Staying Safe

School Security Guards

School shootings, campus assaults, and bomb threats are always in the news. If you’re a private or public school administrator in the United States, you may be worried about how you can best protect your students from gun violence and other criminal activity.

One solution that schools consider is to hire a school security guard. Security guards keep a watchful eye over the students and school, and can respond to warning signs before they escalate.

Here’s a look at the benefits of hiring a school security guard, as well as what type of security schools need and where to find the right guard for the job.

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Fire Watch Security: Everything You Need to Know

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there were a total of 522,500 structure fires in the U.S. in 2022. One hundred and forty thousand of them occurred in commercial and non-residential structures, and more than 382,000 were in residential structures — with 80,000 in apartment buildings and multi-family homes alone.

Without a fire watch security team to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations, these tragic numbers would be even higher.

In California, where there are thousands of wildfires each year, fire watch is a common and important practice. Property owners and property managers must take the necessary steps to prevent their buildings and businesses from going up in flames. Many rely on professional fire watch security teams to do it for them.

Here’s what you need to know before hiring a California security company to handle your building’s fire watch needs.

What is Fire Watch Security?

Fire watch is a fire prevention strategy. Security teams that specialize in fire watch work to identify potential fire hazards, detect early warning signs of a fire, and sound an alarm that notifies the local fire department if a blaze begins.

On-site fire watch patrol is required for California buildings and construction sites in the following circumstances:

• When a building is under construction
• When a building is undergoing an alteration
• When a building is under demolition
• When “hot work” (work that uses or generates fire) is being done
• When a building is under maintenance
• When a building’s fire protection system is compromised

A compromised fire protection system can occur at any time. Building managers and property owners must staff firewatch security professionals any time a fire alarm system, fire sprinkler system, standpipe, water supply, or fire suppression system is out of service.

Whether this occurs as the result of a power outage, malfunctioning building system, or scheduled maintenance that requires the dismantling of a fire safety system, fire watch is necessary.

Fire watch is both a method of fire prevention and a proactive approach to fire safety. It requires close oversight of potential fire hazards. Depending on the size of the area, it can require anywhere from a single person to a team of people.

Many building managers, property managers, and property owners choose to hire fire watch security professionals to handle this for them. It is possible to train your own staff to handle fire watch procedures, but the job requires compliance with the California fire code, which can be complex.

What Do Fire Watch Security Teams Do?

Every professional security team that provides fire watch services in California knows and understands the state’s fire code, which carries many requirements. It requires a trained professional who can ensure compliance with all details of the code.

Monitor Fire Hazards During Hot Work

Fire watch is required during all hot work, such as welding, soldering, brazing, grinding, cutting, using open flames, and thawing pipes. Fire watch professionals must be on site during all hours of hot work, as well as for 30 minutes after the work has been completed.

Fire Watch Security Guards Patrol the Area

Designated personnel must perform consistent patrols of every area of the site or building, and they must do so at least once per hour. To be as efficient as possible, the best firewatch guards know their building or property inside and out.

Guards should be vigilant and remain on the lookout for potential fire risks. To do so, they undergo training to know where to look and what signs to look for.

Reactivate Disabled Systems

Disabled fire prevention systems may occur as the result of scheduled building maintenance or an unexpected power outage. Regardless of the reason, fire watch guards must undergo the necessary training to reactivate disabled systems and restore fire safety measures.

Fire Watch Security Teams Keep a Logbook

Part of the role of a fire watch guard is to keep a logbook of all fire watch activities. The logbook serves as an official record to show that fire watch procedures were followed when required.

The logbook must also contain the names, telephone numbers, and contact information of trained professionals who can be called during an emergency if a blaze occurs.

Establish Protocols in the Event of a Fire

Professional fire watch security teams develop evacuation plans to ensure that people can safely evacuate the building in the event of a fire. Should a fire occur, the on-duty guard is responsible to execute the plan.

This involves knowing how to use fire-extinguishing equipment to extinguish spot fires. It also includes notifying the fire department and alerting building occupants when an evacuation is necessary.

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The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Fire Watch Security Service in California

It is possible to designate members of your own staff to conduct fire watch, but it takes time and requires you to adhere to many statewide standards. Most property owners and building managers prefer to hire professionals to do it for them, which can provide peace of mind as well as a number of other benefits.

Fire Watch Teams Have Professional Training

Fire watch security teams undergo rigorous professional training to prepare them for the job. They are dedicated professionals who care about fire prevention, and they know what it takes to adhere to the standards and codes of the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA).

During training, fire watch security guards learn how to:

• Spot potential fire hazards, such as flammable substances
• Use fire extinguishers and fire suppression equipment
• Provide quick emergency response in the event of a crisis
• Comply with all aspects of the California state fire code

Training programs also teach fire watch guards how to use personal protective equipment, how to communicate in emergency situations, how to conduct patrols, and how to document fire watch procedures and events in a logbook.

Fire Watch Security Officers Can Provide 24/7 Protection

The need for fire watch patrol can occur when you least expect it. Some scenarios that require fire watch may be easier to plan for than others, such as when fire suppression infrastructure is temporarily disabled during scheduled building maintenance.

But when fire watch is needed at a moment’s notice, such during a power outage or following a burst water pipe, it’s important to have trained guards who can immediately respond.

The best way to ensure 24/7 oversight of your property is to hire professional fire watch protection services. The larger the building, and the bigger the area in need of mobile patrols, the more important this becomes.

If your building or property is large enough to require more than one fire watch guard, it’s best to hire a professional team. Many property owners find that it’s easier and more efficient to contact a security firm, who can then handle the details of dispatching trained guards under short notice.

Local Municipalities Have Different Rules

While there is a statewide California fire code, some municipalities have rules that go above and beyond state law.

For example, some cities and counties allow security officers to double as fire watch guards — provided they’ve completed all training obligations for CAL-OSHA. But this isn’t the case in every city or county.

According to the Oxnard Fire Department in Ventura County, “fire watch personnel cannot have other duties besides their assigned fire watch, unless directed by the Fire Department.” San Diego County has a similar rule.

The specific rules for fire watch patrol will vary from county to county. While some cities require hourly patrols, the fire watch regulations in Los Angeles require guards to patrol each area once every 30 minutes.

Professional Guards Can Simplify Fire Safety and Prevention

When you hire professional fire watch security guard services, you don’t have to worry about keeping up to date with the laws in your city or town. It can be time-consuming to stay informed about the latest updates to the fire code, and even more so if you own or manage multiple buildings in multiple cities that have different regulations and rules.

Professional guards remain current on all fire watch regulations so you don’t have to.

How to Find a Fire Watch Security Team

If a fire watch is required and you aren’t prepared, the fire marshal may step in to provide you with a team of fire prevention experts — at a cost, of course.

Don’t wait for the fire marshal to tell you that your property needs fire watch security. Whether you’re managing a construction site, an office building, or an apartment building, it’s important to take a proactive approach and have a team who can provide fire watch services when needed.

There are many fire watch security guard companies throughout California. Use Security Explorer to find the best fire watch security services near you.

Security Explorer makes it easy to find professional guards in every part of the state. You can rest assured that the guards are well trained, have met the required education standards, and are dedicated to providing California property owners, managers, and occupants with top-quality fire watch and fire safety measures.

Fire watch protects your property and saves lives. Property managers have a duty to implement fire watch security measures and hire a fire prevention professional who has the training to handle the job.

Visit Security Explorer to hire fire watch security, armed security, or other security guard services in California.

Open Window Security: Should I Leave My Window Open at Night?

When it comes to open windows, there’s no contest. Everyone loves a little fresh air.

And it certainly doesn’t hurt when that cool, extra airflow can replace your air conditioning and lower your energy bills.

Open windows come with plenty of perks, but might not always be the safest solution when you need a soft breeze or some ambient noise to lull you to sleep.

Before you fling open your window tonight, there are a few things you should know — including the danger in which you could be putting yourself.

If you’re a sleep-with-the-window-open kind of person, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about open window security.

Leaving Windows Open at Night: Is It Safe?

So, is it safe to keep your windows open at night?

We know you’re probably hoping for a cut-and-dry answer, but that’s not an option here.

The answer to this question can vary. It all depends on which windows you leave open, how much you open them, and whether you take extra measures to secure them from the inside.

To protect against break-ins and other criminal activity, it’s safest to lock all windows before you go to bed. Burglars and other would-be criminals look for crimes of opportunity, and an open window is a huge opportunity!

Here’s a closer look at the risks involved when leaving different types of windows open at night.

Ground Floor Windows

According to ADT, 23% of burglars use a first-floor window to gain entry to a home.

Only 2% of criminals attempt to enter through a second-story window. If you’re wondering if you should leave a first-floor window open at night, the answer is NO.

Never leave windows open if they are accessible from outside. Basement windows and ground floor windows should be locked at night, whenever you’re sleeping, or whenever you’re not at home.

Though we’re talking about windows today, it’s worth pointing out that 34% of burglars use an unlocked front door to gain entry into a home. So whether you choose to leave your windows open or not, always make sure your doors are locked and secured.

Keep in mind that the most common times for break-ins are in daylight, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. While some thieves prefer the cover of darkness, most prefer to break in during the day when they don’t think anyone is home. Whether it’s daytime or nighttime, always keep ground-floor windows closed and locked when you’re not at home.

Second Floor Windows

If you choose to leave your second or third-story windows open while you’re sleeping, make sure that they are not accessible from outside. That includes any window that could be accessed by climbing a tree, a drainpipe, or a trellis, among other things.

It’s also important not to leave any items outside that a burglar could use to climb and reach an open window, such as a ladder.

Three Ways to Secure Your Windows When They’re Open

Perhaps you’ve decided that you’re comfortable leaving your second or third-story windows open at night.

Even so, it’s still highly recommended that you never leave your windows unlocked or open them all the way. The bigger the opening, the easier it is for someone to gain entry.

Unlocking a window and cracking it open — even an inch — creates a vulnerability that is all too easy for a burglar to exploit.

If anything, a cracked window gives a burglar the perfect opportunity to open it further and slip inside.

Here are three different ways that you can improve the safety and security of your home’s open windows.

Window Restrictors

One of the best ways to protect yourself is to add extra window locks, stops, or latches, also known as window restrictors, on the inside of your window frame. These will prevent your windows from being opened all the way.

There are many types of window restrictors available online. You can also find them at home improvement stores. The type you choose will depend on the type of windows you have.

For example, if you have sliding sash windows, install sash stops that only allow your window to open a few inches. Now, you can enjoy ventilation while making it impossible for someone to enter.

If you have double-hung windows, you can install flip stops. Similar to sash stops, flip stops allow you to open the window a few inches for ventilation without worrying that someone could fit through the opening. Many newer windows come with built-in flip locks to provide that extra level of security.

Interior security locks and restrictors exist for almost every type of window, including bow, bay, and casement windows. Before you install them, make sure you have the right type for your home windows.

Add Security Bars to Your Windows

Another option is to add a security gate or grille with security bars. Window bars should be spaced close together, about 4” to 6” so that the open space is much too small for a person to fit through. There are many decorative window gates and grilles on the market, so it’s easy to find ones that complement your style and home décor.

For those who want to leave their sliding door partly open, you can purchase a patio door security bar with an anti-lift lock. The adjustable bars are usually made from stainless steel and can be locked at any width. This feature makes them ideal for those times when you want to take advantage of your patio’s screen door.

Install Motion Sensors to Secure Your Windows

While a full home alarm system with 24/7 monitoring may be the best safety precaution you can take, motion sensors are a reliable (and less expensive) alternative.

You can install motion sensors on windows — whether you have a full alarm system in your home or not — that will sound an alarm if someone attempts to pass through.

Motion sensors won’t prevent someone from breaking in, but the loud alarm can scare off a burglar. It can also give you enough time to get to a safe place and call 911 for help from local law enforcement.

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Additional Security Measures You Can Take (If You Insist on Leaving Your Windows Open at Night)

If you insist on leaving your windows open at night, consider taking additional security measures to make your home more secure and less prone to break-ins.

Install a Full Home Security System

Want total peace of mind? Install a full home security system with 24/7 monitoring.

Full security systems can monitor all doors and windows and alert you to other hazards, such as smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide.

Install Security Cameras

Mounting a few security cameras outside your home is an excellent crime deterrent, but you have to make them visible. Criminals don’t want to get caught, and visible cameras are sometimes all it takes to scare a burglar off.

While most homeowners install cameras around doors, you might also want to consider mounting them around certain windows, especially large ones that could become potential entry points for unwanted thieves.

Add Motion Detector Lights Outside

Maybe you don’t want to go to the trouble of mounting and maintaining surveillance cameras outside your windows.

Here’s a great alternative: add motion detector lights instead. Motion detectors can trigger a bright light as soon as they sense movement, which may be enough to scare an intruder off your property.

Keep in mind that motion sensor lights detect all kinds of movement, including movement from animals, so they can go on over and over again, even when there’s no immediate threat outside.

Hire a Residential Security Guard

Unless you live in a gated community with 24/7 guards that patrol the property, you might want to consider hiring a residential security guard. Like video surveillance and alarm systems, the presence of a physical guard is an excellent crime deterrent.

Depending on your zip code and the type of guard you hire, homeowners can pay anywhere from as little as $20 per hour to upwards of $100 per hour to protect their home at night. If the cost is more than you can shoulder alone, consider partnering with other neighbors to share the expense and hire a guard to protect not just your home, but the entire block or neighboring streets.

To find a residential security guard in your area, use our directory of recommended security services in California.

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Other Ways to Make Your Windows Safer

Even with windows closed and locked, some criminals will still find a way to sneak inside.

Professional burglars and thieves are often equipped with tools that make it possible to get even the most brilliant security measures. Below, we describe a few more steps you can take to make your windows safer — whether they’re open or closed.

Add Tamper-Proof Security Screws

Were Phillips head screws used during the installation of your windows?

If so, consider replacing them with tamper-proof security screws. Thieves often carry common screwdrivers, but they’re much less likely to have the tools required to remove tamper-proof screws.

Install Glass Break Sensors

Some burglars are brazen and won’t think twice about smashing a window to gain entry to your home.

Regardless of whether you sleep with open windows, glass break sensors are a surefire way to combat thieves who have no problem smashing their way inside.

Glass break sensors can be attached to both windows and glass doors. When the glass shatters, they emit a loud alarm. Like other types of home security alerts, they’re an effective way to scare a criminal and send them fleeing your property.

Opt for Hurricane-Proof Windows

By design, hurricane-proof windows are stronger and much more difficult to smash or break.

If you live in a hurricane-prone area, they’re a must. If you don’t, they’re still a savvy investment because they offer maximum security against all types of impacts and breakage. The harder the window is to break, the harder it is to break in.

The safest and smartest option is to close and lock all windows before you go to bed.

But if you insist on leaving one or more of your windows open at night, there are several other safety measures you can put in place to protect you from a home break-in.

No matter where you live, the safety of you and your family comes first. Home security systems, cameras, exterior lights, and interior window locks are just a few of the many wise investments you can make in your family’s safety, security, and future.

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5 Reasons Why Gated Communities are Safer for Your Family

Whether you’re looking for a short-term rental or planning to purchase your dream home, deciding where to live is a big decision.

For some people, that decision is all about price. For others, it’s about location. Some folks even prioritize the size or style of the home.

But one thing that almost everyone can agree on is that no matter where they live, they want to feel safe. And that’s why so many people want to live in a gated community.

If you’re preparing to move and safety and security are your top concerns, a gated community might be the best decision you’ll ever make. Read on to learn why.

Are Gated Communities Safer?

The Crime and Justice Research Alliance reports that homes in non-gated communities are burglarized 33% more than homes in gated communities.

In addition to fewer burglaries, gates also reduce other types of property crime that make neighborhoods less safe, such as vandalism and auto theft.

While gated neighborhoods do add an extra layer of security, gates alone are not enough to prevent 100% of crimes in your neighborhood.

Why?

Because even within a gated community, it’s still possible for someone who lives there to commit a criminal act. Yes, even someone’s next door neighbor could be that guy (although it’s still unlikely).

However, gates still keep out enough criminals — especially those who commit crimes of opportunity — to significantly decrease the overall rate of crime.

Five Reasons Why Gated Communities are Safer

According to the Crime and Justice Research Alliance report cited above, gated communities are safer.

Here’s a look at the top five reasons why.

Security Systems are Crime Deterrents

Gated neighborhoods usually have security systems that monitor the entry and exit of everyone that passes through the gates. Those systems often include video surveillance cameras placed in obvious and visible areas so that it’s no surprise to anyone that their comings and goings are being monitored and recorded.

In addition to video surveillance, most gated communities also have 24/7 guards that monitor the entrance points and/or patrol the grounds.

Burglars and other would-be criminals often look for crimes of opportunity and few commit crimes intending to get caught. Locked gates, video cameras, security guards, and the need for security passwords and access codes are usually enough to deter and prevent the average criminal from passing through the gates.

Less Traffic

Less vehicle traffic makes the streets safer for everyone, including pedestrians, cyclists, other drivers, and children playing outside.

Even though auto accidents can happen anywhere, at any time and for any number of reasons, less vehicle traffic can reduce the number of accidents that occur on your streets.

Gated Communities Provide Limited Access

Along with reducing vehicle traffic, gates also limit foot traffic.

Only residents and their wanted, invited guests are allowed “behind the gates.” Non-residents and unwanted guests, including potential criminals and harmless (but sometimes annoying) solicitors, are prohibited from entering.

By limiting access to your home and neighborhood, you increase your level of privacy.

The limited access provided by gates also makes it more likely that if someone does break into the community, they’ll be spotted and identified as someone who shouldn’t be there.

This is good news for homeowners living behind secured gates, as most criminals know this and will choose to move onto an easier target.

Less Visibility

Less traffic and limited access lead to less visibility, which increases your level of security overall. Fewer people will be able to even discover your home, which means they won’t be able to identify your family or your residence as a potential future target.

Neighbors Tend to Look Out for Each Other

You don’t have to be best friends with your neighbor to want to keep an eye out for their property, or to trust them to do the same for yours.

Gated communities tend to make it easier to meet and connect with your neighbors. Join one and you’ll notice a strong “sense of community,” often supported by community activities and neighbor-only events. This increases the desire for neighbors to look out for one another (and each other’s homes).

Neighbors in gated communities share an invested interest in keeping their neighborhood safe. Safe streets with low crime rates also contribute to higher property values, and every homeowner cares about that!

Even if you don’t want to get to know your neighbors (or know them and don’t like them), it’s to everyone’s benefit to keep an eye out for each other’s homes, cars, and property.

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How To Make Your Home and Community Safer

If you don’t live in a gated neighborhood, there are some things you can do on your own to improve the safety and security of your home and surroundings.

The more homes in the neighborhood that put these security measures in place, the safer the community. So, consider sharing these ideas with your neighbors, too.

Install Home Security Systems With Security Cameras

It only takes a few minutes to install or replace security cameras. Provide yourself with added protection by installing and making them visible on your own home.

Increase security further by talking with other neighbors and nearby business owners about adding surveillance cameras throughout your neighborhood.

A full security system with 24/7 monitoring is best, but even a closed security system that you monitor yourself can be beneficial.

Along with security cameras, there are several other measures you can take to improve the safety of your home. We cover these below.

Glass Break Sensors

Glass break sensors are small sensors that attach to doors and windows and alert with an alarm when the glass breaks.

If a criminal shatters a door or window to gain entry to your home, the sound of the alarm is often enough to scare them off.

Motion Detection Alarms

Motion detectors sound an alarm every time someone passes in front of the sensor. Most people disable them when they’re at home, but when you’re away, they can be an invaluable tool and yet another way to scare a criminal away.

Doorbell Cameras

Doorbell cameras, as well as doorbell cameras with motion sensor lights, have revolutionized home safety. Install them on every door and you can monitor them 24/7 if you’re connected to the system’s app.

Hire a Security Team

Depending on your level of concern, consider hiring a residential security company to patrol your neighborhood or protect your block.

Of course, it’s recommended that you speak to your neighbors about this first. Some neighbors may be willing to contribute to the cost of hiring a security team.

At the same time, you should expect that some local residents may not be willing or able to share the added expense.

If you can’t gather together enough neighbors to pay for a security team — or don’t want to pay for it on your own — your next best option is to organize a neighborhood watch.

The idea of a neighborhood watch is not new. For decades, concerned citizens and members of communities around the country have been keeping an eye on their own neighborhoods.

The more neighbors you can get on board with a community watch program, the easier it will be to create a patrol schedule for protecting your streets and home.

Looking to hire a residential security guard in California? View our top recommended residential security services here.

Improve Lighting

Yes, some criminals commit their crimes in broad daylight.

But many more prefer to do their bad deeds beneath the cover of darkness. If you want to make your community safer, ensure that it’s well lit.

Add more lights on your own property, and install bright street lights throughout the neighborhood.

Outside your home, install motion sensor lights near garages, driveways, sliding glass doors, deck doors, back doors, and any ground-level windows that a criminal might target as an easy entry point for a break-in.

You can also put your indoor lights on timers so that they turn on or off according to a pre-set schedule. Or, install lights that can be remotely controlled via an app or home automation system.

Most criminals won’t damage your property or attempt a break-in if they think you’re on the premises. Just turn on a few lights and they’re more likely to give up and move on.

Secure Your Keys

It goes without saying that you should always lock your windows and doors, especially at night when you’re asleep or when you’re not at home. But that won’t do you much good if you keep a spare key outside.

That plastic-looking fake rock nestled outside your door isn’t going to fool anyone. If anything, it’s one of the first vulnerabilities for which burglars look.

Instead of hiding a spare key in an unsecured place, consider installing a digital lock or smart lock on your doors so that you don’t have to leave a spare key outside.

If you like the idea of keeping a spare key within easy reach, secure it inside of a durable lock box instead of less-secure solutions like inside a false rock or underneath a door mat.

Don’t Let a Gated Community Provide a False Sense of Security

Living in a gated community offers peace of mind, but never assume that your home or residential community are immune to crime.

No matter where you live or how “nice” your neighborhood may be, you must stay vigilant about the security of your own home.

Here are some best practices for bolstering the security of your private property, whether you live behind gates or not:

• Always lock your windows and doors. Criminals look for easy targets, and an unlocked door is one of the easiest targets there is.
• Lock your car every time you park, and do not leave a garage door remote in the car. Should a criminal break into your car, they’ll have instant access to your home. Instead, put your door opener on a garage door keychain and keep it with you.
• Install adequate lighting around your property at all vulnerable points of entry. These include ground floor windows and sliding glass doors.
• Don’t post on social media that you’re on or about to go on a vacation. Telling a criminal that you’re out of town only makes you a bigger target. Instead, wait until you return home from vacation to post about it.
• The key to maintaining a secure home is to be vigilant and keep your eyes open. Be smart about your family’s safety and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Criminals look for easy targets, so take precautions and don’t make yourself into one.

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Gated Community FAQs

What is a Gated Community?

A gated community is any neighborhood or group of residential homes surrounded by locked gates or walls, with designated entry points. It can contain groups of individual homes, townhouses, or condominiums.

How Do Gated Communities Work?

Gates control access to and from the homes inside, whether someone is driving, walking, or riding a bike. Access requires the use of a security code, key card, key fob, or permitted entry from a security guard.

Are There Other Benefits to Living in a Gated Community?

Gated communities often include a variety of amenities, such as private parks, common areas, and security staffing. Some communities offer a wide variety of luxury amenities, including swimming pools, tennis courts, golf courses, state-of-the-art gyms, and clubhouses.

Does it Cost More to Live in a Gated Community?

Gated communities have HOAs, and homeowners associations charge fees for community maintenance and the amenities provided. HOAs also require that residents live and abide by a specific set of regulations and rules. HOA fees and regulations vary quite a bit amongst different communities around the country.

A lot of people associate the idea of “gated communities” with celebrity enclaves, like Calabasas in Los Angeles County or Star Island in Miami Beach. But gated communities exist all across the country in different forms, and you don’t have to have extreme amounts of wealth to enjoy what they have to offer.

If you’re ready to rent in a new location or buy a home to live in for decades to come, keep gated communities in mind on your real estate search. Not only are they safer, but they offer far more benefits than you may think.

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Everything You Need to Know About Glass Break Sensors

Everyone deserves to feel safe at home. Many people rely on the technology of home alarm systems and security monitors to provide that peace of mind.

Thankfully, home security monitoring is improving all the time.

One of the newest features that home security companies offer are glass break sensors. These small but powerful devices can instantly detect if someone has broken a window in your home.

You can use glass break sensors to monitor and protect your property around the clock — whether you’re asleep in bed in the middle of the night or traveling far from home.

Ready to learn more about how glass break sensors can protect you, your home, and your loved ones?

Here’s everything you need to know about glass break sensors, including what they do, how they work, and how to install them as part of your current home security setup.

What Are Glass Break Sensors?

While the number of residential burglaries has declined in recent years, home and business break-ins happen several times a day throughout the country. And when they do, they are often the result of burglars smashing a glass window or door to gain entry.

Glass break sensors can disrupt a burglar before they make it any further.

Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, these sensors are also easy to install on your doors and windows. They emit a loud alarm if someone (or something) breaks or tampers with the glass.

The noisy alert is usually enough to scare the thief away. It quickly deters criminals from entering and burglarizing your home, threatening the lives of you and your loved ones.

Unlike window and door motion sensor detectors, which most people disarm when they’re at home to prevent false alarms, glass break sensors can stay on at all times. This offers an extra level of protection if someone breaks into your home while you’re on the premises.

Glass break sensors are an important safety measure that you can add to your current home security system. Many of the top home security companies offer them as an added layer of security.

How Do Glass Break Sensors Work?

There are two main categories of glass break sensors. The difference is in the type of sensor they use to detect shattered glass.

Both will produce an alarm if the glass suddenly breaks, but one is triggered by shock waves (vibrations) and the other is triggered by acoustic waves (sound).

Shock Sensors

Shock sensors react to vibrations. Each one contains a tiny electrical wire that attaches directly to the glass. As the glass moves, it transmits vibrations to the sensor and sets off the alarm.

Shock sensors are effective at detecting shattering or breaking glass, but they do have a downside. Because they monitor vibrations, they can sometimes prompt a false alarm even when something as innocent as a slamming door, the loud bark of a dog, thunderstorms, or another high-vibration disturbance causes the glass to tremble.

Acoustic Sensors

Also called frequency sensors or audio sensors, acoustic sensors have tiny built-in microphones that monitor the acoustic frequencies of sound. Shattering glass has a high-pitched sound, and these sensors alert when they detect that specific frequency.

Like shock sensors, acoustic sensors are also susceptible to false alarms. If you’re standing near the sensor and drop a plate or a wine glass, for example, it may set off the alarm by accident.

Here are seven tips for preventing false alarms in your home security system.

Which Type of Sensor is Better?

Acoustic sensors are considered more reliable and less likely to set off false alarms. They also have sensitivity levels that adjust specifically to detect the sound of shattering glass and prevent sounds at lower frequencies from triggering the alarm.

Keep in mind that glass break sensors are not motion detectors. They will not let you know if a door or window is opened. They only alert when the glass vibrates or shatters.

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Where to Place Glass Break Sensors

Where you place your glass break sensors depends on the type of sensors you buy. Before you decide whether shock sensors or sound sensors are better for your needs, consider how and where you will attach them.

Vibration sensors attach directly to the glass. That means you must place one directly on each door or window that you want to alarm. You can use them on windows of any size, but window contact sensors are best when used on large windows and doors, including sliding glass doors.

Acoustic glass break sensors are typically placed away from the wall that has the window or door, with the sensor’s microphone positioned to face the glass.

All glass break detectors have a limited sensor range. Sometimes one is enough to cover several windows or an entire room. For others, you may need to install one sensor per window.

The number of sensors you need will depend on the size of your windows, the square footage range of the detector, and the type of sensor you choose.

For acoustic sensors in particular, it’s best to measure the exact distances that your sensors will need to cover, such as the range between the glass and the opposite wall. Check the manufacturer’s specs to confirm that the sensor has enough range.

Keep in mind that if you place an acoustic glassbreak sensor near a television set or speaker system, watching a loud movie or television show with shattering glass scenes could set off the security alarm by accident. To minimize false alarms near televisions and stereos, consider adjusting the contact sensor’s sensitivity level so that it’s less likely to respond to everyday noises.

How to Install Glass Break Sensors

Most sensors are small and wireless. Wireless glass break detectors work by connecting to your wifi, and are easy to install.

Many have sticky adhesive backings, so that all you need to do is remove the adhesive cover from the back and press it against your wall, door, or window. Others have small screw-in mounts where you attach the base of the sensor directly to a ceiling or wall.

Depending on the type of home security system and detectors you use, you can install them yourself or have a security professional install them for you.

The Added Security Benefits of Glass Break Sensors

Glass break sensors have built-in features and offer added benefits to create an even safer environment for your home or business. Here are some of the additional ways that they can improve the safety and security of your property:

Notifications

You can set your glass break sensors to send alerts or notifications to your phone every time they sound an alarm. Whether you’re at work, running errands, or away on vacation, real-time phone notifications allow you to quickly respond to threats.

Trigger Security Cameras

Some glass break sensors can also trigger your security cameras to start recording. If you have interior or exterior cameras focused on the door or window, the glass break alert will trigger the cameras to record, making it easier to see the person or persons attempting to break in.

Alert Emergency Services

You can also configure your glass break sensors to alert your security monitoring service as soon as they sound an alarm. Your professional monitoring center can then contact emergency services or ask law enforcement to respond, ensuring that help is on the way whether or not you are on the premises.

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Tips for Buying Glass Break Sensors

Ready to protect your home or business with glass break sensors?

Here are some tips on what to look for before adding this new technology to your security system.

Look For Compatibility

If you already have a home security system, buy compatible sensors that will readily integrate with your current alarm system. Homeowners and business owners who use a system with a professional monitoring center, such as ADT or Brinks, will need to purchase compatible window sensors. Otherwise, the sensors may not work with your current alarm system.

Look For Availability

Don’t have a home security system yet?

When comparing plans and systems, narrow your options to alarm companies that offer glass break sensors. Many of the top companies offer them, but some do not.

Pay attention to the type of sensors the company offers as well. Be sure to ask if the sensors are shock sensors or acoustic sensors.

Weigh the Pros and Cons

The bigger your home, the more windows and doors you have — and the more important it is to install glass break sensors.

Not only will they play a pivotal role in protecting your home, but they’ll also protect you if you’re upstairs or in another room when someone tries to break in on the ground floor.

Most people install glass break sensors on the ground floor, as well as on upper floors that can be easily accessed from the outside. For example, upstairs windows or balconies that are close to trees or other climbable objects.

Unless there is easy outside access to second, third, and upper stories, you don’t need to install one on every window in your home.

And if you rent a small home or apartment, you might not need them at all.

As a tenant, you might not have a say in what security system (if any) is used to monitor your space. Your landlord will typically make that decision. But there is an alternative way to use glass break alarms to protect your home:

Smart home devices.

For example, the Alexa Guard feature on Amazon Echo includes built-in detectors for certain sounds, including the sound of glass shattering.

While Alexa has a limited range, one device is usually enough to cover one floor up to about 1,000 square feet of space.

Place yours in the room that has the most vulnerable windows. You can enjoy the protection of glass break sensors without obtaining your landlord’s permission or attaching anything to your windows or walls.

Residential security is a growing concern for many homeowners, and glass break sensors offer an additional layer of protection that motion detectors and security cameras do not. They’re perfect for anyone who lives alone, occupies a large space, travels often, or wants to take all possible measures to protect their family.

No matter your living situation or location, glass break sensors are an easy and effective security measure that safeguards against break-ins and offers invaluable peace of mind.

If this added measure of security isn’t enough, consider hiring a residential security guard. Contact Security Explorer to find professional, residential security guards in your area now.

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The Pros and Cons of Hiring An Unarmed vs. Armed Security Guard

From vandalism to burglaries to homicides, crime is a reality of life.

Every home, every business, and every event is susceptible to criminal activity. That’s why so many businesses are choosing to hire security guards to protect their assets, as well as to oversee the protection of their employees and guests.

According to the FBI, pre-COVID data from 2019 shows that a violent crime was committed every 26.3 seconds, while property crimes were committed every 4.6 seconds. As of 2022, violent crime rates have dropped to pre-pandemic levels, but some crimes, such as robbery, have increased across the nation.

One of the best preventative measures you can take against crime is to hire a security guard. But first, you’ll have to decide if you need to hire a guard that’s armed or unarmed.

Not sure which type of guard is right for your business?

Here are the pros and cons of hiring armed vs unarmed guards to protect your business or your next event.

What Type of Security Guard Do You Need?

Deciding whether to hire an armed or unarmed guard depends on the type of business you run. It also depends on how much risk is involved. High-risk businesses should consider armed security guard services, while unarmed guards are usually sufficient for businesses that have low-risk security needs.

To decide which type of guard to hire, consider the level of risk that you, your customers, your employees, or your event guests might face.

Examples of businesses that have high security risks include:

• Retail locations with expensive assets, such as jewelry or other luxury merchandise
• Commercial spaces with a lot of cash, valuables, or sensitive data on hand
• Offices or apartment buildings with a significant number of occupants
• Events with high-profile VIPs, including sporting events, concerts, movie sets, and political events
• Entertainment venues accessible to the general public
• Docks and marinas, especially those that harbor luxury yachts
• Any business located in a high-crime area

Business owners that operate in areas with a high crime rate should consider their businesses at risk, even if the nature of their business wouldn’t be deemed “risky” in an area with a lower crime rate.

Schools fall into their own category and benefit from school security guards who may or may not carry arms.

For example, high-end retail outlets, jewelry stores, banks, and financial institutions are almost always considered high risk. But in a high-crime area, even convenience stores, gas stations, and restaurants may be susceptible to criminal activity.

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What Do Unarmed Security Guards Do?

First and foremost, unarmed security officers play a major role in crime prevention. Many would-be criminals will think twice about taking part in criminal activity once they see that there’s a security guard on the premises.

Having said that, security guards do much more than deter vandals and keep thieves at bay. Unarmed guards, in particular, provide a variety of security solutions, such as:

• Creating safe entry and exit protocols (access control)
• Preventing people from entering restricted areas
• Screening or checking for weapons prior to entry
• Leading emergency evacuation plans
• Crowd control

In some situations, unarmed security professionals may also provide one-on-one assistance to customers, guests, and employees. They often escort guests and employees to their cars, provide directions, and staff the reception desk or front door of commercial offices and retail locations.

What Do Armed Security Guards Do?

Armed security guards do everything that unarmed guards do, with one addition:

They carry a firearm.

Armed guards undergo extensive training to prepare them to respond to life-threatening security matters. In fact, many are ex-police and ex-military who have years of experience in handling and discharging weapons. When necessary, they may use deadly force — and they’re permitted and trained to do so.

Unarmed Security Guards: The Pros and Cons

Like every other business decision you have to make, you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of hiring an unarmed security professional. Here’s a look at how they can benefit your business, as well as why they may not be the right choice for your needs.

The Pros of Unarmed Security

Station an unarmed security pro at your door, and you can instantly provide your employees, customers, and guests with a safer environment. Here’s an in-depth look at why unarmed guards might be the best choice for your business.

Crime Prevention

The physical presence of security personnel, even when unarmed, is an effective crime deterrent. Many criminals will not commit an unlawful act in a space where security is present, alert, and ready to intervene.

Provide Peace of Mind

Unarmed guards provide peace of mind. They send the signal to employees, guests, and patrons of your business that someone is on watch to ensure a safe and secure environment at all times. They also send the message that you are a trustworthy business that values the safety of everyone on the premises.

More Cost-Effective Than Armed Guards

It’s more cost-effective to hire an unarmed guard than an armed guard. Armed guards cost more because they have weapons training and additional skills that unarmed guards do not.

The Cons of Unarmed Security Guards

While all guards can provide excellent protection, there is one main drawback to hiring an unarmed pro over an armed guard:

If a significant threat arises, they may not be able to stop it.

Unarmed guards are often equipped with non-lethal weapons, such as pepper spray, tasers, and batons. But depending on the threat, non-lethal weapons may not provide enough protection.

For example, should an armed gunman gain entry into your business or event, your security guard’s only option may be to call for backup from armed law enforcement professionals. An armed guard, on the other hand, may be able to stop the threat in its tracks without having to wait for police officers to arrive on scene.

Armed Security Guards: The Pros and Cons

In a high-risk business, an armed guard may be the only way to provide the level of security your business needs. Here are the pros and cons of adding an armed weapons expert to your security team.

The Pros of Armed Security

Depending on the nature of your business and its location, an armed guard can be an invaluable asset. Yes, they can add to your payroll expenses — but there are several benefits that more than justify the cost.

Crime Prevention

Like unarmed guards, armed security experts are a highly effective crime-prevention measure. Many crimes are crimes of opportunity where the criminal strikes because the business appears to be easy to attack. Armed guards make it clear that your business is not an easy target, and most criminals prefer ones that are.

Enhanced Safety

In general, armed guards can make customers, guests, and staff feel more secure. This can improve your clientele’s confidence in your business, as well as their perception of safety. Furthermore, if a dangerous situation arises, these pros have what it takes to eliminate a threat as soon as it presents itself.

Instant Protection

Immediate assessment and elimination of a threat is key to maintaining everyone’s safety. Because armed guards have firearms training, they can provide instant protection against a threat without having to wait for law enforcement agencies to arrive on scene.

The Cons of Armed Security Guards

Before hiring an armed guard, consider the drawbacks of having a firearm visible in your place of business.

Guns Make Some People Uncomfortable

Not everyone feels comfortable around firearms. For that reason, having an armed security guard could do more than make potential criminals feel nervous — they could make certain customers feel nervous, too.

In addition to feeling uneasy around guns, some customers, staff, and guests may assume that the presence of an armed guard means that they’re in a dangerous place that needs extreme protection. Even if it is a “dangerous” place, this is not the message that most businesses want to send.

People expect to see armed guards in locations with a high risk of theft, such as banks, courthouses, and luxury retail stores. But placing an armed guard in a restaurant, church, or anywhere that they’re not expected could create anxiety in people who are not comfortable around guns.

Armed Guards Cost More

Unarmed security guards, who have less training, don’t cost as much as armed guards.

Depending on your budget and the risk level of your business, it may or may not be cost-effective to hire a guard who has a license to carry a firearm.

In addition to firearms training, most armed security professionals undergo other types of training. They learn de-escalation techniques, how to read non-verbal cues and body language, and conflict resolution — all of which can minimize potential dangers and eliminate threats.

Increased Cost of Liability Insurance

When necessary, an armed security officer may use lethal force, which can result in extreme injury or even death. For this reason, you’ll need to purchase additional liability insurance to protect your organization’s assets.

Of course, more liability insurance means higher operating costs for your business.

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Tips for Choosing the Right Security Company

There are many different types of security companies you can hire. Consider the following factors when interviewing and vetting potential guards.

Reputation

Always check online reviews and testimonials before hiring a security company.

You can use a security services search directory, such as Security Explorer, to read reviews about the best services in your area. Listening to what other customers and clients have to say about their experiences can help you decide if a particular security company is right for your business.

You can also run background checks and reference checks on security personnel. It’s critical to vet your guards, as you’re putting everyone’s safety and security in their hands.

Experience

It goes without saying that you want your security personnel to have experience. What’s more important is that they have the right type of experience.

Some companies are experts in event security, while others specialize in the protection of hospitals, banks, or office buildings.

A guard who has experience working in your particular business or industry will be best prepared for the task at hand. You can trust that they possess an in-depth understanding of the potential threats you could face.

Cost

Always compare prices and services to make sure you’re getting a fair deal.

Obtain quotes from two or three different security experts so that you know if you’re paying the right amount for the level and quality of service they offer.

Familiarity With Your Local Region

Security guards are experts in situational awareness who can adapt to almost any setting. Still, it’s important that they’re familiar with your geographical region. To fully understand and prepare for the risks that your business may face, they’ll need to be aware of the local demographics, the surrounding businesses, and the neighborhood as a whole.

Security guards offer protection against active threats, and when an active threat isn’t present, they help deter crime and offer peace of mind.

Whether you choose to hire armed or unarmed guards, it’s one of the most effective ways to protect your business while ensuring that your employees, guests, and patrons always feel secure.

Without a guard, your business runs the risk of becoming an easy target that attracts criminals — which can cause significant damage and harm.

Professional security services are available all across the country. If you’re looking to hire a guard in California, connect with Security Explorer now to find experts you can trust and rely on to keep your business safe.

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The Ultimate Event Security Checklist

As an event planner, you have a lot on your plate.

So many things fall on your shoulders: from reserving the perfect venue to hiring the vendors for catering and entertainment. On top of it all, you still need to decorate the space and plan for where and how your guests will park and check in.

But there’s another crucial element you can’t afford to overlook: security.

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How to Remove an Old Home Security System – Step by Step

Securing Your Dog Door: Keeping Unwanted Intruders Out

Fortifying Your Home’s Gateway – Securing Your Dog Door from Unwanted Intruders

Dog doors are a convenient addition to any home, providing your furry friends with the freedom to come and go as they please.

However, while they offer convenience for your pets, they can also pose a potential security risk for pet owners if not properly secured. Unwanted intruders, such as burglars or wildlife, could exploit these openings to gain access to your home.

With 3,062 burglaries happening in the U.S. every day, those considering a dog door should consider the security implications.

With that:

Are Dog Doors a Security Risk?

We get this question a lot. The short answer is “somewhat.”

A burglar is unlikely to be able to fit through a dog door, even if you have a large dog. However, a dog door does give a potential burglar the ability to peak their head into your home and get a clear view inside your house.

The larger risk of dog doors is the increased likelihood that raccoons and other wildlife could sneak into your home.

In this article, we’ll explore effective strategies and tips for homeowners to secure your dog or cat door, ensuring the safety of your family and your four-legged companions.

Choose the Right Doggy Door

Before diving into security measures, start by selecting the appropriate pet door for your home. Opt for a sturdy, well-constructed door with security features.

Some dog doors are designed with sliding panels that can be locked in place when you’re not using them. Others have electronic access controls, allowing only your pets to use the door.

Choosing the right dog door is the first step in preventing unwanted entry.

Determine Where to Put the Dog Door

Determining the location of your dog door is a big decision. We recommend installing your dog door in a location that isn’t easily accessible to wildlife.

For example, if you have a forest behind your home, consider installing the dog door on your front door rather than your back door.

Install the Door at the Right Height

Proper installation is crucial for security.

Install the dog door at a height that’s suitable for your pets but small enough to prevent usage by burglars. The goal is to make it challenging for anyone to crawl through the opening. Most dog doors should be installed at a height of at least a foot off the ground.

Use Locking Mechanisms

Many dog doors come equipped with locking mechanisms to secure them when not in use.

These locks can be manual, like deadbolts, or electronic, requiring a specific dog collar or tag worn by your pet to unlock the door. Use these locks to prevent break-ins, especially while you’re out of town.

Upgrade to an Electronic Pet Door

Automatic pet doors are a high-tech solution to enhance security.

They use sensors to recognize your pet’s collar or microchip, allowing only them to enter while keeping intruders out. These doors provide an added layer of protection, and some even offer programming options to control entry and exit times.

Install a Security Barrier

Consider adding a security barrier around the pet door to deter unwanted intruders.

This barrier can be a separate sliding panel or a gate that you can lock when the dog door is not in use. Ensure the barrier is made of strong and durable material.

Supervise Outdoor Activities

While it’s essential to secure the dog door, it’s equally important to supervise your pets when they’re outside.

Be cautious about leaving them unattended for extended periods, especially in areas where wildlife or other potential threats are present.

Implement a Home Security System

Consider integrating your dog door into your home security system.

Motion sensors or security cameras placed near the dog door can alert you to any suspicious activity. Modern security systems often offer smartphone apps that send you notifications about suspicious activity and allow you to monitor your home in real time.

Regularly Maintain and Inspect

Don’t forget to perform routine maintenance and inspections of your dog door.

Ensure that locks, sensors, and seals are in good working condition. Replace any worn-out or damaged parts promptly to maintain security.

Reinforce the Surrounding Area

Strengthening the area around the doggy door can further enhance security. Consider adding a reinforcing plate or frame around the opening.

These additional layers of protection make it more difficult for intruders to force their way in. Ensure that screws and fasteners are securely in place to prevent tampering.

Train Your Pets

While this tip doesn’t directly relate to securing the dog door, it’s essential to train your pets to use it properly.

Teach them to go in and out of the door without lingering, as this can potentially attract unwanted attention. Also, consider training commands to keep them inside when needed.

Employ Motion-Activated Lighting

Installing motion-activated lighting near the dog door can serve as a deterrent to potential intruders.

Bright lights automatically turning on when motion is detected can startle and discourage unauthorized entry attempts.

Consider Secondary Barriers

Depending on your security needs, you might want to implement secondary barriers, such as a sliding glass door lock or window film, in the immediate vicinity of the dog door.

These additional measures can act as deterrents or create an added layer of security.

Consult a Security Professional

If you’re unsure about the best security measures for your specific dog door or home layout, consider consulting a security professional. They can assess your needs and provide tailored recommendations to ensure optimal security while maintaining your pet’s freedom.

Those looking for additional security should consider additional security to keep them and their families secure. Consider paying for a security monitoring system or hiring residential security services to keep you safe.

Securing your dog door is an essential aspect of home security that should not be overlooked. By carefully selecting the right dog door, employing locking mechanisms, and reinforcing the surrounding area, you can significantly reduce the risk of unwanted intruders gaining access to your home.

Electronic dog doors, security barriers, and motion-activated lighting add extra layers of protection. Consistent training of your pets and regular maintenance of the door are equally important.

When it comes to safeguarding your home and loved ones, taking proactive steps to secure your dog door ensures that both your human and furry family members can enjoy peace of mind and freedom simultaneously.