Tag Archive for: home security

The Truth About Fake Cameras – Why Genuine Security is Essential

Fake or “dummy” cameras have been around since the dawn of real security cameras. They are widely available at hardware stores and online, with the low price being a major selling point. However, fake cameras only offer a false sense of security and may cause more harm than good. In recent years, security systems have skyrocketed in demand and to no surprise, so have dummy cameras.

There are several reasons why fake cameras don’t work and shouldn’t be used around your home and/or business. When it all boils down, a fake camera provides no real security.

With crime rates rising in recent years, more Americans are taking extra precautions and security measures to protect both themselves and their families. While many are making a wise investment in a professional security system, others are choosing the perceived security route.

The Importance of Authentic Security Measures

Understandably, everyone wants to feel safe, but is it worth sacrificing actual security for one that only feels like it’s working?

Fake Cameras Provide No Evidence

No camera. No evidence.

At best, a dummy camera may deter criminal activity. Should the criminal move forward with their plan, there will be no proof of their activity. It’s also worth mentioning that just because a camera is present doesn’t mean a burglar won’t attempt a break-in. They may attempt a quick smash-and-grab and not even see the camera, or simply not care. Either way, a dummy camera will prove to be useless.

Fake Cameras Can Make Your Home a Target

Let’s say a criminal were to get away with stealing because the false cameras provide no evidence – what’s the likelihood of them striking again? Unfortunately, the chance of a repeat burglary is high. These criminals are now aware that the home is insufficiently secured and may keep a close eye on the property with the intention to strike again.

Without a professional security system, your home will remain at a higher risk. With home burglaries occurring every 25.7 seconds in the U.S. – it’s not worth taking a chance.

They are Easily Identifiable

For burglars who have some level of knowledge in security, fake cameras can be quickly spotted. If that’s not enough of a reason to avoid them, think of the many home invasion videos caught on camera. Those real cameras didn’t stop them, but they proved to be priceless in finding the culprit and charging them.

False Sense of Security = No Security

Whether installed in a home or business, fake cameras give occupants and employees a false sense of security and may fool them into believing that they are being safely monitored. This may also open up your business to potential legal risks. A victim of a crime may have felt a sense of security from a camera that they didn’t know was fake.

How Fake Cameras Can Pose a Legal Risk

In a business setting, what if employees are led to believe all the cameras are real and therefore rely on them for their security? 

For this example, let’s use a family-owned restaurant. It’s common for an employee to take out the trash at the end of the night, and though it’s in a questionably safe part of town, the employees feel at ease believing they are under surveillance. However, on one unfortunate night, an employee is the victim of a robbery while on the clock. In the pursuit of justice, they are going to want the video footage to accompany their police report. Little did they know, there is no footage, after all, the cameras are fake.

For this business owner, a lawsuit is likely on the horizon.

Make The Wise Choice. Choose a Professional Installer.

It can be concluded that a real security system is in your best interest, and it will provide actual security. After all, a professional security system is one of the best investments you can make for your overall peace of mind.

With a professional install, you can ditch the frustrating software updates and hardware issues. With 24/7 monitoring and local customer service, any problems that arise can be addressed in an instant.

Brinton Security truck

Brinton Security offers everything from state-of-the-art live monitoring to complete automation for your home and business. For over 20 years, Brinton Fire and Security has been a leader for both residential and commercial properties. Serving Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and a neighbor near you! 

Protect what matters and schedule your free consultation today.

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Feeling Secure at Home: 5 Benefits of Working with a Professional Security Provider

With the rapid progression in security technology, many homeowners are left thinking to themselves, “Should I buy a DIY system or invest in professional installation?”

Deciding between purchasing a DIY system or investing in professional installation is a significant choice that demands careful consideration, as it can have a long-term impact and could prove to be a crucial factor in safeguarding your life.

Criminals and thieves are continually on the lookout for their next victim. This scouting period may take place over months, learning a homeowner’s schedule, their home layout from social media posts, and pinpointing areas for easy access. A simple 2-step DIY security system doesn’t have the functionality nor capability to monitor a home to the fullest extent. As a homeowner, you are hoping the system’s weak points won’t be sniffed out. 

Does hoping a security system works feel like a good way to live?

Investing in a professional security system for your home is a wise decision for several reasons. Here are the top 5:

1. Knowledge and Experience

Rather than reading through 100s of Amazon reviews before settling for a system, you can talk one-on-one with an experienced technician who has decades of experience. This simple step could save thousands of dollars in mistakes.

Integrating sensors, cameras, alarms, etc. into one cohesive and easy-to-use system is not so simple. A professional security company will have in-depth knowledge of what equipment will be needed, its operation, as well as the pros and cons of different configurations.

Moreover, relying on a professional installer guarantees that every angle and viewpoint is covered without any chance of omission, thereby ensuring maximum security and surveillance for you and your family.

2. All Inclusive Maintenance

Not only are DIY options prone to mistakes, they are also dependent on the homeowner to function properly. It’s not a matter of if there’s a technical issue, but when. When that time comes, whether it’s a software bug or a malfunctioning camera, you are responsible for fixing it. Hopefully, the fix is quick but if it’s not, that means your security system may be compromised for a prolonged period.

It’s worth noting that DIY security products are not manufactured to the same durability standards as those from a professional security company. Consequently, the required maintenance may prove to be frequent and extensive.

hardware management

A professional installer lives and breathes security. We know how vital it is to have a functioning system 24/7, and we’ll make it our priority to have it fixed ASAP. That’s just one of the benefits of working with a local provider.

3. Customized For Your Needs

Your home and lifestyle aren’t one-size-fits-all, so why should your security system fit that mold?

Proper placement is paramount when it comes to home security. However, most self-installs tend to prioritize monitoring the front and back doors, which only covers about half of the total home area. Unfortunately, this puts homeowners at a disadvantage with less protection and increased security risks.

With expert help, homeowners receive a complete home monitoring system. Along with 24/7 surveillance, you can add motion sensors, glass break detection, early detection technology, etc. All of it is tied to one system, rather than having a jumbled mess of applications and different remotes.

4. Avoid Stressful Hiccups

With new technology comes new hurdles… it’s going to take some time to get familiar with a security system if you’re trying to get it all done yourself. Sure, YouTube and online forums may provide some helpful tips and answers, but what do you do when you’re stuck in a rut?

With a DIY system, you have to depend on yourself. Common issues with do-it-yourself systems include false alarms, incompatibility issues with hardware, updates, and troubleshooting real-time notifications.

Installing and programming a security system can quickly become overwhelming, and lead to a compromised system. When it comes to securing you and your family, why leave gaps for intruders in your fortress?

5. Peace of Mind

viewing cameras on phone

For DIY setups, there’s always that thought, “Did I install everything correctly? Will it work when I need it to?” The installer takes full responsibility for its reliability.

That’s not a reassuring feeling.

Whether you’re headed out of town for an extended vacation, running daily errands, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, having an experienced and reliable home security company at your fingertips can provide invaluable peace of mind. From initial consultation and installation to ongoing monitoring and support, professional home security companies offer a comprehensive range of services to meet your unique needs. With a focus on personalized care and attention to detail, these providers can work closely with you to create a custom security plan that keeps your home and family safe and protected.

What to Look For in a Security Company

For many homeowners, finding someone they trust to protect their home can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s crucial to choose a security provider that’s experienced, reputable, and has a proven track record of providing excellent service. 

Reputation

If you’ve ever dealt with contractors, it can be a headache. They rarely show up on time, and “professional” is usually not how the interaction would be described. Sure, for a concrete job or a new roof, a contractor is fine, but not so much for securing your home.

A strong and dependable security business will last the test of time. Does their website reflect them as professionals? Are they providing up-to-date technologies? What do their reviews look like?

Brinton testimonial

Fortunately, these are all questions that can be easily answered with a quick search. Take the time to look through their social media channels, read their reviews, and if it fits the bill, schedule a time to talk.

If they are truly valuable, they will meet all the criteria.

Choosing Brinton Fire & Security

Founded in 2001, Brinton Security has been protecting homes and businesses throughout Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. If you are looking for the best security service near you, the search is over.

Whether it’s a complete security system controlled from the palm of your hand, burglar alarms, fire safety, home automation – you can rest easy with 24/7 monitoring. Working with our professional technicians makes installation and programming a breeze. Plus, we take the time to show you how the system works. You’ll never be left confused or uncertain about which function does what, as everything will be crystal clear.

For those wanting hassle-free and dependable security, choose Brinton.

Get your free consultation here.

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Save More with Alarm.com’s ENERGY STAR® Certified Smart Thermostat

Upgrade your home with an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat this fall, and you can save between 9 and 16 percent of the energy you’d normally use to heat your house this winter.

That’s according to the rigorous, independent tests required by the Environmental Protection Agency for its ENERGY STAR® certification, which the Alarm.com Smart Thermostat earned this month.

And, next summer, you can be even more energy-efficient, saving between 15 and 23 of the energy it normally takes to cool your house.

With the average home’s heating and cooling costing $900 per year, that’s a substantial opportunity to save energy and money without having to be uncomfortable.

How our Smart Thermostat makes savings easy

Connected to every device and activity sensor in your smart home security system, and powered by cloud intelligence, our smart thermostat proactively spots opportunities to save energy when you don’t need it. Here’s a quick video explainer.

How our Smart Thermostat keeps you more comfortable

With remote temperature sensors installed in different rooms, our smart thermostat can optimize your home’s temperature for any room of your choosing. You can easily correct a room that’s too hot, make sure that the nursery is just right at naptime, and create custom comfort schedules targeted to the rooms you use throughout the day.

Read more: Four Ways to Use an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat

How do I get an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat?

Getting an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat is easy. If you already have smart home security, just ask Brinton Security about upgrading your existing thermostat.

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Practical Home Security Tips For The Holidays

Enjoying the season of giving is what the winter holidays are all about. However, because thieves know that homes during the holidays are filled with gifts, it should also be a time of vigilance. Take these precautions to ensure that your home is protected from a holiday break-in this winter.

Lock Up

Always close and lock the doors and windows of your home if you’re leaving, even if just for a short trip. The garage door is also a popular entrance point for thieves, so keep it closed even when you’re home. Don’t forget to lock the door to the garage in the event that thieves gain access to the garage. Be sure to never leave a spare key outside the house—thieves know where to find them.

Always Make it Look Like Someone is Home

Automate your lights in and around your home and put them on a schedule (using your mobile App) to come on at certain times, for example at sunset. This will serve as an excellent deterrent whether you are away from home for a brief period of time or out of town on vacation. If you leave town, have the mail and newspaper picked up by a neighbor or request to have it stopped. You may even want to hire a house sitter for extra protection.

Store Valuables in a Safe

Jewelry and other small objects of great value should be kept inside of a safe. If you don’t want to have a safe inside of the home, use your bank’s safety deposit box to keep items you don’t regularly need.

Invest in a Quality Home Security System

Nothing will deter a thief like a cutting-edge, professionally installed home security system. A high-quality system should include motion detection triggers, video surveillance, and central monitoring features.

 

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Top Tips for Safe Moves

Depending on your point of view, moving can be either quite exciting or quite a hassle. To the burglar, however, your move is an opportunity. Burglars are opportunists and predators. And what do predators do? They look for the weakest links and pounce on it. During a move, you are busy, distracted, and probably a lot more relaxed in your approach to security.

On average, burglars take between 6 to 10 minutes to net $2,000 worth of your belongings. And that is on a normal day. When you factor in the common mistakes people make while moving, such as leaving boxes outside between trips or leaving the home wide open, the job can be a lot quicker and much more lucrative for the burglar.

Keeping your property safe needs to be at the forefront of your mind, even during a move. It is far better to be proactive and safe with simple steps than to neglect them and leave room for the potential for crime. These simple steps can help keep your belongings safe while you move.

Keep Your Security System

Keep your security system and security practices in place even as you move. A move draws a lot of attention and some of that attention could be from a potential burglar who is hanging around and evaluating the opportunity. Use your security cameras to keep an eye on the home and let others know you’ve got a steady eye on the situation.

Never Leave Your Belongings Out and Unattended

Even if it is a 15-minute trip, never leave the property until all of your belongings are either inside locked up or secure on a moving truck. It may seem like you are saving yourself a bit of time by moving the next load outside and close to transportation but you are actually making it a lot easier for a burglar to breeze by and grab your stuff.

Use Alternate Methods of Marking Boxes

Of course, it is important to know what is packed in each of the boxes, but if you list the items or label them you are also publicizing it to any potential criminal, making it easy to know which boxes to take. Even once you are at the new location, throwing away boxes with lists tells the burglar exactly what is in the house and where to look. Instead, try color coding or some other method of labeling.

Install Home a Home Security System in the New Home Before You Move In

Before you move into your new home, have a new security system in place. Include features such as home security cameras, smart locks, a video doorbell, and motion sensors to deter any criminal thinking a new resident is an easy target. Having security cameras in place is also an advantage if you are making multiple trips to move your household belongings because you can check in on the home between trips.

Founded in 2001, Brinton Security Services is dedicated to providing residential and commercial security and serving clients in Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.

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Preventing Home Kitchen Fires

Every year, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) devotes the third week in October to National Fire Prevention Week. The theme for this year is “Prevent Kitchen Fires,” with fire departments throughout the country holding local community events designed to educate the public on preventing fires in that busy area of the house. Here are some valuable tips they will be sharing:

  • Stay in the kitchen when you’re cooking on the stovetop. If you are frying, grilling, broiling or boiling food, you must be in the room to make sure your food doesn’t burn. The safety concern is not only for burned food, but for smoke in the air and the pan catching fire.
  • Stay in the home when you’re cooking in the oven. If you are baking, roasting or braising food in the oven, you don’t necessarily need to be in the kitchen, but you do need to be in the home – and you definitely need to use a timer to prevent any fire risks.
  • Keep your smoke alarm on while cooking. Some people are tempted to remove their smoke alarm batteries when cooking certain dishes. But whether you are baking cookies or frying up bacon, your smoke alarm should stay on. Disabling it could put your family at risk of harmful smoke inhalation.
  • Keep your kids and pets safe while cooking. Young children have been known to burn themselves on front burner pots and pans. Teaching them not to touch is good, but putting things on the back burner to remove the risk is better. Pets should also be kept at least three feet from the stove.
  • Keep flammable items away from the stove. Avoid cooking with loose-fitting sleeves. Hanging sleeves can easily catch fire. As for necessary items like potholders and kitchen towels, they should be safely to the side on the counter – not the stove.

These are just some of the tips that fire departments want citizens to know when it comes to preventing kitchen fires. If there is a National Fire Prevention Week event going on in your community, we encourage you to attend. Search #NationalFirePreventionWeek on Twitter to find an event near you!

ABOUT BRINTON SECURITY

Founded in 2001, Brinton Security Services has been dedicated to providing protection for both residential and commercial settings. Although specializing in home security, we also install/service/monitor fire, gate, camera, and personal emergency response systems as well as whole house audio, home theater, home automation, and phone systems. We are proud to serve Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Our aim is to “Protect What Matters!”

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5 Important Reasons Why Home Automation is a Necessity

If you are like most people, when you think of home automation you think of all the cool conveniences it provides, such as being able to have your home climate controlled or having the ability to lock doors remotely. But this has led to an important question: Is home automation a convenience, luxury, or necessity? We believe that it has increasingly become a necessity. Here are 5 important reasons why.

Times Are Changing

Times change and things that were once considered luxuries are now absolute necessities. For example, in 1995, only 10% of homes had the internet. Now, a short time later, nearly not only does nearly every home have it, our society depends on it for just about every function. While home automation was convenient, the services it provides makes it increasingly indispensable to running a household.

Resources Management is Increasingly Important

Not only is it true that as a society we have become more conscious about conserving our resources, we also understand that it is increasingly important to do so because of the political and economic climate we live in. Home automation provides one of the best tools available for conserving our resources.

Time Management is Important

As we move to a more information drive society, how we spend our time is more important. Home automation provides the tools we need to increase productivity and to do more, more effectively. It also allows us to multi-task much more effectively than ever before.

It Allows Us to Improve Our Caregiving

Today, it is not uncommon to have both small children and aged adults in the home requiring some special oversight. Home automation allows you to provide that without compromising a loved one’s dignity but allowing you to check in remotely and receive custom alerts for activity that might indicate trouble. Home automation also allows you to provide care to those living outside the home, too. With the ability to check in via security camera or keep track of activity through sensors, you can call for help the minute you suspect a problem.

Home Automation Creates A More Hospitable Environment

As we learn more about ourselves and how the mind works we learn how our environment effects things like mood and productivity. Creating a hospitable environment is also important for homes with occupants with sensory issues. Home automation can control those elements that create a disturbance, such as glaring lights or noise.

As time changes, tools such as home automation move quickly from being a convenience to an indispensable tool. If you have any questions about home automation, please give Brinton Security a call.

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6 Reasons DIY Home Security Systems Just Don’t Measure Up

In many cases, DIY is a great, affordable option. It is easy to see why it is an attractive consideration even in home security. But do DIY home security systems measure up to consumer expectations? In most cases, the answer is a resounding, no. In home security, the stakes are high and the system’s capability and functionality matter. While many tout the ease of installation in DYI systems, most consumers do not realize these systems lack the very features that make home security alarm systems desirable.

Here are some important ways DIY products do not measure up:

1. Installation is not as Easy as You Think

The installation of DIY systems may seem simple, and that fact alone may be a red flag. High-quality home security systems have many components that need expert placement. A system that is too simple may not provide the type of security coverage necessary to protect your family. A complex system requires expert installation of the components is crucial so that you do not leave gaps in your security. Improper installation can lead to a system failure which can place your family or property at risk.

2. Proper Placement

Setting up a DIY security system might seem like a slam dunk, but underestimating the importance of expert placement is a disservice to your security. Home security systems are highly technical systems that require professional knowledge to gain the most advantage from them. Not only can improper placement make components less effective, it can make the system nearly useless!

3. DIY Systems Cost More Than You Expect

Contrary to popular belief, DIY home systems are not the most economical choice in home security. Most DIY home security systems come with a few components, such as window sensors, with the expectation you WILL need more. Those expensive components add up quickly.

4. Incompatibility Issues

The technologies used to support home security systems are constantly changing and needing product support. With professional systems, these updates are never a problem to the end user, the consumer. With DIY systems, a simple computer system upgrade can make the entire system incompatible. Further, should technology advances make the system outmoded, the manufacturer of the DYI system may no longer provide any updates or support if they ever provided these at all.

5. No Connection to Police

Your home alarm system is your lifeline. At least that is what most people intend and expect. One of the most important components of any home security system is the connection to emergency services such as fire or police, something DIY systems do not offer.

6. A DYI System is not the Same as Professional Systems

While a DIY security system can provide some of the same features of a professional system, it is important to realize that it is not a comparable substitute. DIY systems meet a few needs specific to the widest number of people possible. A professional system is designed to meet the very specific needs of your family and the home structure. The technologies used are often different and the capabilities of the systems vary dramatically.

About Brinton Security

Our company is proud to offer affordable home security options and a dynamic pricing model, so you can customize your security investment to fit your budget. We are here to answer your questions with unparalleled 24/7 customer support. Call Brinton Security today for a more secure tomorrow.

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How to Foil The 6 Second Garage Break In

With over a million views on Youtube, videos on the 6-second garage door break-in cause more than a little concern. The videos show how thieves can break in through a commonly used automatic garage door in 6 short seconds, using nothing more than a wire hanger.

Garage entrance is not just common; it is one of the criminal’s favorite ways to gain entrance into a home. Why? Someone entering a garage does not throw up the same red flags as someone breaking glass or climbing through a window. Not only do most people overlook a stranger near a garage, once the door is open, the thief quickly slips in, closes the door, and breaks into the home (or prepares to steal from the garage itself) while under complete cover.

Here are some important ways you can secure your garage:

  • Replace your garage opening system to a modern “rolling code system” that hinders duplication.
  • Keep the garage doors in good repair.
  • Use a plastic zip tie to secure the emergency latch and prevent hanger entry.
  • Cover windows so thieves cannot see garage contents or if you have an entry to the inside of the home.
  • Make sure windows have locks.
  • Reinforce side door locks with metal reinforcements.
  • Install motion detection lighting.
  • Install an alarm or video surveillance system.
  • Do not leave automatic door openers in your car.
  • Keep the door from the garage into the house locked.

Thieves count on residents neglecting to secure the garage door. Take time today to learn more about home security systems and how to prevent break-ins by calling Brinton Security today.

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6 Ways to Use Home Camera Systems to Monitor Your Kids

There is an old saying that moms have eyes on the back of their heads, suggesting they see just about everything that goes on. The truth is that moms really do wish they had extra eyes so they never missed any potential danger. Keeping children safe is a parent’s number one priority. It is a difficult job and every parent feels the weight of it. The good news is that today’s parents have an added advantage in high-tech home security tools to help them keep the kids safe and out of harm’s way.
Home surveillance cameras do more than deter crime, they act as an extra set of eyes that keep parents fully informed. Here are some practical ways to use your system to help monitor your children.

Seeing Them Home from School

Providing age appropriate freedom means that the kids may get home before you do and let themselves into the home. As much as you know they are capable, you also know that there are real dangers in the world for which there is no way to prepare. When you have home security, you can get an alert and see that your kids made it home safely.

Checking in on them When They Are Home Alone

Kids need to exercise a bit of independence and stay home alone sometimes. While they are learning to maneuver the world, you can always stay close at hand by viewing the live video feed from your smartphone or tablet.

Make Sure Chores are Done

When your teen calls you at work and asks if they can go to a friend’s house to hang out, your one request is that the chores are done first. Instead of waiting to come home to find them not done, you can check first via live video feed.

Solving Whodunit

Whenever there is a problem or dispute it is difficult to know what actually happened. By checking the recorded video, you can definitively solve the mystery and settle the arguments.

Monitoring Backyard Play

The kids are playing nicely outside but you know that it does not take much for cooperative activity to take a nasty turn and turn into the war to end all wars. By tapping in to live feed on your security cameras, you can monitor the progression of play and intervene before things get off track.

Middle of the Night Tech Busts

Your kids are having a difficult time getting up in the morning and spend the whole day dragging. They seem to go to bed at a decent hour, but are they actually sleeping? With a little video surveillance sleuthing you find that they have their phones out and are spending almost all night on social media. Problem solved.

Founded in 2001, Brinton Security Services has been dedicated to providing protection for both residential can commercial settings throughout Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.

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