In the last few months, Chicago businesses have become a common target for “Crash and Smash” attacks and overnight break-ins. Thieves are targeting all kinds of businesses including those that were thought to be uncommon choices. One of the most frustrating issues is that the break-ins are often motivated by small amounts of cash or odd items like cooking oil from restaurants.

This was the case of local bakery Defloured, who was recently burglarized TWICE during the month of January. During the first incident, “ two male suspects broke the front window, entered and took an unknown amount of cash before getting into a dark-colored vehicle and driving east, police said.” The second incident was similar except it was the front door that was damaged and property was taken.

These crimes are frustrating for businesses because there is a great loss from the damage that’s done to the establishment and they are often forced to close temporarily to repair the damage. It’s an unfair situation for small business owners who lose business and are left with a feeling of vulnerability to it happening again.

Can your Business security system evolve to help minimize damage from local crime trends?

Simple changes like upgrading security equipment and training can make a real difference while an incident is in motion. This is how businesses can give a makeover to their burglar alarm and video surveillance systems to minimize loss.

Alarm Monitoring for Businesses

1. Have a plan to respond quickly when an incident is in motion. It’s important to store your alarm passcodes in a place that’s easy to access and only share it with employees you trust.  This includes regularly updating the contact list to ensure former employees are removed and new added. When a business owner stays up to date with this data, communication between your business and the monitoring company is more efficient.  In case someone tries to break-in, the alarm will be triggered and the monitoring company will call the contacts in your emergency list. Additionally, upon confirming the situation, they will dispatch police in just a few minutes.

2. Install additional motion sensors near windows and doors. Are there any additional areas in your business that need attention? Perhaps you only have sensors on the front and back door but want to secure a side window or gate? Reassessing you security needs will ensure that your business is not stagnant in any aspect including protecting additional areas that were originally missed.

3. Inform your security company of changes in schedule. Life happens and if your business undergoes a renovation or will be temporarily closed, inform your security company.  If they are aware of these changes, they can work with the monitoring station to better handle an emergency.

Video Surveillance for Businesses

1. Install additional outdoor cameras in entrances and exits or relocate a current camera to a more efficient place. In some instances, its not necessary to buy additional cameras but better distribute the ones you already have. if you are unsure if this can be done, a professional company can help you asses how to rearrange your system to maximize coverage.

2. Discuss new concerns with your security provider. Stay up to date with news and crime on your neighborhood to identify trends. If your business has outdoor security cameras and your footage can be of assistance, consider giving access to police. This way, burglars will be caught faster. Additionally, speak to your security provider to hear they recommendations.

3. Schedule training with employees to give them confidence to use the system efficiently. Do you have new employees? Skipping training is a big mistake! Everyone that operates the system should know how to manage simple features. These include playback, download footage, and passwords. When they’re know this process, it eliminates the need to call us for support. Not that we don’t want to help, but we want you to be confident and able to handle it all.

The post Does your Business Security System Need a Makeover? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Just this past Sunday night through Monday morning, a series of eight armed robberies and carjackings occurred in the South Loop and Northwest Side of Chicago. In each case, the victims were ambushed by two to four people and in some cases beaten and robbed.

This increase in serial incidents have prompted police to ask the public for help.

What can Residents do to Improve their Safety?

Download and Use the Chicago OEMC App

The official safety app of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) became available back in February.

It provides residents with preparedness tips, safety information, alerts, and the CHI Safe Walk. The CHI Walk feature shares your location with a friend or family member when walking or traveling alone. Additionally, it has the option to call the police by pressing only one button.

Download the app here

Collaborate with OEMC by linking Privately-owned Public Cameras.

Chicago property and business owners have the option to link their public cameras to the OEMC network. The main goal for residents to work with OEMC is to accelerate the process of solving crimes. When participating in the program, police are granted access to private public cameras. This minimizes valuable time that is spent calling, downloading, and sending footage from one individual to another.

One example of how communication can be delayed during an emergency is when an association or business has a new employee that doesn’t know the password or how to operate the system.

When something like this happens, we first contact the main account holder to approve the request. Once they approve it, we assist the new employee or walk them through the process of downloading the footage. And lastly, we save and send the footage to the police. This simple process can typically take a few days to complete and delay cases that are time sensitive.

Is Genetec Stratocast Video the Right Option for You?

If you are considering connecting your cameras to OEMC but still feel unsure about how this can help your organization, the experience of these two customers might help.

This is how these clients are using Genetec Stratocast cloud video surveillance to collaborate with Chicago police and manage their systems:

Client #1 – Parking Corporation

Our long time client, a parking corporation, wanted to connect their camera system to the Chicago’s office of Emergency Management & Communication (OEMC). With OEMC connection, police can access camera feed from outdoor cameras during emergencies and after appropriate notification has been given.

We recommended Genetec Stratocast video service as all cameras can be accessed and managed in the cloud.

We upgraded their 1080P HD camera to a 4K camera. The new system was not only compatible with OEMC but provided up to four times higher resolution than the standard 1080 resolution.

Client #2 – Apartment Complex

Another long-time client, an apartment complex, contacted us to replace their old camera system. They wanted the new system to be easier to manage and to have more coverage.

We replaced the old cameras with 4-lens cameras to provide 180 degree coverage.

They also opted to connect their cameras to OEMC. They report that the service makes it easier to manage the system from one central station and has improved communication with police during incidents.

Will Police Have Access to All My Cameras?

It’s important to clarify that police will only have access to cameras that are recording in public areas and will still communicate with the camera owner before accessing footage. This is also an agreement that could be revoked if the owner no longer wants to share access.

What do Property and Business Owners Need to do to Connect their Public Cameras to OEMC?

The most practical solution is Genetec Stratocast Video Surveillance. This is a well-established and reliable cloud solution that many associations, properties, and businesses are already using. Some of these include: The Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council, The Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field ballpark, and SSA districts.

Want to implement the use of this technology to help reduce crime in Chicago? Contact us to discuss the process or to get a quote by calling 773-388-1208.

The post Can Public Cameras Connected to OEMC Reduce Crime? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

About our Client

Alice and Friends is a vegan restaurant that offers Asian-inspired dishes, specialty drinks, and house-made desserts in the Chicago area since 2001. In 2015, they installed a VinTech alarm system and indoor and outdoor security cameras. Their outdoor security cameras are registered with the City’s OEMC Program. This allows the Chicago Police Department access to public security cameras and collect evidence to solve crimes.

The night of the incident, Alice and Friends’ outdoor security cameras captured the suspects walking in the alley. The first suspect was slim-build and wore fitted black jeans, a dark-colored hoodie, and light-colored sneakers. The second suspect was medium-build and wore washed jeans, a dark jacket, and white and black sneakers. They were both seen approaching the back door of the business and forcing it open.

As soon as the door was opened, video footage displayed the burglar alarm going off and the suspects running away immediately.

The local alarm monitoring company called our client to confirm it wasn’t a false alarm. They dispatched police right away and law enforcement was able to verify that only one door was damaged.

The next day, police accessed the outdoor cameras to view footage.  At the same time, VinTech’s technical support team worked with Alice and Friends’ owner to review their indoor cameras.  They assisted in saving a copy of the incident’s footage and suggested cloud storage as an add-on service.

String of Business Burglaries in the Chicago Area

Alice and Friends’ incident is only one among a string of business burglaries that are increasing in the Chicago area. Suspects have switched their attention to restaurants, bakeries, and stores because of the possibility of finding cash or small devices that can be easily carried.

Since most businesses now receive payment with credit cards and other forms of e-payments, this means that burglars are willing to break-in and cause property damage over small amounts of cash.

All the meanwhile, small business owners can get stuck with costly repairs or lengthy insurance claims.

How can Burglar Alarms Reduce Property Damage?

A burglar alarm reduces property damage to businesses by preventing or deterring a break in. In the case of Alice and Friends, it prevented further damage to the restaurant and equipment by causing the burglars to panic.

In the aftermath of the incident, our client decided to add cloud storage service. With cloud storage, footage from their cameras is automatically saved to the cloud. This gives them peace of mind that even when physical equipment is destroyed or taken, footage is still stored.  In case an incident happens again, footage will be automatically stored and can be accessed anytime.

How to Choose the Best Security System for your Business

Because there isn’t a one-size fits all solution, the security provider you choose should be an expert in anticipating your unique needs.  Ask for a site survey where you can discuss how to best protect your property and potential challenges.

When securing a restaurant or small business, you are not only protecting your team but also potentially saving thousands of dollars by preventing damage to your property or equipment.

The post Alice & Friends Vegan Kitchen Avoids Theft with VinTech Alarm System appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Opening the doors of your property to find that you were robbed can be unsettling. Insurance is helpful but you still want those who are responsible to be arrested.

LG Bar, a Chicago business located in the neighborhood of Old Town was robbed overnight last spring. The bar’s cameras recorded HD images of the intruders. In fact, their faces, clothing, and special characteristics were all identified. Chicago police received footage containing all the useful evidence.

Nowadays, more crimes are solved with the help of technology, social media, and security cameras. You can expect this peace of mind when acquiring security system for your property or business.

Helps Deter Crime

Some businesses post photos of thieves in their he wall of shame to expose criminals. Similarly, security cameras can work to intimidate thieves. Their main purpose is to deter crime although they can’t stop it. Nonetheless, basic security measures should not be neglected. Property owners still need to lock their doors, report suspicious activity, and activate their alarm system overnight.

Increase the Security of your Community

Communities often have block watch programs in their neighborhoods. These programs rely on volunteers to keep a watchful eye and report crime in their blocks. In the past, it was common to complain about nosy neighbors. Nowadays, these community programs rely heavily on technology. For example, the suburb of Hinsdale, IL. Their program Block Watch registers their neighborhood’s outdoor cameras. The neighborhood’s quality of life reflects the programs’ success. In 2019, Hinsdale IL ranks safer than 81% of U.S cities. In this town, security cameras have become the new community that keeps watch 24/7. 

Refute False Claims

From time to time, businesses have to deal with incorrect claims from clients. False claims can do more than ruin your day. Security camera footage can help resolve those claims faster when you use it as evidence. Evidence can help settle a claim whether its a misunderstanding or crime.

Its reliable Witness

When settling disputes, eye witnesses can forget important details or may unintentionally change a suspect’s description, time, or even the date of the crime. With a security camera, police can collect images and process them using face recognition. They can create an exact timeline of events (using date and time from footage) to help them gather evidence to present in court if needed.

Monitor Activity

Monitoring can help you determine the cause of inexplicable loses in your business or property. However, trust between you and your neighbors and/or your employees is also important. It would be a terrible idea to accuse someone without evidence. Even when a neighbor or an employee claims to have seen another person doing something, its not granted. A security camera system enables you to make an informed decision. Cameras should be used for protection not to micromanage.

A security camera system can empower you, protect your assets, and keep you safe by deterring crime from your community.

Want to read more on the this topic? Read our blog. Security Cameras: Top 5 Reasons You Need Them Now. 

The post Your Chicago Property Needs Security Cameras appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce decided to add an additional 18 cameras in the Chicago Chinatown area. While the neighborhood is considered quite safe, community leaders have been discussing the ongoing safety of residents and tourists. In association with Chicago Chinatown parking, The Chicago Chinatown Chamber of commerce selected our company to provide expertise and installation of the new cameras. 

The Challenge

Our challenge was to identify the most suitable locations to distribute the cameras. The Chinatown neighborhood is located in Chicago’s south side so we carefully considered the needs of the community to provide optimal solutions.

During our meetings, we identified areas with higher crime rates. We decided to focus on even distribution to maximize coverage.  Additionally, we recommended the use of wireless high definition cameras that detect motion.  These cameras follow motion, record continuously, and provide wider coverage.  Furthermore, a single high definition cameras is capable of covering the same area as four analog cameras. This capability was essential in providing wider coverage while simultaneously being cost-effective.

The Solution

As part of the solution, we also emphasize the importance of being able to identify facial features and license plate numbers. Only high definition cameras can enhanced images without compromising details. The system’s DVR automatically saves and stores footage for up to 21 days. If a crime occurs,  police officials can obtain the footage to assist in identifying the offender.  In many cases, this leads to an arrest. 

Moreover, other Chicago neighborhoods are already taking similar actions in an effort to increase safety in their communities. We are confident that every effort will improve safety in these communities.

The post Case Study: The Chicago Chinatown Neighborhood appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Pros 

DIY Alarm is economical

Installing the system yourself will initially get you big savings. Professional installations can have a high cost depending on the complexity of the system. Nonetheless, its recommended to first research the company to make sure its established. Second, its important to ask about the equipment’s warranty and return policy. After all, there shouldn’t be a reason to keep a system that doesn’t perform well or doesn’t fit your needs.

Take your Alarm System Wherever you go

DIY Systems are easy to uninstall. Renters or those who move often might consider this a good option. The ability to take the system wherever you go will be convenient. Additionally, installation costs will not apply as you will re-install the system yourself.

Has no Annual Contracts

Most alarm companies require a 1 or 2 year monitoring services contract. But a self-monitored security system doesn’t require a central station to monitor the system or a monthly service fee. This self-monitored security system saves the user from being in a contract and the cost of monitoring their alarm. However, the user is in charge of calling police in case of an emergency. They are also responsible for any repairs the system will inevitably require in the future.

Cons

Installations Can Go Wrong

We often receive calls from people who ask if we can fix or re-install a system they purchased online. The problem is that most professional companies will decline. Why? We can’t provide a warranty for either the job or the system. Additionally, we can’t verify if the equipment is faulty or if it has been altered prior to installation.

Limited Technical Support & Maintenance Madness

Have you called the company who sold you the equipment? Are they nowhere to be found or place you on hold for long periods of time? Other companies might agree to service the system but they can’t assure they will fix the issues. Nonetheless, they will still have to charge. The money initially saved might exceed the costs as repairs costs increase.

Remote Access Can be Hacked

Remote access is not only convenient but usually a secure way to monitor your alarm system. However, there is still a risk to be hacked. Once a hacker has your username and password, they can use it to disable your alarm system. Forbes’ article describes how a popular alarm brand can be disabled with magnets and tape. Save yourself from hackers! Have a professional walk you through the process of setting up your remote access App. Ask them for tips to protect your privacy.

These pros and cons of a DIY system should help you decide if this system fits your needs. Contact at least 3 companies and ask questions.

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You wake up to the sound of an intruder in your home. The alarm wasn’t triggered so you are unsure if you enable it.  Did the intruder enter through the main door where the motion detectors are installed or did they managed to disable it? These following tips can help you take action to control the situation.

Don’t panic.

Remember they decided to enter your personal space. You are familiar with your home and therefore in control.

Remain quiet.

Do not bring attention to yourself. Making noise will give away your location. Don’t yell out “I have a gun or I called the police.” Even if both are true.

Lock your room.

Secure your room by locking and using furniture to block the door .

Press the panic button.

Press the panic button. This button works even when your alarm system is disarmed. However, you should know you a stress code. This is a 3-digit number that is used to secretly convey the presence of an intruder.

Dial 911 and follow their instructions.

If you don’t have a panic button, call 911 and keep them on the line while you execute the next step.

Escape through a window.

Mainly if you find yourself on the first floor. If you are not able to leave the house, your first thought might be to confront the intruder. This is not the smartest move. The intruder didn’t hesitate breaking into you home when they knew there was a possibility you were there. If he injures you, who will protect your family? If possible, find a place to hide and remain on the line with the operator until the police arrives.

Remote viewing.

If you possess a camera system and can view the cameras remotely, log in, and give a description of the subjects to police.

Even though we highly discourage confrontation, our next blog How to Safely Escape a Home Invasion Part 2 will discuss what to do when confronting an intruder is inevitable.

The post How to Safely Escape a Home Invasion Part 1 appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Occasionally, our clients notify us about phone calls they’ve received from a scam artist claiming to be computer techs associated with VinTech. These scammers say that they’ve detected viruses or other malware on their computer to trick them into giving them remote access or paying for software they don’t need.  But the purpose behind their scheme isn’t to protect your computer; it’s to make money.  VinTech does not make unsolicited phone calls to request personal or financial information, or to fix your computer.  Treat all unsolicited phone calls with skepticism and don’t give any personal information.

To look at the magnitude of the problem, we want to share a statement from an e-mail we recently received from ComEd. This well-known electricity provider sent this e-mail to their clients warning them of scams. The statement read:

“Watch out for scams. For your protection, never provide your social security or personal information to anyone you are not familiar with over the phone, never send money to another entity other than ComEd, and never pay using a payment account provided to you by an unknown individual”. 

This well-known company is over 100 years old, yet scam artists use its name to steal client’s confidential information.

With these helpful tips, not only can you avoid telephone rip-offs but doorstep cons as well.

Death of Sales Man

If a sales person knocks and you feel uncomfortable opening your door, simply do not open it. This is perfectly acceptable and expected since you did not inquire about their service. If you do open the door, don’t allow them inside you home. Are they being pushy?  Be very cautious, this is a tactic to survey your valuable possessions and return later to steal them.

Who is this?

Authenticate the person calling or knocking your door. Ask for their full name and credentials. Additionally, confirm the company they represent. Never heard of it? Can’t find it online? It’s likely it doesn’t exist.

Protect your identity

Never provide personal information over the phone. Ask the caller to have your merchant call you directly. Let them know you prefer to speak with a familiar employee.

Is this a reputable source?

Conduct a quick search on the company with the Better Business Bureau. This trusted source will help you determine if the business is legitimate. They provide a detailed business report including verification of credentials.

Contact your service company

Call the company to verify they sent this person to your home. It is uncommon for businesses to send an employee without contacting you first. Don’t be fooled by a uniform. A scam artist can wear it to look trustworthy.

Choose a local company

Its best to hire a company that has their own employees. Some large security companies subcontract their work. Third party sources are more difficult to verify. Should you really trust them?

Contracts

Do not allow the sales person to pressure you. If they insist on you signing a contract, tell them you prefer to review the contract before signing.

All your service providers should be trustworthy but you must be especially careful when choosing a security provider. Having a home security system can give you peace of mind but only when you trust the people who are managing it.

The post 9 Tips that Tackle Every Scam Artist appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Park Ridge incident

No smoke alarms were found inside a Park Ridge home in which a morning fire broke out officials say.  Fire extensively damaged the rear addition of a house. Firefighters found heavy smoke and flames shooting out of the back and north side of the single-story addition. Two women who lived in the home were able to get out before firefighters arrived.  A search of the two-story brick house and rear addition found just one smoke detector on the second floor. It wasn’t working because it didn’t have batteries.

Chicago Lawn incident

A man died following a house fire in the Chicago Lawn neighborhood Tuesday afternoon that apparently was caused by careless smoking, authorities said. Crews were called to the home and took one person who had been in the home in critical condition to an area hospital, where he later died.  There were no smoke detectors in the home.

Recent news articles like these two show the critical importance of smoke detectors. These alarms can mean the difference between life and death in a fire. Working smoke alarms decrease the chance of dying in a fire by half. Smoke alarms detect and alert the presence of fire in its early stages therefore giving people time to escape safely.

Connect your smoke detector to your burglar alarm

Some of our clients have opted to have their smoke detector connected to their burglar alarm system. If the smoke detector goes off, an activation signal is sent to our alarm monitoring station, following the same emergency procedure as a burglar alarm. Although you can’t control the when, you can always ensure your smoke detector is working properly. Listed below are 6 tips that help reduce false smoke alarms.

Clean all smoke detectors in your home at least twice a year.

Airborne dust and contaminants can interfere with a smoke alarm’s ability to detect smoke and/or set a false alarm. Alarms may look clean, but dust can accumulate inside the cover, especially in newly built homes. Gently vacuum smoke alarms regularly using the soft brush attachment.

Avoid using chemicals.

Strong chemical odors like ammonia or paint fumes can set off a smoke detector.

Replace your batteries annually.

Don’t wait for that high-pitched chirp to take action. Instead, keep a standing annual date with yourself for replacing the battery in each of your smoke alarms.

Change the location.

Place your smoke detector further away from the kitchen or bathroom. If your smoke detector is located too close to these rooms, cooking fumes and steam can trick it into setting off its alarm – even when there’s no danger.

Replace your smoke detector.

The National Fire Association recommends replacing it every ten years. However, an old smoke detector can trigger false alarms. If you have already changed the batteries and your smoke detector is still beeping, it should be replaced right away.

Learn more about your alarm type and what triggers it.

There are currently three types of smoke alarms: ionization, photoelectric and combination ionization/photoelectric.

If you would like to learn more about this or to add a smoke detector to your current alarm system, please contact us at 773-388-1208 or sales@vintechnology.com

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