Securing Your Home During a Renovation

January 22, 2015 By Leave a Comment

construction-19696_1280Home renovation is an exciting and fulfilling prospect for many homeowners.  Whether you’re adding on or adjusting an existing space it’s imperative to make sure your home is protected during the process.  While renovating your home is rewarding for you and your family, you don’t want it to be a “rewarding” process for would-be thieves and criminals.  Our experts here at Perfect Connections, Inc. understand protecting your home is a top priority, especially during a renovation when it is more vulnerable.  We’ve been providing security system solutions to northern and central New Jersey homes since 1992.  If you are renovating and considering a home security system or adding on to an existing one don’t hesitate to call on our professionals.  Having a security systems expert involved from the get-go is essential for seamless integration and full protection.  We understand the renovation process can be dubious at times, the following tips can help remove some of the hassle and uncertainty.

Hiring the right contractor

When it comes to your home and family you can never be too careful.  You wouldn’t hire a babysitter without doing your research first, the same holds true for finding the right contractor.  A background check is a great way to tell whether or not the company you want to hire is reputable or not.  Here’s the caveat, companies with bad reputations or failed business sometimes shut down and reopen under a new name (ACE Private Risk Services).  So how can you really be sure of who you’re hiring?  In many cases architects are involved in the renovation process, they should have good insight into which companies are trustworthy.  Ask your friends and family for referrals.  Use websites like Angie’s List to find out what other customers think about the contractor you’re interested in hiring.  Gain as much knowledge about the company/ies of interest before making a final decision.

When signing a contract be sure it delineates who is responsible for what and that the associated cost makes sense.  Sometimes contractors will low-ball the contract price and try to add cost later, blaming it on “unexpected” issues.  Ask the contractor directly for a review of their past or most current jobs, those with nothing to hide should be more than happy to abide.  After all it’s your home, you want it done right.  It is also important from a liability standpoint to be sure the contractor has insurance for his/her self and their workers, you don’t want to incur the cost of someone being injured on the job.

Utilize existing security features

If you have an existing security system in your home, use it to keep an eye on the renovation process.  Having remote monitoring access through your video surveillance system will allow you to check-in on your home while you’re away at work or can’t be there.  While you’re not out to purposefully incarcerate or accuse the people working on your home of being lazy, trying to rip you off, or stealing it is in your best interest to protect your property.  Many, if not most, contractors are reputable and diligent in their work, but nobody is perfect and unfortunately there are companies that do try to take advantage.

Take for example this story of a homeowner who was having the exterior caulking on his windows reinforced.  The hired contractor had quoted him for 8 hours of work.  The homeowner set up a wireless camera to monitor activity outside his home for when the contractor was scheduled to be working.  He was able to see when the contractor arrived, and the hours he spent sitting in his truck NOT performing the agreed upon work.  Ultimately, the contractor performed only 5 of the quoted 8 hours of work.  When the contractor was paid for the 5 hours he couldn’t dispute it as the homeowner had irrefutable evidence (story courtesy of iWatchLife.com).  Negative experiences aside, monitoring your home during construction can also validate the expertise a contractor has, giving you incentive to recommend them in the future.

In all likelihood if you have an existing security system, you’ll be adding on to it in the new space or at least altering it during the renovation process.  Including your security system provider from the beginning is a beneficial tactic.  If you have a hardwired security system, what better time to include the security provider than when the walls are already open?  It will save you from the cost of having to tear them open after the fact.  Plus, your security expert/s can address your concerns before construction starts and openly communicate with the other professionals involved.  Having that dialogue between the different professional services from the start will create a smoother and more productive process.

Securing the job site

Aside from hiring the right people to complete the job, you want to make sure the job site is adequately secured.  One of the most basic, yet often forgotten or disregarded ways to help prevent damage or loss is to lock your doors and windows.  While it may not stop someone from breaking in, it will certainly slow them down.  This will help control who has access to various parts of your home during the construction process as well.

Alert your security system provider of your upcoming changes, they’ll likely have suggestions on how to protect the exposed portions of your home.  Like preventing fire damage by installing temporary smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.  Confirm with your security system provider that your current fire alarm system will still function throughout the duration of the project.  Even having your security systems expert install additional, maybe temporary, surveillance equipment will help you keep an eye on what’s going on.

Keeping the job site clean and free of unnecessary debris should be part of the construction crew’s responsibility; it makes for a safer work environment and lessens the potential of property damage and injury.  It also helps prevent damage to products being used in the renovated space.  You don’t want to get charged for parts your own construction crew broke, right?

It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of a home renovation project, but don’t let that be a reason to let your guard down.  Keep your home and family safe by doing your research and maintaining security.  Our team of experts at Perfect Connections, Inc. understand the value in protecting your home no matter what.  We have been providing comprehensive security solutions to residences in central and northern New Jersey for over 20 years.  Whatever you have going on, whether it’s a small renovation or substantial addition, don’t hesitate to call on our specialists for a security assessment.  You’ll be setting yourself up for success!

If you live or run a business in Central or Northern New Jersey and would like information on any of the topics discussed above, please call 800-369-3962 or simply CLICK HERE.

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Is Your Business Prepared For An Emergency?

January 20, 2015 By Leave a Comment

Creative CommonsNo business is immune to risk or unpredictable circumstances.  In an emergency, often times, there’s an influx of panic for those involved.  Our dedicated and hardworking emergency responders-firefighters, EMTs, ambulance, and police-are the ones who keep a strong front and are prepared to help us through these tough situations.  As a business owner wouldn’t it be great if there was a way to lessen the constant fear of unknown threats to your organization?  Fortunately, there is something you can do for your business, your employees, yourself, and the responders.  Be prepared and have a plan.

At Perfect Connections, Inc. we believe instead of being fearful or worrisome about the unknown, you should be as prepared as possible for it.  Part of being prepared is maintaining proper security of your organization.  We’ve been providing peace of mind to businesses throughout northern and central New Jersey since 1992 by installing comprehensive security systems.  A security system is so much more than just a video camera and alarm code.  To truly be protected a system should include a monitoring service, some form of access control, video surveillance, fire and burglar alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors.  While the physical aspect of a security system offers protection and prevention, it is also important to have some form of emergency protocol within your organization.

What is your plan and why do you need one?

No one enjoys thinking about the potential disasters that could occur in our daily lives, but they are, no matter how unsavory, a part of life.  If you haven’t already, you should work with your company, local authorities, and maybe a risk management firm to come up with an emergency plan.  The world is an unpredictable place, even if your business is located in a safe area, there are no guarantees.  According to Kelly Jenkins, Director of Emergency Management for Lawnwood Regional Medical Center and Heart Institute in Florida, “The worst possible scenario is to be not prepared.”  Having some sort of contingency plan is important because it’ll help you recover quicker and reinforce customer’s confidence in the integrity of your business.  It’s important to maintain that competitive edge that drives the workforce, as they say, “The show must go on!”

It’s not just being prepared for a disaster, it’s how you continue operation after as well, sometimes referred to as a BC (Business Continuity) plan.  What is your BC plan and how do you come up with it?  According to Kim Lindros and Ed Tittel for CIO, there are 6 general steps in developing a BC plan, and they are as follows:

  1. Identify the scope of the plan.
  2. Identify key business areas.
  3. Identify critical functions.
  4. Identify dependencies between various business areas and functions.
  5. Determine acceptable downtime for each critical function.
  6. Create a plan to maintain operations.

Once you have a plan the best way to ensure everyone is on board and prepared is to test it.  What good is a plan if no one knows how to use it?  Have frequent drills so you, your employees, and all personnel understand what they need to do in the event of an emergency.  Testing and running drills will eventually create more of a “muscle memory” response so precious time isn’t wasted trying to figure out which steps to take.  If you’re stuck on where to begin consider hiring a professional and reference online guidelines like the Planning and Responding to Workplace Emergencies provided by OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration).

How does having a security system affect emergency situations?

As a business owner you want to do everything in your power to protect your organization.  Having a comprehensive security system installed may be the catalyst in a better defense.  How will the system affect circumstances during an emergency?  Imagine there is a major fire at work.  As part of your comprehensive security system you have a functional fire alarm and monitoring service.  The alarm sounds sending a signal to the monitoring station which then informs local emergency responders.  Luckily, due to the speedy response time, firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the flames minimizing property damage, costing you less in repairs.  But most importantly you, your staff, and customers were able to exit the facility safely.

Now, without getting too graphic, imagine the shooter scenario.  Unfortunately, it’s become an all too common occurrence in our daily lives.  So how can a security system help in this type of situation?  Your access control system and surveillance come into play.  Because you had a swipe card access control system installed at all entries the shooter cannot get into your facility as they do not possess the required credentials.  With your surveillance equipment you were able to capture footage of the deviant.  The footage helped identify the criminal and authorities were able to detain him/her.  This is a best case scenario, but you can see how certain security features, when combined, can be extremely effective in deterring catastrophe.

There are infinite disastrous possibilities that can affect your business, but you can’t spend every minute of every day worrying about them.  Instead create a plan and be as prepared as possible.  If you are considering a security system for your business for the first time or need an assessment of your current situation do not hesitate to call on our experts at Perfect Connections, Inc..  Our knowledgeable and experienced team has been providing security system solutions to northern and central New Jersey businesses for over 20 years.  We believe in helping you protect what matters most.

If you live or run a business in Central or Northern New Jersey and would like information on any of the topics discussed above, please call 800-369-3962 or simply CLICK HERE.

Image Credit: Image by Creative Commons

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Top Reasons To Get Connected

January 15, 2015 By Leave a Comment

The Jetsons-Mark AndersonWith advancing technology becoming more and more present in our daily lives, it’s no wonder it’s becoming part of our homes too.  From solar panels on our roofs to remotely controlled thermostats, we are creating homes akin to the Jetson’s space age abode.  Unlike the Jestson’s most of us still live in homes on the ground without robot housekeepers and flying cars.

Whether or not technology is pushing us towards zero-gravity transportation, one thing is for sure, our homes are advancing with us.  Look how far we’ve come in such a short period of time.  Starting with the inception of the internet around 1962, we’ve gone from the most simplistic data sharing capabilities to now virtually living online.  We can take the internet with us on our phones, tablets, laptops, and other wireless devices; it’s an integral part of our communication systems.  It only makes sense that our physical living spaces are becoming more connected to our mobile lives.

So what does it mean to have a connected home or home automation?  It’s being able to wirelessly control devices in and around your home from virtually anywhere in the world via a mobile device (i.e. a smartphone, tablet, etc.).  You know that feeling of, “I think I forgot something”?  That gut wrenching sensation can be a thing of the past when you include home automation as part of your security system.  With home automation or interactive services you no longer have to worry whether or not you forgot to lock your doors or arm the alarm system because you can do it from your phone. You can even check in on your kids, pets, and loved ones by logging into your home security cameras through an app.  The capabilities are seemingly endless and the technology behind home automation is only moving forward. Here at Perfect Connections, Inc. we believe in providing superior home security systems that can include sophisticated, yet easy to use, home automation features.  Our team of experts has been providing home security system solutions to central and northern New Jersey for the past 23 years.  We understand the value in having a connected home, do you?

Convenience

Picture this, you’re coming back from a long vacation, somewhere tropical of course.  You’re in the car on the way home from the airport, the cool crisp air of winter in New Jersey lingering on your cheeks.  Then it hits you.  Your home is in New Jersey, its winter, and you turned the heat way down before you left.  Looks like you’re going to be wearing your coat and galoshes around the house until it heats up.  The frustration is setting in when you realize, “I can turn up the heat from my phone!”(cue the idea light-bulb).bulb_idea You log into your mobile app and swiftly adjust your thermostat to a comfortable temperature.  By the time you get home it’s warm and cozy, no need to stay bundled up.

Being able to adjust your home climate from afar is just one of the many conveniences home automation provides.  You can lock and unlock doors, open/close garages, turn lights on and off, log into your security cameras to see what is going on at your house, and arm or disarm your alarm system.  With a firm understanding of how your home automation works, you can program notifications and optimize different features of your home and security system.

Savings

Aside from being a convenient addition to your everyday life, home automation can actually save you money.  Think about your utilities, one of the major money-drainers is electrical use.  With programmable lights and the ability to turn them on and off remotely, wasting electricity becomes a thing of the past.  The largest portion of your utilities likely comes from heating and cooling your home.  Being able to program your thermostats can be a huge saver in energy costs throughout the course of a year.  Never mind the fact that you’d be enhancing your homes overall efficiency.

Environmental impact

When it comes to wasting energy, the U.S. is unfortunately no stranger to inefficiency.  According to Forbes.com America ranks number one among developed nations, even ahead of China, for energy waste.  Energy inefficiencies impact not only our environment, but our economic status as well.  In fact low energy productivity in the United States is estimated to cost businesses and households an estimated $130 billion annually.  While home automation may seem like a small piece of the energy-efficiency pie, imagine if every home could cut their waste even by a small percentage; the impact would be substantial.

Peace of mind

Yes, home automation can save you money.  Yes, it can increase your home’s efficiency.  Yes, it gives you the capability to monitor your alarm system from afar.  Yes, it saves you time and aggravation.  The best side effect is one that can’t be measured by the money in your bank account or the bottom line on your utilities bill.  It’s the peace of mind you gain.  That feeling of knowing your kids are home safe from school because you were able to see them arrive.  Knowing that your home and valuables are safe while you’re on vacation.  Receiving customized notifications that are specific to your needs and schedule.  You can’t achieve the same peace of mind from a security system alone, no matter how sophisticated.

Whether you’re in the market for your first security system or want to add home automation to an existing setup, don’t hesitate to call on our experts at Perfect Connections, Inc..  Our specialists have been providing comprehensive security systems throughout northern and central New Jersey since 1992.  We customize security solutions to fit specific needs unique to your home.

If you live or run a business in Central or Northern New Jersey and would like information on any of the topics discussed above, please call 800-369-3962 or simply CLICK HERE.

Image Credits: Image #1 (Jetsons) by Mark Anderson-Flickr-Creative Commons

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Security Challenges for Multi-Tenant Office Spaces

January 13, 2015 By Leave a Comment

Office SpaceWe have all seen an office building, whether it’s the new 104 floor World Trade Center in New York City or the 5 floor office you work in.  Many of these buildings house a multitude of different businesses.  This begs the question, how do you protect your business when you share a space with multiple tenants?  You don’t know their clientele or who is coming and going on a regular basis, just as they don’t know yours.

The security challenges that face business owners in a multi-tenant office space are diverse as each tenant is providing a different service with individualized needs.  At Perfect Connections, Inc. we have been providing security system solutions to businesses throughout northern and central New Jersey for the past 23 years.  Our experts understand the security complexities business owners and facility managers encounter on a daily basis, and we can provide an individualized plan specific to your company’s needs.

What security challenges do companies face in a multi-tenant space, and how can they be overcome?

A major challenge for tenants and facilities managers is communication.  As each business within a shared space operates differently, they’re likely going to have different security needs.  These needs should be clearly communicated with the building owner, facilities manager, and security systems provider.  If you’re a business that requires a higher level of secured access into the main building, and your office space, that should be discussed up front.

Often times in a shared building there are already security features in the entrance or lobby.  These areas serve as an initial means of access control, but different business owners may have different desired security restrictions.  For example, the company next door to you might not require a sign-in or check-in with security upon arrival, but maybe your company does.  Why does this matter?  It may affect how you secure your individual office space within the building.  You may not want another company’s client or employee accidentally wandering into your space.  A building owner or manager may have their own set of restrictions for each tenant as well, so having that conversation up front is imperative.  By having your own security in place you lessen the chances of workplace violence and employee theft from unauthorized entrants as well as within your own business.

Providing your employees with an emergency plan or protocol is important.  The buildings facilities manager will likely already have a plan for the entire building that includes alarm testing, drills, and escape routes.  You may be the type of company that wants to run your own emergency drills.  Running emergency drills is a great way to ensure your employees are prepared.  However, when running preparatory drills be sure to inform your neighbors and the facilities personnel to avoid confusion and unneeded chaos.  It might be beneficial to hold a meeting about emergency procedures with the building manager and neighboring company owners to come up with a cohesive plan.  That way you reduce the risk of complete panic if everyone is on the same page.

Construction and renovation within office buildings is not uncommon.  Redistributing space or accumulating office space can pose a security challenge for tenants.  During a renovation your building becomes a host to a multitude of people that you aren’t used to seeing on a daily basis.  This includes construction workers, architects, inspectors etc.  While these people are likely respectable individuals, you don’t know them, and you may not want them accidentally entering your space.

While most would agree a comprehensive security system is better to install during the initial stages of building construction, it doesn’t always happen that way.  In some buildings you may have tenants that opt for an individualized security system after moving in.  When acquiring space, you may run into old or inefficient security systems that do not align with what you might have in your current space.  To ensure your security system is cohesive and efficient you should involve your security systems provider during the initial design phase for the new space.  This will help make sure your current space is protected during the construction phase, and that all components will work seamlessly once completed.  According to Sean Ahrens, a senior security consultant with Schirmer Engineering (in regards to access control and alarm monitoring), “The only way to address those issues is with communication during the design process.”  He’s right, and this concept applies to all security issues a tenant may have.

While securing your business within a multi-tenant space can be complex, the technical side would be covered by your security systems provider.  It’s up to you as the owner to communicate your desired outcome, get the right professionals involved from the start, and to have a vision for how you want your company protected.  Here at Perfect Connections, Inc. we’ve been providing comprehensive security system solutions to companies throughout central and northern New Jersey since 1992.  We provide everything from access controls to video surveillance and so much more.  Our team can assess the risks specific to your business and provide a customized system to help you protect what matters most.

If you live or run a business in Central or Northern New Jersey and would like information on any of the topics discussed above, please call 800-369-3962 or simply CLICK HERE.

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What’s Your Business Missing?

January 6, 2015 By Leave a Comment

Missing puzzle pieceWhile businesses have a lot to offer, many are lacking the protection they need.  No I don’t mean stowing an arsenal below your cash-wrap, but rather an effective security system and security features.  At Perfect Connections, Inc. we can help you protect what you’ve worked so hard for.  If you run a business in central or northern New Jersey, let us assess your security risks and provide a custom solution to fit your needs.  Many don’t know what they are lacking and how it can be rectified, our licensed professionals can help in that arena.  Don’t fall victim to preventable disasters find out what a comprehensive security system can do for you and the health of your business.

What’s lacking?

An incomplete security system is a bit like working on a puzzle with missing pieces.  There are essential features that should be included in a comprehensive security system.  Maybe you already have a security system installed at your business, but is it monitored?  What good is a security system if no one, except those in the area, is alerted when the alarm goes off?  Having a 24/7 monitoring service as part of your security system is crucial for the quickest response times.  Surveillance equipment can also help deter employee theft which is, “the fastest growing crime in America,” according to the FBI.  Employee theft costs businesses up to $200 billion each year.  Installing surveillance equipment not only in the main customer space, but in offices, storage, and inventory spaces can help decrease chances of employee theft and misconduct.

Other areas that tend to be overlooked or under-protected are doors and safes.  While a door typically locks, if it’s not sturdy and linked to an alarm, what’s preventing someone from kicking it in?  To protect your entries, exits, and interior spaces be sure that your doors are not only sturdy and alarmed but protected by some sort of access control.  Whether it’s a swipe card, key fob, passcode, or some form of biometrics, access control will help prevent unwanted entrants.  Safes that are out in the open and easy to grab or crack open provide minimal protection for whatever is in it.  If you’re going to store valuables or cash in a safe at your business be sure it’s secure either bolted to the ground or in a fortified room.

Inadequate protection from fire and carbon monoxide can be a killer for any business.  Having detectors and alarms may not be enough if they don’t communicate with emergency services.  It’s the same idea as the unmonitored burglar alarm, if no one is around to hear the detectors go off a fire could easily escalate to the point of no return.  For the quickest response time, fire alarms and detectors should be linked to a monitoring service that communicates with emergency services.  Proper fire alarms, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be an integral part of a comprehensive security system.  Your business is likely your livelihood, protect it.

There are few certainties in life, but taking initiative to protect what you’ve built by installing a comprehensive security system is guaranteed to help.  No two businesses are the same, therefore no two security systems will be the same.  At Perfect Connections, Inc. we believe in customizing security solutions for each individual business based on their specific needs.  As security systems experts we have been providing security solutions to northern and central New Jersey businesses since 1992.

If you live in Central or Northern New Jersey and would like information on any of the topics discussed above, please call 800-369-3962 or simply CLICK HERE.

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Video Surveillance: Benefits & Trends

December 30, 2014 By Leave a Comment

Video Surveillance-Christian SchnettelkerThe key components to a comprehensive business security system includes fire alarms, burglar alarms, access control, alarm monitoring, and last but not least video surveillance.  That’s what this post will be focusing on.  The development of video surveillance, its benefits, and where is it going in the near future.  At Perfect Connections, Inc. we provide comprehensive security systems to businesses in Northern and Central New Jersey.  Our experts understand the benefits of solid surveillance equipment, and always keep abreast the technological advancements being made in that arena.

Where did it all start?

It may not be on everyone’s mind on a daily basis, but in today’s society video surveillance is actually an integral part of our everyday lives.  From ATM machines, to traffic lights, to drones, cameras seem to be everywhere.  To understand where the concept for video surveillance came from, we have to look at the history and development of video cameras.  Traveling back in time the first movie cameras were developed in 1880 by Thomas Edison and William Dickson.  As a result the first motion picture demonstration took place in 1893.  Into the 20th century camera development continues to move swiftly with Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) in Germany used for bomb monitoring in 1942.  Charge-coupled device (CCD) technology in 1976 allowed for 24 hour surveillance because of its ability to work in low light.  Skip forward to 1996 and you have the birth of the Internet Protocol (IP) camera.  The IP cameras allow the sending and receiving of information across computer networks.

This ever-changing technology and various historic events, such as 9/11, have made video surveillance in public and private spaces ubiquitous worldwide.  As pervasive and helpful as it can be in a protective sense it remains a controversial topic for some.  The idea that government drones can stealthily record information on American citizens is a surveillance technique that does not sit well with some.  What are your thoughts?

What are the benefits of video surveillance?

By installing a surveillance system you are adding a layer of protection for your business you can’t get anywhere else.  We know you can’t be in more than one place at a time, but a surveillance system gives you eyes throughout your entire facility at all times.  This helps curb issues such as employee theft.  If employees know they’re being recorded, they’re less likely to misbehave.  An economical benefit to a security system with surveillance is potentially saving money on your insurance.  Many companies offer a discount for having a comprehensive security system (to figure out if you qualify contact your insurance provider directly).  If you own a retail business you know shoplifting is an ongoing issue.  The benefit of having recorded footage in retail is even if it doesn’t prevent the act of shoplifting, it can help catch the perpetrators.  Surveillance can help prevent workplace violence by monitoring employee/customer behavior.  Lastly, it’ll provide you with added peace of mind knowing you’re employees and business are being monitored.

Where is surveillance going?

As we’ve seen throughout history, technology has been a driving force in the development and advancement of video surveillance.  Moving forward some industry professionals believe the next drive for security cameras is making their integration and functions easier for the end users.  Some believe it’s all about upping the resolution factor.  While higher megapixels would offer better and clearer images, it seems to be slow on the uptake because of the associated cost.  Lastly, analytics is an emerging trend in surveillance systems, yet some still question it’s viability due to not only its cost but effectiveness.  Aside from analytics that can people-count there is technology in the works that can supposedly detect individual aggression.  How effective this feature can be is still up for debate among industry professionals.  As technology pushes forward, camera development and integration will no doubt continue to change; how it will change us as a society, nobody knows.

If you own a business in Central or Northern New Jersey and are in need of a security system, looking to update your current situation, or unsure of where to begin do not hesitate to call on our team of professionals at Perfect Connections, Inc..  As security systems experts, our team has been providing service since 1992.  We believe in providing comprehensive security systems that include video surveillance, access control, fire alarms, burglar alarms, and alarm monitoring. We are always keeping up with technology that is beneficial to our customers.  System maintenance and installation should be seamless, as should updates and integration.

If you live in Central or Northern New Jersey and would like information on any of the topics discussed above, please call 800-369-3962 or simply CLICK HERE.

Image Credit: Image By Christian Schnettelker-Flickr-Creative Commons

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Preventing Workplace Violence

December 23, 2014 By Leave a Comment

Stop Sign-Michael GilViolence in the workplace is not a pleasant topic for discussion.  However, understanding the causes and how it can be avoided is essential for any business owner.  No company/operation is immune, but there are ways to help decrease the risks.  Workplace violence is not only damaging to its victims but the company as well.  In 2012 SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) found that 36% of organizations in the United States reported incidents of workplace violence.  Damages are sometimes physical but can be economical as well, costing businesses $36 billion annually.

How do you define workplace violence, what does it mean?  According to SHRM and ASIS International (American Society for Industrial Security) workplace violence can be defined as, “a spectrum of behaviors-including overt acts of violence, threats, and other conduct-that generates a reasonable concern for safety from violence, where a nexus exists between the behavior and the physical safety of employees and others (such as customers, clients, and business associates) on-site or off-site, when related to the organization.”  It’s a scary but very real issue for every organization.  Being prepared is the only way to combat the unpredictable.  There are tactical and physical measures that can be implemented in the workplace to avoid violence.  At Perfect Connections, Inc. we believe in helping you prevent catastrophe.  Having a comprehensive security system installed at your place of business can provide multiple layers of protection for you and your employees.  If you run a business in Northern or Central New Jersey do not hesitate to find out what Perfect Connections, Inc. can do to help protect what matters most.

You might be wondering how installing a security system can help deter or prevent something as unpredictable as violence in the workplace.  Allow me to break it down for you.  There are multiple facets to an effective security system, an alarm is just part of it.  The key components are the alarm, access control devices, and video surveillance.  Of course there is the fire alarm component, but it’s not the main area of focus when it comes to violence prevention.

By combining key features into one comprehensive solution you will not only secure your business, but help prevent loss and potentially life threatening situations.  You can limit who can enter certain areas of your facility by implementing some form of access control i.e. a card reader, key fob, or biometric scanner.  This will help stop intruders, a disgruntled ex-employee, or and employee’s spouse from getting onto the premises.  Video surveillance throughout a facility would be helpful in keeping an eye on who is coming and going on a regular basis.  Cameras can be set up to watch specific areas and/or provide overall coverage throughout the premises.  Utilizing a monitored surveillance system will ensure that someone is keeping watch over your business even when you can’t be there.  Tying these features into a monitored alarm system will help notify you, your employees, and the authorities of any disturbances.

A comprehensive security system along with a contingency plan that is communicated to the entire staff is about as prepared as anyone can be for the unexpected.  Some companies may choose added security features such as physical security guards, it really depends on personal preference, the business, and recommendations from security professionals.  Increased lighting in parking lots/garages, requiring ID cards for employees and visitors, metal detectors, and check-in desks or stations are added security measures that can help your company avoid disaster.  Keep in mind there is no one-stop solution for all businesses/facilities.  A hospital will have different security needs than a salvage yard/facility.  While no system is infallible, here at Perfect Connections, Inc. we provide top notch products and service to help prevent potential catastrophe.  If your business is located in Central or Northern New Jersey don’t hesitate to contact our team of professionals for an in person assessment.  We will provide a customized security system solution that fits the needs specific to your type and place of business.

If you live in Central or Northern New Jersey and would like information on any of the topics discussed above, please call 800-369-3962 or simply CLICK HERE.

Image Credit: Image by Michael Gil-Flickr-Creative Commons

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The Holidays: A Threat to Home Security?

December 18, 2014 By Leave a Comment

Happy Holidays-Melissa BrawnerNo matter what you celebrate, the holidays are a time for family, friends, love, laughter, and burglary?  That’s right folks, not everyone gets into the spirit of giving during the holiday season.  In fact, there are those who seek out opportunities to break into homes and steal instead.  Often times people have more valuables and cash lying around during the holiday season.  Holiday shopping sprees make empty homes vulnerable as well, especially because most break-ins occur during the day.  Fortunately there are some things you can do to prevent break-ins and/or burglary during what is supposed to be the most wonderful time of year.  At Perfect Connections, Inc. we understand your concerns in safeguarding not only your home and valuables, but your family as well.  If you don’t have a security system, call on our experts at Perfect Connections, Inc. to find out how a comprehensive residential security system can help protect your home, loved ones, and peace of mind.  Below are some security tips to keep in mind for the holiday season.

If you don’t have one, install a home security system with home automation

A comprehensive home security system with home automation and a monitoring service has numerous benefits.  Aside from making your home 300 percent less likely to be burglarized, you gain a peace of mind that can’t be obtained anywhere else.  At Perfect Connections, Inc. we specialize in providing and installing customized residential security systems that include proper fire alarms, surveillance equipment and a monitoring service, burglar alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors.  These components combined with home automation make for an almost unbeatable system.  With home automation you no longer have to worry whether or not you locked your doors because you can conveniently do so from afar via your mobile device.

If you have a security system make sure it is functioning properly

There’s nothing like assuming you’re covered in an emergency or break-in, only to find out key components of your security system are malfunctioning or out of batteries.  These are things that should be checked, at the very least, on an annual basis by your security provider.  It doesn’t hurt to double check during the holiday season.  Run a diagnostics test, if you’re unsure how to, contact your security system provider and the monitoring service to avoid false alarms.

Travel plans?

Planning a trip for the holidays?  Be sure to keep the details on the down-low.  Do not announce on any platform-as tempting as it may be-when you’ll be gone and for how long.  Sharing that type of information with the public is like an open invitation to criminals.  If you have to tell someone or want someone to check your home periodically while you’re gone, tell trusted neighbors and friends or hire someone from a reputable company.  Try not to make it look obvious that you’re not home, have someone grab your mail or have the post office hold it.  Use programmed lighting or home automation to turn lights on and off throughout your trip, this will help give the illusion that someone is home.  Leaving the TV on or a single light on for the duration of your trip is not a good idea because if someone is casing your home they will pick up on the fact that neither is being turned on or off; never mind the chance of an electrical fire.

Hide gifts

Do not leave gifts, wrapped or unwrapped in front of windows or within sight from the exterior of your home.  Just as with any valuables, the more visible they are, the more incentive burglars have to break-in.  If you are going to leave gifts in front of windows or within outdoor sight, try drawing your curtains.

Do a quick survey of your property

Taking the time to inspect the exterior of your home and property is a great way to ensure your access points are adequately protected.  Doing this can help point out potential hiding spots for criminals (i.e. high or untrimmed shrubs) and weak spots that might need attention.

Out and about

While you’re out shopping be sure to secure your home and yourself.  If you carry a purse be sure to keep it close to you.  Wallet carriers, if you normally keep it in your back pocket, be sure to switch it to your front.  Park your car in well-lit areas.  You can never be too careful.

Remember it’s not all about the material possessions that can be stolen, most are easily replaced.  It’s losing that peace of mind you had prior to a break-in.  Restoring peace of mind once it’s been disturbed is more difficult than replacing a toy.  Be proactive and protect your home and family by installing a comprehensive security system.  If you live in Northern or Central New Jersey call on our team of professionals at Perfect Connections, Inc..  We can provide a personal assessment of your security needs.  Then customize a system that is right for your individual home that will help protect you and your family for many holiday seasons to come!

If you live in Central or Northern New Jersey and would like information on any of the topics discussed above, please call 800-369-3962 or simply CLICK HERE.

Image Credit: Image By Melissa Brawner-Flickr-Creative Commons

Filed Under: Home Security Systems Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hardwired Vs Wireless

December 11, 2014 By Leave a Comment

Wires-Windell OskayThe process of researching home security systems can seem daunting.  There are many factors you must take into consideration.  You have to choose which company you trust to perform the work, how much you’re willing to spend, and what type of system to have installed, to name a few.  The type of system you opt for can seem like a tricky decision, that’s why it is imperative to hire a licensed security professional to advise you on the best solution for your home.  There are two types of systems in terms of how they are installed, hardwired and wireless.  Sometimes a combination of both are implemented, it really depends on your specific needs.  Here at Perfect Connections, Inc. we provide security system solutions to Northern and Central New Jersey, and can assess an individual homeowners needs for either a hardwired or wireless installation.

According to safewise.com, “The network of sensors, plus the control panel, make up a self-contained system that may be wired or wireless.”  So what’s the difference between hardwired and wireless?  A hardwired system involves installing physical wires from the various alarm components (i.e. motion detectors, sensors, etc) to the central control panel.  The wires are typically hidden behind walls, which is why it’s beneficial to install this type of system in the construction phase of a home, if possible.  According to asecurelife.com, “most older home alarm systems rely on hard wiring where most new systems are gravitating towards wireless or hybrid alarm systems.”

A wireless system relies on radio frequencies to transmit and receive signals between the alarm devices and the control panel; kind of like how a cell phone works.  In fact, one of the major benefits of a wireless system is you have the ability to remotely control different aspects of your home via your mobile phone/device.  A hardwired system may require a landline to communicate with the monitoring service, whereas a wireless system doesn’t.  In this day and age, many homeowners are moving away from landlines all together, making a wireless system almost an indisputable choice.  An interesting article about the seaside New Jersey town of Mantokoling describes how the phone lines destroyed by Hurricane Sandy were not rebuilt at all.  Instead a wireless option was offered by Verizon.  Whether by choice or natural causes, wireless technology seems to be the trend of the future.

While the decision between wireless or hardwired might seem difficult, a specialist will be able to help you figure it out, and in some cases you may not have to choose; it might be dictated by the structure of your home or the area you live in.  Hiring an expert will not only save you time and aggravation, but provide you with a peace of mind knowing your system is appropriate for your home and that it was installed correctly.  If you live in Central or Northern New Jersey, don’t hesitate to contact our team of licensed professionals at Perfect Connections, Inc..  We’ve been providing residential security systems services for the past 22 years.  Our team is knowledgeable about the systems we install and the ever changing technology in the security systems industry.

Check out this brief list of the pros and cons of hardwired and wireless systems:

Hardwired Security System

Pros:

  • It’s a reliable system
  • Can be integrated seamlessly with new construction projects
  • They typically have backup batteries in case of power outages
  • Hardwired systems are less susceptible to electrical interferences from other devices
  • Alarm will sound if any wiring is cut
  • Will likely be installed by a licensed professional ensuring smoother integration

Cons:

  • Can sometimes be more expensive
  • May require tougher installation (drilling holes in walls etc.)
  • Makes relocation of system devices more difficult
  • Typically have longer more intensive installation
  • Can’t bring the system with you when/if you move

Wireless Security System

Pros:

  • Installation is fairly easy and quick
  • Devices can easily be moved, replaced, or updated
  • Can control parts of your home remotely from your mobile device (thermostats, lighting, etc.)
  • System maintenance is typically easy, in most cases systems will require battery replacement
  • Device software can be updated as it evolves
  • May be a more economical system
  • Devices are portable, making moving less of an issue

Cons:

  • Can sometimes be interfered with by exterior electronic devices (baby monitors, microwaves etc.)
  • Can sometimes be more susceptible to interference than a hardwired system
  • Technology evolves quickly making installed devices obsolete quicker
  • Devices can sometimes have sensory issues
  • Structural interferences can be an issue (brick walls, old construction etc.)

If you live in Central or Northern New Jersey and would like information on any of the topics discussed above, please call 800-369-3962 or simply CLICK HERE.

Image Credits: Image by Winell Oskay-Flickr-Creative Commons

Filed Under: Home Security Systems Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

How Does Perfect Connections Compare?

December 9, 2014 By Leave a Comment

As with any type of service, reading reviews online, and doing your own research seems to be par for the course.  The internet is a great tool because there is an excess of information readily available.  But how do you weed through all of it?  How can you tell the real from the fake, or the good from the bad?  People can write whatever they want on the internet whether it’s good or bad, true or false.

While we can’t necessarily prove the authenticity of an internet comment, we can present the facts about our company.  As a commercial and residential security systems provider in Northern and Central New Jersey for the past 22 years, our team at Perfect Connections, Inc. has the expertise and customer loyalty to prove our professional status.  Aside from offering quality products and installation, we truly value our customers and their needs.  Nobody, and nothing, is perfect, but we are constantly working our hardest to ensure our clients’ needs are being met.  What sets us apart from the competition is what we offer and our commitment to quality service.

Available ONLY at Perfect Connections

  • We offer a 30-day money back guarantee if you are at all dissatisfied, no questions asked
  • There is a one year warranty of EVERYTHING we offer
  • We have a 98% customer loyalty rating
  • Perfect Connections has been in business since 1992 with more than 1,200 customers in Central and Northern New Jersey

What Else Do We Offer?

Perfect Connections The Other Guys
Live 24/7/365 support available Most expect you to call during business hours
Technicians on call 24/7 There is no standard
Immediate response in case of emergency (typical response is 45 seconds) Typically respond within minutes
Service & maintenance contracts available Only available at large security companies
Leasing & financing available Standard for most
Customers save 10-20% on L & P insurance Standard for most

 

With the level of service and products we provide, our team of licensed professionals will ensure the security of your home or business.  If you live or run a business in Northern or Central New Jersey, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800-369-3962 and visit our website for more information HERE.  Our services include on site security assessments, fire alarms, surveillance systems, access control solutions, burglar alarms, and alarm monitoring.  Let us help you protect what matters most!

Filed Under: Business Security Systems, Home Security Systems Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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