Common Myths about Burglar Alarms

Alarm Facts

Rendin Alarm in Morton, PA

There are many misconceptions that people have about alarm systems.  Let’s review a few and thanks to the Stockton Police department for compiling these facts!

Common Myths About Burglar Alarms

• An alarm system is burglarproof.
  • False.  Nothing is burglarproof.
    Alarm Systems work more as a deterrent, but if a burglar wants to smash in a door or break a window, the alarm system can’t stop that.
• You will never have a false alarm if you purchase the salesman’s alarm system.
  • False.  Any system can produce a false alarm if installed or operated incorrectly.
  • At Renin Alarm Company in Morton, PA, we pride ourselves on quality installations, which are tested thoroughly before put into action.
• The Police Department endorses a specific alarm company and provides a quicker response because none of their alarms are false.
  • False.  The Police Department does not endorse any company.
  • Although, we are sure they love us!
• When your alarm is activated, the responding police officers can hear what is going on inside your home over their car radios.
  • False.  The Police Department does not have this technology.
  • But with Smart Home Technology such as Total Connect Remote Access, YOU can!
• Your alarm is connected directly to the Police Department’s Dispatch Center.
  • False.  There are currently no private alarm systems directly connected to the Police Department’s Dispatch Center.
  • Your alarm system is connected to Rendin Alarm’s Central Monitoring Center and when appropriate, the police will be called and dispatched.
• Alarm systems reduce crime because the burglars are arrested as a result of your alarm system.
  • False. Less than 1% of alarm calls result in an actual arrest.  Prominently displayed alarm stickers, signs, and an audible alarm can discourage potential burglars from entering your home.
  • Again, alarm systems are a very effective deterrent.  Burglars often see the alarm sign and move on.  But once the alarm sounds and lights go on, they tend to flee.  Keeping them out of your home is the ultimate goal and at Rendin Alarm, we help do just that!

Burglaries Rise in the Summer!

Happy 4th of July!

Most Burglaries Happen in the Summer During the Day!

When we think of a burglar, most of us think of a man in all black clothing sneaking into our house at the dead of night. Decades of movies have built up this image of a burglar: a man in a ski cap, sneaking into your house with through a window. This image, however, is not accurate. Most burglars use the front door. It might surprise you that most burglaries do not happen when you would expect them to: many are in the summer during the day! Now that you know how burglars break in, let’s look at when they break in. We’ve gathered some facts about when burglaries most commonly occur, so you can make sure you’re protected and that your home security is ready!

Don’t Let Your Mail Pile Up!

Summer is a care-free time. Shoes come off, windows fly open and vacation days are taken. As we finally relax, we often let our guards down. July and August are the months with the most break-ins. Knowing this, make sure you take steps to protect your home when you’re away during the summer- whether it’s for the afternoon or the month. With the hot weather, windows may accidentally be left open. Now that the garden is growing and your in and out of your shed more often, it may not be locked as it once was. Often your house may be empty, as you and your family are away on vacation. When you leave your home, always make sure that all doors and windows are closed and locked, including any outbuildings like a shed in your yard. Make sure you only have your garage door open when you’re out front. Never leave the door open. This is an easy access point for potential burglars!

Keep your yard well maintained and put away any toys or tools that may be lying about. A unkempt yard is a good sign that your home may be vacant. If you’re leaving town, ask a neighbor to mind your yard, and clear away any advertisements, papers or leaflets at your door. It’s also a good idea to ask them to occasionally move their car to your driveway! This way your house looks occupied. In addition, make sure the ringer on your land line telephone is set to low and that you place a hold on your mail. You can do that by clicking HERE.

Broad Daylight Burglaries

65% of burglaries occur between 6am and 6pm.  Most burglars do not want to risk encountering someone so they will try your home when you’re most likely to be at work. The most common hours for a burglary to occur are between 10am-3pm. Common misconceptions about break-ins aid the burglar. Your neighbors may not think twice about workmen coming and going from your house in the early afternoon. Having a relationship with your neighbors will help them keep a closer eye on your home. If you’re friendly, they will know that you’re not moving and it will catch their eye if large pieces are being taken from your home. Strike up conversations with your neighbors whenever you can. An extra pair of eyes can always help!

Often a day-time burglar will knock on your door posing as a salesman to see if anyone is home, and- if they can get inside- see where your valuables are kept. Make sure to keep yourself safe in this situation. You do not need to open the door to them, but if you decide to, make sure to not let them inside your home.

Whether you’re away for the day or a week, make sure to take these few steps to keep your home as an undesirable target for a burglar. A home security system is a great extra layer of protection to make sure your home is guarded while you are away. You can arm your alarm system when you are away on vacation or at work- and you can even set it with people still in your home. And if employ Total Connect Smart Home Technology, you can keep your home safe and secure this summer.

Call Rendin Alarm today at (610) 544-5755 for more info regarding keeping your home safe this Summer!  Or visit us online at https://rendinalarm.com.  Or email us at [email protected].

Happy 4th of July!

Fire Alarm Systems

Rendin Alarm Company proudly represents The Honeywell Company and its quality products.  Among our services is Commercial Fire Protection and Alarm Systems.  The following is from Honeywell’s Vendor Support Site.  We hope you find it interesting!

Honeywell Launches New Series of Silent Knight Fire Alarm Control Panels

The new Silent Knight 6000 Series includes four panels with point capacities ranging from 100 to 1,110 points.

The Silent Knight 6000 Series.

If you are interested in The Silent Knight or any other security system for your business or home, please contact Rendin Alarm Company today at (610)544-5755

Thank You!

Stormy Weather Season is Beautiful Weather for Burglars

Cellular Alarm Systems a Solution During Outages

Sometimes during burglaries or home invasions, an intruder will cut the phone line to prevent the alarm system from reaching the monitoring center. The lines can also be cut accidentally during construction work.   Evening thunderstorms are also a good time for burglars to break into a home.  When there are power outages, alarm systems may be disabled.  And more brazen thieves can work while homeowners are at home under the cover of thunder. Two common ways to get around this problem are cellular backup systems and wireless broadband systems.

In many cases, modern home security systems come equipped with cellular backup.  This is a system that routes the signal wirelessly using the same technology as cellphones—no landline required.Cellular monitoring is a game-changer. It eliminates one of the greatest vulnerabilities of traditional home security systems: the fact that the physical line between the alarm and the monitoring station is vulnerable to breaks. Having the cellular backup option means that if the primary connection goes out, you still have a lifeline.There are two types of cellular monitoring systems: direct and indirect. Direct systems send their signal straight to the alarm company’s central monitoring station, while indirect systems route the signal to a third-party monitoring station. Some people may prefer the direct method because it has fewer variables involved, but either method gets the job done.

At Rendin Alarm Company, our Monitoring Centers are here for you and will always be alerted when you enlist our cellular systems with battery capabilities.  When you think about safety for your Family, you need to consider all of your options.  Call Rendin Alarm today at (610) 544-5755 and speak to a consultant who will gladly answer all of your questions.  You may also visit us online at www.rendinalarm.com.

Don’t risk your Family’s, Businesses’ or Home’s security.  Call Rendin Alarm Today.

Thank you!

Away on Vacation?

Are you Going Away on Vacation?

Burglars at Work while You are on Vacation!

That’s awesome!  You deserved it.  You worked hard for it!  And the last thing you need is to come home to a house that has been robbed!  So now that vacation season is coming, we at Rendin Alarm Company want to dispense our annual advice! There are many things, which you can do to protect your home while you are away.  This way you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about your home.  Here are some ways you can help protect your home while you are away.

Pack your vehicle the night before you leave when it is dark out to avoid “advertising” that you will be away.
Avoid that one neighbor who asks loudly from across the street “HEY! Y’all going away? Have fun!”

Have a neighbor grab your mail and newspapers, etc.
A pile-up is a tell-tale sign you are away.

Put your lights on a timer.
Create the appearance your home is occupied.

Double Check that all windows and doors (on every floor) are locked.  Make sure your garage is locked as well.
Make it a challenge for goodness sake!

Make sure the perimeter of your home is well lit.
This way the neighbors can report anything suspicious they may see.

Hire someone to mow your lawn while you are away.
A freshly cut lawn indicates you are around.

Keep a car in your driveway.
Again – looks are deceiving!

Enlist a Smart Home Security System from Rendin Alarm!
Stay in the know wherever you go with Total Connect Remote Services. Real-time alerts, GPS vehicle and asset tracking, video viewing and mobile control put peace of mind in the palm of your hand – helping you stay connected to your family and home 24/7. Honeywell Total Connect is all you need to turn your smartphone into a smart home! Remotely arm, disarm or check the status of your security system.

CO Detectors can earn You an insurance Break

Honeywell Ademco 5800CO Wireless CO Detector

CO Detectors in Your Home

Homeowners’ insurance isn’t a topic that most people like to think about, but insurance discounts? Now we’re talking. For first-time homebuyers the prospect of adding home insurance to the other long list of costs can seem daunting. Yet homeowners’ insurance isn’t just required for your mortgage, it’s an important part of a plan to keep you and your home safe.

Generally homeowners’ insurance covers damage from fire, most storms (some insurance does not include flood damage), theft, and more.  It can also protect you in case someone is injured in your home. It is a wise investment in your financial safety.

Home security

Those who live in a gated community may be entitled to a discount. Gated communities tend to have lower rates of theft, vandalism, and other crimes. Having a security system in place can pare as much as 15 percent off your policy depending on the provider! Dead-bolt locks can also be a discount for some providers.

Fire safety

The installation of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors isn’t just necessary protection for your family, it’s also something insurance underwriters smile upon. Also for fire protection, a sprinkler system, heat detectors, fire escapes and plenty of fire extinguishers are also important. And keep those flammable substances outside the home at a cool temperature to avoid overheating and fire risk.

Child Safety

You may have children that are old enough to leave home alone for an hour or so, but are too young to discern that something is wrong in the home.  A monitored CO, Fire, Smoke and Burglary System will help ensure their safety.

Pet Safety

Your pets can’t call 911.  If they are home while you are not, a monitored CO system will alert the authorities of a leak.  If you have a smart home system or monitored system, it can alert you by text of voice as well.

Please contact us today with any questions you may have or to schedule a consultation.  (610) 544-5755  or [email protected]

Thank you!

Spring into Action – Home Alarm Systems

Spring Is Here!
So Spring into Action and Protect your Home with an Alarm System from Rendin Alarm!

Despite the awful cold weather here in the Northeast United States, it IS Spring.  As of today!  But the fact that it has been so cold has prompted many folks to take those Island Vacations now!  And that is awesome!

But there are burglars out there who thrive on people’s vacations.  Its an all too familiar story.  Folks come home from a wonderful trip away only to find that they have been robbed while they are away.  There are lots of things you can do to safeguard your home from a burglary.  Foremost is enlisting Rendin Alarm Company to help protect your home.

But in addition to that, you may follow these tips:

Ask Someone to Keep an Eye on Things
Having a good neighbor keep an eye on your home is a great idea.

Install Timers on Your Electronics
Having lights and maybe even a stereo go on at varying times gives the impression of you being home.

Have Someone Mow the Lawn/Shovel the Driveway
You “Must be home” if your grass is freshly mowed or driveway is shoveled.

Stop the Mail
Takes 5 minutes at the post office.  OR – have that great neighbor bring your mail in for you.

Beware of Social Media
Your vacation pics are awesome.  But they will be just as awesome if you post them when you get home!  Posting that you are away is an invitation to be robbed.

Lock Everything 
And we mean everything!  Every window, door and transom.

Don’t Leave Spare Keys Out
No keys under the Matt, flower pot or stone.  And if you are in long term parking, don’t leave them in your car.

Lock the Garage Door 
There’s probably lots of valuable items in your garage as well.  And tools and ladders to force entry on the second floor.  But those windows are gonna’ be locked, right?!

Don’t Lead Burglars to Your Home With Your GPS  
They think of everything.  If you have built in GPS, clear any memory of your home address.  Burglars break into cars at airports and take your home address off your GPS.

Stash Valuables in the Safe  
Don’t have one?  Get one!

Have Someone Take the Trash Out  
Again.  Appearances are everything!

Hire a House Sitter  
The best you can do!  They may eat all your food, but it’s worth it!

Finally, a well-lit perimeter, Rendin Alarm Signs and stickers posted at points of entry and a car in the driveway are great deterrents!
For more information CALL US at (610) 544-5755 or contact us online by clicking HERE

Now go enjoy that vacation!!

Wireless and Cellular Alarm Systems

Wireless and Cellular Alarm Systems

Today more and more businesses have switched over to Voice Over IP systems.  But in the event that those powered systems go down due to a power outage, your alarm system will not work.  You are at your most vulnerable when your power is out, you don’t want the added risk of no alarm.  So you need to switch to a cellular radio network.  Rendin Alarm can help.  We want you to think about scenarios such as pets left home alone.  In the event of a gas leak or carbon monoxide leak when the system is down, they are at risk.

Honeywell Wireless Alarm System.

In the context of home security systems, a distinction is made between wireless and cellular in order to differentiate the transfer of alarm signals within the home with how signals are sent from the home to the outside.

• ‘Wireless’ refers to the communications method inside the home between the sensors and the control panel.
• ‘Cellular’ pertains to the wireless approach used to send signals from the control panel to the outside such as to the monitoring station or to a smart device.

To clarify further: Inside the home, communications between the alarm system’s sensors and control panel are either wired or wireless. When an alarm is triggered, the control panel can be set up to contact the monitoring station through a landline phone or internet connection; or, wirelessly via cellular links. A home security system is said to be fully wireless then if it is ‘wireless with cellular monitoring’.Let’s break it down:

What’s Wireless?

In a wired set-up, communication is done via wires which run through the power supply, control panel and sensors. In a wireless home security system, information is not transferred through wires or cables. Alarm signals are transmitted wirelessly between the different sensors and the control panel using proprietary radio frequencies. Proprietary? meaning that the system has a frequency different from other wireless devices so that they do not interfere each other.

What’s Cellular?

Cellular refers to the wireless approach to sending an alarm signal from the control panel to the outside. Many home security companies now offer the option of cellular monitoring with their wireless systems. With this type of monitoring, a cellular module is built-in to the control panel so that when the alarm goes off, the panel immediately sends a signal to the monitoring station using cellular and radio-based technology, the same way that text messages are sent.

Cellular pertains also to communications between the security system and a smart device. For example, the control unit can be programmed to send text alerts to the homeowner’s smartphone to report system activity.

Wireless with Cellular Monitoring

A fully wireless home security system ?a wireless alarm set-up inside the home plus cellular monitoring — is considered a best of both worlds scenario. Together in one package, they leverage each other’s strengths:

• Easy to install and use.
• More reliable, faster data transmission since the control panel operates like a cellphone on a network dedicated to the home alarm system.
• The cellular network, through smartphone and tablet applications, allows a homeowner to be constantly connected in real time to the alarm system and to other integrated home automation functions.
• Safer with no power and phone lines for potential intruders to cut to disable the system.
• Less vulnerable to power outages which affect wired set-ups.

For more information, Contact Us at (610) 544-5755 or follow us here!

Save Money on Homeowners Insurance

Save Money on Homeowners Insurance with a Monitored Alarm System

Homeowners insurance, according to a Federal Reserve Board estimate, costs between $300 to $1,000 annually. Assuming an average cost of $650, a 10 percent discount on your homeowners insurance for a monitored alarm system saves you $65 each year.  If your Homeowners Insurance costs more that that, your saving will be even greater.

When you get homeowners insurance, you are investing in protecting your assets.  So it only makes sense that you would want an alarm system, with remote monitoring, to protect your Family, Business and Property.   An alarm system is the greatest proactive measure you can take to protect that which is valuable to you.

In many instances, just the KNOWLEDGE that there is an on-premise alarm system is enough to deter a burglary.  That is why it is so important that your prominently display your Rendin Alarm Security Stickers near your property’s points of entry.

Ten Things to Consider when Buying Homeowners Insurance

1. shop around for coverage

If you own a home, your mortgage lender will likely require you to get homeowners insurance. To find a policy, consider getting quotes from a handful of home insurance companies, and assess their coverages, limits, and deductibles.Make sure you aren’t sacrificing protection for bare-minimum price either. And since you’re probably going to be communicating with your insurer during stressful moments, consider picking a company that is known for quality customer service and 24/7 support.

2. find out the company rating

A.M. Best is a great source for third-party ratings for virtually any insurer in the United States. Their rating analysis involves comparing the business to other businesses, and evaluating them against industry standards. Put simply, it’s an assessment of a company’s ability to meet its obligations to customers (such as paying claims), which can help provide peace of mind when picking homeowners insurance.

3. consider the location

If you are in the market for buying a home, bear in mind that the location of your house could impact how much you pay for home insurance. For example, if the house is in a hamlet with volunteer firefighters, or the closest fire station is more than 5 miles away, rates may start to hike up. Premiums could also be higher if the house is in a geographical location that is vulnerable to natural disasters like wildfires or tornadoes. Other regional factors that could affect insurance rates include crime rate and general building costs in the area.

4. take advantage of discounts

Most companies offer homeowners insurance discounts for behavior that mitigates risks, so take advantage of them. From storm shutter installation and smoke detectors, to burglar alarms and water safety systems, you may be able to save some extra cash on your home insurance premium. Some homeowners insurance companies even offer discounts for simply being a new home buyer. Also, improving your credit score could increase your chances of getting a better rate. The higher your credit score, the lower your perceived risk may be.

5. go online

The most effective way to commence your research is by venturing on the internet. Simply typing in “homeowners insurance quotes” on a given search engine is guaranteed to illuminate your screen with a bevy of pertinent information and options.

6. know the costs

Remember, you’re going to want your house insured for its replacement cost, not its market value. While the market value denotes the amount a buyer pays for the home, the replacement cost concerns the expenses needed to repair or rebuild the entire home. Keep in mind the costs that may be required to transport the materials to the site, as well as other factors like inflation.

7. compare deductibles

As you start to build your policy, you can finally set your homeowners insurance deductibles. The deductible is how much you’d pay out of pocket on a claim. For instance, choosing a higher deductible could help you lower your monthly premium — but it would mean more money coming out your wallet before your insurance company pays out.On the flipside, a lower deductible means you’d pay less out of pocket after a claim — but your homeowners rates may be higher each month. There are certainly pros and cons for both cases, and ultimately it comes down to your financial security and personal circumstances.

8. know the home in and out

If you have recently bought a home, make sure to get a claims history report from the seller. This report details any previous damage to the home, such as fires, flooding, and other incidents. It can clue you in on any of the home’s frailties that could increase homeowners insurance rates — or, worse, make it difficult to even get insurance.The Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange is the largest database used by the insurance industry, providing a history of damages to a home that resulted in a claim being filed. The disclosure outlines the date, type, and amount paid for the claim, as well as other helpful information. Because factors like the age of the electrical system, plumbing, and other components within the home could impact premiums, try to gather as much information as you can to gauge potential issues. Bear in mind that newer homes are usually in better condition than older homes, and could, therefore, be cheaper to insure in some cases.

9. answer questions honestly

When getting your quote and selecting home insurance coverages, honesty is critical. Getting the proper information helps your insurance company provide more reliable protection. For example, if you plan on upgrading your kitchen, the value of the home is likely to increase, and your coverage needs to reflect that for your protection. Likewise, if you plan on having a home office, you want to make sure you have the proper liability coverage just in case a client slips on that vinegar floor solution you forgot to towel dry.Not only could providing incorrect information lead to an inaccurate quote, but the insurer may end up cancelling your policy.

10. know your coverage

Homeowners not understanding their coverage is a more common issue than one might think. And in a way, it’s understandable. A standard homeowners insurance policy is an intricate piece of literature, outlining the nuances of what is and isn’t covered.

Restaurants Resolve to be Safer in 2018 – Video Surveillance Systems

Video Surveillance Systems for Restaurants

Restaurants Resolve to be Safer in 2018 – Video Surveillance Systems

Theft is a huge problem in the business world.  And sadly, a large percentage of theft in the workplace comes from those you depend on – your employees.  Warehouse inventory vanishes, computers, ink & paper, artwork and even toiletries are taken on a regular basis.

One of the biggest industries by far to be robbed by its employees is the Restaurant Industry.  And there are MANY layers of theft that could be eliminated by the presence of surveillance cameras.  When employees know they are being watched, they are extremely unlikely to steal anything.  And not just stealing, but goofing off, smoking, drinking, etc are all behaviors, which can be curtailed by the presence of surveillance cameras.

Below are some examples of types of theft in the Restaurant Industry, which can be eliminated by the presence of surveillance cameras:

• Giving away of free product in exchange for tips
• Employees drinking while on duty
• Kitchen Staff giving away free food to friends of staffers
• Theft of food products from refrigerators and dry storage
• Theft of Liquor and Beer from storage areas
• Employees Clocking out fellow employees long after they have left (Theft of Payroll)
• Staff taking excessive breaks while on the clock
• Removing cash from the registers
• Ringing “No Sale” for an item and removing the cash received from the till later
• improper ringing of items

Poor Business Practices can lead to lost Revenue

In addition to intentional theft, surveillance cameras may be used as an effective training tool, which may help eliminate loss of revenue.  You may notice certain types of employee behavior that can cause a guest to never return.  And you can do it from the back office or from your home.  With the proper remote access, you can observe your staff from anywhere with a smartphone, desktop or laptop!  Here’s a few examples of how surveillance may be effective for staff training:

• Did the Server greet the guests in a timely fashion?
• Were they taking a smoke break when they should be in their section?
• Did the food come out in a timely fashion?
• Was the table cleared during the dining experience?
• Was the food properly prepared?
• Were the bartenders talking to friends and neglecting other Guests?
• Were the servers neat, presentable and in uniform?
• Were the staffers drinking in front of guests?

These are just a few ways you can help eliminate theft and loss of revenue with a video surveillance.  Many establishments see such a dramatic reduction in theft, that the systems literally pay for themselves in a very short period of time!  Call Rendin Alarm TODAY at (610) 544-5755 to see if a surveillance system can help your business decrease or even eliminate theft!  Or visit us at https://rendinalarm.com.