The Sesame Smart Lock

The Sesame is a new smart lock for your house. This great device replaces traditional locks and comes with a smartphone app that replaces your house keys!

The Bluetooth-connected Sesame smart lock was well on its way to making its funding goal on the very first day of a 60 day Kickstarter campaign, having racked up more than 60,000 dollars in pledges from some 400 backers just hours after they launched the project.

The nice thing about the Sesame Smart Lock is that it requires zero carpentry skills to install it on your front door. It has a patented design which fits any latch in the world! The device slips over an existing deadbolt and is attached with supplied 3M Command tape, meaning it can be installed in just seconds.

The Sesame (derived from the “open Sesame” command) also has military grade encryption, so no one is hacking this thing!

Security is pretty important for a device like the Sesame, especially given that this smart lock will allow you to give others the ability to open it even when you’re not around. The lock is run by a smart phone app, but there are actually different ways to work it inn addition to opening the app up. You can also device “special knocks” to tap on your door or your phone and Sesame will be alerted to draw back the bolt.

You can control the smart lock remotely with the Wi-Fi access point, meaning you shouldn't ever have to worry about if you left your front door unlocked! It will also send you an alert when the door lock is being used.

The Sesame’s supplied lithium batteries promise about 500 days of use, and the device will send your smartphone a notification when the batteries are running low.

The Sesame Smart Lock will retail for about 149 dollars when it launches, although it is available now if you want to purchase one for only 89 dollars.

For all your home security needs, contact SIS - Security & Investigation Services. Choose from a variety of options including general guarding, farm protection and CCTV off site and alarm monitoring.

Written By: Christine Romans

How can CCTV help you?

These days you have a wide variety to choose from when it comes to security, the only problem is finding the right security for your home or business. Some security devices have odd names that can make it difficult to understand their use, like CCTV cameras. However, many people may be unsure what CCTV even stands for, or whether it’s really even something you need.

So, what exactly are they and how do they help you? Here’s everything you need to know about them, including what CCTV means…

CCTV stands for Closed Circuit Television, which means you can record and transmit video wirelessly. It also means that you can view both live and previous video feed.

You can choose to link your camera, infrared beams and alarm system. So, if the camera detects movement within its coverage area it’ll send a video clip to the monitoring centre. Each clip should be small enough to be sent instantly.

Once the monitoring centre receives the video slip it will be forwarded to the people you selected to be viewed.

These cameras will work during the day and during the night. They also work really well in poor and varying light conditions.

Most CCTV systems allow you to connect through an existing LAN network. However, some only allow authorized users to view the video footage.

You can also opt to view a live camera feed, which can be viewed from anywhere using your phone or computer.

Over time, the rise in crime has been matched by the development of technology in the security industry. CCTV cameras are the perfect example of this development.

If you are interested in increasing your home or business’ security with CCTV cameras you can contact a professional home security company like SIS – Security &Investigation Services.

Why you should change your locks

Door locks provide you with a protective layer of security for those inside your home or other building. While it would be nice to live in a world where locks are not needed, that simply is not reality. Having quality locks on doors is important to assure the safety of both people and property. Here are some good reasons why you should replace your existing locks…

Outdated technology
As with many other devices, door knobs, deadbolts and other locks get better over time. As thieves discover ways to pick existing locks, lock manufacturers create new technology to prevent it. In order to have the best security locks possible, home and other building owners need to update their locks from time to time. SIS –Security &Investigation Services can also provide additional security services to keep your home and business safe from thieves.

New Home
Whenever you move into a new home, it is important to have the locks changed. Though he or she may have received keys from a real estate agent or past occupant, there still may be other sets of keys in existence. In fact, there could even be forgotten emergency keys hidden outside of the home where someone may find later.

Lost Keys
If keys are ever lost, the locks should be changed. As there is no way of knowing where the keys are, or who may have them, it is best to change the locks to keep your home or business completely secure. Even if the keys are returned to you, a thieve may have copied the keys and can later gain entry to the property.

While locks will have many years of useful service, you still need to replace them for these above reasons. 

For a professional home security system and services, contact SIS - Security & Investigation Services. They can provide you with general guarding, farm protection and CCTV off site monitoring.

Written By: Christine Romans

3 different types of burglars

It is commonly said that homeowners should “think like a burglar” when planning their home security systems. Take a look at these common criminal personality profiles and remember them when you are making decisions about your home security…

The Impulse Thief
This thief may not be career criminal; they are usually just immoral people who see an opportunity to steal. They frequently make their scores from garages and commonly target power tools, lawnmowers and bicycles.

Motion lights will do a great deal to deter these thieves, they obviously don’t want to be seen when trying to steal the items in your garage. Security cameras and security signs will add to the effect.

The Mastermind
Although most criminals occupy the bottom of the IQ scale, there are some who are capable of meticulous planning. The mastermind burglar will stake out your home and establish your schedule weeks before the burglary. They prefer to enter with advanced methods like lock picking and they know the most common hiding spots for your valuables. The burglary is usually over in 15 minutes or less.

It is possible that the mastermind thief has studied the most common alarm systems and knows how to disable them from the outside. The wires from cameras, motion sensors and other elements of your home security system should always be concealed or protected. A reliable, sturdy deadbolt will keep thieves from entering even if they pick the lock.

The Smash-and-Grab Thief
This type of thief is somewhere between the mastermind and the impulsive thief. While they do set out with the goal of burglarizing a home, they do not think very far ahead. Usually, they enter your home by breaking a window or kicking in a door. They tend to aim for whatever valuables are in sight such as TVs and other electronics.

Foiling the smash-and-grab thief is typically very easy. Most of them will be driven away if you have glass break sensors installed on your windows by a home security technician. Reinforced door jams will stop them from breaking down a door. Very few smash-and-grab thieves have the finesse to enter a home through any method other than brute force, so these steps will likely stop them in their tracks.

In addition to seeking out a professional home security system provider like SIS – Security & Investigation Services, you should also remember these different criminal profiles when planning your home security strategy.

Written By: Christine Romans

Four safety tips for living with roommates

Getting a roommate to help cut down on your living costs is often the best thing to do. If you are thinking of sharing a room, house or apartment with anyone outside your family, use these tips below to help keep you and your roommate’s safe…

     1.       Run a background check and ask for references if you do not know your potential roommate personally. This is especially important when you advertise the available room or space on the internet or in the newspaper.

     2.       Take the time to get to know your potential roommate. While you might now instantly bond with them overnight, try to talk over your lifestyle differences and meet in the middle. This step might also help you pick up major red flags about their acquaintances and friends.

     3.       Invest in simple home security measures, like a high-quality lock and chain for the front door (and your room door, you can never be too careful!) Check the locks of all windows to make sure they work, when your roommate moves out, change all the door locks especially if you did not part on the best of terms.

     4.       When you and your roommate’s first get to your new apartment or house, get in touch with a home security installation company like SIS – Security & Investigation Services to discuss your home security options. Working with a company like SIS – Security & Investigation Services can help you identify major problems in your new space. You might also want to consider installing a home security system for additional safety in your home.

Getting to know your roommates might be a bit frightening at first, but keeping your home safe is pretty easy. Build a safe, happy living space by following the easy steps above.

Written By: Christine Romans

How to keep your kids and home safe when hiring a babysitter

Are you a parent? If so, then you’re probably going to require a babysitter once in a while. Whether it’s simply someone to watch over your kids after school or perhaps you just want a night off, the top priority is keeping your kids safe at all times. Follow these easy steps to ensure your kids are always in good hands…

Get recommendations from friend and family
There are plenty of qualified babysitters that advertise their services, but it’s always best to find a babysitter through someone that you know and trust. It will give you peace of mind and verification that this person is good at watching over children. Next time you need a reliable babysitter, ask your friends and family first.

Make sure they’re old enough
A babysitter should be mature and responsible enough to keep your children out of trouble and handle any problems that may come up. In general, I would say that your babysitter should be at least sixteen years old, if you have several children who need to be watched then it may be a good idea to get a babysitter who is a bit older than that.

Set up an interview
Always make sure to meet your future babysitter in person before you let them look after your kids. Aside from asking basic questions about their qualifications and experience, pay attention to their general nature and observe how they interact with your children. A good babysitter should be authoritative when necessary, but also very calm. The last thing you want in a babysitter is someone who always loses their temper.

Run the security cameras
Even if you trust your babysitter, it won’t hurt to have some extra assurance. Most of the security cameras that come with many alarm systems provide you with a way to review the footage. In some cases parents have caught babysitters stealing and abusing children. Get a reliable and professional security system installed from SIS – Security & Investigation Services.

Verify that they know basic first aid
Children sometimes suffer injuries around the house and in the yard, usually from falling down stairs, crashing a bike or even choking on small objects. A babysitter who is familiar with first aid is a definite must!

Familiarize them with your home security strategy
When you are gone, the babysitter is in charge of the house, so it’s important that they know your home security strategy. Ensure that they know how your alarm system works, where the motion lights are located and how to contact emergency personnel. The services from SIS – Security & Investigation Services would be a perfect choice.

Check in periodically
You may have found a trustworthy, responsible babysitter, but it’s still always a good idea to check in on things at the house. Call or SMS the babysitter whenever you need to check up, if you don’t get a reply, call a trusted neighbour or friend and get them to see if everything is alright.

You can never be too careful when choosing a babysitter, after all, the safety of your children will depend on this person’s competence. These tips will help you find a reliable babysitter who can protect your kids.

Written By: Christine Romans

How to stop a beeping alarm system: Five Steps

The annoying sound of a security system continuously beeping is enough to drive a person crazy. It may be because of a power outage, faulty wiring or bad batteries, but whatever the culprit, it is still a huge nuisance! Read these five steps if you ever have to silence your beeping alarm.

Step One: Make sure there is no risk

Always check your security panel and other sounding devices like a smoke detector or a carbon monoxide detector. You need to ensure that the beeping is not caused by an actual risk, such as a break in, fire or a carbon monoxide leak.

Step Two: Change batteries

Check your batteries. Most systems continuously beep to alert you that the batteries need to be changed; this can happen for both your security panel and your detectors. Go through your home and test all batteries associated with your security system using a battery tester.

Step Three: Silence the alarm

If you find that faulty or dead batteries are not the cause, then try to silence your alarm. Most standard systems will allow you to stop the beeping using one of the following methods:

      -          Disarm your system by entering a code

      -          Arm your system and immediately disarm

      -          Press the status button on your keypad

While this should work in most cases, some security panels are different and require another approach.

Step Four: Check wiring

If the above steps have not worked and the beeping continues, check the wiring of your system to see if it is damaged or corroded. This can be done quite easily with a voltmeter. Voltmeters are relatively inexpensive and can be picked up at your local hardware store. It is okay to do this yourself if you have electrical experience, if not, hire an electrician.

Step Five: Contact your provider

So none of the above steps have gotten you any results? If not, its time you contacted your security company. Professional companies will troubleshoot with you on the phone or send over a technician to assess the problem.

When it comes down to it, your security system is beeping to tell you something. Whether it is to alert you of danger or simply some faulty batteries, use these five steps to find out.

For all your home security needs, contact SIS - Security & Investigation Services today! They can provide you with a wide range of services, from general guarding to farm protection.

Written By: Christine 

How safe is living in Cape Town 2015

The crime rate is high in South Africa and it has always been a major concern for tourists, residents and for people moving in and out of the country. South Africa is known to have the highest crime rate per 100,000 residents in the world regarding assault, rape and murder. The current xenophobic outbreak in Johannesburg is making many people wonder about the current situation in Cape Town.

The news about the unrest in the townships in and around Johannesburg sounds very intimidating. Be prepared to investigate where to move to, where to live and which areas to avoid, so you can minimize the risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Crime and violence affect everybody like everywhere else in the world. In South Africa, mainly people living or working in the poorer areas are affected by violence and crime. There are certain areas especially the Cape Flats which are no-go areas, so always make sure that you get more information about an area that is unknown to you or contact the local police station for advice.

In regards to more recent burglaries at shopping malls and various stores selling high value goods, the only advice is to be vigilant! It is a very scary thought to get involved in a crime situation, but unfortunately only good security can prevent it. Read through the “Be Alert!” Advice by the South African Police Service (SAPS) to learn more.

South Africa Crime Statistics 2014

To help you get a better overview of the situation of crime in South Africa, take a look at the latest South African crime statistics.

·         Contact Crimes increased slightly by 0.5%. Among these crimes are:
Common Assault – Reduced by 3.3%
Attempted Murder – Increased by 4.6%
Robbery with aggravating circumstances – Increased by 12.7%
Common robbery – Increased by 0.6%

·         Crime detected as result of police action increased by 18.1%. Drug-related crimes increased by 26.1%

·         Commercial Crime decreased by 13.6%

·         Property-related crimes (burglary, arson, malicious damage, theft):
Decreased slightly, but theft out of or from a motor vehicle increased by 3%

·         Aggravated robbery crimes increased significantly.
Bank Robbery – Increased by 200%
Carjacking – Increased by 12.3%
Robbery at residential premises – Increased by 7.4%
Robbery at non-residential premises – Increased by 13.7%

Crime Rate in the Western Cape

          -        Contact crimes increased by 5%, among them were:
           Murder – Increased by 12.8%
           Robbery with aggravating circumstances – Increased by 16.3%

          -        Property Crimes increased by 2.3%

          -        Commercial Crimes decreased by 8.4%

          -        Aggravated Robbery increased significantly:
           Bank Robbery – Decreased by 100%
           Carjacking – Increased by 21.8%
           Robbery at residential premises – Increased by 14%
           Robber at non-residential premises – Increased by 11.5%

Cape Town Crime Statistics

     ·         Burglary, robbery and theft of private property were the most reported crimes according to the statistics in 2013/2014. Almost half of the victims of sexual offences knew the perpetrator. Often they are a member of the family, a friend or part of the community.

   

     ·       For car-jacking, theft of private property and robbery, the middle class and moderately rich population are especially targeted.

     ·         Serious crimes were mainly experienced in low-income areas and townships. The highest violence, assault and property crime is experienced in Mitchell’s Plain – here gang violence is claiming many lives. Other areas such as Khayelitsha, Gugulethu and Nyanga remain the most dangerous according to murder statistics.

     ·         Many Southern Suburbs were affected recently due to violent housebreaking's and the popular Hout Bay has had a recent spate of car-jacking. However, many of the neighbourhoods have put on special awareness campaigns and stepped up security with private watches and more visible police presence. Crimewatch members patrol the streets day and night and so have cut down on criminal offenses drastically.

     ·         Offences such as street muggings, smash-and-grab-robberies and pick-pocketing are a common occurrence in many cities around the world and you are advised to stick to common-sense safety measures.

Crime and violence affects everyone, no matter what area or country you are from, so always remember to keep informed to stay safe!

For reliable, professional security services contact SIS - Security & Investigation Services. They can offer you a wide range of options from general guarding and farm protection to CCTV alarm monitoring.

Written By: Christine Romans

3 Home Security Tactics that are Wasting Time and Money

A home security tactic that worked at one point may not work as well in today’s world. Plus there is so much bad advice floating around, it’s crucial that you stop these obsolete home security tactics and replace them with something better.

Door Chain Locks – In movies, door chains are usually the security of choice. This is odd because they are the most useless locking method! If a criminal wanted to break into your home a chain would not stop them, it is way too small to hold the door shut when someone is throwing their weight against it from the other side. If you want to see who is at your door without opening it, a peephole is the better option.

Hiding Valuables in Obvious Spots – You may think you’re being clever be hiding you valuables in your sock drawer, freezer or between your mattress, but criminals know all about these spots! In fact burglars usually make a direct beeline for those spots when they break into a home. The fake food cans are a bit better but burglars are still well-aware that they exist. Rather opt to buy a safe and bolt it to the wall.

Outdated or ineffective Alarm Systems – An alarm system is the biggest deterrent to thieves, but you can only benefit from them is they are up to date and work properly. Many people don’t bother to update their outdated alarm systems and they have a false sense of security, if it’s been a few years consult with a home security specialist.

Some home security tactics have become ineffective over the years; others were never good ideas in the first place. You can avoid these mistakes by installing a professional security system from SIS – Security & Investigation Services, they can offer you a variety of services from general guarding to farm protection.

Written By: Christine Romans

6 Home security facts you may not know

Every homeowner should make an effort to protect their dwelling from criminals. Whether you know it or not, burglars are constantly on the lookout for new victims, and you might be one of them. So, here are six shocking home security facts.

The majority of burglars never get caught
If your home is ever broken into, don’t ever expect the burglar to get arrested. According to some home security experts, only about 10% of burglaries ever get solved, so in the rare case that the police actually catch the burglar, your stolen property is usually not recovered. Hopefully if this does ever happen to you, you have a good insurance policy.

Home burglaries are very common
Burglaries are very common and they occur in thousands of communities across the world. No matter what some people believe, you don’t actually have to live in a high-crime area in order to become a victim of burglary. Even extremely safe neighbourhoods are not immune to burglaries.

Burglars avoid homes that have a security system
Most thieves prefer to target homes that do not have a home security system. SIS – Security and Investigation Services can you provide you or your business with a professional security system that will deter burglars, plus the loud sound of an alarm will immediately scare burglars off.

Most burglars use forced entry
Although you may keep your doors locked and secure, a burglar who is aggressive and uses physical force can still gain entry into your home. In some cases, a powerful kick may cause a door to fly open. The best thing to do is to get reliable security experts to put security sensors on every door.

Burglars are fast
Burglars try their best to get away from the crime scene immediately. An experienced criminal can actually complete a burglary in less than 10 minutes. As soon as the burglar enters the home, he will begin to search for valuable items. Often times, the victim’s home will be ransacked, because burglars realize that they must act quickly.

Very few homes have a security system
Despite the fact that crime remains a big issue, the majority of homes still do not have a security system. Research shows that less than 20% of homeowners choose to install an alarm system.

Be sure to always consider installing a professional home security system. Choose SIS – Security & Investigation Services for an affordable and reliable home security system.  

Written By: Christine Romans

Four secrets to improving your home security

Many homeowners don’t take security precautions, it’s understandable not everyone remembers or they just assume they won’t be a victim of a crime, but you need to realise that securing your home is extremely

important. Read these four secrets and keep them in mind if you want to improve your home security…

Bolster Your Doorways
While having locks on your doors will stop people from simply walking in, they won’t stop a determined thief who is willing to use brute force. Every outside door on your house should have at least two locks, and for the best protection install a deadbolt near the top and another one at the bottom.

Don’t Tempt Burglars
Even if your home has no sign of any valuables inside, it will still often be burglarized. This doesn't mean that you can’t try and look at things from a burglar’s point of view and get rid of any temptations. There are a few ways to do this, firstly make sure to move any valuable items away from the windows. You should also use caution when bringing expensive items home, don’t unload them in plain view of the whole neighbourhood and be sure to dispose of the packaging properly.

Illuminate Import Spots
Burglars tend to steer towards darkened entry ways or obscured windows so they can get into your home without being seen. A few lights placed in the right places will stop them from doing this. All of your doorways should be lit up at night, if it’s too much of a hassle to turn them on and off put them on an automated timer or get motion sensor lights.

Stop Burglars the High-tech Way
If you have a modern alarm system, it should make things incredibly difficult for burglars. Your security devices should be set up in layers so that there are many chances to catch them in the act. Since most alarm systems can send a message to law enforcement immediately, the burglars will be caught or scared away in mere minutes.

For a professional, reliable home security system contact SIS - Security & Investigation Services. They can provide you with a wide variety of services from general guarding and farm protection to CCTV off site and alarm monitoring.

Written By: Christine Romans

How to protect your elderly family from home intrusion

You always need to ensure that your aging parents’ home is safe and secure. There have been reports that homes where women or senior citizens who are alone are prime targets for home invasions. There are many things that can be done to protect your elderly family members; here are some things that can be done to decrease the chance of your older family members from becoming victims:

  §  Trim trees and shrubs to eliminate hiding places for thieves.

  §  Keep the outside of your home well lit, especially outside windows and doors. You can install motion sensor lights to deter any burglars and alert you of potential criminals.

  §  Make it difficult for an intruder to enter your home. Be certain that all your windows and doors are locked properly and cannot be forced open.

  §  Many communities have free or low cost repairs to low-income seniors. Check with local senior organisations for more information.

  §  Create and maintain safe and easy escape routes in very room. You need to ensure that you know how to get out fast.

  §  When you are away from home, use timers on inside lamps and radios to create the illusion of an occupied home.

  §  When you return home always give the house a brief survey before entering. If anything looks suspicious, call the police immediately.

  §  Form a neighbourhood watch program and watch out for one another.

  §  Report suspicious activity to the police.

  §  Install a modern security system

  §  Follow safe practices with your elderly family members every day.

There has been many studies that indicate that home invasion is on the top of the list of concerns for senior citizens, this is understandable because property crimes represent the highest share of crimes against 65 years and older. If you do the steps listed above, you will give you and your elderly family member’s peace of mind.

For all your home security needs, contact SIS - Security & Investigation Services. They can offer your a wide variety of services, from general guarding and farm protection to CCTV off site and alarm monitoring.

Written By: Christine Romans