Autumn is quickly sneaking up on us in Southern Colorado, and many homeowners are searching for Halloween security tips to protect both themselves and the trick-or-treaters haunting their neighborhoods. Whether you’re a new homeowner or have been in your current home for years, you can never be too prepared for a neighborhood event like Halloween. Here are some tips (and tricks!) to ensure that your home is secure this Halloween.
Best Halloween Security Tips
A secure home is important all year round, but especially during Halloween. A 2016 report from Traveler’s Insurance showed that homeowner claims for property crimes rose 24% on Halloween night.
While that might seem startling, the following tips will help keep your home safe and secure during Halloween night and throughout the rest of the year.
Set Your Alarms and Security Systems
Ensuring that all your alarms, security cameras and systems are working properly prior to Halloween night will prevent any worry that your system is not functioning properly. And, since many times just the sight of a security camera or alarm system will deter thieves from committing crimes, you should make sure your camera is in clear view and not hidden.
Related to making sure your cameras and alarms are set ahead of time, you may also want to consider placing a sticker in your window or a sign in your yard that you are protecting your property. These can serve a dual purpose. First, families will know that your home is safe for younger trick-or-treaters. Second, potential burglars or vandals know that your home is secure and that they can be caught on video. Make sure signs in your yard are easily visible and window stickers in plain view so that all guests (wanted and unwanted) can see the measures you take to protect your home.
Light Up Your Home
Its simple, lights signal to visitors that you are home and aware of their presence.
Whether your Halloween plans include staying at home handing out candy or going out, leave on a few house lights to let visitors know that someone is home. This simple Halloween security tip can deter potential criminals from marking your home as an easy target.
Additionally, If you have closed down and are no longer handing out candy, or are just not participating in the revelries this year, you may want to invest in motion sensor lights. Your house and lawn may be dark, implying that no one is awake or home to hand out treats. However, if someone crosses onto your property the lights will come on. This conveys the message that even though it may seem that no one is home, you are keeping watch on your property.
Secure All Your Windows and Doors
If you are occupied on your front porch all night handing out candy to kids, burglars and vandals may see an opportunity to approach your home through open windows and an unlocked back door. Close and lock all windows are doors outside your line of sight so no surprise visitors can get in. Placing security cameras or sensors on other entrances to your house is also a great way to make sure no one gets in without your knowledge.
Close the Garage
If you have a garage, use it! Park your cars in your garage and lock them. With so many people out walking, an open garage door can be an open invitation to look inside. And if they are inclined to look inside, they may see something that they like and return later to snatch it up. Also parking your cars inside your garage ensures that your cars can’t get vandalized, even if you’re in a place with low foot or motor traffic.
Take Pictures of Your Home Beforehand
Taking a few pictures of your home before Halloween goes into full spooky swing can ensure that, if something does end up happening on your property, you have documentation of what your home looked like before and after the incident. You’ll be able to contact your insurance company and present them with the evidence.
Lock Up Tight
Determine ahead of time when to cutoff giving out candy, and make sure you lock everything up when you do stop. Secure doors, gates, garage, and anything else important to you. Locking up ensures that there are no tricks after you’ve given out all the treats!
Conclusion
While it is an unfortunate fact that some use Halloween as an opportunity to do damage to their neighbor’s homes and properties, implementing these Halloween security tips should give you some peace of mind. At System Links, we understand that Halloween’s reputation as the spookiest night of the year can seem even scarier for Colorado Springs homeowners wanting to protect their homes, property, and families. We have been helping our friends and neighbors throughout Southern Colorado protect what is most important to them for over 20 years. From camera and full system sales and installation at homes and businesses to access control systems for larger properties, we have the knowledge and experience to ensure you’ll be safe from all the ghouls and ghosts roaming around the neighborhood this Halloween.
In today’s world, one of the smartest decisions you can make for the security of your Southern Colorado business is to invest in a premises access control system. If you are looking for a feature-rich, high-tech access control solution then Vizpin Access Control Systems is one of the best, most user-friendly and secure options available.
Thirty years ago, it seemed like the only businesses with access control systems were Fortune 100 companies, high-tech developers and manufacturers, and government installations. But since then, controlling who has access to your premises and data, and exactly when this access is granted, has become an essential aspect of nearly every business, no matter the size.
With the plethora of options available, why should you choose to install a Vizpin Access Control System at your company’s premises? Here are five core features Vizpin technology provides to secure your company premises.
1. Vizpin Is Cloud-Based
With Vizpin Access Control Systems, security permissions do not need to be set up locally but are instead managed by the service provider via a remote server. All that is necessary on your (or your designated administrator’s) part is a mobile connection or a web browser. That is it. Your administrator will be able to set up and manage permissions from anywhere, at any time, all through an app on their smartphone.
This cloud-based approach allows for your administrator to manage access to multiple buildings, handle complex security requirements, collaborate with other individuals, and eliminate the need for training a local operator, for both service and maintenance.
2. Vizpin is Secure
The reality is that security is becoming more of an issue all the time. Whether you are most concerned with hackers hijacking your data or compromising your system, or the safety and security of your employees and visitors, any good access control system has to be flexible enough to allow for customization, but also be configurable for maximum security and safety. Vizpin is just such a flexible and configurable access control system.
The Vizpin access control reader is mounted in a secure area, well away from potential burglars, and safe from weather elements. The system can be customized to use two-factor authentication (TFA) or even multi-factor authentication (MFA), so as to handle all logical security requirements. This feature also enables you to use end-to-end data encryption when it is necessary to transmit data to other locations.
3. Network Requirements with Vizpin
Many traditional access control systems use the same network as business-critical systems. This means a conventional system is wired into a central panel and requires a local network to support it. In addition to extensive wiring, an ISP, and a number of routers, an IT professional will likely need to oversee and implement the entire network.
Vizpin Access Control Systems, on the other hand, do not require any network installation, which eliminates the possibility of your corporate network being compromised. You’ll also enjoy the benefits of a less expensive installation, as well as no need for maintenance personnel or for IT specialists. Vizpin is therefore a self-contained, protected access control system.
The ultramodern Vizpin Access Control System is easy to configure, use and manage. Because a Vizpin system eliminates the need for fobs, key cards, or physical badges, there is no need for extensive training of your administrator. The system is intuitive and very user-friendly and can be used easily right after installation.
And, if instant access is needed at any time, your administrator can easily navigate the cloud-based access control software to make the necessary updates.
5. Scalability With Vizpin
Vizpin is one of the most easily scalable access control systems on the market, so regardless of the kind of growth your company goes through, Vizpin can mirror that growth.
For instance, if you need to add an additional secure area in your workplace, or if your company undergoes significant expansion, your Vizpin Access Control System will grow right along with the company. Expansion is a breeze, and the cost is very affordable.
System Links Colorado: Your Local Expert Vizpin Access Control Systems Retailer And Installer
With so many great features and cutting-edge technology, Vizpin Access Control Systems are becoming increasingly popular with Southern Colorado companies. At System Links Colorado, we are proud to be premier retail sales and installers of this awesome technology. Contact us today for more information and to request a free quote.
Installing Costco security cameras and CCTV systems is not as easy as the store employees and the equipment packaging might lead you to believe. If you have purchased or are considering purchasing an off-the-shelf (OTS) security camera system at Costco then this post will give you valuable insights and tips to ensure your system is both installed correctly and cost-effectively.
Costco Security Cameras
Costco sells security camera systems that are cheap and lower-quality alternatives to the systems offered by commercial-grade security system suppliers. That being said, the OTS packages purchased at big-box stores are still decent security systems that can meet the needs of many homeowners and small businesses who need basic surveillance features on a tight budget. (For instance, baby or puppy monitoring, small areas, store entrances, etc.)
Quick plug – If you are in the greater Colorado Springs area and looking for a professional security camera installation company to take over the install of your Costco, Sam’s Club, Walmart, Home Depot, Best Buy or Amazon security camera then give System Links a call. We are happy to help you with installing your system, and the price might surprise you.
Costco sells security camera systems by Lorex, AvertX, Blink, Arlo, Swan, and Ring, among others.
Does Costco Install Security Cameras?
The short answer is no. Costco as a company does not install the security camera systems they sell. Rather, they are selling a do-it-yourself (DIY) security system. The customer service section of the Costco website will tell you to refer to the instruction manual (if one is included) and for further assistance, contact Costco Concierge Services at 866-861-0450. Please have your membership number and serial number available.
When you call the Costco customer service number, prepare yourself for a lengthy voice response menu. After responding to half a dozen menu choices, a friendly person will eventually come on the line. However, when you ask the Concierge Services member about how to get your security camera installed the reply is: “You can install it yourself, or you can go to Google and search for a local security camera installation service near me.”
The Concierge Services member might also mention that sometimes the member services desk at your local Costco might have a list of installers, but don’t count on it.
Factors to Consider When Attempting a DIY Install of Off-the-Shelf (OTS) Security Camera System
Yes, you can install your own security camera systems. The challenge is the camera wiring, which involves many factors that most DIY’ers don’t have the skills or experience to accomplish effectively. Here is an example of the types of factors you need to take into consideration when installing a wired security camera system yourself:
Planning where the camera should go for best effectiveness
Locating the camera recording system for power, security, and noise
Fishing and running wire through attics, walls, soffits, HVAC ducts
A significant variety of tools are needed which most homeowners do not have in their toolbox
Crawling around tight attics and spider-infested crawl spaces
Complex wiring connections
Quality of materials (OTS systems use cheap plastic that is not made to withstand harsh Colorado weather conditions)
Drilling through interior and exterior walls, ceilings, foundations
Configuring the recording system
How Much Does It Cost to Have Costco Security Cameras Installed?
Naturally, the answer to the question of how much does it cost to install security camera systems is “it depends.”
The expert installers at System Links install hundreds of security camera systems in the greater Colorado Springs area each year. On average, the installation of home security systems purchased at Costco will cost in a range between $500 and $2,500. The number of cameras, size of the home, number of rooms you wish to monitor, and outside surveillance requirements are the key cost drivers.
Business and commercial installations have a much bigger range and it is difficult to make a ballpark estimate. We install Costco security systems in small apartment buildings, retail operations, restaurants, commercial buildings, smaller hotels and motels, schools, churches, storage lots, etc. As in the case of home installation, the specific requirements of each installation affect the cost to install.
Commercial Grade Security Cameras Can Be as Cost-Effective
Yes, multi-camera surveillance systems sold at the likes of Costco can be cheap. But, like anything, you get what you pay for.
Buying CCTV security equipment is similar to any other purchase you will make, in the sense that cheaper equipment will do the job. But, how well do you want that job done? Do you need or want higher video quality, effective system design, security and reliability, user-friendliness, reliable warranty, integration with pre-existing equipment, and accessories? If so, then you really need to contact a professional security camera installer in Colorado Springs.
As we said above, at System Links, we are experts at installing Costco security cameras for our neighbors and local business owners. Click to schedule a free site visit and a reliable quote for an OTS CCTV security camera installation in Colorado Springs.
A lot of Colorado Springs business owners ask us what small business security camera system is best for their company. Security cameras vary greatly in terms of features, and that can make choosing the best cameras for your business a difficult task. The reason for such a large variety of features is because modern surveillance systems for businesses are built to meet certain, specific needs.
In this post, we’ll briefly explain 5 things you need to consider to ensure you get the best small business security camera system for your Colorado Springs company or organization.
1. Indoor vs Outdoor Security Camera Systems
The primary distinction between an indoor and outdoor small business security camera system is the types of external factors each camera has to be able to withstand.
Indoor cameras can be smaller, more lightweight and are usually less intrusive than bulkier outdoor cameras. An indoor security camera cannot be used outside because it is not weatherproof.
An outdoor small business security camera system has to resist a wide range of outdoor weather conditions. The cameras and wiring are waterproof and tamper-resistant. Colorado is famous for brutal winter storms, so depending on your requirements, an outdoor surveillance camera may even need a heater.
2. High-Definition
As the name suggests, high-definition security cameras can record video in 720p, 1080p or better definition. High definition cameras worked best with wired camera systems and higher-capacity Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) or Network Video Recorders (NVRs).
Many business owners want high-definition cameras because they need to see the details of what is happening in the surveillance videos. For example, if you need to positively identify faces in your security videos then you need to look into higher quality cameras and recording devices.
Many small business security camera systems available at retail stores like Costco or Home Depot claim to offer high resolution but figuring out what clarity you are actually getting can be confusing. If you want surveillance videos with very high resolution and clarity then we recommend you speak with a security camera expert to match your needs with the right equipment.
When researching small business security camera systems you will frequently come across the terms “bullet security camera” and “dome security camera.” Both are designed for surveillance but the design of each is specialized.
Bullet cameras are typically used for long-range surveillance where video is needed far away from the physical location of the camera, such as in long hallways and parking lots. Bullet cameras are tube-shaped and point in the direction of the surveillance requirement.
Dome cameras are used for short-range where video surveillance is needed close up. Dome cameras are often wide-angle to monitor a large area that is close to the physical placement of the camera and are commonly used in retail areas and indoor storage rooms.
4. Wired vs Wireless
Small business security camera systems need to communicate with a video recorder which is usually centrally located in a secure location. Wireless cameras connect over wi-fi to record your security camera video footage. Wired security camera systems connect using coax cables to the recording device. Wired vs wireless cameras is a large topic that we will cover in a future blog. For this post, here are the key features and benefits of each type of camera to recorder connection solutions.
Wireless Small Business Security Camera Systems
Simple and cheaper installation is the primary advantage of wireless security camera systems. You need to provide wifi but there is no need to purchase, install and protect wires. The second key benefit of wifi cameras is that placement of the camera is flexible and possible where a wire is just not feasible, for instance outside on a pole or in a tree. Wireless systems are also easy to take down if you need a temporary solution (such as a rental property).
Wired Security Camera Systems
Reliability and performance are the main reasons business owners choose wired security camera systems. Unlike wifi, wired connections are not susceptible to wifi signal interference or outages. Wired solutions can be larger with more cameras and more features than wifi. If you want high-definition video footage from multiple locations then wired is the way to go. Naturally, since wired systems require the purchase and installation of physical cables the cost of wired systems is higher than wireless solutions.
At System Links, we almost always recommend a wired small business security camera system for office, warehouse, apartment, retail and home surveillance systems.
5. Night Vision
What are the lighting conditions of your surveillance requirement? Do you have indoor rooms that need to be monitored even if the lights are off? Do you need to monitor outdoor areas at night? If so, then you will need to consider night vision cameras.
Night vision security cameras are equipped with infrared (IR) illuminators that light up the area to be surveilled with invisible IR light. This enables the IR cameras to literally see in the dark and capture the video you need.
Night vision surveillance equipment comes in many different levels of capability and quality. For example, if the area you need to monitor has varying levels of light and dark, you should consider systems with “Smart IR,” which is a technology that adjusts IR brightness to accommodate varying levels of light. This is just one example of many options to consider in night vision camera systems.
Conclusion
There are many things to consider when choosing a small business security camera system. In this post, we just explored 5 of the key considerations for choosing a security camera system for your company. There are all sorts of security camera elements that you may have never heard or thought about before. System Links recommends that you speak with our security camera experts to help you determine the best security camera for your business needs. We offer free consultations, site visits and quotes to Colorado Springs area businesses that are researching security camera solutions.
Read More From Our People And Property Protection Essentials Blog:
Secure All Your Windows and Doors
Secure All Your Windows and Doors
Many traditional access control systems use the same network as business-critical systems. This means a conventional system is wired into a central panel and requires a local network to support it. In addition to extensive wiring, an ISP, and a number of routers, an IT professional will likely need to oversee and implement the entire network.
