And for owners of multi-family buildings, it pays off to prioritize a secure environment for residents. Can we discuss security risks faced by multi-family properties and provide tips to reduce these threats?

Reassess Your Buildings’ Security Risks

Security risks are unique depending on the property type, the area where it is located, and even the time of the year. It’s not only important to stay up to date with news but police crime statistics, and historical data can be great tools to identify new property risks.

For example, if you’re concerned about security in Multi-Family Properties and the buildings are located in Chicago, you can use The Chicago Police Department Clear Map. The map allows you to to enter the property address and filter crime records by date and type. The results will then divide crimes into property or violent categories. Property crimes include: burglary, larceny/theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. Once you identify and visualize the proximity of these crimes, it can help you decide which security measures are needed.

Lock your Doors and Windows

As a security expert, if we were ever going to stick with one recommendation that’s completely free, it would be: to develop a routine where you check all entry points to your property. We often repeat this because the most common points of entry for burglars are unlocked doors and windows.

If you find that there’s a breech in security, for example, tenants that leave the entrance door open or packages that are stolen, an access control system can help. An access control system can help you manage access and it’s a reliable solution to restrict multiple areas and buildings. Additionally, If units have sliding doors, provide a lock bar or rod to prevent these from being open.

Monitor and Update your Camera System

Many of our condominium and building clients opt to have cameras in each entrance. If you have a camera system, make it a habit to review footage everyday (or at least every other day) at a similar time. Regularly reviewing footage helps you spot unusual activity before it becomes a problem.

Additionally, scheduling maintenance checks every six months ensures your cameras are in top condition. Regular maintenance extends the life of your system and enhances the overall security in your multi-family property.

Improve Outdoor Lighting

Lights for multi-family properties can be both aesthetically appealing and help step up that feeling of being welcomed and safe. Well-lit entrances, walkways, parking lots, and garages discourage crime and help residents feel safe.

LED lights are a good option for parking lots because they use less electricity, provide uniform light, and produce less heat. Some additional features include auto turn on and off depending on the time of the day.

Remember to ask residents to report if any lights are not working and replace them in a timely manner. Taking prompt action demonstrates that you’re committed to providing a safe building.

Protect your Valuables

To protect valuable items, keep them out of sight from outside windows and doors where they might attract burglars. If package theft has been reported in the area, consider restricting access to the mailroom with smart locks or access control.

Ask building residents to avoid leaving expensive items, devices, and equipment in plain view. If possible, require that renters purchase insurance and keep a detailed list of items that could be claimed if there’s an incident.

Engage with Residents to Improve Security

A strong security culture starts with informed residents. Regularly engaging with residents through meetings, newsletters, and social media makes them active participants in keeping the property safe.

Additionally, owners should encourage residents to report crimes to the property manager immediately after making a police report. This allows management to keep track of incidents and to take additional action if needed.

When you provide a fast and secure way of communication, you’ll build trust for better resolutions and less crime.

By adopting these habits, property owners and residents can work together to create a secure and welcoming environment. Remember, proactive security measures not only protect your property but also enhance the quality of life for everyone who calls it home.

The post 6 Habits that Enhance Security in Multi-Family Properties appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Depending on the system, this will be an investment for the next 5 – 10 years and will play a vital role in day to day operations. If your goal is to increase the safety of employees, visitors, and reduce loss of valuable equipment, these are 6 options that most businesses consider.

Security Cameras provide valuable evidence in the event of a crime

From both owners and customers point of view, people are increasingly seeking more secure businesses. This is especially true in the Chicago area, where theft, carjackings and break-ins have noticeably increased since the pandemic era.

Security cameras can be a great option when your goal is to monitor activities inside and around your business. Most high-definition cameras record and send you notifications upon detecting motion. These alerts can be received directly to your phone if the system works with an App.

Additional services might include storing footage on the cloud. Security cameras and Cloud storage have become one of the most effective ways to work with police if an incident occurs. Video footage can aid law enforcement in investigations and can also be useful for internal reviews or insurance claims.

Beyond security purposes, cameras can be useful for tracking package deliveries. This perk, however, might be more important for establishments that don’t operate during regular business hours.

Alarm systems are crucial for discouraging criminal activity

The presence of alarm systems can deter potential burglars or vandals. Knowing that a business is equipped with alarms can discourage criminal activity.

Take for example, one of our clients that has a restaurant business.

Last year, two individuals tried to break in through the restaurant’s back door and outdoor security cameras captured the suspects. 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.

This rapid resolution works well because Alarm Systems can be connected to monitoring services and alert law enforcement or security personnel immediately. When a breach occurs,  this process ensures a swift response to potential threats, minimizing the risk of theft or damage.

An optional feature that can be added to alarms is Panic Buttons.  A panic button is essential to businesses that have a storefront but private offices can also find it useful if they need to de-escalate a situation that has gotten out of control. This alarm immediately alerts relevant personnel and provides your location and type of emergency.

For additional peace of mind, opt for a Panic Button that allows employees to not only send alerts indicating an issue but also receive confirmation that their alerts have been received.

Access control restricts entry to authorized personnel only

Access Control helps protect sensitive areas within the business and ensures that only qualified individuals can access specific resources.

This essential security tool supports your building’s daily operations. It provides easy access to tenants, maintenance crew, and outside contractors. This is why controlling your access control system remotely is helpful. You can easily provide entry to a locked site even when you’re not physically there.

Intercom systems improve two-way conversation with anyone in your organization

Intercom systems are an innovative, convenient way to improve two-way conversation with anyone in your organization. This service is ideal for offices that are not open to the public or have an “only by appointment policy.” If your employees are located in different areas of a building or in different buildings, you can effectively grant/deny access.

Additionally, an intercom system works well alongside surveillance systems such as cameras to make it easier to greet incoming visitors and direct them to certain areas of your business.

Security Gates Provide a Physical Barrier

Security gates provide a physical barrier for businesses with storefronts. Alone, they pose as a deterrent from crime, dissuading intruders from entering a property. Because they cover both doors and windows, burglars tend to perceive it as “too much work.”

In combination with a visible outdoor camera, chances are, intruders would move on to an easier target.

Security is essential for businesses. By incorporating one or multiple systems, electronic security plays a vital role in protecting from a wide range of threats, ensuring both physical security and peace of mind for business owners and employees alike.

The post 6 Business Security Essentials for Peace of Mind appeared first on VinTech Systems.

But what about small business and residential homes that have strong ties to the Chicagoland and don’t want or can’t afford to leave?

Feeling secure is not a commodity but a necessity for Chicago residents.

A VinTech employee who lives in Bowmanville, a family-friendly neighborhood in Chicago, says she had always felt safe living there. Then last week, a string of robberies close to her home  started to make her feel uneasy.

That Monday morning, she heard helicopters in the area for several hours.

The suspects were later arrested in Lincoln Square but not before 2 people were assaulted and the car that was used for the crimes crashed against a city truck.

Then a few days later, she opened her Nextdoor App to write this post:

“This morning, Wednesday Dec 21st, at around 3:05 a.m. I woke up to three gunshots that were at very close proximity. This occurred near Farragut and Hoyne in the Bowmanville neighborhood. Can anyone tell me if they heard them too? I’m shook because they sounded so close.”

Dozens of neighbors commented with support and what they were already doing as a response to the incident. Unfortunately, many agree that even when the act of violence is not directed at you, it can disturb your peace and routine.

How do outdoor security cameras improve safety?

Security cameras are not new to the City of Chicago who has a network of more than 50,000. In addition, last year’s Home and Business Protection Program provided a rebate for residents to install new outdoor security cameras.

In order to improve safety, one of the program’s requirements was to connect these public cameras to The City of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications.

The OEMC is a “state-of-the-art unified video surveillance network” that officials and Homeland Security directors access “during emergency situations and after appropriate notification has been given.”

As part of the process, our technicians connected new camera systems to this network and trained clients to manage their new system. Additionally, our office staff provided guidance and the documentation needed to apply for the rebate.

Why are more Chicago residents and business owners installing outdoor cameras?

Deter criminals.
Most criminals want to commit a crime and move on to the next “best thing”.

Outdoor security cameras are different from other security systems because they are visible BEFORE the crime is committed. In conjunction with warning signs, they work to increase the perception that would-be criminals could be caught and punished.

Provide evidence. 
One thing that most Chicago residents will agree is that they don’t want offenders getting away with crimes.

Security cameras can capture criminals in the act but most importantly, they capture details. High definition security cameras can give significant clues like face features, tattoos, and vehicle license plates. When an incident occurs in front of your business or residence, you’ll be glad to have footage to provide as evidence to the police.  And with the video surveillance network, they will access the footage almost right away.

Why is a burglar alarm a necessity?

A recent FBI report, found that 1 in 3 homes without a security system will fall victim to a burglary as compared to 1 in 250 homes that do have a security system.

A burglar alarm can help decrease those chances and is one of the most cost-effective solutions to secure a home or business.
Get back your peace of mind.

An alarm system works with sensors. When a sensor is triggered, there’s a physical and electronic notification. The physical alert is useful if you are inside the home or business and to alert neighbors.

During the night, you can fall asleep more peacefully knowing that you’ll be alerted if someone tries to break into your home or business. This is a simple proactive action that can give you that peace of mind back.

When a professional company monitors your alarm, you’ll also have a faster response from the police and it’ll buy you some time to take charge of the situation.
Safety routine in Place.

Did you know that the most common points of entry for burglars are open doors and windows?

When you have a burglar alarm, it’s easier to be in control because it becomes part of your routine. If there are any tips you’ll ever want to follow are these three: Lock all doors (including the garage or back doors for businesses), lock all windows, and arm your alarm.

Reduce losses. 

A burglar alarm can be controlled remotely. From a phone App, you can arm and disarm your system, control your thermostat, and other smart devices. Everyday actions, overtime increases protection and reduces loss of valuable items and resources.

Want to discuss which system is best for your property?

Contact us with your questions at info@vintechnology.com and join the network of Chicago residents who are already using their systems to improve safety in their lives and neighborhoods.

Recent incidents that have been caught by businesses and residential cameras.

Robberies – Armed robbery in Lincoln Park of a woman who was visiting daughter from Wisconsin for Holiday shopping.
Car jackings. Car jacking assault caught on camera. Victim fought to get her dog out of the car.
Disappearances. The Wiener’s Circle provided footage that helped in the disappearance of Northwestern student Peter Salvino.

The post Do Chicago residents really need a security system? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Earlier this month, ABC news reported the case of Danielle Cruz, a Chicago homeowner who was remodeling her vacant home when a stranger moved into the property. When she realized this was happening, she called the police.  However, when police arrived, they couldn’t do anything after the “trespasser” showed them a signed lease.

Why couldn’t the police remove the woman from Danielle’s home?

Although trespassing is a crime in Illinois, police officers have no way of knowing whether the person in question is a trespasser or a tenant. Even when it’s up to their discretion to remove the person, they often refuse. This is because they don’t want to be liable if the homeowner is simply trying to skip the eviction process.

In these cases, Police will likely handle this as a civil matter rather than criminal if no other crimes are taking place. Nonetheless, it’s still important to report the incident to the police. Officers are considered sworn witnesses and their statements are documented in official reports.

What is a Squatter?

“A squatter is someone who trespasses on a piece of property they do not own and begins living there without permission. They do not have any legal claim to the property and are not tenants, but after a period of time they may gain squatter’s rights.”

Nonetheless, the process to remove a squatter is usually lengthy.  As mentioned above, the property owner must file an action in court for civil trespassing and wait for a court date where a judge will decide on the case. This is why it’s far easier to prevent your vacant property from being occupied by trespassers in the first place than to remove a squatter.

When a trespasser becomes a Squatter

In the case of Danielle Cruz, by the time she realized that there was someone living in her home, the squatter had already changed the locks. This means that at least several days had passed since the intruder had settled in Danielle’s home. Furthermore, “this unaccounted time” makes it more difficult for police to treat this incident as trespassing.

In retrospect, the only “right timing” to prevent a squatter from settling into your home, it’s to be alerted as the incident is occurring.

Can an alarm system prevent trespassers from settling into your vacant property?

Burglar Alarm 

Burglar alarms are monitored by a local station 24/7. Whether you are at home or away, the system will alert you and the local monitoring station when someone or something ‘is in the zone’ and has activated the motion sensors. The monitoring station will then call you to verify a false alarm or to dispatch the authorities immediately if needed.

This system is best for…homes.

Benefits:

• Protect your investment from Squatters or intruders.
• Manage and monitor your alarm from your phone remotely from an app. Additional smart home devices can also be managed this way.
• Discounts on home insurance.

Video Verification Alarm

A Virtual Guard Verification Alarm uses high-tech cameras with live video monitoring to provide continuous feedback. Properties are monitored 24/7 and when the system’s camera detects motion, a signal is sent to a live operator. The operator will ask the person to leave through an onsite speaker. A local police officer or a security guard will be immediately dispatched if the intruder doesn’t leave.

This system is best for… construction sites, commercial buildings, auto dealerships, warehouses, schools, and any places with open/wide areas.

Benefits:

• No power? No phone line? No internet? A Video Verification Alarm provides security even with the ‘three no’s and under extreme weather conditions.
• Your property is protected soon after your account is activated. This process takes less than 24 hours and there isn’t training involved to operate the system.
• In addition to the camera, Virtual Guard’s sensor can also be triggered and an automated voice message will ask the trespasser to leave the area.

Removing a squatter from your property can be a lengthy process that can cost thousands of dollars for a property owner. The best plan is to get alerted as soon as a trespasser enters the property. An alarm system and support from a local monitoring company can work together to protect your investments.  Catching an intruder in time will prevent them from settling into your home.

The post How to Protect your Property from Squatters appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Are QR Codes safe to use?

Quick Response (QR) codes are relatively easy to use and have become a commodity during the pandemic. Many more people are willing to use these codes (or forced in some cases) because of the “avoid touching” culture that continues to be embedded in our minds. The thing is that many of the new ways of doing things from the past two years will probably stick around for good. Are cybercriminals taking notice? Of course, their job is to master our behavior to then use it against us.

If we’re using QR codes, then why not modify these and embed malicious sites to steal personal information or money? This is exactly what happened in the state of Texas.

Multiple cities in Texas recently reported spotting fake QR codes in parking meters. The issue was so widespread that even the FBI had to get involved in the case. People were approaching parking meters, scanning QR codes that were placed on the equipment, and then the code would lead them to a malicious website. Users were then prompted to enter their credit card information and make payment.

Did they think twice about moving forward with this process? Probably not.

It was not until later when people checked their purchases or got an alert that they realized it was all a scam. The truth is that many of us trust that official city equipment like parking meters are reliable. And since the whole transaction probably took less than a minute, there wasn’t much time to alert buyers that something could be wrong.

The good thing is that we can learn from what has already happened and prevent it from happening to us. How do we do that?

First, we learn how QR codes work, who is using them, and what makes them vulnerable.

How do QR Codes work?

QR codes work similar to barcodes. They’re a machine-scannable image that can instantly be read using a smartphone camera. You simply have to open you phone’s camera and hold it close enough for the QR code to be detected. Once your Smartphone starts reading the code, it translates that information into data that can be understood by humans.

Who is using QR codes?

QR codes are a versatile tool and therefore used in most industries. Their capacity to store large amounts of data is definitely an attractive feature. Many businesses are using QR codes for restaurant menus, packaging, and links to websites. Many companies, especially those that are environmentally-friendly, also promote the use of codes as these reduce the demand for printing.

What makes codes vulnerable?

QR codes, like other links, can contain malware or open the door to a phishing attack. Hackers can either insert malicious links on QR codes or email attachments. And although most companies have anti-viruses software for company emails, a QR code might go unnoticed. This is why it’s important to avoid opening codes from emails, especially, if you can’t confirm that they come from a trustworthy source.

Can you spot a fake QR code?

Most likely you will not be able to distinguish a fake code. The most important thing to remember is that if you’re unsure of its legitimacy, it’s best not to scan it. Additionally, you can use this rule when using QR codes: only use codes to obtain information not to give away yours.

Consider paying with cash or make payments only on official websites and apps. If a QR code asks you for any personal information, it should be a red flag and the clue to exit right away.

What to read next – 5 Ways to Protect your Remote Access App

The post Should you scan that QR code? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The energy profile of your apartment, home, or business is always unique. Factors like the square feet of your space, the number of appliances and how often you used them, all contribute to the cost of your electric bill. However, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t ways to reduce this cost. The use of smart technology and daily changes can both make a difference on your pocket and the environment.

What is a smart thermostat?

A smart thermostat is a small device that can be controlled remotely with an App or any other internet connected device. It allows you to schedule your settings to predetermined temperatures and manage the device even when you’re not onsite.  A smart thermostat can also be connected to an existing alarm system and be controlled from the alarm panel.

How to choose a smart thermostat

There are many smart thermostats brands to choose from. If you already have an alarm system in place, the best option is to contact your security company and inquire about their recommendations. Most of the time, they will know which brands and models are compatible with your system. Additionally, it will save you the time of searching for this information yourself.

If you don’t already work with a security company, this article Best Smart Thermostats of 2021 from the Consumer Reports website might be helpful. The report includes brands like Ecobee, Honeywell, and Google Nest.

How to Manage your Home Device for Best Results

If your main goal is to save money on your home electric bill, you’re on the right track. A smart thermostat will help you reduce energy costs by giving you flexibility to manage your device from an app. The settings have a schedule function that you can use to set the thermostat at a predetermined temperature during different times of the day. Controlling your smart thermostat from the app also means that you don’t have to be at home to manage it. This can be especially helpful on days when the weather in Chicago is expected to reach extreme conditions.

Save 10% on your home electric bill by following this rule

If you want to decrease your electric bill by up to 10%, you’ll need to adjust the thermostat temperature to 5 -7 degrees of your normal temperature setting for 8 hours a day. For example, if during the summer you usually set it up at 70 degrees, you can increase it to 75 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. when you’re usually at work or during the weekends when you’re out and about. Once you’re getting ready to go back home, decrease the temperature via the app and arrive to a cool home.

Additionally, since many people have been working from home during the pandemic and expect to continue to do so, one better option is to look for smart thermostats with multiple zones capabilities. This system allows you to set up different temperatures in different zones of your home; which is an ideal fit when you’re spending many hours in your home office.

How to Maximize the Use of a Thermostat in a Commercial Space

Commercial spaces require the same if not more attention to detail than residential homes. Take for example one of our long-time clients who owns a restaurant in the Edgewater neighborhood. They contacted VinTech Systems to install smart thermostats after experiencing a surge of 30% on their electric bill. The restaurant had recently reopened their indoor dining area, but it was still an elevated shift for such a short term. Upon discussing the change with the restaurant’s manager, the owner realized that most employees had forgotten to turn down the room temperature in the kitchen and front area, and before closing the restaurant at night.

In the past, VinTech had offered smart thermostat technology, but at that time, the restaurant owner didn’t think it was necessary as she was often on site. Fortunately, VinTech had already upgraded their Honeywell alarm to be compatible with the 4G network. This meant that if they now decided to install a smart thermostat, they could use a system of the same brand and simply connect it to their existing alarm system.

The restaurant owner now manages the thermostat remotely and immediately saw a decrease of 15% in their electric bill the following month after installation..

What additional steps can you take to reduce your electric bill?

In addition to installing a smart thermostat, we have found these simple tasks to be effective to reduce energy costs:

1. Turn off appliances when not in use to extend their life and decrease the cost of replacements. Unplugging also helps and you can reduce the time dedicated to this task by using smart power strips.
2. Switch your lightbulbs to LEADs. They have a longer life and will save up to 80% more energy.
3. Install efficient showerheads. They don’t only reduce the cost of energy but help by filtrating water.

Final Thoughts

Installing smart thermostats at your home or business can help decrease your electric bill and save you time when you use the schedule settings to set up predetermined temperatures. If you are unsure about how to start as there’re so many options out there, call us today at 773-388-1208. We are here to answer any questions.

The post Can a Smart Thermostat Save you Money? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Here is how.

Receive a Discount on Insurance Premiums

Many insurance companies provide a discount on insurance premiums if the property has a security system in place. In a way, they are providing an incentive for theft protection and the possibility of reducing the number of claims. This is a win-win situation for a property owner. Not only will you get an initial discount but if your claims decrease, you will also keep premiums from rising.

If you are unsure about the requirements needed to get a discount, talk to your insurance provider to find more information. Many require a certificate of installation to verify that a security system has been installed in your property. If this is the case, the company that installed your system can provide this for you. Currently, VinTech Systems provides certificates of installation for burglar alarms only. Our clients for which we have installed alarm systems and have a current monitoring service can request a certificate.

Resolve a Slip and Fall Claim

According to the National Safety Council, falls accounted for more than 8 million injuries in 2019. To put it into perspective, 8 million is a lot when the City of Chicago reported to have 2.7 million residents in that same year. Moreover, more than 39,000 of these incidents resulted in deaths. This is why the possibility of an incident like this happening in your property should be taken seriously.

A slip and fall claim cannot only cost you thousands of dollars but it can also mean serious legal problems. This is where a high definition security camera can be helpful. Footage from a camera can help you dispute a false slip and fall claim. It can clear you from liability and even save you from receiving a fine or sentence.

Reduce or Replace Security Personnel

A security system might seem like a high investment at the beginning. Especially when you are trying to decide which system(s) are best for your property. However, if you already have security personnel in your building, those two or three salaries a year will probably add to a much larger sum after a couple of years. Additionally, unlike security guards, a security system can monitor 24hr/7.

A Security Camera System is Always Recording

For example, a high-definition security camera records motion and automatically stores footage. In case of an incident, this footage can be used for evidence. Nonetheless, some camera systems might have a storage limit. One of the factors that affect video storage is whether the camera is focused on high or low traffic areas.  This is why it’s important to download and save footage as soon as an incident happens. VinTech Systems takes pride in designing systems that work with the needs of our clients to make sure their footage requirements are met.

A second example is access control. This system can help you restrict who has access to your property and at which times. For example, office employees can be set up to have access to the front entrance of the building from 6 a.m. to  6 p.m., cleaning personnel from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and overnight security guards from 11 p.m. – 6 a.m. As precise as you want it to be, access control allows you to control who accesses your property. You will hold the “key” to your success in reducing incidents and losses in your property which in return will save you money. And although security systems cannot completely replace security personnel, they can effectively monitor activity and provide time stamped evidence.

Reduce Wear and Tear on Smart Devices and Cost of Energy Bills

The latest technology in security systems allows you to connect smart devices to remotely control lights, thermostats, and other appliances from an app. Turning off these appliances when not in use, can certainly reduce the cost of your electric bill. Furthermore, this capability can also extend the life of your devices. This means that more time will pass before you have to replace them.

The most important thing about having a security system in your property is to give you peace of mind but that doesn’t mean you won’t appreciate the additional perks. From saving time and resources to preventing losses, the right security system can save you money in more than one way. With these simple steps, you also make sure that you are getting the best return for your investment and help preserve valuable resources for future generations.

The post 4 Ways Security Systems Can Save you Money appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Having a successful year includes investing in security for your business. While some owners focus on the best liability policy, the key also lies in choosing the best security system. If you are reading this blog you may already be considering new security for your business. Of course, all businesses are unique and VinTech believes there isn’t a one-size fits all solution. Fortunately, there are various choices in the marketplace to fit every unique needs. Let’s discuss 5 reasons to invest in a security system this year.

Deter Crime Before It Happens.

Security solutions don’t stop crime but they decrease it. For example, camera systems not only record criminal activity but help reduce the risk of a break in. Most criminals turn away from businesses with cameras as it increases the likelihood they’ll get caught. What about a video verification alarm? This service is ideal for larger businesses like construction sites, car dealers, or warehouses. The video alarm signals are verified by a trained operator. They cancel false alarms and when an intruder is spotted, they dispatch law enforcement immediately.

Save Money on Insurance.

Your insurance can decrease up to 20% when you have a security system. It’s a win-win situation. Your businesses saves on insurance and gets a tax write-off at the end of the year. Additionally, you get peace of mind for free!

Protect your Business Against Lawsuits.

A security system protects you from lawsuits. Consider the scenario of one of our clients who owns a towing company. A man picked up his car from the towing company lot and falsely accused our client of assault, not realizing he was being recorded by camera surveillance. VinTech systems retrieved the evidence and provided it to The Chicago Police.

Easier to Alert Authorities of an Intrusion.

Intrusion alarms and camera systems are the most popular. Why?  They can be monitored remotely. You no longer need to be on site and the police can be dispatched immediately. A significantly faster police response increases arrests of burglars or vandals.

Keep Vandals out.

Keep in mind that unrestricted property is a magnet for vandalism. Nonetheless, an alarm system and good lighting can help deter criminals. Your business will be protected even when you are away.

The post 5 Reasons to Invest in Security for your Business appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Sometimes we hear stories about incidents that aren’t caught by security cameras due to management negligence. Just recently, a client experience two employee assaults within a month. The employees reported the incidents to police and they were asked to retrieve footage from the business’ surveillance system. Unfortunately, weeks prior to the incident the system was not working well. Additionally, the company had new management and did not update their information with us. Is was the perfect storm for disaster. The second incident is a repeated offense and the company could face liability.

These are three ways to prevent business’ liability.

Update your Records

Call your security provider to inform them of management changes and system malfunctions. Its important to have current account information. In case of an emergency, the security company will know who to contact. Additionally, if the system is not working properly its the same as if you didn’t have it at all.

Conduct on-site Training

As a professional in the security industry, we often emphasize the importance of training. Generally, on site training has no additional cost when done in conjunction with installation. Initial training can teach a team to efficiently operate your security system. They will be prepared to playback video and download footage if a crime occurs. Proper training can also reduce service calls, save you time, and money. Most importantly, training can protect your business from liability.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Professional companies should offer maintenance plans. These plans include regular maintenance, technical support, and discounts in equipment. Furthermore, its a secure way to have a reliable system. Just like a car, regular maintenance on your security system will improve its performance.

Our technical support team is always available to update records, conduct on-site training, and schedule a maintenance service. Contact us!  Property managers can always be ahead of the game when it comes to preventive measures. Take reasonable steps for the safety of your employees and public.

The post Three Ways to Protect Your Business from Liability appeared first on VinTech Systems.

In our November blog, we discussed how a security system provided same-day results in one of the largest homes in Illinois. The property had been trespassed and vandalized. The owner decided to install a security camera system after paying a high cost for repairs. The first day the cameras and sensors were installed, our client received fifteen notifications. Fortunately, the alarms scared the trespassers away.

Most recently, a client experienced a more serious crime. A murder took place near his property and the suspect was seen running into his condo building. A few weeks prior to this incident, the building experienced a power outage. The power outage caused the security system to malfunction. However, there was little priority given to the security system due to property management changes.

A security system is reliable evidence when it works well. It is when an incident occurs that you need will need it most. You can’t get a rain check on that!

Prevention is key. These are the top five reasons to give maintenance to your equipment:

1. Reliability. Maintenance assures the equipment continues to work properly.

2. The cameras are capturing motion 24/7 and the DVR is recording 365 days a year. Even if the equipment is high quality, it needs a refresh.

3. The equipment deals with environmental stress. Outdoor cameras are outside during storms, snow, and freezing temperatures. They need to be checked and cleaned to prevent damage.

4. Heavy winds can occasionally shift the camera’s focus. therefore its not a good idea to have the camera lenses focused on the floor right?

5. The cost of the equipment. Maintenance will extend the life of the equipment. Protect your investment.

What happens during a maintenance service?

A service technician will adjust the cameras to a proper angle. They will also check for signs of equipment deterioration and the condition of the system’s cable connections. Furthermore, they will update the software to make sure it continues to work properly. Take this opportunity to ask questions. And if you haven’t yet, its recommended to ask about the cost of a maintenance plan.

Whether you have a maintenance service or not, always call your security service provider if the system is not working properly. Additionally, we recommend contacting your security company to update your account if changes are made.

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