How to choose the right security products for your household

Posted on August 8, 2011 by Apex Locksmiths

There should be no compromise on household safety and security. Apart from keeping doors locked and windows closed, we need to adopt additional measures to have peace of mind in our homes, workplace, and public areas. The authorities pledge to ensure this, but their limited resources hamper them from preventing all harm, theft, and damage to the public and their property.

A reliable and dependable home security systems service provider is usually able to assist in these circumstances, and Apex Locksmiths is one such establishment. It is a family-run business boasting 20 years of experience as a security services and installation provider. Thanks to its longevity, it is rated among the best such security providers in the country.

The services provided are comprehensive and cover every security requirement, such as wireless home security systems, intercom systems, and electronic access systems. Services include emergency 24-hour lock out service, car security, including automotive locks and car ignition systems, transponder keys, security grill, steel doors, security steel windows and gates, magnetic strip cards and proximity cards, supply and fitting of residential locks, safes and security systems, key cutting, time-delay locks, and fireproof safes and commercial safes. High-security measures such as Lockwood locks and pocker machine restricted key systems are also available.

Apex Locksmiths technicians are fully licensed and qualified professionals who provide services with the latest technology and at competitive rates. Apex Locksmiths’ mobile locksmiths are ready to respond to all emergencies and are fully equipped with the latest tools.

At Apex Locksmiths, “customer service” is not just a catch phrase either; it is a promise and a reality. Apex Locksmiths prides itself on helping customers select the most appropriate components for their intercom systems and continue to provide customer service and technical support well beyond the time of purchase. Their goal is to help design the right security configuration for homes or businesses and to provide the advice and guidance a property owner needs to complete the installation.

After 20 years in the security industry, Apex Locksmiths know that people want the very best in monitored security services when it comes to protecting families, businesses, and valuables. Moreover, Apex Locksmiths understand the importance of listening to customers, as they are the best source of ideas and recommendations for improvement.

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How to find a trusted locksmith

Posted on July 25, 2011 by Apex Locksmiths

Keys are essential to the security of a home, vehicle, or cash. Losing your keys can be an incredibly stressful experience, as is the efforts of having to find a locksmith you feel you can trust to help get your life back in order again. Unlike with other tradespeople, people generally approach locksmith services with greater caution, and with good reason – who else would be able to grant themselves access to your private belongings.

Many people believe they can do just fine without professional assistance though. Unfortunately, this often leads to property damage when an amateur attempts to break into his or her own car or home. The first step to finding a locksmith you can trust can be as simple as trawling the classifieds. Services are often quite specific, and you would find locksmiths specialising in one or more areas, such as homes, vehicles, home security options, or emergency response. As such, you must know exactly what service you need.

Once you’ve found a few candidates, ask for a quote. A trustworthy locksmith should be able to provide a detailed estimate of the labour and parts he or she will use for the job. The locksmith should also be upfront about any extra fees, such as emergency service. Some might also stipulate minimum fees, so ensure you know how much you will have to pay before work commences. Fees can also vary based on the complexity of the job at hand – unlocking the front door would cost less than replacing the lock entirely. Similarly, installation and maintenance of home security systems will cost more.

You can also investigate the trustworthiness of locksmith services by enquiring about their background check policy, i.e. whether they have one. In this case, you should be prepared to answer a few questions as well. That a locksmith would make the effort to verify your connection with the lock that is to be opened is a sign of trustworthiness. This is because no professional worth his or her salt would want to be involved in a criminal enterprise.

If a locksmith service is able to assure you of its efficiency, professionalism, reliability, and trustworthiness, then you can be sure that you’re in safe hands.

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Why you should install a home alarm system

Posted on July 11, 2011 by Apex Locksmiths

Your home and property are usually your biggest investment, and as a property owner, there is a need to take precautionary steps to protect your property from intrusion. Deciding to get an alarm system for your house is a great security solution for your personal and property safety. The installation of home security systems can minimise the potential of intrusion by perpetrators such as thieves, burglars, or kidnappers.

Current alarm systems are incorporated with state-of-the-art applications to detect encroachment of personal or commercial property. Ear-splitting alarms and blinding lights activated upon motion being detected may deter those with malicious intentions from advancing on to your property and causing further damage. This will help to protect valuable belongings such as important documents, certificates, jewellery, and cash from theft, and secure the safety and wellbeing of all who reside or work in the protected property.

Home alarm systems can also provide peace of mind when the property owner is away from the premises. They can connect automatically to pre-designated contacts or the police to request aid should any intrusion be detected. The owner will then be informed of any incident occurring on the property. The property owner can leave his or her worries to the alarm systems when he or she is away from home as the systems handle break-ins automatically.

The installation of an alarm system also rewards the property owner with more savings on home insurance. Property equipped with security features is considered to have reduced the risk of damage and intrusion. Such property may be deemed low risk by insurance providers, and the house or business owner will benefit from a lower premium. It is also possible to negotiate with the insurance provider for a more affordable insurance policy that provides more thorough cover for the house or business.

Besides this, the property owner can also opt for extra features such as surveillance video to complement the home alarm system. The added feature will enable better monitoring of any abnormalities on the property and its surroundings. If there is a break-in, the video can capture evidence of the intrusion to bring the perpetrators to book. The advantages of installing an alarm system are evident and a property owner should ensure a home or business, and its occupants remain safe and sound by equipping it with a secure home security system.

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Different countries different applications on security what’s the comparison & why!!

Posted on July 4, 2011 by Apex Locksmiths

Security alarm systems can differ wildly between different countries. This is because the levels of crime in one country might be higher than another country, and necessitate the use of more security systems.

The types of security measures in different countries may also be based on systems that are authorised for use in that country. Some countries may have banned certain measures, even though its use is primarily to maintain security. Technology is another factor for the difference in alarm systems in different countries.

Countries in South East Asia tend to record low levels of security threats and crimes involving break-ins and burglaries. Technologically advanced security products such as wireless security systems are not necessary. Most premises, whether residential or business, still rely on safes to keep valuables secure. That is not to say that security alarm systems are not used at all, it is just that there is no need for cutting edge, state-of-the-art security systems yet.

Security applications can also differ socially. A social difference is usually present in the culture of a society, especially when western and eastern societies are compared. In the west, there is a greater likelihood that home or business owners will keep firearms on the premises to ensure the safety of the people in the building. In turn, this calls for security measures, such as a gun safe, to avoid misuse of the firearms.

Possession of firearms is still relatively rare in Asian countries, thus, gun safes are not frequently seen. As such, the different levels of security in different societies are reflected in the population’s opinion and use of security systems.

It is a well-established fact that more advanced countries tends to be richer in material wealth and possession of technology-based products. The opposite of this is also true. This means that a difference in levels of security within two countries and the ability of criminals to breach premises also exists. Thus, there is a greater likelihood for societies in western countries to adopt high-level security alarm systems to protect their property and belongings. Conversely, such security systems are redundant in countries where material wealth is less prevalent.

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New products Introduction – What’s out & what’s on the horizon

Posted on June 20, 2011 by Apex Locksmiths

Thanks to the advantages of modern technology and research, security system providers nowadays have been able to provide better equipment based on research and methods that have become more refined. Where home and business owners once had to rely on strong padlocks, guard dogs and blurry cctv systems, today’s security systems guarantee that the premises will remain safe and secure.

One of the newer security systems we now see available is the wireless security system, which does not have to rely on proximity in order to be able to provide security support. Security alarm systems such as these are extremely convenient for large premises that require a vast monitoring network while maintaining a tidy appearance at the same time.

The access control system is another security system that allows security management to grant access only to people who are allowed on and off the premises. Alarm systems like this allow security personnel to monitor who enters and leaves the premises, and enables prevention of unwanted visitors. Additionally, the access history at specific entry or exit points can be recorded with the relevant designation. The access control system can also be used to monitor the entry and exit of electronic items, especially at access points that record high traffic volume.

The security alarm systems designed today are more technologically advanced than their predecessors are, as they are built to detect even the slightest intrusion. The system is also able to recognise what does and does not constitute a threat. The system can also be linked to a monitoring centre in order to alert security management or personnel immediately if the alarm is activated, and provide details of the activation.

Security products nowadays have become convenient in that they are more user-friendly and unobtrusive. Compared to the surveillance cameras of yore, today’s systems have their own support structure in the event of malfunctions. Another improvement is the emergence of mobile locksmiths, who are able to visit customers on-site and rectify any problems. Thanks to the constant improvements and advancements in security systems, the future will be a much brighter and safer place.

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Safes – Choosing a safe

Posted on June 6, 2011 by Apex Locksmiths

Safes are mainly used to store and preserve valuables. There are many types of safes available to the consumer, and they are differentiated based on their functions and the items that the owner wishes to store for safekeeping.

Safes that are used in the home are usually wall or in-floor ground safes. These types of home safes are hidden from plain sight and are less likely to be seen by a hasty, would be thief. The owner of a safe can also choose from varying types of locking mechanisms. These range from cutting edge electronic locks to the more conventional combination locks. The choice of locking mechanism can depend on the value of the stored items, the level of security desired, or the owner’s preference.

Commercial safes are another variety of safes that are used by companies or on business premises. Safes like these are considered a good choice for keeping important items such as documents, cash and data safe.

Another type of safe is a gun safes, which is purpose-built to provide secure gun storage. Like all good safes, a gun safe is an unobtrusive item. This inconspicuous appearance is vital when guns are stored on premises that welcome children or frequent visitors. An experienced locksmith such as Apex Locksmiths is a good place to source for a safe, as they are well versed in providing a variety of safes to suit different purposes.

In order to purchase a safe, you must consider details such as the items to be stored, their value, and the location of the safe. Most people have safes bolted to the floor or in the wall in an office or bedroom. Other than its size, a safe’s insurance ratings should also be taken into account if the items stored are to be insured.

It is very convenient to own a safe, as they are invulnerable to forced openings. Some even come with the welcome feature of being fireproof. However, it is advisable to choose a safe to suit necessity – home safes and commercial safes possess differing features that may limit accessibility in different settings.

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Locksmithing

Posted on May 23, 2011 by Apex Locksmiths

Locksmithing first started out as a relatively simple craft involved in the creation of locks and keys used to secure and protect properties and homes. As time went by, crimes involving theft and burglary began to take place more frequently. This necessitated the development of an improved security system to prevent the occurrence of thefts and other incidents that could harm people.

In the 1960’s, locksmiths services began to develop the complex process of cutting and shaping keys that were hard to duplicate. The use of the master key soon became widespread following this development. Currently, 21st century safety is no longer confined to simple locksmiths services and enterprises, as security systems have achieved greater heights in terms of securing the safety of residential and business properties.

Together with such progress, locks nowadays are no longer made to secure only homes or buildings. The emergence of highly skilled and capable automotive locksmiths around the world has meant that locking systems can now be specially designed to keep cars safe and secure. In the field of automotive security, locksmiths have created a system that prevents car thefts, such as with the use of transponder keys. This is particularly suitable for organisations that deal with large fleets of vehicles.

Aside from car locksmiths, locksmith companies also provide service with a personal touch. One of these services is the mobile locksmith, which is provided by locksmiths to clients. A mobile locksmith is a means of enabling clients to consult authorised company agents in the event of any emergencies that are related to security systems obtained from the company. The locksmith involved is usually an expert locksmith who can travel to the customer’s position regardless of the time or present location. This is especially important and relevant in the case of emergency lockouts and malfunctioning locks.

Obtaining such specialised locksmiths services is easy too. Apex Locksmiths, for instance, provides consultation and advice regarding the installing of security system in homes and business premises. This includes the use of alarms and monitoring equipment that can be used to manage and protect property, belongings and people.

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Alarms & back to base monitoring

Posted on May 9, 2011 by Apex Locksmiths

Security alarm systems are installed in residential or business premises in order to protect people and property from theft or injury in the event of break-ins. A home security system usually consists of home alarm systems that can be self-installed and function to alert inhabitants to most external threats. There are also alarms that can detect and prevent fires in addition to its original use of preventing forced entry.

There are several different types of security alarm systems available to consumers. These can be differentiated based on their function and the perimeter that is to be secured. To start off, basic home alarm systems are able to detect motion and smoke. This type of alarm will alert people in the building to any unusually strong force or movement near the alarm. In doing so, the alarm is able to prevent break-ins. As it is also able to detect smoke, it can call attention to fires.

Another type of alarm system that can be installed in homes is the intercom system, which provides notification of visitors to the people inside a building. Similar to standard-issue home security alarm systems, this setup includes 24-hour emergency lock out service, residential locks and a panic exit device. Systems such as these are all part of home security accessories that are invaluable to property owners or managers, protecting the building in a simple and convenient way. There is also the added assurance that inhabitants or workers do not have to worry about being locked out by accident.

It is important that the security system undergo frequent monitoring. For example, a property owner or manager who consults an experienced security company such as Apex Locksmiths can look forward to having the home security system in use being registered to their security digital monitoring centre. This allows all security needs to be attended to on a daily basis. The person responsible for the property’s security will contacted immediately if the security system is activated for any reason, and will be provided with full details of the activation. Essentially, this means that Apex Locksmiths will monitor the system that is monitoring building security.

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CCTV – Big brother

Posted on April 25, 2011 by Apex Locksmiths

Closed circuit television (CCTV) monitoring uses video cameras to transmit both video and audio images on to monitors. Unlike standard television, CCTV security uses wireless or wired transmission for broadcast security footage from the cameras to monitors in specific locations. This explains why closed circuit televisions are not usually open to public viewing.

CCTV

In the UK and Australia, CCTV systems are used mainly as part of security systems for crime prevention, traffic control, and industrial process monitoring and transport safety observation. Correspondingly, most CCTV systems can be seen at business premises, financial establishments, retail outlets, cash dispensing machines, cashier counters, road intersections, areas that record a high rate of accidents, factory assembly lines and industrial inspection points.

When included as part of a security system, cctv security usually deters potential delinquents or criminals from making the wrong move. It also enables improvement of the dispersion and flow of pedestrian and motorised traffic very well, as the level of operator or monitor awareness and response at the observation and action centres becomes more sophisticated. For example, dangerous drivers think twice before attempting foolish motoring manoeuvres in the presence of such security systems.

In industrial and transport sectors, closed circuit television systems allows security personnel access to inaccessible places that are hard to get into, thus improving security quality and reducing accidents or break-ins. In addition, data collected from monitoring and observation at these security points can be analysed periodically to help improve cctv security if needed.

To get an idea of how prevalent cctv security is in our society now, a study conducted in 2003 in the UK estimated that there were approximately 4.2 million cameras in public places. This works out to 1 camera for every 15 citizens, although the UK authorities dispute this figure. The tagline of the UK Home Ministry, “CCTV: Looking Out For You” has also received mixed reactions. In Australia, the use of CCTV systems was initiated as a community safety measure; the use is not as extensive as in the UK. Similarly, the use of CCTV security in the USA is confined to places deemed sensitive to homeland security.

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Access control – Convenience & audit facility

Posted on April 11, 2011 by Apex Locksmiths

Access control systems allow a person to control admission to entrance and exit points on a property. Such door access controls allow a building or security manager to choose who is permitted in and/or out of buildings or facilities. As an access control system only allows individuals with the necessary authorisation to enter or exit, it lets the building owner exclude unwanted visitors.

Access Control

This security access control also records the date, time and individuals who enter or leave the premises. This information can be archived to a hard drive or DVD for future reference, which enables managers or guardians to fully monitor employees or family members. What is even more convenient is that the system can be connected to the building’s fire alarm system so that its inhabitants or owner can be alerted in the event of a fire.

There are many options where access control systems are concerned, but the most commonly utilised system is door access control. Besides this, property owners or managers can choose an electronic access system that allows one to access specific electronic devices, and the security access system.

These systems are similar in that only people who have the prerequisite authorisation can use or access them. An identification card or key tag is the usual mode of authorisation. These items normally contain information on the identity of the wearer or holder, and are recognised by the electronic access control system as proof of authorisation and permission to enter or exit.

This form of door access control is also incredibly user-friendly. The information stored on the cards or key tags that have been lost or misplaced can be easily deleted from the system, and a replacement can be issued quickly. Not only does it save time, it also reduces the cost of re-keying an entire system.

The access control system also allows for the detection of any signs of forced entry on the premises, thus ensuring a high level of security for the building. Based on ease of use and umbrella coverage, access control systems such as these are most suitable for large facilities that have multiple entry and exit points.

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