Geo-Fencing: Not Just For Pets Anymore – Ensuring Your Kids’ Safety with Boyd & Associates

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When many of us think of geo-fencing, our minds might automatically jump to those invisible boundaries set for our furry friends. But did you know that geo-fencing technology has evolved, and its applications have grown far beyond our pets? Boyd & Associates is here to tell you how you can utilize geo-fencing to ensure your kids’ safety, giving you added peace of mind.

What is Geo-fencing?

Geo-fencing is a technology that sets up virtual boundaries around a particular location. Whenever a device enters or leaves this predefined zone, an alert is generated. While it has been popularly used for pets, companies like us have recognized its immense potential for child safety.

Geo-fencing for Kids: A Parent’s New Best Friend

The modern world is bustling, and as parents, we often find ourselves juggling multiple responsibilities. It’s easy to get overwhelmed. The question of our children’s safety when they are not under our direct supervision can be a constant source of anxiety.

Enter the world of geo-fencing for kids. By setting up specific zones, like school, home, or a friend’s house, you can receive real-time alerts whenever your child enters or leaves these zones. Imagine the relief of knowing:

  • Your child has safely arrived at school every morning without having to call the school office.
  • They’ve made it back home in the afternoon, even if you’re still at work.
  • If they’ve visited a friend’s house after school, you’ll know.

Why Choose Boyd & Associates?

With years of experience in security and surveillance solutions, Boyd & Associates is a trusted name when it comes to the safety of your loved ones. Our commitment to using cutting-edge technology means we always offer the best solutions to our clients.

Here’s why our geo-fencing solutions stand out:

  1. User-Friendly Interface: Easily set up and modify boundaries with our intuitive system.
  2. Instant Alerts: Receive timely notifications on your preferred device.
  3. Accurate & Reliable: Our system ensures pinpoint accuracy, minimizing false alerts.
  4. Privacy First: We prioritize your privacy. Your data is encrypted, and the information is solely for your access.

Geo-fencing isn’t just for pets anymore. As parents, our children’s safety is paramount. With Boyd & Associates, you can rest assured, knowing that modern technology is working to keep your kids safe. Whether they’re headed to school, visiting friends, or coming home, you’ll always be in the know. Embrace the future of child safety and enjoy that invaluable peace of mind.

For more information about our geo-fencing solutions or any other security needs, reach out to Boyd & Associates today. Your family’s safety is our top priority.

Emergency Water Storage in California: A Thirst for Preparedness

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In California, the land of sunshine, beautiful coastlines, and innovative tech hubs, there’s also a critical need for awareness about water preparedness. Whether you’re considering the possibility of drought, earthquakes, or other emergencies, having a sufficient water supply is paramount for survival. This blog dives deep into the importance and methods of emergency water storage in California.

Why is Emergency Water Storage Crucial in California?

  1. Droughts: Periodic droughts aren’t strangers to Californians. With global climate change, the frequency and severity of drought conditions might increase, making water storage vital.
  2. Earthquakes: If a major quake damages water infrastructure, it might take days or even weeks to restore regular water supply.
  3. General Preparedness: In any emergency, from power outages to wildfires, access to clean water can become limited.

How Much Water Should You Store?

The general recommendation is to store at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days. However, considering California’s unique challenges, it’s wise to plan for a two-week supply. So, for a family of four, that’s 56 gallons of water.

Best Practices for Storing Water:

  1. Commercial Bottled Water: It’s the simplest solution. These bottles are sealed and can last unopened for years. Remember to store in a cool, dark place to prolong shelf life.
  2. Food-grade Storage Containers: If you’re storing tap water, use containers made for long-term storage. Before filling, sanitize the container with a solution of one teaspoon of non-scented liquid household chlorine bleach to one quart of water.
  3. Avoid Containers that Previously Held Harmful Chemicals: Never use containers that stored milk or fruit juice as it’s difficult to clean them thoroughly, and they might promote bacterial growth.
  4. Rotate Tap Water Storage: If you’re storing tap water, rotate it every six months. Mark containers with fill dates to keep track.
  5. Isolate Storage: Store water away from gasoline, kerosene, pesticides, or similar substances. Vapors from these substances can penetrate plastic over time.
  6. Large Storage Solutions: For those who have space, consider larger tanks that can store 55 gallons or more. These are particularly handy for households with larger families or properties with landscaping needs.
  7. Water Purification: While storing water is crucial, having a method to purify uncertain sources can be a lifesaver. Consider stocking up on water purification tablets or personal filters.

Storing Water for Special Needs:

  1. Medication and Medical Needs: If someone in your household depends on medication that needs water or has special medical needs, factor this into your storage calculations.
  2. Pets: Our furry friends need water too! Ensure you store extra water if you have pets.
  3. Cooking and Cleaning: While drinking and hygiene are priorities, remember that you might need water for cooking or cleaning, especially if the emergency extends beyond a few days.

In California, where the beauty of nature is juxtaposed with its fury, water isn’t just a lifeline—it’s gold. By investing time and resources into adequate emergency water storage, you’re ensuring that no matter the circumstances, your household remains hydrated, healthy, and ready to face whatever challenges come its way. After all, it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it!

Earthquake Preparedness in California: Staying Ready in Shake Territory

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Californians know all too well that they live in one of the world’s most seismically active regions. With the San Andreas Fault, among others, slicing through large parts of the state, earthquakes are a natural, albeit unsettling, part of life. Preparing for these inevitable events is essential for personal safety and property protection. In this blog, we’ll outline steps to enhance your earthquake preparedness in the Golden State.

Understanding the Risk

The first step in preparedness is understanding. Recognize that in California, no place is entirely immune to earthquakes. Some regions may experience them more frequently or with greater intensity, but the risk is statewide.

Building an Earthquake-Ready Home:

  1. Secure Heavy Items: Anchor bookcases, refrigerators, and other tall or heavy furniture to walls to prevent them from toppling.
  2. Flexible Fittings: Use flexible connections where gas lines meet appliances. This flexibility can reduce the risk of a gas leak.
  3. Safe Spacing: Avoid placing heavy objects on high shelves and keep breakables in closed cabinets with latches.
  4. Inspect Your Home: Regularly check the foundation, roof, and walls for cracks or weaknesses. If you identify any structural issues, consult a professional.

Preparing an Emergency Kit:

Ensure you have an emergency kit specifically tailored for earthquakes, containing:

  • Water (a gallon per person per day for at least three days)
  • Non-perishable food
  • A flashlight with extra batteries
  • A first aid kit
  • Essential medications
  • A multi-tool or Swiss army knife
  • Copies of personal identification and important documents
  • Cash in small denominations (ATMs might be out of service)
  • A whistle to signal for help
  • Sturdy gloves to protect your hands while moving debris

Safety First During an Earthquake:

  1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck (and your entire body if possible) under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops.
  2. Stay Indoors: If you’re inside, stay there. Many injuries occur when people enter or exit buildings.
  3. Stay Away from Windows: Glass can shatter and cause injuries.
  4. If Driving: Pull over to a safe spot, away from overpasses, bridges, power lines, and trees. Remain in the vehicle until the shaking stops.

Post-Earthquake Measures:

  1. Check for Injuries: Before you do anything, ensure you and your loved ones are okay. Provide first aid as necessary.
  2. Expect Aftershocks: These smaller tremors can follow the main quake. Be ready for them.
  3. Inspect Your Home: Check for gas leaks, damaged electrical wires, and structural damage. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the main gas supply and evacuate.
  4. Listen to the Radio: Battery-operated or hand-crank radios can provide emergency updates when the power is out.
  5. Communicate: Have an emergency communication plan with family members. Texting may work even if voice calls don’t.
  6. Evacuate if Necessary: If your home is unsafe, get everyone out. Use your emergency supplies or go to a designated public shelter.

Living in California comes with its unique set of challenges, especially when it concerns natural disasters like earthquakes. However, with the right level of preparation and awareness, you can greatly increase your chances of weathering the next big quake with minimal harm. Remember, preparedness is not just a one-time task but a continuous process of learning and adapting. Stay safe, and stay prepared!

Keeping Your Emergency Kit Up-to-Date: Why, How, and When

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The world is ever-changing, and so are the emergencies we might face. While we all hope never to be in a dire situation, it’s essential to be prepared. This means not only having an emergency kit but also ensuring it’s current and functional. Below, we discuss why, how, and when to update your emergency kit.

Why Keep Your Emergency Kit Updated?

  1. Shelf Life: Many items in an emergency kit, especially food and water, have expiration dates. Consuming expired products can be harmful and counterproductive during a crisis.
  2. Changing Needs: As families grow, shrink, or face different challenges (e.g., medical conditions), the supplies in the emergency kit might need adjustment.
  3. Advancements in Technology: Newer, more effective tools and devices become available that can better assist in emergencies.
  4. Weather and Seasonal Changes: The requirements for an emergency during winter are different from those in summer.

How to Update Your Emergency Kit:

  1. Inventory Check: At least once a year, make it a habit to go through each item in your kit. Check expiration dates and ensure everything is in working order.
  2. Stay Informed: Follow updates from local and national emergency management organizations. They often provide insights into the latest recommended items.
  3. Rotate Food and Water: Replace expired food items with fresh supplies, and make sure to store items that can last longer and provide ample nutrition. Similarly, store water in clean containers and refresh the supply regularly.
  4. Update Personal Documents: Ensure copies of personal identification, medical records, bank account details, and other essential documents are current. Store them in waterproof containers.
  5. Consider Power Sources: Battery-operated devices might need new batteries. Think about incorporating solar-powered chargers or portable power banks as backup.
  6. Medication Review: If you or any of your family members are on medication, ensure that you have an adequate, up-to-date supply.
  7. Customize for Your Needs: Adjust your kit based on the specific needs of your family members, including pets. For example, babies might need diapers, while elderly members might require specific care items.
  8. Educate and Train: New family members or changes in your living situation mean it’s time to review emergency procedures and educate everyone on the contents and use of the emergency kit.

When to Update:

  1. Seasonal Changes: As seasons change, so do potential emergencies. Adjust your kit accordingly.
  2. After Every Use: If you use your emergency kit, restock and replace items as soon as possible.
  3. Major Life Changes: Moving homes, the birth of a child, or health diagnoses can all warrant a review of your emergency kit.
  4. Annually: At a minimum, review and update your emergency kit once a year. Some people choose to do this at the beginning of a new year, while others might pick a specific date that’s easy to remember.

While it’s crucial to have an emergency kit, it’s equally vital to keep it up-to-date. Regular check-ins and updates will ensure that if the unexpected occurs, you and your loved ones have the best chance of staying safe and sound.

How Do Identity Thieves Get Your Information?

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In this digital age, some identity thieves go to extraordinary lengths to steal personal information.

Many of the tactics they use are highly sophisticated, from hijacking phones from afar to creating false identities with just a few pieces of real information. Other methods for stealing personal details — such as mail theft — are less high-tech but no less concerning.

When it comes to protecting your identity, understanding what you’re up against is a good first step. So, let’s take an in-depth look at what identity thieves look for when trying to steal your data.

Plus, learn how our features — like credit monitoring alerts and dark web monitoring — can help you act quickly to minimize the damage if your details fall into the wrong hands.

Data Breaches

Unfortunately, data breaches and their fallout have become all too common. With incidents happening at such a rapid pace, it’s no wonder so many consumers suffer from “breach fatigue.”

So what’s causing these information leaks, and what can you do to safeguard your data?

You may be surprised to learn that most security incidents are actually accidents caused by human negligence or error. According to Verizon’s 2022 Data Breaches Investigations Report, 82% of data breaches analyzed over the past year included a human element.

Other breaches are the result of targeted attacks by cybercriminals. These attacks aren’t limited to big corporations; small businesses can also have data stores that are attractive to criminals. That’s one reason why it’s important to keep tabs on all of the places where your data is stored, including what businesses or services you have an account with.

What do identity thieves look for with these attempts?

If your personal or financial information is made public in a breach, cybercriminals might be interested in putting it up for sale on the dark web. From there, your details could be used to commit fraud or identity theft. Or, your information could be blended with other victims’ information to create a brand-new false identity, a type of fraud known as synthetic identity theft.

That’s one reason why we created our dark web monitoring tool. Once it’s enabled, you can enter your details for monitoring, and we’ll alert you if we find your information somewhere it doesn’t belong — such as the dark web or closed hacker forums.

Phishing and Pharming

When you’re online, phishing has nothing to do with a rod and reel. Rather, phishing happens when criminals hook you with phony emails, texts, or phone calls.

A related scam is pharming, in which users are directed to fake websites without their knowledge. For example, when a pharmer hacks into your browser and redirects you to a fake website.

What types of information might you be prompted for in a phishing or pharming attack? Any sensitive details that can be used for profit, like your Social Security number or the credentials to your bank account.

Phishers and pharmers may try to lure you by promising freebies or even by posing as your business, but with a little vigilance, you’ll be ready to spot the scam.

Any time you open an email or visit a website, be wary of urgent requests, frequent typos or blurry images, and multiple pop-up windows. If something doesn’t seem right, delete the email or close the browser window and move on.

Oversharing Online

Unfortunately, oversharing on social media can reveal more than you intended.

Take that first-day-of-school pic you snapped of your kiddos on the front porch. Is your house number visible in the background? If so, the safest bet is not to share, as your street address is considered personally identifiable information (PII).

Similarly, it’s not advisable to post from your vacation — or even from a restaurant — in real time. When you share your location, you’re also sharing the fact that you’re not at home, which can make you a target for theft.

There’s something else to consider. Everything you share online accumulates over time as part of your digital footprint. As your footprint grows, identity thieves may have more opportunities to get your information.

To combat this, consider adjusting your privacy settings to control who can see your information on social media. Think twice before accepting friend requests from people you don’t know. And consider enabling a social media monitoring feature like the one we offer, which can ping you if we notice signs that might point to account takeover.

SIM Card Swaps

Many smartphones use SIM cards, or subscriber identity modules, to identify the user and store important data. Your phone number can be transferred to a new SIM card for legitimate reasons, like when you’ve lost your phone or you’re upgrading to a new device.

But with SIM swap scams, thieves take advantage of this capability by calling a phone carrier, posing as you, and requesting to move your phone number to a device in their possession. Fraudsters have also been caught bribing phone-company employees to make the swaps on their behalf.

If the SIM swap is successful, the thieves can then use the compromised phone number as a portal to the rest of your digital life. With access to text messages, for example, a thief can side-step the extra security provided by two-factor authentication, making it easier to penetrate financial accounts, personal emails, and cryptocurrency wallets.

SIM swapping can also lead to a compromised social media account, which can cause reputational harm.

Compromised Credit Reports

Credit reports are treasure troves of personally identifiable information (PII), such as your full name, birth date, and Social Security number.

Identity thieves can request a copy of a credit report by posing as a landlord or potential employer. If you suspect that someone has stolen your identity or if you’ve been told that your PII has been compromised, you may be able to prevent further damage by requesting a security freeze with the three major credit bureaus.

Identity Theft in the Physical World

While some identity thieves have adopted sophisticated tactics for mining data digitally, others steal information the old-fashioned way: in the physical world.

Here are a few examples:

  • Dumpster diving: Criminals are known to dig through trash in search of sensitive information. So be careful about what you throw in the recycling bin — and shred sensitive documents if they’re no longer needed.
  • Mail theft: Stealing physical mail is a tried-and-true tactic that’s still used by identity thieves today. To deter any would-be snoops, consider purchasing a mailbox with a lock and ask your postal service to hold your mail whenever you’re out of town.
  • Shoulder surfing: A fraudster might spy over your shoulder any time you’re in a public place, so be aware of your surroundings and never let your guard down — especially when you’re at an ATM or in a checkout line, for example.
  • Skimming: This pervasive and often hard-to-detect technique happens when fraudsters leave skimming devices attached to the credit-card processor at legitimate businesses. When you swipe your card, the skimmer reads the magnetic strip and stores your card number. Then, whoever planted the device can then use your credit card or sell the information to a third party.
  • Shimming: Similar to skimming, this is when criminals insert a tiny microchip into an ATM or card reader with the aim of stealing and storing your information. 

You have a partner in identity protection

Data is a valuable resource. That’s why we’re deeply committed to safeguarding our members’ information, and to helping them take quick action if it’s been compromised.

Even if fraud occurs, with Boyd Identity Protection, you’ll never have to fight identity theft alone. Give us a call at 1 (800) 381-2693 to learn more and sign up 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.

How to Prevent and Extinguish Electrical Fires in a Commercial Building

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According to the National Fire Protection Association, structure fires in professional buildings account for millions of dollars in property damage each year. Electrical distribution and lighting are the second leading cause of these fires, making up approximately 15% of the total property damage. Taking a proactive approach to fire safety and prevention will lower the likelihood of an unexpected blaze and keep your business and employees safe. Here are some tips for preventing and extinguishing electrical fires in commercial buildings.

Perform Regular Maintenance On Equipment

Equipment that is damaged, dusty, or greasy could be prone to electrical fires. Keep your equipment in good working condition by following maintenance guidelines as recommended by the manufacturer. If you notice anything malfunctioning, contact a technician to have it serviced to prevent it from becoming a hazard.

Dust and grease may clog vents on equipment such as industrial exhaust fans, which can then lead to overheating and cause fires. If you notice this buildup on any devices within your workplace, clean them promptly.

Have Your Electrical System Inspected After Any Environmental Changes

Environmental changes such as a flood or a significant storm could damage equipment and your building’s electrical infrastructure and lead to malfunctions that result in an electrical fire. If any major environmental changes have occurred, have a licensed electrician inspect your system and verify it is functioning correctly.

They should evaluate the following:

  • Circuit breakers
  • Fuses
  • Wiring
  • Transformers
  • Switchboards
  • Switches

Don’t Overload Extension Cords Or Power Strips

Extension cords are commonly used to power workstations, particularly in office buildings, but they can be dangerous when overloaded. An overloaded extension cord could melt, burn wires, or create sparks that cause a fire.

When using extension cords and power strips in your workplace, follow their ratings and use guidelines. If in doubt, refer to the wattage labels on the appliances you intend to plug into the cord and ensure that they don’t exceed your extension cord’s rating.

Electrical Work Should Only Be Done By A Professional

Ensure that any electrical work or maintenance performed within your workplace is done by a licensed electrician. Electricians have the skills to evaluate how to best arrange power sources and equipment within your workplace for safety and functionality. A professional electrician will have the latest training on electrical codes and best practices and take care to ensure that work is done safely and correctly.

How To Put Out An Electrical Fire

The most important thing to remember about electrical fires is that they should not be extinguished with water. Water is an electrical conductor, and pouring it on an electrical fire could cause electrocution. Instead, use these tips:

  • If possible, cut the power to the equipment involved in the fire.
  • Smother the fire (if it’s small enough) with a fire blanket or a Class C fire extinguisher

If you don’t have the tools you need or the fire is out of control, evacuate the area and call 911.

The Bottom Line

Electrical fires are typically the result of overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, or malfunctioning equipment. With this in mind, regular maintenance and fire safety audits are essential for preventing these fires. While a Boyd & Associates commercial fire alarm system will ensure help is dispatched in an emergency, holding regular fire safety briefings with your staff will help them stay proactive about preventing fires.

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.

Five Smart Home Security Tips for a Worry-Free Holiday Season

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Do you feel that your home is more attractive to criminals during the holidays?

Two-thirds of homeowners do, according to recent research. After all, with valuable package deliveries, brightly-lit windows and the hustle and bustle of holiday travel, it’s easy to make home security mistakes—or to worry about them.

If you’re concerned about holiday security and looking to step up your crime prevention game for the season, start with these smarter home security tips.

1: It’s easier than you think to deter a burglar.

Have you ever wondered if your home security system will really keep a burglar away? According to the experts (a panel of actual burglars), it will. 83 percent of burglars look for them, and 60 percent say they’ll go elsewhere if they spot one.

This means that it pays to make your security system visible. You can do this by adding smart outdoor security cameras, placing stickers and yard signs where they’re easily spotted, or automating your outdoor lights to put prowlers in the spotlight.

Don’t have any of these features? It might be time for a home security upgrade from Boyd & Associates

2: Avoid leaving gifts out for package thieves.

Not all holiday crime involves breaking and entering. With more Americans shopping for gifts online every year, the holidays have become prime time for package theft.

If you’re concerned about your gifts falling into the hands of a porch pirate, it’s worth investing in a home security setup that includes a doorbell camera and smart lock. This gives you the ability to secure any package delivery in seconds, using only your phone. It’s an easier alternative to staying home for valuable deliveries, and far smarter than leaving things to chance.

3: Safeguard against security mistakes when you travel.

Half of homeowners worry more about home security when they travel—and with good reason. The hustle and bustle of a holiday road trip leaves plenty of room for security mistakes like leaving your garage open or front door unlocked, or forgetting to turn your alarm on.

If you own a modern security system, be sure to set up a few smartphone alerts and reminders before you travel this year. You’ll know if you forget anything essential, and you’ll often be able to fix the problem without having to return home.

4: Connect with your neighbors for peace of mind.

Not every holiday security safeguard needs to be hi-tech. Teaming up with your neighbors is a simple and effective way to stay safe and worry less over the holidays. It’s also one of the most popular home security measures: this year, more than half of US homeowners will keep an eye on their neighbors’ homes when they travel.

If you’re teaming up with your neighbors this year, consider trading in your spare keys for a smart lock. While you may not be among the 20% of homeowners who lost their house keys this year, a smart lock with temporary user codes is worth it to ensure that no one else loses them for you.

5: Think beyond the holidays for long-term protection.

Not all home security technology is the same. If you’re looking for year-round, whole-home protection, it’s worth doing some research before hopping online to buy a standalone doorbell camera as a quick fix. It’ll cover your front door, but not much else.

A complete smart  security system gives you many more ways keep your home and family safe–such as professional monitoring for emergencies, connected smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for safety, and safeguards like unexpected activity alerts and “crash and smash” protection.

For more information on options to upgrade or add on a new system, contact Boyd & Associates today!