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Tag: Chatham Security

  • Combating the Rise of Auto Theft With Security Monitoring

    Auto theft is a growing problem in Canada, with many incidents being linked to global crime rings, according to a recent article by Global News. This trend is especially evident in Ontario, where auto theft has spiked. In order to combat this problem, it is essential for car owners to take proactive measures to protect their vehicles. While simple precautions like locking your car doors and keeping keys and valuables in a safe location can help prevent theft, they are not foolproof. An effective solution to this rising issue is the use of monitoring systems such as video, proactive video, and access monitoring.

    Preventing Auto Theft with Video Monitoring

    Video monitoring involves using cameras to record any suspicious activity in areas such as your driveway, garage, or parking spot. These cameras can be set up to record constantly, or they can be triggered by motion or other forms of activity. This type of system can be especially useful in identifying potential thieves, as the footage can be used to help identify suspects and assist with their prosecution. 

    Proactive Video Monitoring

    Proactive video monitoring takes this concept a step further by using artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze the footage in real-time. This type of system can detect patterns of behavior that may indicate an attempt to steal a vehicle, such as someone loitering around a car or trying to tamper with its locks. When such activity is detected, the system can alert the owner or the authorities, allowing for a quick response to prevent theft from occurring. 

    a man suspiciously looks into a garage while a video monitoring system detects the activity and sends a message "driveway camera detected a person at 7:07pm"

    Access Monitoring

    In addition to monitoring the exterior of a vehicle, it is also important to consider the security of the place where the car is stored. For those who keep their car in a garage, access to the garage should be tightly controlled to prevent unauthorized entry. This can be achieved through the use of garage access monitoring systems, which use sensors or cameras to detect when the garage door is opened or closed. These systems can alert the owner or the authorities if there is any suspicious activity, allowing for a quick response to prevent potential theft. 

    In conclusion, the rise in auto thefts linked to global crime rings in Canada is a serious concern and highlights the importance of taking proactive measures to protect our vehicles. By using video monitoring and proactive video monitoring systems, car owners can take an active role in deterring potential thieves and helping to keep their vehicles safe.

  • Security ONE Alarm Systems Announces Majority Equity Investment in Alarm Systems

    Leamington, Ontario – Security ONE Alarm Systems, a leading provider of professionally installed and monitored security solutions based in Leamington, Ontario, is pleased to announce a majority equity investment in Alarm Systems, headquartered in Belleville, Ontario. 

    The investment will allow Alarm Systems to continue to grow and expand its services to customers throughout the Eastern Ontario area, while also providing the resources and support needed to further innovate and enhance its product offerings. In turn, both entities will benefit from combined purchasing power and shared resources to manage larger projects across Ontario and beyond. The combined organization will be comprised of nearly 120 security professionals who serve over 20,000 residential and commercial customers, making it one of the largest independently owned and operated security providers in Canada. 

    “We are thrilled to partner with Alarm Systems and make this strategic investment,” said Chris Neumann, President & CEO of Security ONE Alarm Systems. “Their team has a long history of providing high-quality security solutions to customers, and we believe this partnership will allow us to better serve the Ontario market and continue to grow our business.”

    “We are excited to welcome Security ONE Alarm Systems as a majority equity partner,” said Kristin Crowe, President of Alarm Systems. “Their expertise and resources will be a valuable asset as we look to continue to grow and innovate in an ever-changing competitive landscape.”

    The terms of the investment have not been disclosed.  

    About Security ONE

    Founded in 1978, Security ONE Alarm Systems is one of the largest and fastest growing independently owned security companies in Canada. With four offices across Southwestern Ontario, Security ONE protects thousands of residential and commercial customers across multiple industries. With a team of over 60 security professionals, the company designs, installs, and monitors the latest electronic security, fire and life safety, and medical alert systems. To learn more, please visit www.securityonealarm.com. 

    About Alarm Systems

    Locally owned and operated since 1972, Alarm Systems has earned the trust of thousands of commercial and residential customers with their technical expertise, high-quality products, and individualized customer service. As the leading provider of monitored security solutions in Eastern Ontario, Alarm Systems provides customized Intrusion Alarms, Security Cameras, Access Control, and ULC Fire & Burglary Monitoring. To learn more, please visit www.alarmsys.com. 

  • The Future of Security: How AI is Changing the CCTV Game

    At Security ONE, we believe that artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize the way we use CCTV (closed-circuit television) for surveillance and security. While CCTV has been around for decades, the proliferation of AI technologies has made it possible to use CCTV in new and innovative ways, such as by enabling real-time analysis and interpretation of surveillance footage.

    One of the main benefits of using AI in CCTV is that it can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of surveillance operations for our clients. Traditional CCTV systems rely on human operators to monitor footage and identify potential threats or incidents. This can be time-consuming and error-prone, as human operators may become fatigued or distracted, leading to missed or overlooked incidents.

    The Power of AI

    AI, on the other hand, can analyze CCTV footage in real-time, alerting operators to potential threats or incidents as they happen. At Security ONE, we have developed AI algorithms that can be trained to recognize specific patterns or behaviours, allowing them to identify potential threats or incidents that a human operator might miss. This can help to improve the overall security of a site, as well as reduce the workload of human operators.

    Another benefit of using AI in CCTV is that it can help to reduce the cost of surveillance operations for our clients. Traditional CCTV systems often require a large number of operators to monitor footage, which can be costly. By using AI to automate some of these tasks, it is possible to reduce the number of operators needed, potentially leading to cost savings for our clients.

    However, it is important to note that AI-powered CCTV systems are not without their limitations. One of the main challenges is that AI algorithms are only as good as the data they are trained on. If the data used to train an AI algorithm is biased or incomplete, the algorithm may make incorrect or unfair decisions. This is particularly relevant in the context of CCTV, as the footage used to train AI algorithms may be biased in ways that are not immediately obvious.

    Another challenge with AI-powered CCTV systems is that they may raise concerns about privacy. CCTV systems are already controversial, as they can be used to monitor and track individuals without their consent. The use of AI in CCTV systems may further exacerbate these concerns, as AI algorithms may be able to analyze and interpret surveillance footage in ways that humans cannot.

    At Security ONE, we are committed to using AI in CCTV systems ethically and responsibly. We carefully consider the potential limitations and challenges of using AI in CCTV, and work to ensure that our systems are used in a way that respects the privacy of individuals. Click here to learn more about Security ONE’s current monitoring approaches.

  • Fireplace Safety Tips: Best Practices to Keep Your Home Safe

    Fireplaces can be a cozy and attractive addition to any home, but it’s important to follow safety guidelines to prevent accidents and fires. Here are some fireplace safety tips to keep in mind: 

    Safe Practices

    1. Have your fireplace inspected and cleaned annually by a professional. This will help ensure that your fireplace is in good working order and reduce the risk of a chimney fire. 
    1. Use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks and embers from escaping the fireplace and starting a fire. 
    1. Only burn dry, seasoned wood in your fireplace. Wet or green wood can produce more smoke and creosote, increasing the risk of a chimney fire. 
    1. Use a proper fire starter to ignite the fire, rather than accelerants like gasoline or kerosene. These can be extremely dangerous and increase the risk of a fire spreading quickly. 
    1. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies. 

    Greater Prevention

    1. Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure the fire is completely extinguished before you go to bed or leave the house. 
    1. Keep children and pets away from the fireplace when it is in use and teach them about the dangers of fire. 
    1. Install monitored smoke alarms and have them tested regularly. 

    Make sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home. These devices can detect smoke or fire and give you and your family a chance to evacuate safely. If you have a monitored smoke detector system, an agent will also be alerted and can dispatch emergency services to your home for quick response. 

    Don’t take the risk – make sure you have a smoke detector system in place to protect your family and your home. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy your fireplace without worrying about accidents or fires.  

    You can learn more about our residential smoke detector systems here.

  • Introducing An Exciting New Security Addition: Proactive Video Monitoring

    Security ONE, a leading provider of security solutions, is excited to announce the launch of its new proactive video monitoring technology. This innovative technology is designed to work seamlessly with existing installed IP CCTV systems, providing an added layer of security and protection for businesses and organizations.

    One of the unique features of proactive video monitoring technology is the option for clients to add an IP speaker to their system. This allows operators to “talk down” to potential intruders through the speaker, deterring them from committing a crime. This added layer of communication can be an effective deterrent and help to prevent incidents from occurring.

    The new proactive video monitoring technology is equipped with advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities, allowing it to analyze video footage in real-time and identify potential security threats. This includes detecting unusual activity, such as loitering, trespassing, and vandalism, and alerting security personnel to take action.

    In addition to its advanced security features, the technology also offers several benefits for businesses and organizations. It allows for more efficient use of security resources by automating the monitoring process and freeing up personnel to focus on other tasks. It also provides a comprehensive record of all activity on the premises, enabling businesses to identify patterns and trends that may be indicative of potential security risks.

    Still Shot of a self-storage facility in Leamington, ON utilizing Proactive Video with Audio Talk Down to deter trespassers.

     

    Security ONE Goes Proactive

    “We are very excited to introduce this new technology to the market,” said Chris Neumann, President & CEO of Security ONE. “Our proactive video monitoring solution represents a major step forward in the way that businesses and organizations can protect their premises and assets. We believe that it will become an essential tool for any organization looking to enhance their security efforts.”

    Security ONE’s proactive video monitoring technology is available for purchase now and can be easily integrated into existing IP CCTV systems. For more information, please visit the Security ONE website or contact a representative directly.

  • How To Prevent Package Theft At The Holidays

    Package theft can be a major problem during the holiday season, especially for those who do a lot of online shopping. Here are some tips for preventing package theft and ensuring your loved ones receive those thoughtful gifts: 

    1. Use a delivery service that requires a signature upon delivery. This will ensure that someone needs to be present to receive the package, reducing the chance that it will be stolen. 
    1. Have your packages delivered to a secure location, such as your workplace or a friend or family member’s house. 
    1. Use a package delivery lockbox. These lockboxes can be placed outside your home and allow delivery drivers to securely drop off packages without the risk of them being stolen.  
    1. Consider installing a security camera. This can help you keep an eye on your packages and deter would-be thieves. 
    1. If possible, schedule your deliveries for a time when you will be home to receive them. 
    1. Consider signing up for in-store pickup for your packages. This will allow you to pick up your packages at a time that is convenient for you and reduce the risk of theft. 
    1. If you are expecting a package but will not be home to receive it, consider asking a trusted neighbor to keep an eye out for it and bring it inside for you. 
    1. Consider installing a home monitoring system. These systems use sensors and cameras to detect activity around your home and alert you when something out of the ordinary occurs. With a video doorbell system from SecurityONE, you can keep an eye on your deliveries while deterring would-be thieves. 

    By following these tips, you can help ensure that your packages arrive safely and avoid the frustration of package theft. 

  • What are the Benefits of an Onsite Security Consultation?

    If you are thinking of getting your home or business secured with a monitored alarm system there is no shortage of alarm companies that will offer to install and monitor your security system. One of the biggest differences between most of the companies is that some will provide a quote over the phone, while others will push to come onsite and do an in-person security assessment. What are the benefits of having an onsite security consultation as opposed to having a quote provided over the phone or online?

    When onsite, the Security Consultant can assess the needs of the location. They can see firsthand where the vulnerable points of entry are. The in-person seeing of the location allows the Consultant to understand the security concerns and then create a proper security solution.

    Think of it this way… think of your home – the size, and physical layout. How many points of entry are there? What’s the foliage like outside? Is there external lighting? Where are the windows located on the main floor? Are there any points of entry into the basement? Where are the valuables located inside your home? What’s the route a burglar would take to venture to the main bedroom?

    Think of how many questions need to be asked to get some of the answers above, and then even with the answers being given, information may be missed or misinterpreted by the other person. Only a portion of the reality is given.

    Now compare that with being at the location in person. Being able to see the physical layout and understand the external lighting and entry points. Seeing firsthand where inside needs to be protected. Where should equipment be placed inside the home to create the most effective security solution? All of this can only be done with a Security Consultant at the location.

    Any company that says they don’t need to send someone to the home to properly assess your alarm needs is incorrect. They are misleading you into agreeing to a haphazard lazy sales process. By having an alarm company figure out your security needs over the phone, you will end up getting an inferior alarm system.

    Purchasing the right alarm system is an important decision. Security systems protect your home and family, and selecting the right company requires proper diligence. If any alarm company refuses to send a Security Consultant to your home to truly understand your needs, then in turn refuse to consider them as a viable choice for your home protection. Don’t settle for an inferior alarm system. It’s only when a Security Consultant comes to your home to build a proper security solution that you’ll be truly protected.

  • 3 Simple Ways to Secure Your Garage

    Almost all detached homes have a garage. Regardless of being physically connected to the home or an independent structure, garages may be targeted by burglars. It doesn’t matter if you park your car in your garage or simply store things like bikes and equipment in there, it’s important that your garage is protected. Here are 3 simple ways to secure your garage.

    Make Sure Your Garage Has Good Outdoor Lighting

    One of the best ways to protect your garage is to equip it with quality lighting. Bright external lights provide a fantastic deterrent against would-be burglars. Thieves don’t want to be caught and proper lighting at night dramatically increases the likelihood of them being detected. You can use either motion-controlled lighting or static lights that stay on throughout the night. A well-lit area around your garage will dramatically lower your odds of any potential break-in occurring.

    Use a Locking Garage Door

    Traditional garage doors are easy to open. Some older garage door openers will trigger and open when pressure is made, while others may be more difficult but still can be opened by a would-be burglar.

    Some newer garage door openers come with power locking controls, meaning that when the garage door is closed it is also locked. This adds an increased level of protection, making it extremely difficult for a burglar to enter the garage. Chamberlain offers units that come with a built-in camera and backup power unit, so you’ll always be able to enter your garage. Moreover, Chamberlain also sells a power locking kit that can be added to any garage door. Beyond that, many of their newer garage door open.

    A good garage door opening system, that comes with a locked setting, will help always protect your garage.

    Make Sure Windows Have Blinds or Bars

    Windows in your garage provide burglars with the ability to see what you have stored inside. They can see if you have anything of value in there (bikes, sporting equipment, etc) and understand if there is an entranceway into the home. Beyond that, windows can also act as an entry point, as they can be broken and potentially entered through.

    If you have windows in your garage, make sure that they are covered with blinds or tinting. This way burglars won’t be able to see what you have stored inside the location. Not knowing if there is anything of value inside your garage, may make the burglar think twice about entering. Potentially instead they’ll move on to the next home instead.

    If the window is large enough for someone to gain entrance through, then make sure you add metal protection bars to the window. This way it will be virtually impossible for someone to come in. Often the visual of bars on windows alone is a strong enough deterrent for any potential burglar.

  • Who is Telus SmartHome Security?

    Telus is one of Canada’s largest cable companies with operations across most of Canada. They have approximately 14 million customers and employ over 90,000 people globally. While Telus has dabbled in the smart home and security space for years, over the past few years they have expanded that part of their operations significantly. Overall, smart home makes up a small part of their overall business, however, they are the largest alarm provider in Canada (most monitored accounts nationally).

    Telus was originally based in Edmonton, Alberta and then merged with BC Tel in 1999. The company initially focused operations in Western Canada, however in the early 2010s the company began expanding operations in Ontario and Quebec. Telus now operates in most areas of Canada, providing internet, cell phone and TV service, along with also having a presence in both healthcare and media.

    Telus began offering security services throughout the mid 2010s, however, in 2018, Telus senior management, Darren Entwistle (President of Telus) and Jason McDougall (President of Telus Smart Security & Automation) decided the company should make a large push in the Canadian security space. The thought was by customers adding smart home and security in a bundle, the customer would be less likely to cancel their internet and other services. The bundle would make customers stickier and less likely to attrit. Plus, it would allow them to compete with other national cable providers like Rogers that were more invested in offering security services.

    In 2018, Telus made a significant push in the alarm space by purchasing AlarmForce’s western Canadian customer base and operations. This cost Telus $66.5m and was purchased from BCE which then made Telus one of the three largest alarm companies in Canada.

    While the company continued to purchase and absorb smaller Western Canadian alarm companies, it was in October 2019 that Telus made its biggest purchase, ADT Canada, for approximately $700m. At the time ADT Canada had approximately 500,000 accounts and employed around 1,000 people. This purchase instantly made Telus the largest alarm provider in Canada.

    Telus provides security and smart home services for residential and commercial locations. This includes traditional monitored alarm systems, video surveillance systems and connected smart home devices. Telus requires customers to agree to a multi-year contract for most security services.

  • Why Shouldn’t a Cable Company Protect Your Home

    You are considering getting an alarm system and are shopping around. While there is no shortage of alarm companies to choose from, each offers different security solutions and value. You may be leaning towards selecting your cable company to secure your home because of the perception of how easy it is to bundle your alarm services with your TV and internet. But the truth is, choosing your cable provider to protect your home can have significant negative repercussions. Here is why you don’t want a cable company protecting your home. 

    The major Canadian cable companies are enormous corporations with thousands of employees located throughout the country. Telus employs approximately 90,000 people, Bell Canada has over 50,000 employees and Rogers has over 23,000. These large national businesses, because of their size and corporate structure, may produce lackluster customer service.

    Here’s an example. When you purchase an alarm system from one of these national cable companies, your first contact will be with a sales representative located in a large call center most likely outside of your local area and possibly overseas. The sales representative will ask a few generic questions and then give you a quote. All this is done without ever going to your location or truly understanding your specific needs. Then an installer, potentially a third-party subcontractor, will come to your home to install your alarm. No real thought is put into how to truly protect your home. It’s a quick and dirty process, designed for efficiency and volume, not quality protection. 

    After the installation, any issues, questions, or concerns will be routed to different call centers. Whenever you call, if your issue is unresolved, you’ll speak with someone new (since cable company call centers have hundreds, if not thousands of employees).  You’ll recite your problem again, as well as what has or hasn’t happened during and after the last call. The large infrastructure leads to various points of contact.  

    Equally frustrating is the fact that the representative that you speak to isn’t compensated based on resolving your issue, but rather by maintaining short call times. If the Rep gets you off the phone fast and gets on to the next call, they hit their bonus. You might be transferred to technical support, to customer service, to supervisors, all causing frustration and subpar customer service. Seldom will a service person be sent back to your premises because of costs, so issues can remain unresolved for a long time.  

    When looking for home or business security, the best customer service comes from companies that provide a one-to-one, ongoing relationship between the customer and the Representative. This way you can ensure you are getting whatever security solution and pricing you were originally sold. Beyond that, the company can take ownership of any issues and make sure problem resolution occurs quickly. Direct communication with the person who originally sold you the system will always ensure the best customer service and ongoing value.  

    Cable companies reserve the right to raise prices on their services at any time, even while you are locked into a contract. They are notorious for raising prices annually and this applies to home security as well. The way cable companies get away with price increases is by having customers bundle multiple services together. The cable company is betting that their customers won’t go to the trouble of price checking each individual service. Understand that if you do have a cable company providing a home security solution, over time you will be paying far more than the initially agreed upon monthly price. 

    The big cable companies provide multiple services: internet, cell and home phones, cable television, and burglar alarm systems. Home security nets the lowest revenue so it is their lowest priority.  But they remain in the security space as a tool to offer bundling. To ensure that you are receiving the best security and customer service, make sure you choose a company solely focused on the alarm space. This will ensure superior customer service, the best available technology, and focused response and customer care, maximizing your protection and value.