are personalized to you

Why choose Wilsons?
Wilsons Security are experts in security systems, installation and service. Our team will aim to incorporate your needs and goals into the security solutions and design it in such a way that will also provide you with the maximum protection possible.

Reach out to our team to book your free consultation.

Benefits of a Commercial Security System

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Why commercial security systems are important

Commercial security systems are important for businesses of all sizes. Not only do they help to protect your property, but they can also help to keep your employees safe. A commercial security system can include features like video surveillance and alarm monitoring. They can also include other useful features like access control and fire detection.

Commerical Security Systems

The benefits of a commercial security system.

If you are looking for a commercial security system, the first thing to consider is what kind of security your business requires. You will have to make sure that it has the right features and functionality that suit your needs. For instance, a logistics operation may need access control to provide audit logs of who has entered the space and when. They may also need to control when people can enter specific spaces. Having these types of options will give you more control in terms of what kind of security you need for your business. You should also analyze how much ability each system provides so that you can determine which system best fits your needs and budget.

In another instance, retail may see more value in a CCTV system. This will give them the ability to overview their entire location, interior and exterior while allowing their team to focus on the client. Many systems allow for remote viewing through the Internet which in turn allows managers to have peace of mind. 

Types of Commercial Security Systems

There are many different types of security systems that businesses can install to keep their employees and property safe.

The most common type of security system is video surveillance (CCTV). As mentioned in our retail example above, security cameras can be used to monitor the inside and outside of a business or property. The cameras can be stationary cameras, or they can be mounted on a rotating dome. These cameras are typically connected to a recording system that will also allow for remote viewing through the internet. Additional services such as remote monitoring may be added to these systems, which will allow for the detection of trespassers before an intrusion has occurred. 

A wireless CCTV system is a type of surveillance camera that uses wireless transmission technology instead of wires. However, we do not usually recommend Wireless CCTV as it may be unreliable in most cases.   

Types of Security Systems

Video surveillance (CCTV) security system.

 Picture quality has always been important for security cameras. The old grainy security cameras are a thing of the past. New high-resolution security cameras provide clear, crisp images that can help identify criminals and improve safety. You may not be concerned about picture quality for your security cameras, but it is critical to monitoring your business. Poor image quality can make it harder to identify criminals and can also lead to false accusations. That is why it’s important to choose a security camera that provides high-resolution images. With the right camera, you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible picture quality for your security system. 

Another common type of security system is access control. Access control systems can be used to restrict access to certain areas of a business or to track who is entering and leaving the business. The main function of access control is to secure the building and its areas from unauthorized access. Access control systems are a very common type of security system used in many commercial buildings today. 

Employee safety is another important consideration for businesses. Businesses can install alarm systems, panic buttons, and other safety features to keep their employees safe. 

Another important aspect of any commercial security system is its durability and reliability  – ensuring the system is designed with your environment in mind, means that the system should not fail and will continue to function when it is needed most. Some common factors that affect the reliability of a security system are the frequency and severity of false alarms, the number of different types of sensors in use, and whether or not there is redundancy built into the system.

You can use your smartphone to connect with your security system. With an app, you can utilize your smartphone to arm or disarm your commercial security system, activate your cameras and CCTV, control thermostats and timers, open and close garage door and gate motors, and text or call employees and customers inside your commercial property. The commercial market has been moving towards high-tech products over recent years. The trend toward the installation of advanced technology continues to grow stronger each year. 

Installing and maintaining a security system

Installing and maintaining your system can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tips, you can get the most out of your system. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Have a professional install your system – this will ensure that it is installed correctly and is up to code. Professionals know how to install the devices in a way that is both secure and trusted. Additionally, they can help you choose the right device for your needs. 

2. Regularly test your system to make sure it is working properly

3. Keep your system updated with the latest software and firmware updates

4. Ensure all appropriate parties are trained on how to utilize the system correctly

Commercial Security System Installation & Monitoring

Installing and maintaining your security system system

It is important to remember that when it comes to security, you get what you pay for. Professionally installed devices are typically more reliable and offer greater peace of mind than other DIY solutions bought from a store.

In conclusion, it’s important to have a security system in place for your business. Formally enacting safety and security measures in your property can empower you to keep your employees and customers safe. You can contact a commercial security services company to get started.

How to Prevent Water Damage

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Water damage is something that every homeowner wants to avoid. Below are a few measures you can take to help prevent water damage that may cost a lot of money.

We’re taking it from the top.

Inspect your roof.

Ensure that there aren’t any broken, cracked, missing or loose shingles up on your roof. It may not take a big environmental occurrence for your roof to leak. Without a weather-tight roof, your house may suffer water damage.

Know where your main water shut off valve is in your home.

Finding out the location of your main water valve and knowing how to turn it off is important. This could be the difference between minor and major water damage loss. If a pipe bursts in your home, the first thing to do is to shut off the main water supply. This will hopefully reduce damage.

Maintain your drains

The main job of your drainage system is to flush out wastewater to the sewer or septic. Every part of that system must work effectively or there may be a collection of water in sink cabinets. This can lead to leaks inside walls or between floors. Ensure foreign liquids like grease, oil, and butter are disposed of appropriately. These substances can hinder a good drainage system and will be costly to remove. Make sure to keep your drains in excellent condition. This is also a good time to check appliances for leaks.

Check your water bill.

The easiest way to know if there’s a leak is by taking a look at your water bill. If you notice that the usage has increased significantly without any reason, it’s an indication that something’s wrong. If your fixtures look fine, have a look in different places. Outside pipes or hose connections are a good place to start.

Don’t put off known leaks for a later date

If moisture damage is ignored or if necessary repairs are not acted on promptly, there’s a high chance of damage. This can come in the form of dry rot, mould, mildew, or even structural damage to your home. A point to note is that damage caused by a lack of maintenance may not be covered on your homeowner’s insurance policy.

Install environmental sensors

Environmental sensors can alert you about various conditions in your home and one of them is a flood sensor. A flood sensor can be placed in flood-prone areas. Near your hot water tank, or in basements, so you are notified of pooling before severe damage occurs.

Low-temperature sensors are another option to consider. They can detect a drop in temperature which can lead to water freezing in pipes, causing them to burst. A pipe burst is the last thing anyone would want to have to think about. To combat this, low-temperature sensors can alert you when temperatures fall below a set degree.

For more information, questions or concerns about plumbing in and around your home, give us a call on 902-429-4545 or visit WilsonsPlumbing.ca.

Sources:

https://www.autohomeboat.com/blog/10-tips-to-avoid-water-damage-to-your-home/

https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/how-to-prevent-water-damage/

https://buckleyins.com/prevent-water-damage/

WILSONS AND HOPE FOR WILDLIFE ARE OLD FRIENDS

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Hope for Wildlife, a charitable wildlife rehabilitation and education organization located in Seaforth, Nova Scotia, is one of the most inspiring places you will ever have the good fortune to visit.  What started out as a dream more than two decades ago for Argyle native and certified wildlife rehabilitator, Hope Swinimer, has grown into an organization which, as of 2018,  cares for 4,500 animals and birds a year and assists more than 20,000 callers annually through its wildlife helpline.

Referring to herself as much a people person as a critter person, Hope has happily embraced over the years the tremendous growth of the organization’s paid staff and volunteer base. For the past 7 years, persons committing to a 16-week room and board only internship of hands-on wildlife rescue and rehabilitation work have been coming to HFW from all over Canada and other countries including Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey. In 2018 alone, 50 interns were accommodated.

In addition to working directly with its furry, feathered and scaly patients, Hope for Wildlife has opened its doors to thousands of human visitors by providing guided tours while staff and volunteers have participated in hundreds of off-site, community and school-based educational presentations.

There is no question Hope for Wildlife’s social profile in Nova Scotia is of an organization well- loved and supported by countless individuals and community groups as well as corporate sponsors.  Last spring, following a break-in to the centre that results in a loss of $1,000 of donation money and $1500 worth of property damage, donations and logistical support poured in. As a longtime friend and supporter of Hope for Wildlife, Wilsons Security was pleased to provide security system upgrades and ongoing monitoring service, free of charge.

At the time of the break-in, the door of forced entry was left ajar, thereby exposing the creatures inside to a long night of cold temperatures. This is particularly a problem for cold-blooded reptiles that depend on external heat sources.  Fortunately, none of the animals suffered irreparable harm. However, mindful of the importance of keeping these injured animals not only as safe but also as warm as possible, in December of last year, Wilsons Heating provided Hope For Wildlife with its very own new generator.  As stated on the Hope For Wildlife Facebook page:

Wilsons has supported Hope For Wildlife several times over the past few years and we can’t thank them enough for always coming through for us. They’ve made a massive project more manageable and our rehab animals more comfortable when we lose electricity.

Whether it’s a little saw-whet owl that flew into a window, a fawn found caught in a fence or an abandoned pet snake, Hope For Wildlife offers competent, loving and life-saving care to creatures that might otherwise not make it.  Returned to the wild or adopted by caring human families, every rehabilitated, Hope For Wildlife patient can look forward to an optimal outcome.

Here at Wilsons, we are proud to continue our support of such a worthwhile organization.

For information about educational and touring events, making a donation or volunteering at Hope for Wildlife, check out their website, www.hopeforwildlife.net or Facebook page.