New & Noteworthy

SUMMER HOME SECURITY TIPS 2018

Heading on a summer vacation? There's nothing worse than coming back to a home that had a break-in.

20+ SUMMER HOME SECURITY TIPS YOU CAN USE TO PROTECT YOUR HOME AND PROPERTY


USE COMMON SENSE 

  • If you lose a key, then get the locks changed. A better alternative is to eliminate keys altogether by installing an alarm.com smart lock with built in keypad.
  • Ask all strangers for identification. The person who is “lost” and looking for directions could actually be a burglar checking to see if someone is home.
  • Never hide an extra key outdoor - especially underneath a mat or on top of a light fixture. This is the first place the bad guys look. Leave an extra house key with a friend or a neighbor. Again, a better alternative is to eliminate keys altogether by installing an alarm.com smart lock with built in keypad.
  • DO NOT advertise on Facebook or Instagram that you are on vacation. Social media is the equivalent of a diary in a glass house. You may think you’re letting your friends and family know you’re having a great time, but people often forget to change their privacy settings. If you like to post photos - post them after you get back.
  • For insurance purposes take photos of the contents of your home and keep all receipts in an off-site location. Great options are Google Drive, Microsoft One Drive and Dropbox.
  • Write down the model and serial number of all electronics. This will come in handy for a future Police report and insurance claim.



MAKE IT DIFFICULT

  • Door chains are easy to bypass. Install deadbolts. We have alarm.com smart lock options with built in deadbolts.
  • Install window bars on all basement windows. They are a great visual deterrent and can be connected to a monitored home security system.
  • Install a stopper or stick on all sliding doors and windows. You can find these at your local hardware store such as Home Hardware, Canadian Tire or Rona.
  • Make sure all doors and windows are locked. Many burglars go door to door looking for targets that forgot to lock their front doors.
  • For cabins, consider installing roller window and door shutters. Visit kimbel.ca to see samples.

 
MAKE IT LOOK LIKE YOU ARE AT HOME

  • Burglars target unoccupied homes so keep your home well lit at night. Install timers that turn lights, radios and televisions on at different times. This gives the appearance that someone is home. A better option is to install alarm.com smart lights and smart appliance modules and setup on an alternating schedules.
  • Cancel the newspaper and have a friend or neighbour pick-up your mail.
  • Park a vehicle in the drive-way. Don’t forget to lock the doors and remove any valuables.
  • If you’re taking an extended vacation of more than a week, hire a student or service to cut your grass.



INSTALL A MONITORED HOME OR CABIN SECURITY SYSTEM

  • The insurance companies agree. You are 400% less likely to have a break-in and can qualify for an insurance discount of up to 25%.
  • NEW! $0 Equipment, $0 Installation Plans
  • No Phone Line required
  • 24/7 Monitored Protection from intrusion, fire, flood, low temperature, and carbon monoxide
  • Includes Police / RCMP and Fire Department dispatch and Call List notification
  • Optional ALARM.COM - control your smart lights, smart locks, and smart thermostat with *free apps
  • Optional ReedHD™ Wi-Fi Doorbell - Know Who's at the front door, record audio and video onto the cloud
  • A monthly subscription is required for all service plans



IN CASE YOU DO HAVE A BREAK-IN

  • If it looks like a door or window was forced open, DO NOT go inside. The Burglar may still be on site.
  • Call the Police from your mobile phone and wait. 

ALWAYS GET 3 QUOTES

  • Do NOT Sign Up with Door to Door alarm companies with Limited Time Offers. Before you know it you will be on the hook for thousands of dollars with a company that doesn't have a local office.
  • Many door to door alarm companies have summer programs (May to September only). After that good luck.
  • Be sure to search Google for reviews and ask friends and family who they use for home security.
     

If you would like more information on Smart Home or Business Security & Automation please Contact Us for a Free Security Evaluation. 

SASKATOON SECURITY INQUIRIES

Reed Security Headquarters

Call 306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE (7233)

SuRe InnoVations

Call 306.974.0888

PRINCE ALBERT SECURITY INQUIRIES

Call 306.922.7200

CALGARY SECURITY INQUIRIES

Call 587.393.2800

REGINA SECURITY INQUIRIES

Call 306.206.0700


HOW TO PROTECT A MULTI-TENANT PROPERTY


Property that has two or more tenants is considered a 
multi-tenant property. This could be retail, industrial, office, condominium or an apartment building. Managing the security systems of multi-tenant properties can be a challenge for landlords and property managers - especially if the security systems are from different security providers.

We have extensive experience designing centrally managed security systems for housing authorities, property management companies, landlords, housing co-operatives, REITs, development companies and condominium corporations. Our security systems are remotely managed via easy-to-use central management software and high speed internet connections.

Instead of going to the property every time you need to change an access code or retrieve the footage from a security camera for the Police, you can login with apps for your PC, tablet or smartphone. This is a huge time saver!  We can manage the security of your properties for you when you subscribe to a Concierge Service Plan.

We design layered security solutions that will save you time and money. The amount of security layers we implement are based on your needs and budget.



  • Reduces Theft, Provides Accountability, Restricts Access
  • Burglar, Fire, Medical, Temperature, Flood
  • 24/7 ULC Monitoring service with POLICE and FIRE dispatch; Call List notification
  • 3G/4G ALARM.COM Cellular Signaling – no phone line required
  • Control with your PC / MAC / Android / iPhone / iPad
  • User Code Control and User Reports via apps
  • Instant Alerts via text and email




  • Reduces Theft, Restricts Access
  • Control Who Goes Where and When
  • Control Doors, Elevators, Gates
  • No More Keys to replace – delete users instantly
  • HINT: Charge tenants a $20 refundable deposit for access keytags/cards
  • Programmable schedules – weekday, weekend, holidays
  • Optional: Intercom - Telephone-based or I.P. based
  • Intercom Master Station at main entrance, NO tenant stations
  • HINT: Save $$$ by not running wires to every suite
  • Intercom Dials landline or cell phone, Door Release from phone
  • Access programming on your PC / Android / iPhone / iPad



LAYER 3: REEDHD SECURITY CAMERAS

  • Reduces Theft, Provides Accountability
  • 1080P to 12MP HD (4x to 39x better quality than standard definition)
  • HINT: Mount entrance cameras at 5 feet from the ground to Record Faces
  • Records 24/7; providing video evidence of activities for 10 to 60+ days
  • Access to cameras on your PC / MAC / Android / iPhone / iPad
  • HINT: Do NOT use wireless, use wired only



  • Reduces Theft, Reduces Liability, Provides Accountability, Fire Protection
  • Intervention while a crime is in progress – catch intruders in the act
  • Intervention while a fire is in progress – reduce losses
  • POLICE and FIRE dispatch; Call List notification
  • 25% to 50% Less expensive than security guards
  • Approved by Insurance Companies as an alternative to Night Watchman



LAYER 5: FIRE SYSTEM MONITORING

  • In 2018 Fire Departments across Saskatchewan started enforcing the CAN/ULC-S561 national standard
  • Fire Inspectors or contracted Fire Protection System companies will be ask you for your CAN/ULC-S561 certificate
  • The majority of buildings will not meet this national standard and upgrades will be required to obtain a CAN/ULC-S561 certificate
  • Failure to present proper documentation will result in deficiencies and can delay occupancy until the deficiencies have been remedied
  • Fire systems must be monitored by 24/7 ULC Monitoring Stations
  • 2 paths of communication: Phone line + cellular communication
  • Security Company must attend site within 4 hours


If you would like more information on centrally managed security systems that can save you time and money - We Can Help!


CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE SECURITY EVALUATION


SASKATOON

Reed Security Headquarters

Call 306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE 

SuRe InnoVations

Call 306.974.0888 

PRINCE ALBERT

Call 306.922.7200 

CALGARY

Call 587.393.2800 

REGINA

Call 306.206.0700



LOCAL SUPERMARKET COMBATS SHOPLIFTING WITH REEDHD™ CAMERAS

Dennis Wieffering has been in the grocery business for 30 years.  Two years ago he became the Store Owner/Operator of Dennis' Your Independent Grocer - a full service local supermarket located at 315 Herold Road, Saskatoon, SK.   "When your name is on the front of the store there's a lot of pride and responsibility. I enjoy the personal feel with the customers and the creative freedom" says Dennis.



When Dennis took over the store he inherited an existing security camera system that was in need of an upgrade and some additions. "We take shoplifting seriously and we share security camera footage with managers, other stores and the Police. Upgrading was a precaution to reduce losses".



"I called another Your Independent Grocer store that recently installed video surveillance with Reed Security. Andrey was happy with the pricing, quality, and service and recommended me to Reed."

 "I like that Reed Security is right in Saskatoon and have a local office. I can pick up the phone or send a quick email when I need help. The installation technician, Cody, was spectacular!"



Our solution consisted of a REEDHD™ BUSINESS BUNDLE:

  • ReedHD™ Hi-Def Cameras (twice the quality of 1080p)
  • Pole mounted, indoor and outdoor cameras
  • 10 to 30 Days Recording of all events
  • Video Management Software - quickly find the footage you need and export it
  • SmartPhone and PC apps for local and remote administration
  • 100% Parts and Labour warranty
  • 100% Onsite Service warranty
  • 100% Remote Tech Support with login service
  • Archiving of incidents for the POLICE
  • Preventative Maintenance with regular visits to your site
  • One low monthly fee that covers it all

If you are having a Problem with Theft - We Can Help! Contact Us today for a Free Security Evaluation.

SASKATOON
Reed Security Headquarters
Call 306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE

SuRe InnoVations
Call 306.974.0888

PRINCE ALBERT
Call 306.922.7200

CALGARY
Call 587.393.2800

REGINA
Call 306.206.0700





MEET ALEX, THE DOOR TO DOOR ALARM SCAM GUY


Hi, I'm Alex. I'm your friendly neighborhood (well not really) summer student that works for a door to door home security company. During the school year I work pretty hard studying Business and from May to September I work hard knocking on a lot of doors - and by a lot I mean I've been to thousands of homes with my crew. I work with a crew of 20 or more reps, so it's a lot of fun!

The door to door home security company that I work for provided me with training. I'm proud to say that I have one whole week of product training. We spent most of the time on high pressure sales training and how to overcome objections. I'm pretty confident that no matter how many times you say "no thanks" or demand that I leave - I've always got a comeback. Take a look at some of my door to door sales training classes:

HOW TO NAME DROP AND MAKE IT SOUND LIKE THE NEIGHBORS REFERRED YOU (WHEN THEY DIDN'T)

HOW TO MAKE IT SOUND LIKE OUR "FREE" SECURITY SYSTEM IS WORTH $2,000

HOW TO GET PEOPLE TO SIGN 5 YEAR CONTRACTS AT $50 TO $80 A MONTH

HOW TO CREATE URGENCY BY HAVING NO LOCAL OFFICE "WE'RE ONLY HERE TODAY"

HOW TO OVERCOME BUYERS REMORSE WITH A QUICK, SAME DAY INSTALLATION

HOW TO TRICK THE MOST VULNERABLE - SENIOR CITIZENS

WHAT TO DO WHEN THEY SAY "NO"

WHAT TO DO WHEN THEY SAY "NO" REPEATEDLY AND ASK YOU TO LEAVE

WHAT TO DO WHEN THEY SWEAR AT YOU AND THREATEN TO CALL THE POLICE

WHEN GOING BACK 3 TIMES ISN'T ENOUGH

HOW TO USE DECEPTION - WHITE LIES ARE JUST BENDING THE RULES



Pretty awesome stuff right? I'm going to make a ton of dough this summer! I don't get a base salary, but I do make $400 to $500 every time I get you to sign up. So, I have a lot of motivation to keep bugging and pressuring you. We don't have a local office and the door to door home security company rents us a house or pays for our hotels, so I don't have a lot of living expenses. Sweet!

Sometimes I pretend that I work for your current security company and I offer you a free upgrade. "I'm Alex with (Your Existing Security Company". People can be so gullible when they think they're getting something for free. I'm actually going to trick you into signing up with my door to door alarm company and you will be left paying two bills. Doesn't matter to me though - I'm only working with my door to door security company for the summer and you will never see me again.

My all time favorite approach is to make it sound like you are doing me a favor. "I'm Alex with (Door to Door Alarm Company). We're in town for a few days and we're doing a blitz and I would like your help. If you're willing to put a warning sign in a visible location it will create more awareness and help us generate more business. In exchange I can give you a free state-of-the-art security system worth $2000. All you have to do is take care of the small monthly fee of $49.95 a month." People love to help and they love free. I can't believe how many people get sucked in.

Sometimes I offer a two week free trial. This is legit, but most people don't know there is a CONSUMER PROTECTION law that allows any consumer signing a contract the right to cancel within 10 or 14 days. It's called a Buyers Right to Cancel and it's on every one of our contracts. The darn government forces us to do this! 

I often tell people it's a month to month subscription, but in reality it's a 4 or 5 year contract. You're on the hook for nearly $3000 every time you sign up. However, most people trust me instead of reading through the contract. And for the people that question the 5 year term? Easy, I just tell them they can cancel anytime (even though they can't). The collections team at my head office will deal with it. Who's going to cancel if they're about to be sent to a collection agency? I won't be here anyways so not my problem.

HOW TO MAKE ME GO AWAY   

About the only thing that works is to put up your hand and firmly say "NO". I'm going to try to prevent you from closing the door, but if you just keep saying "NO" eventually I will take you off my hit list. Sometimes you have to threaten to call the POLICE. How ironic is that - calling the POLICE on a home security company.

It's also frustrating to me when people share their stories on FaceBook and other social media sites. I spent a lot of time figuring out ways to deceive people and I don't like it when I'm exposed or people advertise what area I'm working in. One lady took out her phone and started recording me - no thanks.  

#meetalex #justsayno #alarmscam #doortodoorsales

*Alex isn't a real person. If you know an Alex please be kind to him.

For more information do yourself a favor and do a Google Search of "door to door alarm scam" and always get 3 quotes. Please share.

Author: Virgil Reed
Owner of Reed Security
20+ Years Security Experience
Family Man
Community Leader




AND THE MOST DANGEROUS PLACE IN CANADA 2018 IS...

Let’s start with the good news. Over the past decade the crime rate in Canada has plummeted by 25 per cent. Since 1998, the earliest data available, crime has been cut by a third. In 2016 the crime rate across the country sat at 5,904 incidents per 100,000 people—that’s the second lowest rate recorded by Statistics Canada.

Now for the bad. The severity of the crimes committed in Canada is on the rise. Although the crime severity index, the measure of all police-reported crime that takes into consideration both the volume and the seriousness of the crime, touched a low of 66 in 2013, it has been creeping higher ever since.

AND THE MOST DANGEROUS PLACE IN CANADA 2018 IS...

According to Maclean's.ca North Battleford, Saskatchewan with a CSI of 353 has the worst crime record among Canada’s cities and municipal police districts. 

The crime rate in this industrial and agricultural community is four times higher than the rest of the country. That alone isn’t alarming. Smaller communities tend to be more susceptible to inflated crime rates, with one or two incidents getting magnified when they are recast for a population of 100,000.







Data source/methodology: The report ranks communities according to the Crime Severity Index, which is a Statistics Canada measure of all police-reported crime collected through the Uniform Crime Reporting Survey that takes into consideration both the volume and the seriousness of the crime. The index uses 2006 as its benchmark. The 2016 data is the most current available and was released July 24, 2017. Maclean’s collects the annual crime data for police services categorized as municipal by StatsCan and having populations of at least 10,000 people. Some police forces may cover larger areas then their name suggests, and populations for each police force were provided on request by StatsCan.  Locations without a crime severity index were not included. Nor were communities with no provided population numbers included. For the crimes of assault and sexual assaults, assault level 1 and sexual assault level 1 were used.

If you would like more information on Smart Home or Business Security & Automation please Contact Us for a Free Security Evaluation.

SASKATOON SECURITY INQUIRIES
Reed Security Headquarters
Call 306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE (7233)
SuRe InnoVations
Call 306.974.0888
PRINCE ALBERT 
SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.922.7200
CALGARY 
SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 587.393.2800
REGINA 
SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.206.0700





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LOCATIONS

SASKATOON SECURITY
Reed Security Group (HEADQUARTERS)
14-1724 Quebec Avenue
Saskatoon, SK S7K 1V9
Ph: 306.653.3200
1.844.384.SAFE (7233)

Sure Innovations
1701 Saskatchewan Avenue
Saskatoon, SK S7K 1P7
Ph: 306.974.0888

Nine Yards Technologies Inc.
Ph: 306.341.2477

 

REGINA SECURITY
ViboPulse Services
Ph: 306.206.0700

WINNIPEG SECURITY
Guardian Advanced Solutions
Ph: 204.250.7510 or 204.878.0061

PRINCE ALBERT SECURITY
Thor Security Ltd.
1-243 South Industrial Drive
Prince Albert, SK S6V 7L9
Ph: 306.922.7200

 

NIAGARA REGION SECURITY
Alltech Smart Security
Ph: 289.990.3234

KAWARTHA LAKES REGION SECURITY
Dot Communications
232 Kent St W Unit 4
Lindsay, ON K9V 6A4
Ph: 1.833.368.2666

 

CALGARY SECURITY
Oxford Security Systems
#501, 2903 Kingsview Blvd SE
Airdrie, AB T4A 0C4
Ph: 587.393.2800

EDMONTON SECURITY
Ph: 1.844.384.7233