Do I Need Security Software?

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When you bought a new computer years ago, you often had to install additional security software on your computer to help ensure it was secure against cyber attackers. However, most of today’s computers and devices have numerous security features already built into them, such as automatic updating, firewalls, disk encryption, and file protection. In addition, Microsoft provides Windows computers security functionality called Microsoft Defender, which includes additional features such as anti-virus. In many ways, today’s systems by default are much more secure. In fact, YOU are most likely now the greatest weakness. This is why cyber attackers continually target people, attempting to trick them into doing things you should not do, such as giving up your passwords, clicking on links, or opening email attachments that install malware on your computers or share your credit card information.

Which tools should I consider?

If you want to take some additional steps to secure your systems, there are some additional security programs you can consider.

Password Manager: Passwords can be complex and overwhelming, especially having to remember potentially hundreds of different passwords. A Password Manager is a secure vault that protects and stores all your passwords for you so you have to only remember one master password. In addition, they can log you into websites, generate passwords for you, and help validate certain websites.

Virtual Private Network (VPN): VPNs primarily focus on protecting your privacy by encrypting your connection to the Internet and hiding your source location.

Security Suites: These are packages of security software that provide a collection of additional security features above and beyond what your operating system already provides. For example, filtering for dangerous websites, parental controls, and often a VPN. Each suite has different features, so research the one that you feel is best if you need one.

Selecting a Security Vendor

If you need to purchase additional security tools or software, there are many different vendors from which to choose. Which one should you choose? Quite often different vendors are more similar in the features they offer than they are different. The key is to use a solution from a trusted vendor. You don’t want to accidentally purchase and install something distributed by cyber criminals that are infected with malware.

Purchase tools from only well-known vendors that you have heard of and trust. Never purchase a tool from a company you know nothing about, that is brand new or has no reviews or lots of negative reviews. You want to be sure that the solution you are purchasing is legitimate and actively updated and maintained. You may even want to consider in what country the vendor is based. There are numerous online sites that have reviews of trusted vendors showcasing the differences in features and costs of their security software.

Be careful of free tools. While excellent free security tools do exist, there can be some concerns. These tools may be limited in features, difficult to use, or not updated frequently. In some cases, free tools may be developed by cyber attackers and then infected with malware.

Remember, while these security tools are helpful, start first with your computer’s built-in security features, including enabling automatic updating. Today’s operating systems are very secure by default. Finally, you are your own best defense. Be cautious with any odd or suspicious phone calls, emails, or text messages. No security software in the world can protect you from someone trying to trick or fool you into something you should not do.

IoT Device Safety for Young Children

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Technology today has become ingrained in many children’s lives, making them much more adept with Internet devices than previous generations. Nearly 95% of American households today have the Internet, giving children greater access and exposure than ever. Many children have a basic understanding of a tablet or smartphone or even know how to surf the web before they enter elementary school.

The next generation of kids will undeniably be tech-savvy and Internet-centric, which provides parents and caregivers with a unique challenge. The Internet will be a big part of their children’s development, so it’s important to talk with them early about Internet usage and establish rules on how to use it.

Should Parents Monitor Children’s Internet Usage?

The short answer is yes, but the practical way to go about it is more complicated. There must be more research before we fully understand how technology impacts children’s development. However, current studies indicate there are positives and drawbacks to technology usage in children.

For starters, Internet access can be an effective way for children to unwind and relax. With the advancement of streaming, kids can now watch their favorite shows or lighthearted videos from a smartphone, tablet, etc. Additionally, the Internet can help children learn new things and build research skills. Google’s search engine has become a modern phenomenon, and many children understand how to use it effectively at a young age.

On the other hand, too much Internet usage can negatively impact social skill development in children and make them more isolated. Another study indicates that an over-saturation of technology can decrease the attention span of children and adults.

So, what is the best way to monitor a child’s Internet usage? Well, the best answer is moderation. Parents or caregivers should establish clear rules for how long a child can use an Internet device. We suggest less than two hours of screen time every day, but it is ultimately up to you to decide what is best for your child. However, if you notice prolonged Internet use is becoming a problem, you should intervene.

How to Keep Children Protected While Using an IoT Device

Although the Internet is a powerful tool that has a lot of positives, there are also a lot of dangers to it. The truth is, you do not know who is on the other side of the screen, their intentions, or how they might target you or your child. Children are more susceptible to online scams and cyber-attacks because they are mostly unaware of these behaviors, so it is essential to have measures in place to ensure their safety.

Parental Controls

Parental controls were implemented in the mid-90s when the Internet entered the mainstream. Today, these controls exist on basically any IoT device you use. There are a lot of customizable features that restrict certain content from children, giving parents and caregivers a lot of flexibility.

For instance, parental controls on smartphones allow you to limit which apps your child can download, set screen time limits, and even restrict the ability to share photos and videos from the device online. As for laptops and tablets, you can restrict the websites they access, the games they can play/download, view browsing history, and limit screen time. There are more advanced settings for each device too. But this should give you a basic understanding of what you can control as a parent.

Teach Them the Basics of Internet Safety

Sometimes, parental controls can only go so far. The sooner children learn how to protect themselves online, the better. Most of us have heard the parental advice, “don’t talk to strangers.” The same rule applies when online. It’s a sad reality, but there are a lot of dangerous people online, and children are susceptible targets to their nefarious goals. Criminals often use a child’s naivety to their advantage.

Children must never share personal information about themselves, family members, or friends. These include names, addresses, phone numbers, events they’re attending, etc. If it’s information they wouldn’t tell a stranger in real life, it’s something they shouldn’t share online. Additionally, they must understand that even reputable websites like YouTube can be dangerous if they’re not careful. They must always be conscious about what they say and do online: no exceptions!

Make Sure They Know How to Operate Other Smart Home Devices

Internet-capable devices have expanded far beyond the traditional laptop or cellphone. Home automation has become increasingly popular among households. People can control everything from lighting to locking their doors, to adjusting thermostats, and much more from a smartphone, laptop, etc.

If you have any smart home technology or are considering installing some, it’s important to teach your children how to handle these devices on a basic level. The last thing you want them to do is to inadvertently leave the house unlocked or disarm your security system. Most children are well-versed in technology already, so it shouldn’t be too difficult for them to understand.

Consider a Smart Home Security System to Keep Your Children Protected

A child is a home’s most important asset, and a smart home security system can ensure they remain protected. You can even teach them the valuable lesson of home safety by showing them how the system works and how to use it properly.

At Boyd & Associates, the safety of our customers is always our top priority. We offer a wide range of security and smart home solutions that are easy to use and keep you and your family safe. For more information about Boyd & Associates and how we can help you build a more secure home, feel free to contact us today.

Driving Safety Tips For Snow Travel

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California has received an overwhelming amount of snow this winter, making local resorts popular destinations for travel.

Driving in mountain regions during winter conditions requires planning and preparation to avoid hassles on the road and once you arrive at your destination. Here are a few personal safety tips to help you plan and stay safe on your trip.

Prepping To Drive

  • YOU MUST CARRY CHAINS IN YOUR VEHICLE AT ALL TIMES DURING WINTER!
  • Carry a sturdy shovel and cat litter – or gravel – should you need to dig out of a berm or create additional traction on icy roads.
  • When driving during or shortly after a storm, expect delays. Plan on leaving extra early to manage heavy/slow traffic.
  • Check road conditions before you drive and choose the route with the most favorable conditions.
  • Make sure your tires have good tread and are properly inflated.
  • Carry emergency supplies including: food, water, warm clothing, blankets, medication, and a cell phone in case you become stranded.

When You Need Chains

  • Caltrans will determine if tire chains are required. Check chain requirements on Caltrans Quickmaps.
  • R2 conditions require 2-wheel vehicles to wear chains. R3 conditions require ALL vehicles to wear chains. There are no exceptions to these rules.
  • Do not stop in the middle of the roadway to put chains on.
  • You must install the chains on the drive tires. Refer to your vehicle manual if you are unsure of which wheels are your drive tires.
  • Carry a shovel, rubber mats, cat litter, or other materials to help with traction if you get stuck.

Driving In Icy/Snowy Conditions

  • Make sure you can see out of all windows of your vehicle.
  • DO NOT POUR HOT WATER ON WINDOWS TO MELT ICE! Use an ice scraper and your defroster.
  • Use your fog lights when driving in fog, rain, and snowstorms.
  • Keep 3 car lengths away from the vehicle in front of you. The distance needed to stop on ice is twice as long as you would normally need to brake.
  • NEVER brake suddenly on ice – tap brakes lightly, on and off until you slow.
  • Black ice can stay on roadways in warmer conditions. Be careful when driving in shady areas and slow on approach.
  • Reduce speed upon approaching a turn. Avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration.
  • If you skid, let off the accelerator until you feel your wheels regain traction – do not brake! As you regain traction, turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to go. If you’re still skidding, counter-steer and apply the gas lightly until your vehicle is pointing in the right direction.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, including other drivers that may be losing control on the roadway.
  • Slow down in icy/snowy/foggy conditions.
  • When driving uphill on an icy road, you will need momentum. Slowing can cause you to slide backwards into traffic behind you.
  • If you are nervous or inexperienced driving in winter conditions, avoid traveling and wait until conditions improve.

Is it imperative that you check road and weather conditions before you travel so you know if conditions are favorable or not favorable. Even in sunshine weather, you must carry the appropriate equipment in case of an emergency.

For More Security Tips And Solutions, Stick With Boyd & Associates.

If you’re looking for more ways to keep yourself, your family, and your travels safe, check out our home security and automation services at Boyd & Associates. We offer a wide range of home security options to protect you and your family.

If you’re ready to discuss our custom solutions, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you prepare for what’s next.

 

Securing Your Belongings While Traveling

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Securing your belongings while traveling is important to ensure that you have a safe and stress-free trip. Here are some tips to help you keep your belongings secure while traveling:

  1. Choose the right luggage: Invest in high-quality luggage that is durable and has strong locks. Hard-shell suitcases are often more secure than soft-sided ones, as they are more difficult to cut open.
  2. Use TSA-approved locks: Use TSA-approved locks to secure your luggage. These locks can be opened by TSA agents without damaging your luggage, which can save you time and money if your luggage is selected for inspection.
  3. Keep your valuables with you: Keep your valuables such as your passport, money, credit cards, and electronics with you at all times. Use a money belt or travel pouch to keep your valuables close to your body, or use a small backpack or purse that you can carry with you.
  4. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket: Divide your cash and credit cards into multiple places. If you lose one set of cash or cards, you will still have some left.
  5. Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on your surroundings and be aware of any suspicious activity. Avoid leaving your luggage unattended in public areas and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  6. Use hotel safes: Use the hotel safe to store your valuables when you are not using them. Make sure to use a unique code or password to ensure that your belongings are secure.
  7. Don’t trust strangers: Be wary of people who offer to help you with your luggage or belongings. Scammers can use this as an opportunity to steal from you.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your belongings are safe and secure while traveling. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts if something feels off.

For More Security Tips And Solutions, Stick With Boyd & Associates.

If you’re looking for more ways to keep yourself, your family, and your belongings safe, check out our home security and automation services at Boyd & Associates. We offer a wide range of home security options to protect you and your family.

If you’re ready to discuss our custom solutions, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you prepare for what’s next.

Protecting Your Assets: How to Secure Your Bank Accounts

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Banking is a crucial part of our daily lives. We trust banks to keep our hard-earned money safe, but unfortunately, they aren’t immune to theft or fraud. With the rise of cybercrime, it’s more important than ever to take steps to protect your assets in the bank. Here are some simple tips to help you secure your bank accounts:

– Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication: Your passwords should be long, complex, and unique to each of your accounts. Enable two-factor authentication for an extra layer of protection.

– Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi can be a breeding ground for hackers. When accessing your bank accounts on public Wi-Fi, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.

– Watch out for phishing scams: Scammers often use emails and text messages that appear to be from your bank, asking you to provide sensitive information. Always double-check the sender’s email address and never click on links in unsolicited emails.

– Keep your software and anti-virus programs up to date: Regularly updating your software and anti-virus programs can help prevent cyberattacks.

– Monitor your accounts regularly: Keep a close eye on your bank accounts by regularly checking your statements and transactions. If you spot any suspicious activity, report it immediately to your bank.

By following these simple tips, you can help protect your assets in the bank and keep your money safe. At Boyd & Associates, we understand the importance of home security, and we offer a range of products and services to help keep you and your assets safe. Contact us today to learn more.

6 Tips To Keep Your Home Safe In 2023

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Even if you don’t own a home security system, there are inexpensive tactics you can implement to protect your household. Boyd & Associates experts offer some key tips below.

Identify potential risks. Before you move to a new neighborhood, connect with families in the area to evaluate whether it is in line with your expectations and needs. While it may seem safe, don’t be misled by appearances or notions presented to you by your realtor.

Do a gut check. Evaluate what you are most trying to protect and use that as a starting point to develop your home security program. The wellbeing of your family members will likely come first, with valuable assets falling next in line.

Don’t underestimate old-school locks. Whether you’re a renter or homeowner, ensure that door and window locks work appropriately and are used. If necessary, install window stops for an added layer of protection. Unwanted visitors typically look for easy access to a home.

Leave the light on. Leaving lights, and even a radio or TV, on in the house can go a long way in making your home look active. Implement inexpensive motion sensor lights to add safety for anyone coming home late and to deter burglars.

Commit to landscaping and upkeep. Trim bushes and shrubs, mow the lawn and remove leaves and snow. Don’t allow newspapers or mail to pile up whether you’re home or on vacation. A groomed appearance gives the impression that you are regularly present and protect the value of your home.

Participate in the community. Knowing your neighbors is invaluable to your home’s safety. Develop relationships with families on your street to ensure mutual safety. Notify each other of suspicious activity or nearby threats.

The Ultimate Level of Security

Though the above tips help, a home security system backed by a 24-hour monitoring center is the ultimate safeguard. If an emergency occurs, a security system will ensure responders are dispatched through Central Station monitoring, saving critical time for your family.

Smart home security can also alleviate the inconveniences associated with managing home safety on your own, such as maintaining your alarm system, remembering to lock up, or turning lights and appliances on and off. Through a mobile application, homeowners monitor and control smart devices from anywhere and at any time.

And if you’re looking for more ways to keep yourself and your family safe, check out our home security and automation services at Boyd & Associates. We offer a wide range of home security options to protect you and your family. If you’re ready to discuss our custom solutions, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you prepare for what’s next.

Halloween Safety

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Halloween can be known as a scary time of year, but it’s also a time for fun costumes and delicious treats! Scaring should always be good-natured and not pose any real threats. The best Halloween is a safe Halloween. Here are some safety tips to make sure you and your family have a fun and safe trick-or-treating experience.

Treats, not Tricks

Parents: even if your younger children are going in a large group it is still advisable to walk with them while they trick or treat. Also, make sure you tell kids not to eat any candy while trick-or-treating (as difficult as that may be for them) until you have inspected it thoroughly. Make sure all wrappers are closed and there are no signs of tampering. If a candy wrapper is open, discard the candy.

Many homes go all out for Halloween with decorations and may even invite trick-or-treaters inside. Never enter a stranger’s home alone, and make sure a trusted adult is with any children before entering an unknown home. If a house is completely dark, it is best to skip that house and move on to the next one. It is never good to encourage a child to approach a dark home, and typically this means the residents do not want to be bothered.

Walking at Night

While walking around at night, visibility is crucial. Carry flashlights and give each child a glow stick to wear around his or her neck. They can even be incorporated into the costume. Cracking the glow sticks to activate them can also be made into a fun Halloween activity! You can also purchase reflective tape at hardware or sporting goods stores to apply to costumes and candy buckets.

Stay on the sidewalk whenever possible, or if there isn’t one then stay as close to the side of the road as possible and walk against traffic. Remind children that safety is still the number one priority, and they should never dart out into the street even if it is full or trick-or-treaters. You cannot depend on motorists to drive more carefully just because it’s Halloween.

Costumes and Makeup

Halloween costumes and makeup can pose dangers of their own. Some costumes are made from materials that are highly flammable, and candles are often used in Halloween decorations. Make sure your costume is flame resistant, and make an effort to stay away from any open flames. Costumes that are ill-fitting can also be dangerous. Costumes that are too long or baggy can cause a child to trip or get caught in decorations. Good shoes are also extremely important when walking at night. It will be dark, and there could be lawn decorations or even just bumps in the road that cannot be seen. Shoes that do not fit well can cause you or your child to trip.

Some makeup is made from substances that are harsh on the skin or won’t wash off. Factor this into your plans for the evening, as sleeping with heavy makeup can cause it to get into your eyes which can result in an infection. If makeup is a major component of your costume, plan on showering before bed to get it all off.

SCARE SAFE

To easily remember all these safety tips, just remember to SCARE SAFE:

Stay in groups

Costumes should be will-fitting and flame resistant

Always test makeup

Remember to look both ways before crossing the street

Examine all treats before eating

Stay on the sidewalk

Avoid dark houses

Flashlights and glow sticks for visibility

Enjoy with caution!

Have fun, be safe, and have a happy Halloween!

 

The Best Hiding Places For Valuables In Your Home

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Installing a home security system in your home is a great way to ensure you and your family stay protected. It also ensures any valuable possessions you have are also secure. But it never hurts to add those extra layers of security. Especially when considering the best hiding places for valuables in your home.

It may feel a little overcautious or paranoid. And in some cases, hiding your possessions seems like something out of a heist or spy movie. But for those precious family heirlooms, expensive jewelry, or prized collectibles, why risk the possibility of losing them at all?

Check out this list of great hiding spots and ideas that you might not have thought of.

The ‘Safest’ Bet For Hiding Places For Valuables

Outside of storing your most precious valuables somewhere outside of your house, like a bank safe deposit box or a secure storage facility, investing in a high-quality safe is a great place to start. Some things to consider when buying a safe include:

  • Size and location – you want to be able to conceal it while also practically storing what you need to protect.
  • Type of lock – combination, lock, and key, or electronic keypad. Your choice will depend on your protection needs, frequency of use, and how many people will need access.
  • Consider bolting your safe to a floor or wall for added security.
  • Hidden safes like vent safes and safes built into the wall.
  • Some safes offer dehumidifiers and fireproof capabilities to protect sensitive materials further.

But depending on your living situation, a safe just might not be that practical to have and use. Luckily, there are plenty of creative ways to store, hide, and protect your valuables. Just be sure to avoid the obvious places. Forget about under your mattress, in a sock drawer, under a mat, in the cookie jar, in a desk or nightstand drawer, or fake rock by the front door. And keep valuables out of the master bedroom if possible.

Sometimes, the best hiding spot is the one that seems like it would be the last place you’d choose. Consider a few of these locations, which may even spur a few ideas of your own.

Find A Picture Frame

Not the back of the frame but rather the part between the frame and the picture. Most burglars won’t open up the frame to see what is inside. It’s a great way to hide important documents that you don’t need to access regularly. Now your favorite picture serves even more purposes!

Under The Carpet

Just like the picture frame idea, a small, accessible area of your carpet can be a useful hiding place. Simply pull back the corner of a room’s carpet and put cash or paper items underneath. And for even more protection, put heavy furniture over the area.

Use The Freezer

If you have a large storage freezer, you might also consider using it to store more than just food. Wrap valuables in aluminum foil and put them in the freezer with other frozen foods. Burglars probably won’t go through all the items in a freezer. Just be sure the items can’t be damaged by the cold!

Consider Lesser Used Rooms

Do you have a cluttered office room, storage attic, or even the laundry room? Obviously, you want to do everything in your power to prevent burglars. But sometimes it’s unavoidable. Instead, think about your defense as areas that potential thieves wouldn’t think to look in.

Fake Containers And False Bottoms

The ultimate trickery is to hide items in other items. Sometimes, those items can be decoys or fakes. Think fake canned goods that double as stash jars, in line with the real food in your pantry. Or even a garbage can, suitcase, or other storage container with a false bottom. From medical bottles to hollowed-out books, the possibilities are truly endless!

For More Security  Tips And Solutions, Stick With Boyd & Associates

Obviously, avoiding a burglary or home invasion altogether is favorable. And you should never confront a  burglar directly. This is why your best bet is always a monitored security system. But staying one step ahead of would-be criminals with some of the best hiding places for valuables never hurts your peace of mind!

And if you’re looking for more ways to keep yourself and your family safe, check out our home security services at Boyd & Associates. We offer a wide range of home security options to protect you and your family. If you’re ready to discuss our custom solutions, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you prepare for what’s next.

How to Prevent Home Invasion: 5 Important Tips

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Burglaries and home invasions are a primary fear for any homeowner. Your home should be a place of peace and comfort, and no one likes to think of their neighborhood as unsafe. But of the 2.5 million burglaries that occur in the United States, 66% are home invasions. Luckily, there are important steps you can take to learn how to prevent home invasion.

In general, if your home is clearly secured and well protected most burglars will likely bypass the home for an easier target. Especially if you’ve invested in a home security system. But it never hurts to over-prepare. Check out our round-up of tips to prevent home invasion and make your home as safe as possible.

  1. Secure Your Doors

Since doors are the primary entrance points for burglars, it makes sense to invest in the proper protection. And consider doorways beyond just your front door. Garage doors are often the easiest to breach, followed by the back door simply because they may be less monitored in general. Once hidden from view a burglar has more breaking-and-entering options available to them. Some general reminders to consider:

  • Replace rotted door frames so thieves cannot pry the door off its hinges. Use heavy-duty strike plates with 3-inch screws into wooden door frames.
  • All entrance doors should have a solid core (preferably metal).
  • Use heavy-duty, quality deadbolt locks with a knob-in-lock set and dead-latch mechanism.
  • Prevent fraudulent entry by installing door chains and wide-angle peepholes mounted no higher than 58 inches off the ground.
  1. Watch Your Windows

Of course, doors are not the only entry option for burglars. Since windows can also provide easy access for an intruder, it is essential that you take the proper measures to secure them. Particular attention must be paid to ground floor windows and windows visible at street level. Even upper floor windows can present a threat to your home, especially if they can be accessed from a stairway, tree, fence, or by climbing on balconies. The following are some general recommendations to better secure your windows:

  • Use blocking devices to prevent an intruder from being able to slide a window open from the outside.
  • Block the window open no more than six inches and make sure you can’t reach in from the outside and remove the blocking device, or reach through and unlock the window.
  • In sleeping rooms, any window-blocking devices should be capable of being removed easily from the inside to comply with fire codes.
  • Use anti-lift devices to prevent intruders from lifting your windows up vertically.
  1. Lights, Camera, (No) Action!

Luckily, as technology has advanced, there are new ways to integrate exciting new features into your home. Simply put, home automation has changed the game. With amazing features like smart lights and door cameras, you not only add an incredible degree of convenience to your home, but you also provide an extra layer of safety. With lights that you can set schedules to, your home appears occupied no matter where you actually are. Plus all that light eliminates any potential opportunities for burglars to hide.

Cameras are a little more obvious in their benefit to home invasion prevention, but that’s a good thing! In many cases, a door camera can ward off a potential burglar before a crime ever occurs. And if it does happen, there’s video evidence to provide evidence in the event you need to recoup the value of anything lost.

  1. Lock It Up

Another upgrade to consider adding to your front doors is a brand-new electronic smart lock. Electronic locks for your front door are more secure and reliable than traditional keyed deadbolt locks. Additionally, they provide an abundance of other benefits like:

  • Coded keypads for safe, secure, and convenient keyless entrance for you and your family.
  • Control (and monitor) your locks from anywhere through a single app.
  • You can also assign unique and temporary codes for guests and workers when needed.

Smart locks have better durability than traditional locks that wear and tear from constant key use. Plus, keypad locks do not use traditional locking mechanisms, which adds to their overall security. Without the mechanical key and tumbler system, keyless systems are unable to be picked or bumped like a traditional lock. This gives your home an added layer of security and protection from potential intruders.

  1. Monitored Alarm Systems

At the end of the day, one of the best ways to secure and protect your home is to invest in a quality security system. But alarm systems are at their most effective as a deterrent to burglars when used properly, and when properly maintained. Get the most out of your home security system:

  • Keep your yard sign visible and put alarm company decals in your windows and doors.
  • Do not write your alarm code anywhere near your keypad or entryway.
  • Be sure to update your alarm company and central monitoring station with pertinent information including your response call list.
  • Test your alarm regularly to ensure all access to your property is protected.

For More Security And Home Automation Tips And Solutions, Stick With Boyd & Associates

It’s impossible to be 100% safe in anything, but with the right precautions and proper maintenance of your home security features, you can position your home and family to be as safe and protected as possible.

And if you’re looking for more ways to keep yourself and your family safe, check out our home security and automation services at Boyd & Associates. We offer a wide range of home security options to protect you and your family. If you’re ready to discuss our custom solutions, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you prepare for what’s next.

Back To School Safety Tips

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Back to school is always one of the busiest times of the year. The change in routine—or the return to one–can be difficult for your entire family. Follow these safety tips to help your children and family stay safe during back-to-school season and throughout the new school year.

Use An Alarm System With Remote Alerts

If you don’t already have one, consider installing a home security system. You’ll receive alerts when your child enters their code into the alarm system, letting you know that they’ve arrived home safely. You can also set up sensors in sensitive areas of the house such as near gun cabinets, liquor cabinets, or medicine closets. With home automation, you’ll always be able to monitor the activities of your household through your phone.

Remind Your Kids To Lock The Door

Your children should know how to lock the door and know to do it every time they leave or enter the house. Educate your children about never opening the door to strangers, especially when they are home alone.

Show Your Kids How To Use The Alarm System

Ensure that your children know how to arm and disarm your alarm system. Show them how to hit the panic button and tell them what to do in case of an emergency. They also need to know the difference between burglar, fire, and carbon monoxide alarms.

Plan A Safe Route To School

If your child walks or bikes to school each day, plan a safe route to and from school. Avoid as many street crossings as possible and remain in areas that are highly populated. Encourage your children to refrain from using their cell phone while walking but to always have it on them in case of an emergency. If they ride a bike, be sure they have a properly-fitting helmet and always wear it.

Use And Teach Safe Driving Habits

While driving, always pay attention to the road. If you have children in the car, be certain that their seatbelts are buckled. Never use your cell phone while driving. It is important that you teach younger teen drivers these safe driving methods as well—and modeling good behavior is one of the best ways to instill it in your kids.

Help Children Memorize Important Numbers

Teach your children to memorize their home address, their home phone number, your cell phone number, and an emergency contact. It is important that they know how to contact someone in case of an emergency.

Teach Children About Strangers

Kids shouldn’t talk to anyone they don’t know. They should never accept a gift or a ride from any strangers. In case such an incident arises, children should also know whom to go to for help, such as a teacher or a police officer.

Get A Video Doorbell

With a video doorbell, you’ll be able to see who is at the door as well as answer it even when you aren’t home. This device also allows your children to see who is at the door, and talk to them, without having to answer the door.

Know Your Child’s Routine

Make sure you and your child know their routines before, during, and after school for each day of the week.

Keep Lines Of Communication Open

Ask your children to check in with you as they move through their daily routine so that you know they’re safe. Let them know it’s okay to call you at any time.

Practice Safety At Home

Decide whether your children are old enough and mature enough to use certain appliances or have visitors over while you’re not home. Be clear about your expectations. Children can’t follow the rules if they don’t fully understand them!

Review Social Media And Internet Usage At Home

Let your children know that you will have access to their social media accounts and warn them about appropriate usage. Warn them about the potential dangers of online strangers and how to avoid online bullying.

Our team at Boyd & Associates wants you and your children to remain safe throughout the school year. Start this new school year right by preparing for anything and protecting your home and family.