Jul 14, 2022 | CCTV, CCTV Locations, Countrywide Security
Your first home is a huge investment. You’ve worked relentlessly to save a deposit to get your foot on the property ladder. Hours have been spent finding the right neighbourhood and filling out tedious paperwork. The last decision you want to make is choosing a security camera system – you want to start moving in and picking out the furniture!
But choosing the wrong security system not only costs you more money down the line but puts your new investment (your first home!) at risk. Blind spots, cheap alternatives, and dummy alarms all leave vulnerabilities that experienced criminals will exploit.
With over 24 years of experience in the trade, we’ve worked with homeowners and businesses across the West Midlands to secure their properties. In this guide, you’ll learn from our experience how to choose a security camera system for your home. The advice is subjective, as every property is different, but it will help you cover all aspects of a security camera system.
What are home security systems?
Home security systems protect your home from being damaged and your possessions being stolen. It’s like having your own security guard, except it doesn’t sleep and costs half as much. Security systems go beyond the typical burglar alarms and CCTV systems we’re used to. With smart alarm systems like Ajax, you can integrate fire and water alarms to offer complete home protection.
Why do I need a home security system?
For burglaries alone:
Whilst fire and overfilling the bath happen less often, the cost multiples considering the cost to replace and the emotional effort to process the event. Having a home security system can bring down your home insurance premium – it’s not a guarantee, and it’s always worth checking with your insurer.
How many security cameras do I need?
There are many varying factors when deciding the number of cameras your home needs. It’s why we offer a free initial survey to provide an accurate quote tailored to your property. But, to help you with an estimate, here are the factors we consider:
- The areas you want to cover – if you want to cover every room and corner of your house, you’re going to need more cameras
- The size of your outdoor space – if you have acres you want to cover, you’ll need more than a terrace house with a patioed garden
- The type of cameras you’ll use – choosing wired will limit how far you can cover
- Your network’s bandwidth limit – if bandwidth isn’t great, you’ll be restricted on how many cameras you can have recorded at once (wireless only)
Where will your cameras be located?
Still got your floor plan? Make a copy and mark locations where you’ll need a camera or sensor. Here are the common areas to cover:
Entry points
For all rooms, you want to consider the entry points a burglar can use. These are the areas you want to be covered by a minimum.
- Doors (front, back, and side doors)
- Windows
- Garden gates
Indoor
The focus of indoor cameras is to identify criminals, bring them to justice, and retrieve your stolen possessions. Think about where your most valuable possessions are kept and ensure a camera is installed there. Common areas include:
- Living room (where TV, games consoles, and PCs are kept)
- Bedrooms (jewellery and cash)
- Garage and Sheds (cars, bicycles, and tools of high value)
If you’re using CCTV to monitor vulnerable family members (like children and elderly relatives), you may want to focus on installing cameras where they spend most of their time. For example, your child’s bedroom or the dining room.
Outdoor
In addition to identifying criminals, cameras installed outside also act as a deterrent. 60% of thieves avoid a property that has an identifiable active alarm. Don’t be tempted to use dummy alarms. Thieves can easily identify them and increase your likelihood of being burgled compared to not having any protection whatsoever.
The most important places for cameras outside are:
- Front door
- Driveways, garage doors, and any side paths
- Back gardens (especially if they back onto alleyways)
Video doorbells
With the rise of smart devices in the home, smart video doorbells have grown in popularity. Simply, they’re wireless doorbells with a built-in camera. When linked to your phone (or smartwatch), you can see who’s at your door anywhere in the world. With some doorbells, you can talk to the ringer – it’s useful for when you’re expecting deliveries.
These doorbells can offer some security to your home. You get notifications whenever there’s a motion outside your house and if you spot someone who shouldn’t be there, you can deter with your voice. With some doorbells offering cloud recording, you can keep the video for a set period if you need to report it to the Police.
Video doorbells are great as a part of a complete security system for your house. However, we recommend not relying on them as your only protective solution.
What power source do you require?
How you’ll power your cameras is a big factor in what security system you choose. Let’s explore their pros and cons.
Wired powered cameras
Pros:
- Never have to change a battery
- Little or no network interference
- Better protected from attacks than wireless
Cons:
- More wires in the home.
- If power or Wi-Fi goes down, access to the camera is gone
- Wires have to be completely hidden to stop burglars from cutting them
Wireless powered camera
Pros:
- Easier to install than wired cameras
- Some outdoor cameras don’t ever need a battery change (come with solar panels)
- More flexibility on where they can go
Cons:
- Battery change needed every year
- Some batteries aren’t rechargeable
WiFi – 2.4ghz and 5ghz
If you’re choosing wireless, check if your router is compatible. Most new routers broadcast 5ghz. If your camera only works with 2.4ghz, you will either need to:
- Purchase a dual-band router (where it broadcasts both 2.4ghz and 5ghz)
- Enable the 2.4ghz channel on your router
Having two separate channels (one for 2.4ghz and one for 5ghz) can cause connectivity problems if you’re wanting to view the stream from your mobile phone. A normal easy fix is to switch between the WiFi channels, but it depends on the case.
Where do you want your footage to be recorded?
Deciding where you store your recorded footage can make a difference in which security system is right for your new home. There are three kinds of storage solutions:
- Digital Video Recorders (DVR)
- Network Video Recorders (NVR)
- Cloud
Digital Video Recorders
DVRs record raw footage to a physical hard drive located in your home. Analog cameras are connected to the DVR through coaxial cables that transfer the raw footage for the DVR to digitise. They’re not Wi-Fi connected, and the footage can only be accessed from wherever the DVR is stored.
Network Video Recorders
NVRs still require a physical hard drive to record footage. As the data is digitised through the camera first before being transferred to the NVR for storage, they’re quicker at processing and handling data traffic than DVRs. Most NVR cameras are Wi-Fi connected and often referred to as IP cameras, although some can be wired through an ethernet cable.
Cloud
Some IP cameras come with cloud storage. Usually, the camera manufacturer or third-party will store the recordings of your camera on the cloud for you to access whenever. Depending on your plan, they’ll hold the previous 30-60 days’ recordings for you to download if needed. You normally pay extra for this service, but it means you won’t ever lose your data, even if your camera gets destroyed.
Note: There are some workarounds to get a DVR or an NVR to upload to the cloud. Through services like Google Drive and Microsoft’s OneDrive, you could have the footage automatically uploaded from the hard drive. This offers the same experience as Cloud, but more maintenance may be required. For the more tech experienced, you may enjoy this project or at least find it easier to integrate into an entire smart home system.
Storage to record 720p -> 4K
Your storage requirements depend on the quality and length of your recording, as well as your compression type. If you’re planning on recording 12 cameras, 24 hours per day for 15 days, we estimate you’ll need:
- 2.5 TB for 720p resolution @ 30fps
- 6TB for 1080p @ 30fps
- 23TB for 4K
These are only rough estimates and will scale depending on the number of cameras and how long you want to store your data. You can reduce the space needed if you only record when motion is detected. This is part of our initial survey with clients – it’s an important factor when purchasing.
Features to consider
Depending on your budget, you may want to consider some additional features for your cameras. They’re not a must-have but can offer better coverage and protection.
Night vision
If you require to see in the dark, you’ll need night vision. A camera accomplishes this with either a white spotlight (for colour) or using an infrared LED to offer black and white footage. The spotlight is more conspicuous but acts as a better deterrent.
Zoom
If you’re covering a large area of land (like a back garden), some cameras can provide zoom. If you’re using an app to view your CCTV, you can pinch the screen to zoom in. Optical zoom offers better details but can come with a higher price tag.
Field of view (+ privacy for neighbours)
Field of view refers to how wide the camera can capture. A 180-degree field of view captures everything in front of it. With more area captured by one camera, the fewer cameras you need.
However, be wary not to capture footage outside your property boundaries – including neighbours! If this is unavoidable, you can install privacy masks that cover part of your recording. Remember, if your CCTV points outside your private property, you must display signs that are visible to the people affected.
Pet-friendly alarms
Pets aren’t the most sedentary animals in the world. Especially when the postman is at the door. Whilst you want your cameras to alert you when an intruder is present, you don’t want a ding every time your dog or cat moves. When looking for cameras or sensors, it’s worth looking for those that are pet friendly. These alarms only activate when they detect larger motions of 25kg and above, leaving your pet to do what they enjoy without bothering you when you’re out of the house.
Do you need any smart integrations?
If you’re planning on integrating your home security system within your home smart setup, you need to make sure the cameras are compatible. Some systems support Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, with both now rolling out their own official cameras, such as Google Nest.
There are professional security systems that encompass the entire house. Ajax allows you to control your house under one hub. When your detection motions are blocked, you’re alerted instantly. If you leave the oven on too long and the smoke detector is activated, Ajax will cut the electricity and let you know. Left the bath running for too long? The hub will stop the water supply. If you have a Grade 3 property (substantial threat of experienced intruders due to high-value contents), a system like Ajax is a great way to protect your home.
Do you require audio?
Nearly all cameras include a microphone. You can record audio for personal and household activity, but when recordings include public spaces (such as your neighbour’s garden), you can be breaking the law. In these cases, you must have good reason to be recording audio and notify all persons affected. We recommend verifying with the ICO if you feel you need to record audio.
Video doorbells have normalized two-way audio (the ability to converse with someone through the camera). Recording these conversations is normally fine and doesn’t need to be applied to the wider household.
Do you need professional monitoring?
Some alarm systems offer professional monitoring from as low as £12.99/month. Whenever your system is alerted, someone from a monitoring centre will respond to your property on your behalf to address the issue. This is handy when you’re on holiday or away from home. With false alarms being common, it saves you trekking all the way home when nothing is wrong.
If the alarm is serious and needs addressing, the centre will alert the Police and relevant forces. In most cases, the Police place a higher priority on incidents reported by professional monitoring centres. If your property is at higher risk, or you’re away from home most of the time, consider professional monitoring.
Installing a home security system
You can install home security yourself. If you opt for solutions like Google Nest, you can buy security packages that are easy to install. However, if you’re after absolute security (more than 5 cameras and an intruder alarm), it’s cheaper to get a system installed by a professional.
With years of experience, a professional security installer can recommend the best system for your needs and your property. They’re able to spot potential blind spots and offer solutions which encompass every angle. You don’t want to learn about your blind spots when someone has exploited them.
Your next steps
If you’re planning to install the system yourself, here are some starting points:
- Visit each room and list the possible entry points.
- Draw a floorplan and mark where cameras and detectors should be
- Walk around the perimeter of your property and conduct steps 1-2 again
Now you should have a list of hardware you need. Depending on how you want to record your footage, you can start searching for a system that works for you.
If you have no time and want a professional survey, contact a security systems expert to book an initial survey. Our surveys are free-of-charge for any household or business in the West Midlands. If you’re outside our area, try CheckaTrade for your closest professional.
Jul 13, 2022 | CCTV Locations, Countrywide Security
Home security definition
Home security is defined as both the security hardware placed on a property as well as personal security practices.
Security hardware may include: doors, locks, lighting, motion detectors, alarm systems, and security camera systems.
Personal security involves practices such as: making sure doors are locked, alarms are activated, windows are closed, extra keys are not hidden outside, and owning a dog.
Why is home security an issue in the UK?
Since the dawn of time, there are humans out there who steal and thieve in order to gain. In modern times, this is no different. There are some shocking statistics in the UK currently, that sheds light on the severity of the issue.
There were 296,150 burglaries in the UK from March 2019 – March 2020. A burglary takes place every 106 seconds in the UK, which equates to 817 houses broken into daily. In total, £181 million is stolen from homes in London every year, with 58% of those happening while the residents were at home. The statistics are scary, but unsurprising, considering 77% of people with at least a basic home security system are not burgled.
This blog shall outline the best ways in which you can prevent home intruders with home security essentials, such as smart home security, to best protect your home.
Solutions for improving home security
Visible burglar alarm
If you have a burglar alarm system, make sure the external sounder is clearly visible on the exterior of your property, as it communicates to potential intruders that you have an alarm. Burglar alarms are the first line of defense for many property owners and serve as a visual deterrent before an attempted break in.
Door security
When fitting a lock to a window or door, use the strongest screws available, not necessarily the ones supplied. The UK set a British Standard for screws that can help you to quality check, to check if they fit, look for a ‘British Standard BS7950’ mark.
Ensure that your doors and door frames are solid, at least 4.4cm thick and hung with 10cm hinges. Wooden doors can be strengthened with steel strips that fit to the frame and around the lock of the door. Glass panels are also less secure, but can be fitted with laminated glass or plastic glazing film as a means of providing extra protection. Fitting a chain or latch to the door improves your security further. It is advised that you get a door with a viewer, as it enables you to check who’s there before letting them in.
Window security
There are a few things that you can do to improve the fortification and protection of your windows. For one, make sure you don’t leave windows open or unlocked anywhere in the house when you are leaving your property. Make sure easily accessible windows are fitted with double glazing. Laminated glass or plastic glazing film is harder to break, so consider this for easily accessible windows. When replacing your windows, make sure they are in-line with the British standard 7950 or PAS 24. It is advised that you get locks that secure the window to the frame, as opposed to ones that just secure the handle.
Security lighting
Outdoor lights, either ones that you can switch on manually, or those that turn on in response to motion, are a good way to ensure a burglar is more visible, which will help you to deter home introducers, whilst also ensuring that your security cameras can capture them in full detail. Make sure they are facing downwards so as to not annoy neighbors and distract drivers if your home is located near a road.
For indoor lighting, it is key to deter intruders by creating an impression that people are in the house, even when you’re not. Timers can be bought to turn lights on and off around the home.
CCTV and wireless home security cameras
CCTV installation and wireless home security cameras both contribute highly to deterring home invaders. Some differentiate in function and may be specialized to record outside or inside the house depending on your personal preference.
The ones we offer at Countrywide Security are Full 1080p HD cameras and can be operated remotely – ensuring that you are able to capture and record every detail possible; allowing you to find and capture a perpetrator should you need to.
Burglar-proof your garden
Often overlooked, there are things you can do even in your garden as a means of preventing a burglary. One way to do this, is to input gravel around your home, as it makes it harder for burglars to approach without alerting the resident. Secondly, it is advised that you make sure your hedges are trimmed back so that your property is not hidden from view. Some plants can act as defensive weapons, such as plant shrubs with thorns, as they prevent burglars from being able to hide in them.
Make sure you put in strong gates and fences around your borders with 40-45cm of open-ended trellising at the top, as if robbers were to attempt to jump the fence, then they would most likely break the fence, which will be heard.
Finally, if you’ve been buying valuable items, make sure to not leave the packaging out for an extended period of time, as it may attract the wrong attention, as well as giving clues towards the value of your possessions.
Fire alarms, smoke alarms and carbon dioxide monitors
As well as installing burglar alarms, and complying with all of the aforementioned security measures, it is wise to consider installing a fire alarm and carbon monoxide monitor too, as it ensures you are protected from other hazards. It is worth noting, that as beneficial as it is to make sure your home is as secure as possible, you need to make sure this doesn’t prevent you from being able to escape or be rescued in an emergency such as a fire.
Identity theft
Nowadays, it is just as common for a person to be robbed online as it is to be robbed in person. In order to combat this, it is important that you keep all of your information out of sight. Don’t leave letters or bills with lots of personal information just lying about. And keep important documents, such as passports hidden away as much as possible.
As well as information inside your home, it is important to also be mindful of your online presence, including social media accounts.
Benefits of improving home security
- Protect valuables
- Deter crime
- Remote access to your home
- Lowers home insurance
- Notifies fire/gas issues
- Monitor children at home
- Improve electricity management
- Peace of mind
1. Protects valuables
It’s quite common to know of someone who has lost jewelry, electronics, or other high-value items due to a home invasion. The misfortune is compounded when the item stolen has sentimental value or is an irreplaceable family heirloom. While a home safe can help to protect irreplaceable items – a home security system has an alarm that can scare off many potential thieves, and can notify the local authorities if someone does attempt to break in.
2. Deters crime
A study conducted by Rutgers in 2009 discovered that as the number of home security systems in an area increased, the number of residential robberies in that area decreased – even for the people who didn’t own a security system in such areas. Having a smart home security system, not only protects you personally, but helps to deter crime and create a safer neighborhood for everyone involved.
3. Allows remote access to your home
Modern alarm systems, such as our Ajax alarms, now allow you to remotely monitor what’s happening in your home, even when you’re not there – simply by checking your phone.
With the Ajax app, you’re able to arm and disarm your wireless alarm system from a distance. There’s a virtual panic button, so that there is a notification on google maps, and people can come to the rescue. A notification tab will help you to keep a log of what has happened in your house and when, as well as providing you with instant alerts if something was to seem suspicious. As the Ajax alarm system is ‘smart’ operated, you are able to get detailed device information, such as battery levels, room temperature and settings. The app and security system are regularly updating their services, providing you with new functions and facilities on a constant basis.
4. Lowers homeowner’s insurance
Although you may need to pay a monthly fee for monitoring services, having the system in your home can lower your homeowner’s insurance by up to 20%. That, coupled with instant access to police and emergency responders makes an intruder alarm system a worthy investment.
5. Notifies you of fire or gas problems
It is recommended that homeowners invest in installing a fire alarm that also detects carbon monoxide. At Countrywide Security, we provide fire alarms that allow for 24 hours of monitoring and fire brigade response. Our Ajax smart alarm system will send you notifications if there is any smoke detected, as well as sounding the alarm, allowing you peace of mind when you are out of your property. Not only this, but smoke is detected, then Ajax alarms will cut the electric circuit in your house, to further limit the damage caused.
6. Helps keep tabs on kids
Another fantastic application of a smart home security automation – is that you can use Ajax’s app to watch what’s happening in your home via video doorbells or other security cameras. This means you get to know who your teens are inviting over for parties while you’re away. If you have electronic door locks, then you can remotely unlock them to let your kids in after school, so that they don’t have to worry about carrying / losing their key to the house.
7. Improves electricity management
Many security companies, such as the Ajax alarm systems we provide, offer top quality home products such as smart locks, video doorbells, smart thermostats, smart socket controllers, smart relays, and smart light switches as part of their system. They give the user ultimate external control, as from their app they may control their thermostat, or turn off a plug if they think they’ve left a curling iron on. This feature also works as a great tool to turn lights on and off while on vacation, to give intruders the appearance that someone is home.
8. Makes room for peace of mind
The sense of security and comfort you will gain with a burglar alarm installation, is the greatest benefit that these devices provide. As well as being safe, the confidence of feeling safe will help you to lead a more productive, healthy, and focused life.
———-
As highlighted above, there is a huge concern for home break-ins across the UK in contemporary society – with over 817 houses broken into daily. That being said, 77% of people with at least a basic level home security system managed to avoid being robbed. This indicates that there are solutions out there to help protect you and your home. There are a variety of tips and tricks that can be followed in aid of this, that we have mentioned throughout this blog. It is advised that you consult a professional for your burglar alarm installation and other security measures, as they can ensure that you are getting effective equipment, that adheres to the UK’s safety regulations. For more information of how we can help you with your security concerns, either contact us directly, or visit our website.
Jul 6, 2022 | Countrywide Security
Protecting your property from theft and break-ins, whether it’s your home or your business, has never been more prevalent.
A report from 2021 indicates that a staggering 47% of burglaries committed in the UK on domestic properties alone happen in the ‘spur of the moment’. Therefore, it’s essential that your property always looks secure from the outside as well as having the correct security measures in place to deter intruders.
Domestic and business security often overlaps with each security method providing an additional layer in keeping you and your belongings safe.
There are a range of ways to make your property safer, and Countrywide Security Systems are here to help explain the necessary steps and methods on how best to increase security.
Check your security
The first step that you should consider taking is to check how secure your property is and where it can be improved. This will help you to determine the best course of action and what is necessary.
Make sure to always ask yourself the following questions:
- Are there any doors and windows left open, even if they’re not easily accessible?
- Is there a spare key that’s easily visible, or easy to find, such as under the mat?
- Do all your doors and windows have locks?
- Are there any ladders or climbable objects nearby that a burglar could use?
- How secure is the shed or garage? Is it always kept locked with a high-quality security lock system?
By considering each possible entry point to your home or business, such as doors, windows, and other access areas, you will soon work out how secure certain elements are and see where they could be improved to offer you protection and peace of mind.
Intruder alarms
When choosing a security system for your home or business, it is important to consider what type of protection you need.
A burglar alarm system is one of the most important types of security devices available on the market and can provide you with peace of mind in the event of an emergency. Burglar alarms emit a piercing shriek when activated, alerting those nearby as well as the authorities.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing an intruder alarm system is what type of detection devices you need. The Ajax movement detectors are a home and business’s first line of defence.
Part of the smartest home security system available on the market, the Ajax movement detectors use a passive infrared sensor (PIR), which detects changes in infrared radiation levels. These sensors can be used to detect movement of up to 15m, making them ideal for intruder detection.
The Ajax smart alarm security system comes complete with other features, such as break glass detection, water leaks and door opening detection devices. Countrywide Security stock and install this state-of-the-art security system and offer full home security integration across the West Midlands.
CCTV Systems
CCTV system installation is another important part of any security set-up, both at home and more importantly, at the workplace.
CCTV systems use cameras to capture images or footage of an area, which can then be monitored. In a business environment, this is usually monitored by a security guard or CCTV operator. In a domestic environment, this is often done by the homeowner, sometimes via an app, depending on the system.
CCTV is an effective deterrent to criminals, as potential intruders will know that they are being watched.
When choosing to install a CCTV system, it is important to consider the type of camera you need. Wireless CCTV cameras have increased in popularity in recent years, allowing the operator control to pan, tilt and zoom the camera via another device to get a better view of an area.
At Countrywide, we supply and carry out the installation of CCTV cameras that are both wired and wireless, each having its own unique benefits.
It is also important to consider the storage capacity of your CCTV system. CCTV footage can be stored locally on a hard drive, or it can be stored remotely on a cloud-based server. If you choose to store your CCTV footage remotely, it is important to make sure that the server is secure and that only authorised personnel have access to it.
Fire alarms
An integral part of any security system, fire alarms are a cost-effective and highly recommended security measure.
Current UK fire alarm regulations state that all business premises must have an appropriate fire detection system as with every home too. Without an appropriate detection system, you may see an increase in insurance rates and other premiums as well as risk heavy fines.
Fire alarms can be either mains powered, or battery operated and are designed to raise the alarm in the event of a fire. Mains powered fire alarms are generally considered to be more reliable than battery-operated fire alarms, as they will continue to work even if there is a power cut.
When choosing a fire alarm, it is important to consider the type of detector you also need. Heat detectors measure the temperature of the air and sound the alarm when it reaches a certain threshold whereas smoke detectors use optical sensors to detect smoke particles in the air.
It is also important to think about where you want to install your fire alarm. The most common type of fire alarm is a ceiling-mounted fire alarm, as this can be easily installed in most homes and businesses.
However, if you have a basement office or an attic for your home or business, you may want to consider installing a wall-mounted fire alarm instead, as this will provide better coverage in these areas.
Additional business security measures
A commercial property occasionally requires additional security measures to fully protect both your staff and your business. Because a business often has other people that would work in the building, it’s important to:
- Carry out risk assessments to find the potential hazards and risks
- Staff safety training should be conducted so staff are aware of how to handle a security breach or how to respond in an emergency
- Install sufficient cyber security measures. An aspect of security that is often overlooked within the contemporary marketplace
- Lock away any valuables that might be left on show
Installing the right security system
With Countrywide Security Systems, we offer the best smart home security detection systems on the market. Our future proof Ajax alarm system with multiple detection accessories set the precedence for both domestic and business security. We offer a range of security measures, suitable for any property, such as fire alarms, CCTV cameras, and other intruder alarms.
Contact us directly if you’re looking for help in choosing the right type of system for your needs, and to ensure it is installed correctly to guarantee you maximum protection.
Jul 1, 2022 | Countrywide Security
As a homeowner, it’s important to do everything you can to protect your property and belongings. It’s natural to want to invest in protecting your home, in fact it is advised. On average, there are 1.3 million burglaries per year in England and Wales, and 3/5 burglaries are successful. For this reason, it is absolutely essential that you are installing viable and visible home security systems to prevent burglaries and protect your property if you are victim to a burglary.
Home security is essential in preventing a theft. And on the chance that your home is burgled, a working home security system will alert you, the authorities, and hopefully encourage the burglar to abandon their attempts before they’ve done any damage.
Home security systems
Burglar alarms
Burglar alarms are one of the most common home security systems. They work by sounding an alarm if someone tries to break into your property. This will immediately deter the burglar and hopefully cause them to flee the scene.
There are two main types of burglar alarm – wired and wireless. Wireless burglar alarms are becoming increasingly popular as they are easier to install and don’t require any drilling.
Having a burglar alarm offers peace of mind and increased security for when you’re at home or away. Additionally, having a visible burglar alarm can work to deter criminals from attempting to break into your property.
CCTV installation services
CCTV installation goes hand in hand with burglar alarm installation. Having working CCTV acts as a strong visible deterrent and can help to identify criminals if your property is burgled.
There are different types of CCTV systems available, and the type you choose will depend on your needs and budget: wired or wireless, IP or analogue. IP CCTV systems are newer and send footage over the internet, meaning you can access it from anywhere in the world. Analogue CCTV systems are older but tend to be more affordable.
CCTV systems are the most effective deterrent as they can be clearly seen and offer the most security for your home. CCTV cameras paired with other home security systems will leave you feeling like you’ve done the most to protect your property and your belongings.
Outdoor lighting
Good outdoor lighting is important for two reasons – it can help to deter criminals as it makes your property more visible, and it makes it easier for you to see if someone is lurking around outside.
There are different types of outdoor lighting available, from floodlights to solar-powered lights. It’s important to find the right type of light for your needs and budget.
Floodlights are a good option as they are bright and can cover a large area. However, they can be expensive to run if left on for long periods of time. Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendlier option, but they may not be as bright as floodlights. Motion sensor lights are also a good idea as they can trigger and alert you if someone is outside, hopefully scaring them off in the process.
Access control systems
An access control system is another type of home security system that can be used to great effect. Access control systems work by allowing you to restrict access to certain areas of your property, for example your front door or gates. This is usually done with a key, fob, or pin pad.
Access control systems offer an extra layer of security for your home and can be used in conjunction with other home security measures such as burglar alarms and CCTV. Access control systems can be controlled by your smartphone also, offering you enhanced protection wherever you are.
Smart security systems such as Ajax alarms can be integrated into your home to combine all your different alarm systems (as long as they are compatible), to be controlled from one device or hub. Smart home security is a great way of future proofing your home and ensuring you are in control of all your home’s security.
Servicing your home security
It’s important to remember that no matter how good your home security system is, it needs to be regularly serviced to remain effective. This is because over time, components can become worn or damaged and will need to be repaired or replaced.
You should have your burglar alarm serviced at least once a year by a qualified engineer. If you have CCTV, it’s also a good idea to get this checked regularly to make sure it’s in good working order.
Outdoor lighting should be checked too, as bulbs can blow, and solar-powered lights may need new batteries. Outdoor lighting should be checked every few months to make sure it’s still effective and the batteries are working correctly.
Access control systems should also be regularly serviced, as the keypads and other components can become worn with time. It’s a good idea to have your access control system checked every six months to a year by a qualified engineer.
Regular servicing of your home security systems is an important home maintenance step that should be completed regularly. If you don’t service your home security systems regularly, you run the risk of having systems that no longer work and will therefore fail to do their job in the event of an incident.
At Countrywide Security, we provide installation, maintenance, and servicing services to ensure our systems are working correctly and up to date with all relevant updates. If you’d like to know more about our home security products, our maintenance options, or get in touch with a service engineer, please get in touch today.
Feb 25, 2022 | Countrywide Security
Home security is a big deal. Your home has a 1 in 43 chance of getting burgled. Additionally, in a study of convicted thieves, it was found that 60% of the thieves would not attempt to steal from a home that had a visible burglar alarm.
For this reason (and many others) burglar alarms are essential to protecting your home. Of course, they aren’t 100% able to prevent a crime, but they add an extra layer of protection to your home and can help alert if there is a break-in.
Because home security is so important, it can be difficult to know which product will suit you best. For some, it may be a case of searching security systems in Birmingham and picking the first one. But if you’re keen to know a little more about picking a good burglar alarm, this guide aims to give you some direction on how best to secure your home.
Before we begin there are a few other ways to secure your home and make it safer from thieves. CCTV installation services can install working CCTV for your property to ensure it is monitored 24/7. Additionally, working motion sensor lights are great to keep you alert in the dark, as well as provide a would-be thief with a shock.
Different alarms
Wired alarms
Reliable and robust. These alarms are wired up to your home and typically require less maintenance than a wireless system
These types of alarms will need to be fitted professionally and run-on electronic sensors connected to a control panel.
Wireless alarms
Uses battery-powered sensors that communicate with a control panel via radio signals. They’re quick to install and can be done by anyone who feels confident enough in their DIY skills.
Wireless systems will require battery changes and checks.
Bells-only alarms
Makes a loud noise in order to scare off an intruder and alert people nearby.
This type of alarm will not alert any authorities.
Auto-dialler alarms
Will automatically dial your number or a nominated number when the alarm goes off. This can come with an alarm or be purchased as an add-on.
Will need a phone line or a strong mobile phone signal.
Monitored alarms
When the alarm is triggered, the system will contact nominated keyholders or the police.
For this type of alarm, there will be an annual or monthly fee.
Smart alarms
Smart home systems are the newest model of burglar alarms. These systems will link up to your smartphone and offer real-time updates on the safety of your property. Smart alarms can also be linked with CCTV systems and monitored on your phone.
Smart alarms are usually the preferred option due to their fantastic features and home/smartphone integration.
How much should I pay for a burglar alarm?
Alarm systems vary in price depending on the provider and the types of features it comes with. A bells-only alarm can cost less than £100, with other types of alarms such as monitored alarms and smart alarms costing £400+
Does a burglar alarm lower home insurance?
In some cases, you can get a discount on your premium if your property has a higher degree of protection against intruders. It will depend on your alarm provider and your insurance provider.
Things to consider
Depending on what you need the burglar alarm for, there are a lot of features you should consider before making your decision. Some are listed below:
- Budget
- Accessories
- Access system
- Space it needs to cover
- Additional security
- Do you have a smartphone to connect to the system?
- Reliable Wi-Fi signal
Sensors
Sensors on alarms usually are there to detect movement. These sensors usually ignore the movement of pets, but this should be checked for each individual alarm.
Cameras
Having cameras installed with your burglar alarm can offer a lot more peace of mind when you’re out of the home. Burglar alarms with operating cameras will be the higher end of the price bracket.
Keypads/fobs
Depending on the alarm the access system will vary. Users should consider what kind of access system they require when choosing burglar alarms.
Sirens
Most alarms will come with a siren that sounds when the alarm is triggered.
Installation
Will you require professional installation, or will you be choosing a DIY alarm? Additional installation costs should be considered if you are on a budget.
Feb 17, 2022 | Countrywide Security
A fire extinguisher is a portable device that discharges foam to control and get rid of small fires. In order to burn, fires require heat and oxygen. The foam from the fire extinguisher gets rid of the oxygen making the fire unable to spread.
The Law
In 2005 a law regarding Fire Safety was put out for all business premises to offer minimum fire safety training with individuals who carry out a risk assessment and the reduce risk of a fire. The law then requires a minimum of Two Class A fire extinguishers, located on every storey of your building unless the office space is small, then one is sufficient.
The Fire Classifications
Class A – If the fire includes wood, paper, cloth, plastics etc.
Class B – If the fire contains flammable liquids like gasoline, oil, or kerosene. Class B is a lot stronger.
Class C – Fires including electrical equipment.
Class D – If the fires involve metals like sodium, titanium, magnesium, and lithium. Not controlled, this fire can get out of control fast and risk the lives of others.
Each year in the UK over 22,000 fires happen in the workplace. The most common cause of a fire in a workplace is faulty wires that have been damaged, therefore, fire safety is especially important in the workplace.
How to use a fire extinguisher
- Pull the pin
- Aim the hose at the fire
- Squeeze the lever
- Then went the foam is out, spray side to side to get rid of the fire as quick as possible.
After the fire has been put out, call the fire services immediately to make sure the fire is out, and everyone is safe. In any job, Fire safety training is of the highest importance because and have had training in it is beneficial towards employees.
How often should a fire extinguisher be serviced?
There are different types of fire extinguishers, so each one’s service time may be different. The basic service time must be every 12 months, this ensures that in case of a hazard the fire extinguisher performs perfectly and gets rid of the threat safely. Servicing is needed to make sure it is in an efficient working state and of good quality.
- CO2 Fire extinguishers need to be serviced every 12 months and every 10 years.
- Water-based fire extinguishers need to be serviced every 12 months and if the service is extended, then every 5 years.
- Powder-primarily sealed fire extinguishers must be serviced every 12 months like water-based extinguishers but the powdered seal extended service is every 10 years.
What fire extinguisher for an electrical fire?
Fires from electrical appliances must be put out by a Co2 Fire extinguisher. These extinguishers are common in computer server rooms in case of a wire spark up. The Co2 extinguisher has a black label embedded in it.
How do water fire extinguishers work?
The most common type of fire extinguisher is a water-based extinguisher because these are common within offices, homes, flats, and workplaces. Most commonly in offices because they have
huge quantities of paper. Water extinguishers prevent fires from relighting. The water extinguisher has a red banner across the top.
Who can service a fire extinguisher and What do they look for?
As fire extinguishers need to be serviced every year, they should be inspected by a qualified engineer to guarantee they work.
What do they look for?
- They’ll first visually inspect the extinguisher to see if they notice any damages or corrosion.
- Then check to see if the extinguisher has been used by checking the safety pin.
- Check the operating instructions either on the back or in the manual to see if the extinguisher is legible.
- Remove the hose to see if there is any corrosion or damages that could damage the extinguishers performance.
- Check to see the extinguisher weight if there’s more than 10% weight loss, investigate and recharge.
- When finished wiping the extinguisher down.
- Make sure the wall mounting is in good condition before putting the fire extinguisher on it.
How do you stop combustion and extinguish a fire?
The fire triangle is 3 things when put all together can create a fire, when one is removed the fire cannot burn.
Removing Oxygen – Oxygen is one of the three components in a fire triangle. If a fire was to spread using a CO2 extinguisher or fire blanket can get rid of the fire. When the Co2 extinguisher is sprayed, it’ll get rid of the oxygen replacing it with Co2 which is inflammable. Using a Co2 Extinguisher for fires that have been caused by oil fires, electrical fires, or chip-pan fires.
Removing Heat – Removing heat can be done by throwing water onto the hazard but if the fire was from electrical wires, throwing water onto it can cause a serious electrical shock. House fire, paper, or wood friars, can be put out by water.
Removing Fuel – Using fire-resistant materials, fires that have a fuel source will keep burning regardless to get rid of it you’ll have to use fire-resistant materials. Fuel sourced fires are mostly forest fires. When getting removed the process is called Firebreak in which you remove the tress, so it doesn’t spread further.
