New & Noteworthy

ACADIA GROUP OF COMPANIES GETS PROTECTED BY REED SECURITY


When Acadia Group of Companies broke ground on their state‑of‑the‑art building at 120 Prospect Road in Saskatoon’s BizHub Industrial Park, they knew their security needed to keep pace with growth.

To meet this challenge, Acadia Group of Companies partnered with Reed Security to deploy a unified security solution - combining smart alarmsaccess control, and video surveillance into one intuitive platform.


Project Overview

Client: Acadia Group of Companies

Location: 120 Prospect Road, BizHub Industrial Park, Saskatoon

Scope: Smart alarm, access control, and video surveillance, all managed via Alarm.com


Objectives:

- Seamless integration of alarms, cameras, and door/gate control

- Centralized management via desktop and mobile

- Easily manage security for 150+ employees

- Scalable platform to support future expansion


Our Solution

1. Smart Alarm System

   - Door sensors and smart motion detectors

   - Real‑time alerts via desktop and mobile app

   - Remote arm/disarm functionality for added convenience


2. Access Control

   - Electronic door locks and gate control using smartphones

   - Customizable user profiles and schedules for yard, shop, and office areas

   - Comprehensive audit trail of every entry and exit


3. Video Surveillance

   - High‑definition cameras covering all access points and critical zones

   - AI person and vehicle detection

   - Continuous recording with secure cloud backup

   - Instant playback and clip sharing through Alarm.com


With Alarm.com's unified interface, Acadia’s facility managers can monitor alarms, manage access, and review video footage - all from a single dashboard.





About Acadia Group of Companies

The Acadia Group of Companies, founded in 1982, is a Saskatchewan‑owned and operated family of construction firms delivering turnkey solutions for large‑scale, complex projects. It encompasses Acadia Construction Inc., Acadia Paving Ltd., Acadia Pumping & Dewatering Ltd., and Integrated Engineering Inc., bringing together expertise in earthwork & civil infrastructure, civil engineering, mining & industrial, railway, environmental remediation, paving, concrete, fluid handling, and water resources. With over 150 skilled professionals, Acadia is dedicated to excellence, safety, and community engagement - values that made them a perfect partner for this project. Learn more at acadiagrp.ca.





How Acadia Leverages Alarm.com

User Management: Quickly add, modify, or remove access for up to 150 employees - no more physical keys. New smartphones simply require new mobile credentials.  

Zone‑Specific Permissions: Define access levels for yard gates, the shop floor, and the office with tailored schedules.  

After‑Hours Monitoring: The system auto‑arms every evening at a specified time, sends confirmation when armed, and alerts on any non‑typical activity - like an HVAC service door opening at 5:10 AM or unexpected entry at 8:56 PM.  

Video Verification: Link alarms to live camera feeds to verify incidents remotely. If a false alarm occurs, Jason can disarm the system and clear the event from his phone within seconds.  

Remote Control: Arm or disarm the system and unlock doors via the Alarm.com mobile app to ensure authorized personnel can enter without delay.





Why Choose Alarm.com on a Unified Platform?

Efficiency: One login, one app, one vendor—streamlining support and training.

Reliability: Enterprise‑grade hardware backed by 24/7 monitoring options.

Scalability: Easily add sensors, cameras, or doors as your facility grows.

Cost‑Effectiveness: Bundled services lower installation and maintenance expenses.


Testimonial

“Working with the team at Reed Security utilizing the Alarm.com platform has been a game‑changer for our business. The system seamlessly integrates building security, surveillance cameras, and employee access control into one simple, user‑friendly interface. Whether we’re at a desktop or on the go with the mobile app, we have full control and visibility at our fingertips. It’s efficient, reliable, and has made managing our facility’s security effortless.”

-Jason Horner, P.Eng., President & CEO, Acadia Group of Companies


Ready to Secure Your Facility?

At Reed Security, we customize each installation to your unique requirements and back it with responsive support and maintenance plans. Whether you’re planning new construction, an expansion, or a security upgrade - let’s discuss how we can elevate your security.


Contact us at 306.653.3200 or visit reedsecurity.com to schedule your no‑obligation consultation.




$0 TOUCHLESS VIDEO DOORBELL SALE!


Our new Touchless Video Doorbell recognizes when a person stands on your doormat, and sends you a mobile alert. 

Just tap the alert to see, hear and talk to your visitor through your Alarm.com app, from wherever you are.

You can do more at the front door like:

  • Check on doorstep deliveries
  • See, hear and speak to visitors
  • Watch live video feeds Anywhere, Anytime
  • Keep visitors safe with 2 way audio and touch free doorbell experience
  • Get around the clock smart alerts



FEATURES:


  • Expansive FOV (150° V, 115° H)
  • Full HD (1440 x 1920) video resolution
  • High dynamic range (HDR)
  • IR night vision (15 feet)
  • Video Analytics on the edge for faster, more relevant alerts
  • Live video and saved clip viewing
  • Two-Way Audio through the mobile app
  • Battery heater for low-temperature operation
  • 2x2 antenna for improved Wi-Fi range
  • Compatible with existing doorbell transformers (requires 16-30 VAC, 10 VA)
  • Compatible with mechanical and digital chimes

    *Requirements:

    -strong Wi-Fi Connection outside your home
    -internet package with minimum 2.5 MBPS upload speed per camera
    -existing doorbell must have a 16V 10VA transformer (or an electrician is required) 

20TH ANNIVERSARY SALE!

For the month of 🏷️ MARCH you can get a Touchless Video Doorbell professionally installed for $0 ($400 value) when you sign up for a new Reed Smart Home Security system.

Plus.......Get the first month on us!

Applies to new installations, upgrades and switch overs from competitors.

Contact us today for a No Obligation, 
20 minute Smart Home/Business Evaluation or call 306.922.7200


THE FINE PRINT
*Some conditions apply
*O.A.C. on approved credit
*Full packages start @ $49.95/mo.
*Doorbell only plans start @ $17/mo.
*36/60 month subscription is required
*Early termination charges may apply if you are an existing Reed Security client
*Available at participating dealers



HOME SECURITY TAX CREDIT

Source: Saskatchewan.ca

Home Renovation Tax Credit

Home Security Systems, Devices and Professional Installation qualify. Monthly fees do not.


Under this non-refundable tax credit, Saskatchewan homeowners may save up to $2,100 in provincial income tax by claiming a 10.5 per cent tax credit on up to $20,000 of eligible home renovation expenses. Eligible expenses include the cost of labour and professional services, building materials, fixtures, equipment rentals, and permits.

This tax credit will be administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as part of the Saskatchewan personal income tax system. CRA will develop the necessary forms and filing instructions in the coming months.


1. To Qualify

  • Renovations must be to your principal residence, which must be located in Saskatchewan.
  • Renovation expenses must be incurred between October 1, 2020, and December 31, 2022.
  • The renovation must be substantially completed by December 31, 2022.
  • At the time of the renovation(s), you must own, alone or jointly with another person, the housing unit (or share of the capital stock of a co-operative housing corporation that you acquired solely for the right to inhabit the housing unit owned by that corporation).
  • You, your current or former spouse or common-law partner, or any of your or your spouse/common-law partner's children must ordinarily inhabit the housing unit during the eligibility period.
  • In general, renovations must be of an enduring nature and integral to the dwelling or to the land that forms part of the dwelling. Land of one-half hectare or 1.24 acres, including the land upon which your housing unit stands and any portion of the adjoining land, will generally be considered part of your eligible dwelling for purposes of this tax credit.


2. Claim Credit on Tax Returns


Claim the credit on your 2021 and/or 2022 personal income tax returns:

  • Total qualified expenses incurred between October 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021, in excess of $1,000 (base amount), but not more than $12,000 can be claimed on your 2021 tax return (maximum claim of $11,000 for 2021).
  • Total qualified expenses incurred between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022, in excess of $1,000 (base amount), but not more than $10,000, can be claimed on your 2022 tax return (maximum claim of $9,000 for 2022).
  • The tax credit can be split among eligible family members, but the total amount claimed cannot exceed the maximum allowable. Eligible family members include you and your spouse or common-law partner and you or your spouse/common-law partner's children who are under 18 years of age at the end of 2021.
  • If you sell and purchase an eligible dwelling during the eligibility period, qualified expenses that you incur for both dwellings will be eligible (however, each dwelling must have been your permanent residence at the time the renovations occurred). The maximum total of qualified expenditures that you can claim is $20,000.
  • If you earn rental or business income from part of your eligible dwelling, you can only claim the amount for expenses incurred for the personal-use areas of your dwelling. For expenses incurred for common areas or that benefit the housing unit as a whole (e.g., re-shingling a roof), divide the expense between personal use and income-earning use and claim the personal-use portion.
  • Example of splitting the tax credit between family members: You and your spouse enter a contract for the purchase and installation of a new furnace after October 1, 2020, and pay $9,500 for this renovation. On your 2021 tax return, calculate the tax credit as follows: Total qualified expense of $9,500, less the $1,000 base amount = $8,500. Either you or your spouse can claim the entire $8,500 or you can each claim a portion of it. For example, if you claim $3,500, your spouse can claim the remaining $5,000.

3. Documentation

Eligible expenses must be supported by documents such as receipts or invoices and should clearly identify:

  • the vendor/contractor including business address and (if applicable) their GST/HST registration number
  • the type and quantity of goods purchased and/or services provided
  • the dates when the goods and/or services were purchased or delivered
  • Invoices must by marked "paid" or be accompanied by other proof of payment such as credit card slips or cancelled cheques.

4. Eligible Expenses

Examples of eligible expenses:

  • painting the interior or exterior of a house
  • re-shingling a roof
  • kitchen, bathroom, and/or basement renovations
  • flooring (carpet, linoleum, hardwood, laminate, etc.)
  • windows and/or doors
  • furnace, boiler, woodstove, fireplace, water softener, water heater, and/or oil tank
  • central air conditioner
  • permanent home ventilation
  • permanent reverse osmosis system
  • septic system and/or wells
  • electrical wiring upgrades (e.g., changing from 100 to 200 amps)
  • home security system (monthly fees do not qualify)
  • solar panels and panel trackers
  • building a garage, deck, fence, garden/storage shed, and/or an addition to your home
  • building a new driveway and/or retaining wall (or resurfacing a driveway)
  • exterior shutters and awnings
  • pool liners and/or solar heaters and heat pumps for pools (does not include solar blankets)
  • landscaping (e.g., sod, perennial shrubs and flowers, trees, large rocks, permanent garden lighting, permanent water fountain, permanent ponds, large permanent garden ornaments)
  • fixtures (e.g., blinds, shades, shutters, lights, ceiling fans)
  • electronic devices that are installed as a fixture and are necessary and primarily used to operate another eligible expenditure (e.g., a device that is a fixture and is necessary and primarily used to operate solar panels, air conditioning systems, home security devices, or ventilation systems)
  • associated costs to the above such as installation, permits, professional services, equipment rentals, and incidental expenses (e.g., work performed by electricians, plumbers, carpenters, architects, etc. will generally constitute an eligible expense)
  • for condo owners and co-operative housing corporation members, your share of the cost of eligible renovations to common areas will qualify for the tax credit if certain conditions are met (see Information Bulletin for more details)

5. Ineligible Expenses

Examples of expenses which are not eligible:

  • renovations to a cottage or cabin unless it is your principal residence
  • the value of your own labour for do-it-yourself projects
  • payments to a close relative or other person not at arm's length, unless that person is registered for GST purposes
  • routine repairs and maintenance typically performed on an annual or more frequent basis
  • maintenance contracts (e.g., furnace and/or pool cleaning, snow removal, lawn care, etc.)
  • appliances, furniture, draperies, hot tubs, and mechanical items not considered an enduring addition to your home (e.g. fridges, stoves, couches, etc.)
  • TVs, computers, tablets, smart devices, speakers, streaming devices, cellphones, gaming systems, and other audiovisual electronics
  • items that have a value independent of the renovation, such as construction equipment and/or tools
  • any financing costs (e.g., interest payments) associated with the renovation(s)


Contact us today for a No Obligation, 20 minute Smart Home/Business Evaluation or call 1.844.384.7233


SASKATOON SECURITY 

Reed Security Headquarters

306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE (7233)

SuRe InnoVations

306.974.0888

PRINCE ALBERT SECURITY

306.922.7200

REGINA SECURITY

306.206.0700

CALGARY SECURITY

587.393.2800

EDMONTON SECURITY

855.424.2324




THROWBACK THURSDAY: THE UGLY KEYPAD



Is it a throwback if you still have an old, outdated alarm system keypad?
Older keypads are used to arm, disarm and program your security system. Sometimes they are used as a door chime.


Today, a Reed Security system is a beautiful touchscreen and functions as a smarthome/smartbusiness security and automation system.

✅ 7" HD touchscreen
✅ Live Answer/View - displays Alarm.com HD cameras
✅ 4G LTE cellular radio - no phone line required
✅ Z-Wave+ radio - connect to smart locks, smart lights, smart thermostat
✅ 5MP HD camera - record people disarming and can send you photos
✅ Door, Motion, Fire, Flood and Temperature protection

...and lots more.
 


Comes with Alarm.com desktop and smartphone apps when you have a Reed Security Interactive Plan subscription.

✅ Connect to your home or business from Anywhere
✅ Get instant alerts of the system being armed/disarmed by kids or employees
✅ One single app can control your security system, ReedHD
 security cameras, smart locks, smart thermostat, smart lights and more...



We've added some new *$0 Down Plans with $0 INSTALLATION.

It's never been easier to Upgrade, Switch Over from a competitor or install a New Smart Package at your Home or Business.

Plans range from $39.95/mo. to $79.95/mo. and a term is required.

Contact Us today for more information or to Book your professional installation.






DOES MY ALARM SYSTEM NEED A PHONE LINE? MAYBE!


One of the biggest trends in the security industry is that homeowners are cancelling their home phone lines in record numbers. Due to the popularity of smartphones and affordability of high speed internet, 50% of homes no longer have a land line.  

Most traditional alarm systems DO require a phone line to transmit signals to a 24/7 Monitoring Station – no matter who your security provider is.

Newer security systems that have been installed within the last 5-7 years often have built in cellular modems. However, cellular providers have been phasing out older 2G and 3G connections and you still may not be properly protected.     

If you’re uncertain about your coverage or have recently cancelled your home phone line, your should contact your security provider immediately to confirm your coverage. Reed Security has a $0 DOWN 4G LTE PROMO in place for clients wishing to cancel their home or business land line.



What Are My Options If I Do Not Have Phone Line?

1. Local System

The alarm system is no longer monitored. Your emergency contacts, the Police and the Fire Department are no longer dispatched. You no longer qualify for a home insurance discount (max. 25% per year).  

2. I.P. Signalling

An I.P. communicator is added to your alarm system and signals are transmitted to a 24/7 Monitoring Station via high speed internet connection.

3. Cellular Signalling

A cellular communicator is added to your alarm system and signals are transmitted to a 24/7 Monitoring Station via SaskTel, Telus, Bell and Rogers cellular towers.

This is by far the most popular option due to the speed, reliability, increased security and affordability.
 


In fact, 90 percent of Reed Security’s new subscribers have Alarm.com 4G LTE communication. This dedicated connection works if the phone line is cut, power is out or internet is down.

Once you’re on the Alarm.com platform you have access to one single app that can:

  • Arm/disarm your security system remotely
  • Receive instant arming/disarming alerts
  • Manage users and control what they can do
  • Control smart thermostats, lights, door locks and garage doors
  • View ReedHD™ indoor, outdoor and doorbell cameras

If you have any questions about No Phone Line home or business security or would like pricing to Upgrade to Alarm.com please Contact Us today.
  

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

EDMONTON SECURITY INQUIRIES

Call 1.855.424.2324

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
54 Lindsay St S
Lindsay, ON K9V 2L8
Ph: 1.833.368.2666

GREATER TORONTO AREA SECURITY
Link Secure Canada Inc.
15 Victoria Crescent
Brampton, ON L6T 1E2
Ph: 647.262.7460

Pride Security
102-100 Matheson Blvd East
Mississauga, ON L4Z 3P8
Ph: 647.506.0002

 

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

EDMONTON SECURITY
Digitech Security Systems
Ph: 780.444.4449