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False alarms are a headache for all parties involved in the process. They cause stress on the home or business owner, they trigger unwanted action at your monitoring station, and they can lead to consuming the resources of your local fire and/or police department. False alarms can also lead to fees/fines that can hurt your bottom line. Although they are unfortunate, there are some steps you can take to proactively avoid false alarms from happening.

After a false alarm, you want to quickly diagnose the root cause. You do not want to simply get the alarm reset and ignore the reason why it happened in the first place, it is worth your time and energy to get to the bottom of why. 

Commercial Security False Alarm Causes:

• Poor Training/Onboarding of New Employees
  • Typically, most new employees receive little more than “This is our keypad, punch your code in here and hit enter”. There is a lot more to understand about your commercial security system. They should be trained on what to do when an alarm goes off, where the sensors are located, and who to contact if there is an emergency. We recommend having your security provider review your protocols with your staff on an annual basis.
• Improper Installation and/or Unmaintained Equipment
  • When choosing a company to work with to install your security equipment at your business, you should have an extensive vetting process. This is the safety and security of your business after all. There are many poorly trained and uninsured fly-by-night security “companies”. Make sure you ask your provider if they are insured, have proper certifications, ask for references and understand what their training process is.

Home Owner Security False Alarm Causes:

• Incorrect Keypad Codes
  • It’s easy to understand how people can forget, misplace, or just don’t know their keypad codes. Once an alarm sounds and your adrenaline starts going, it can be hard to think about what your code is. Make sure your codes are somewhere you can reference easily but securely and provide each user with a unique code that they can remember.
• Improperly Securing Doors and Windows
  • Turning a home security system on before making sure the doors and windows are secured is an all too common way to cause a false alarm. At Tasco Security, we always review where our sensors are located and how the windows and doors should be set BEFORE you set the alarm. It only takes a minute to review but this simple step can be overlooked.
• Improper Installation
  • DIY Home security kits like Ring for doorbells, Simplisafe, and Arlo are easily accessible and cheap. Their attractive marketing tactics make them seem easy to install and use. However, we find that we are consistently having to replace these systems for new clients because the installation was done improperly. Many homeowners have issues getting the cameras to cover the areas they want and getting them to properly synch with the right technology is not as easy as it looks on the box. Leave the security of your home to the pros, not a slick-looking camera in a box.
  • Pay attention to your door and window contacts, these are a crucial part of your security system. If the gap between the magnet or transmitter is too big this can lead to a false alarm. Additionally, using tape to attach a magnet or transmitter is not advisable and is a sign of poor installation standards.

Preventative Steps to Reduce False Alarms:

• Proper Training
  • In conjunction with your local security provider, like Tasco Security, come up with a training plan and document that you can share with stakeholders. Review and update the plan regularly.
• Work with a reputable and professional alarm installation company
  • We can’t say it enough, vet your security provider. Ask them for references, make sure they are insured, and have them show you how an alarm is handled when tripped. Also, make sure you understand your contract before signing it.
• Keep your monitoring center updated on changes in codes and/or users
  • If you add users or if you change your codes want to make sure your monitoring center is aware of changes like this. Monitoring centers do a fantastic job, but they go off the information provided to them. Make sure you keep them up to date. 

At Tasco Security, we value creating long-lasting relationships with both our local businesses and homeowners. We realize what an inconvenience a false alarm brings to both the alarm owner as well as the local police and/or fire departments. This is why we work with clients to make sure they understand the causes of false alarms and the things they can do to help avoid them in the future. If you want to review your existing security infrastructure or are interested in learning more please contact us today. 

Tasco Security…We Bring You Peace of Mind

Bringing over 30 years of policing experience to the Tasco Security Team

[Enfield, NH]: Tasco Security is pleased to welcome Michael Evans as the Tasco Security Service Manager. Michael joined Tasco Security this year, from the Town of Thetford, VT where he was Chief of Police for the past 6 years. Michael will be bringing his invaluable experience in dealing with security to Tasco to further our commitment to delivering best-in-class solutions and unmatched service.

“We are excited to have Mike join our team.  His first-hand knowledge in responding to alarms will provide us with a new perspective and allow us to improve our customers' experience.”

-Tim Surprenant, President Tasco Security

Born and raised in Claremont, NH he started in policing in 1989 in Cornish, NH, and later worked for both Charlestown, NH Police, and Charlestown Ambulance. He joined the Hanover, NH PD in 1991 as a police officer and rose through the ranks of Sergeant and Lieutenant across 24 years on the force. Some of his projects included planning for large-scale events ranging from Presidential or dignitary visits to half marathons and street closures for block parties or construction projects. 

In 2015, Michael took on the Chief of Police position for the Town of Thetford, VT, and was there until the end of 2021. At Thetford, Michael returned to community-focused, in-person policing, making connections and serving people like only a small-town police officer can do.     

“I am excited to bring my years of public service/public safety to Tasco Security and work with their professional team to continue to help customers achieve peace of mind. I expect that both insider experience in the security field from the first responder point of view, and my ability to identify problems and plan for them before they become crises will be assets I bring to this new role.”

-Michael Evans, Service Manager

Michael resides in Hanover, NH with his wife and two teenage daughters.

About Tasco Security: Tasco Security has been providing peace-of-mind security solutions for residential and business customers in the Upper Valley Region of New Hampshire and Vermont for over 50 years. As the premier security provider, Tasco works closely with customers in designing the perfect solution for their unique needs and situations.

Tasco Security… We Bring You Peace Of Mind.

To say 2021 will go down as a year “we will never forget” would be an enormous understatement. In the security industry, we saw a massive increase in demand, supply chain issues, innovative technologies, and a reset of the DIY home security model. As we look forward to 2022, we wanted to share a list of those trends we see in our industry in the year ahead.

Increased interest in limited security contact solutions as the COVID-19 Pandemic continues

Limiting human interaction has been a theme of 2021 and will continue into the year ahead. In the security industry, this has led to investment in innovative technologies such as touchless entry security systems, touchless intercom systems, touchless access control systems as well as advanced video surveillance systems.

Strategic focus on upgrading legacy analog surveillance systems to higher quality hardware and questionable cloud-based technology

Technology is great, but eventually, it gets old and needs to be replaced by better solutions. This is true as it related to video surveillance, many systems are now past their useful life and should be upgraded to more efficient and advanced hardware. New systems now offer better resolution, increased functionality of apps, and innovative software. 

Along these lines, we see an increased interest in cloud-based security technology, but security and cloud-based solutions don’t always mix. Many new consumer-based (DIY) video systems store your data in the cloud. Once something (such as security video) is moved to the cloud nefarious individuals can now hack into your platforms and view your videos. You only have to google “ring camera privacy concerns” to see why there are privacy concerns about residential and commercial video being hosted in the cloud.  

Supply Chain woes continue

Issues in the supply chain have dominated many industries across the US and the security industry is one of them. Shortages in hardware are real and the consolidation of vendors does cause concern -  if one company has an issue with a specific item then your whole system can be compromised waiting on parts.

The lingering pandemic has caused scarcity of security products, fleet vehicles, and other basic tools, posing unprecedented challenges for integrators (Security Business)

There is no easy answer for supply chain issues but we foresee some clarity occurring on the horizon as companies innovate.

Real-Live video surveillance will increase in demand for reasons other than security

People are no longer just happy to have a video of a “crime” they want to utilize their cameras to monitor their home in real-time for things such as package drop-offs, contractor monitoring, driveway plowing, this list goes on. Consumers want a real-time live video that can be monitored remotely from devices like cell phones. 

Continued move away from Chinese-based technology over personal security fears and govt. blacklisted items/vendors

As technological innovations continue to drive the security market, many pieces of residential and commercial security hardware have been made in China. In fact, “all federal government bodies should have started on plans to remove tech from four manufacturers that are considered too closely linked to the Chinese government. They include telecoms giants Huawei and ZTE, as well as surveillance camera makers Dahua and Hikvision.” (Forbes) As the United States continues to have increased security concerns with China the security industry will have to look to new vendor relationships in new countries that provide the technologies needed.

There are so many more trends to monitor in the security industry in 2022 but these are a few that will play heavily into defining our industry over the next year. As always Tasco Security continues to be at the forefront of this evolving industry, offering our customers best-in-class products and services. If you would like to talk about how these trends may impact your security system in the future, please do not hesitate to reach out.

At Tasco Security, we have many clients with second homes, summer cottages, lake houses, etc. Each year we see many issues happen in unoccupied homes, many times these problems could have been avoided with some foresight and attention. We decided to put a list together of a few of the major tasks to remember when closing up your summer home for the winter.

1. VET ALL CONTRACTORS & HIRED HELP

As you are in the process of getting ready for winter you may have a lot of tradespeople in your home (and they may be aware that you are leaving) from roofing contractors to cleaning services. Make sure that you vet them properly as they will know the house will be vacant for part of the year.

2. CHECK ALL PIPES

Depending on if you're going to keep your home heated and water running or turning off the heat and draining your pipes there are a few different things to consider. You have pipes running throughout your home and you need to inspect them closely before you leave. At Tasco Security we have people comment constantly after a burst pipe “I didn’t even know that was in there!”

Inspect your pipes for any signs of a potential issue. Make sure that all pipes in crawl spaces or places with little to no heat are wrapped in heat tape or temperature-controlled heating cables. Opening cabinet doors will also help uninsulated pipes get exposed to warmer air as well.

3. UPDATE NEIGHBORS AND FIRST RESPONDERS

Make sure to reach out to your neighbors, police/fire departments and let them know that the property will be vacant, also make sure they have emergency contact info on file in case they need to reach you.

4. CHECK HVAC SYSTEM

Have your HVAC system serviced professionally to reduce the risk of failure or fire. Leave the thermostat at an appropriate temperature if you are keeping the house heated, we suggest no lower than 55 degrees.

5. CHECK YOUR HOME SECURITY SYSTEM, FIRE ALARMS & ENVIRONMENTAL ALARMS

Security Alarms

“Burglars want an easy target where they won’t likely be seen and where they can get in and out FAST! So they select an unoccupied home with the easiest access…” (www.jsu.edu)

Since you will be away from your home for weeks or months there may be easy signs that it is vacant. Unplowed driveways, unmaintained lawns, little to no lighting, etc. All these clues can highlight your home to potential burglars. This is why a home security system is so important. At Tasco Security, we always suggest using a professionally trained, licensed and insured security company as they understand the needs of securing your home and provide a reliable response plan.

“Homes without a home-security/alarm system have a significantly higher break-in rate, so invest in an alarm system to protect your home” (www.jsu.edu)

If you already have an existing system, reach out to your security company to let them know when you are leaving. If you have a DIY camera system, we suggest testing all functionality on your own before leaving.

Fire Alarms

God forbid your summer home would catch fire while you are away for the winter but it’s best to be prepared. Check the system, install fresh batteries if needed, and be sure the air vents are well cleaned for good airflow.

Environmental Alarms

At Tasco Security, we offer a wide range of environmental alarms that can monitor for moisture, high or low temps, and humidity. These alarms can be the difference between hundreds and tens of thousands of dollars in damage for things like frozen pipes.

6. CHECK ELECTRICAL PANEL

Make sure all your fuses/breakers look in safe and satisfactory condition. Turn off all your circuit breakers except for the ones that are responsible for your security system/alarms.

7. UNPLUG ALL APPLIANCES

It’s best to unplug your appliances in case of a lightning strike. If you unplug a refrigerator it's best to leave the door propped open to avoid mildew and a bad smell.

8. CONSULT YOUR HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE POLICY/COMPANY

Did you know that you can be held responsible by insurance companies if you do NOT shut your water off when you leave the house? Or did you know that some homeowners insurance policies require house sitters? These are the details you need to check and understand, the last thing you want is a burst pipe situation with no insurance coverage.

9. INSPECT YOUR ROOF

Winter is coming, high winds, low temps, rain, snow - depending on where you are this is typically the time of year roofs take a beating. Before you close up your summer home for the winter, inspect the roof, look for loose or broken shingles if it’s asphalt. If you have a standing seam roof, investigate for dents or loose panels. Another thing to tackle while you are inspecting is to clean your gutters of all debris, you won’t be back for a while and you want them performing flawlessly while you are away. Clogged gutters can cause ice dams, leaks, and roof damage.

10. CHECK/ORGANIZE AND PICK UP YOUR OUTDOOR SPACES

Depending on your location winter weather can pack a punch. Here at Tasco Security, we deal with Nor’Easters, and typically after one of these storms people will lose power for extended periods. You want to make sure your outdoor spaces are cleaned up and free of anything that could go airborne. It’s also a good time to examine any trees around your property, are there any branches that may snap during freezing rain? Any trees that are now dead and leaning towards the house? Remember winter weather can pack a punch in many places.

If you are closing up your summer home for winter and have any questions about home security, alarms, or monitoring services please give us a call, we would be happy to talk about your options.

At Tasco Security, we promise to always do right by our customers, this includes adapting to and embracing the latest in security technologies while also avoiding those residential and commercial security technologies that we deem unsafe.

We are frequently asked about DIY home security solutions, or get calls about companies offering “the latest in security technology”. Typically, we take the time to work with our clients to review their questions and talk to them about why working with a local security provider is more secure, cost-effective, and reliable than any national chain or DIY solution will ever be. This conversation is becoming easier by the day as many DIY solutions break their marketing promises, underdeliver on services, and participate in shady practices that you would never find being utilized at a local security provider, like Tasco Security.

Over the last 18 months there have been numerous instances of these large security providers utilizing technology in unsafe ways: 

•   Vivint settles with US Justice Dept for improper identify theft and credit reporting
  • “The complaint filed by the Department of Justice alleged that Vivint sales staff violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act by using a process known as “white paging” which involves finding another person with the same or similar name on the White Pages app and using that person’s credit report to quality the prospective unqualified customer.” 

•   ADT technician hacked hundreds of customers' security cameras
  •  “A former security technician for home security company ADT admitted he secretly accessed customers' home security cameras more than 9,600 times over more than four years, particularly in homes of women to spy on them.”

•   NAD Finds Supported Certain Advertising Claims for SimpliSafe Home Security; Recommends Modification / Discontinuation of Others, Including Claim that its System Enables Police to Dispatch 3.5x “Faster”
  • “The National Advertising Division (“NAD”) determined that SimpliSafe, Inc. supported certain advertising claims for SimpliSafe Home Security, including claims that the system is equipped with features to keep it functioning after an event which may disrupt the system and that SimpliSafe did not have a material connection with certain third-party endorsers. “

•   SimpliSafe’s home security system can be compromised by a $2 wireless emitter
  • “SimpliSafe’s latest home security system can apparently be fooled by an affordable wireless emitter that mimics the frequency of its door and window contact sensors. The YouTube channel LockPickingLawyer posted a video demonstrating how it can be done, and, unfortunately, it looks very easy to do”

•    Dozens sue Amazon's Ring after camera hack leads to threats and racial slurs
  • “Dozens of people who say they were subjected to death threats, racial slurs, and blackmail after their in-home Ring smart cameras were hacked are suing the company over “horrific” invasions of privacy.”

There are just a few examples of the unsafe issues associated with some of the “Big Tech” security companies. With huge amounts of marketing spend, flashy packaging, and bare-bones pricing we understand why many people are enticed to “try out the other guys” but again and again issues arise such as shoddy installation practices, lack of customer service, questionable contracts, and unsafe technology hacks.

Our goal at Tasco Security is to “Bring You Peace of Mind” and this can be seen throughout our services/solutions, hardware, and staff. We believe in honesty, transparency and long-term customer relationships, this is how we have been successful in this industry for over 50 years and plan to continue for another 50. Remember, in the security industry if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

If you have any questions about your service, your current provider, or would like to switch to Tasco Security we would love to hear from you. 

As we enter the spring months, the real estate market begins heating up. This year in Vermont and New Hampshire it seems like real estate never cooled down! With the residential real estate market forecasted to stay red hot, there will be a lot of new homeowners across VT and NH. When buying or moving into a new home there is a mile-long checklist that everyone has in their mind. Unfortunately, many times we find that home security is often overlooked or thought of at the last minute.

As a new homeowner your property can be an instant target for break-ins or burglary. This is because criminals take advantage of unoccupied homes, or homes being worked on by contractors. They also may see opportunity in knowing you have a lot of valuables in the garage as you move in, or recognize you have not had time to set up your residential security systems. This is why we have put together a list of items to consider when buying a new home.

1.    Evaluate Exterior Doors

Your new home is a sanctuary, one that should provide peace, safety, and enjoyment. However, if you have poor exterior doors then getting into your home may be easier than you think. Analyze your door for any wear and tear.

• Is there a mail slot that is compromised?
• Is the door frame loose or shows signs of a forced entry?
• Are the windows in the door sturdy and able to keep out intruders?
• If your exterior doors are old, or in bad shape then you may need to replace them before changing or rekeying your locks.
• Do you have any oversized pet doors? Are they secure? 

2.    Change The Locks

This is a no-brainer for anyone moving into a new home. Over the years your home’s keys have been given out to who knows how many people. Nannies, babysitters, dog walkers, contractors, neighbors…the list goes on. You have no way of knowing who has access to your home. By rekeying your home, you are given a new set of keys, you decide who gets a set and the new locks can also be updated after being checked out by a professional if needed. 

Additionally, at that time you can change your lock system. Maybe you would prefer a master key to all the locks, or you want to install digital locks. If there is one thing you do when you move into your new home, this is it. 

3.    Change Existing Alarm Codes

Many homes now come with an existing alarm system. From professional installs to DIY kits, you are inheriting a home security system that you most likely have little idea about. What you do need to figure out is how to change the existing alarm codes so that you can arm the system and you know who has access to your home. This may involve you reaching out to an alarm company, a professional security company (such as Tasco Security), or potentially your real estate agent or even the former homeowner to get the information you need.

• Remember to always register your alarm if it is required in your state or city or town.
• If you have automatic garage doors you will want to have those codes changed as well. 

4.    Don't Discuss Your Schedule

When you move into a new home you may have work being done that involves contractors and subs, meaning you may not be moving in for a few months. You may be buying a second home and plan on being there only a few times a month. Whatever your schedule is like, do not discuss that with all the third-party people with whom you are interacting. An open home is an easy target so keep your information private. 

5.    Vet Your Moving Company

On the whole, moving companies are professional, safe, and courteous but make sure you hire a company that has great reviews, comes highly recommended, and puts everything in writing. Remember these companies have access to your old home, your new home, your valuables. How many people do you trust that level of access to? 

6.    Have a Professional Evaluate Your Fire Protection Systems

Fire alarms are a necessity of all homes, however, some home’s systems are outdated or potentially out of code. Why leave the risk of a malfunctioning sprinkler system to chance? Have a professional audit your fire protection system and inform you on what you need to update, fix and/or replace to have the safest and dependable fire alarm system.

• Make sure to have them analyze or install Carbon Monoxide sensors as well. 

7.    Reach Out To Your Insurance Company

Did you know most home insurance companies provide a discount for professionally installed home security systems? They will require an alarm certificate as proof and this can be obtained through a reputable alarm installation company.

Although there are a ton of items to consider when moving into a new home, security should be almost at the top of your list. Don’t leave your new home's security to chance, or wait for there to be a break-in or fire to realize you never did call that security company you meant to call. If you have recently moved to Vermont or New Hampshire and have some questions about a new or existing security system give us a call, we would be happy to help you out.  

There are so many options when considering home security companies, solutions, technologies that picking one company can be confusing at best. What may start off as a positive relationship can sour over time due to a wide range of reasons. Some companies may go out of business or they may not be providing you with the latest security technologies available. You may be unhappy with their level of customer service or their technicians may be careless or under-trained (we see many examples of careless holes drilled in walls or exterior siding which reflect lazy attention to best practices).