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Summer is in full swing and the scammers are hard at work. Each year around summertime our local community experiences a wave of door-to-door home security salesmen offering empty promises. Many of these salesmen use unscrupulous sales tactics to push their products. Meaning it is important to know the signs of a scam to be able to confidently handle the situation. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has even cautioned homeowners to beware of these security system sales agents. Be sure to know the signs to protect yourself from unwanted door knockers and their unscrupulous tactics.

Know The Signs

Many door-to-door salesmen use scenarios such as the following:

• Your current security system provider has gone out of business and he or she needs you to switch accounts.
• Your security system is out of date and needs to be updated on the spot.
• You do not have a monitored security system and he or she will immediately install one if you are willing to sign a contract.

In some cases, the home security sales agent will target homes with an existing security system. Indicating that the home is monitored by a competitor of the brand. The sales agent will then state that he or she is there to replace or update the homeowner’s current system. In reality, the sales agent is replacing the existing system with a system monitored by another company and get the homeowner to sign a contract. Leaving the homeowner unaware that they have switched security providers.

The tactics don’t stop there. Many of these door-to-door salesmen promise exclusive deals such as free equipment, special rates, and added prizes. Be wary of these ‘exclusive deals’ as they are often unscrupulous tactics to get you to sign an unwanted contract. Leaving you in a contract that is excessively expensive, restrictive, or provides unnecessary services.

Check Their Credibility

Trust is a vital component when choosing who will keep your family safe. It is important to conduct extensive research to ensure the credibility of any company. If a door knocker show’s up on your front porch be sure to ask for their identification. If it is a reliable home security sales agent, not only will the appointment be scheduled in advance, the representative will have a company badge and a clearly marked company vehicle. Second, you observe the right to reject anyone from entering your home. If a door knocker insists on further examination of your security system by entering into your home, deny their request. Finally, before signing any documents you should thoroughly read the fine print and check the credibility of the company the sales agent represents. Remember, you should never sign a contract until you are confident in the credibility, service quality, and integrity of the company.

Fleenor Security Systems prides itself on selling home security in an honorable and dignified manner. Since 1972, we have successfully demonstrated that we are a company you can rely upon. We hire only the best candidates after extensive background checks and training periods. You can recognize Fleenor Security sales agents by either their company I.D. badge or their Fleenor Security marked Vehicle. If a sales agent lacks these forms of identification, decline his offer, and close your door. If you are concerned about the credibility of a sales agent, call Fleenor Security to confirm your appointment.

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Unfortunately, there are roughly 2.5 million burglaries a year, 66% of which target homeowners. Arriving home to find out you have become a victim of a home burglary is devastating. The initial shock of the whole experience can be hard to swallow, especially if you were home during the burglary. By preparing yourself, you will be able to respond quickly and increase your chance of retrieving any stolen items. Here are a few tips on how to properly handle the event of a home burglary.

Remain Calm

Upon discovering your home has been broken into, the situation can quickly get out of hand due to the initial shock most homeowners experience. Dealing with the fact that someone has invaded your personal space is unsettling and can be difficult to process. At first you are likely to feel a variety of emotions, such as anger, fear, helplessness, and anxiety. While these emotions are common, trying to remain calm is critical if you wish to regain any stolen items. Time is key in trying to resolve any burglary, so step away from the affected area and catch your breath before re-entering your home. Once you have calmed down you will then be able to proceed effectively in the following steps.

Children will have their own unique reaction to the incident and will likely mimic your emotions. So before dealing with the situation, it is important to step aside and let them know that it is okay to express any concern they may have. Answering their questions and reassuring them that they are safe will help them process the event.

Contact the Authorities

Now that you’re calm, your next priority is to contact the authorities immediately. The longer you wait, the more your chance of catching the burglar(s) and retrieving any stolen items decreases. So, it is vital to contact the authorities as soon as possible and get them on the case before it is too late. Most importantly, the police will help you fill out a victim’s report which is necessary if you plan to file an insurance claim.

Take Notes- But Don’t Touch Anything

After you have contacted the authorities, you need to go around your home and evaluate the damage. It is important to take pictures and detailed notes of any missing or broken items. As time passes your memory is likely to cloud so having detailed documentation is a necessity. In addition, try to put together a time frame of the burglary. Ask yourself questions such as, when did you leave your home, how long were you gone, and did any friends or family stop by while you were out. If you caught a glimpse of the burglar, write down specific details such as estimated height, weight, age, gender, and hair color. Any description can help aid the authorities in their investigation.

While evaluating your home, try your best to not touch anything. Moving items or cleaning up the mess before authorities arrive could impede their investigation and decrease your chances of regaining stolen items.

If there’s a chance the burglar got away with any credit or debit cards, call and have them cancelled immediately. If any personal identification was stolen, have all of your accounts frozen until the situation is resolved.

File an Insurance Claim

It’s important to file a police report before contacting your insurance agency because they will need the report number along with other specific details located within the document. So, once you have your police report in hand, contact your homeowners/renter’s insurance immediately. You will also need to put together an itemized list of every item that was stolen or damaged during the burglary. Once you have submitted all of your information, your insurance agency will then send an insurance adjuster to your home for additional investigation. Upon their arrival try to have as much proof on hand as possible with additional copies in case they ask to keep them.

Get to Know Your Neighbors

If you haven’t already, get to know your neighbors. They can prove to be of great help in situations like a home burglary. So, talk to them about whether they saw the burglary happen or if they encountered anything suspicious in the days before the break in. Having their input might help police locate the burglar(s) and any stolen items!

Emotional Aftermath

The best way to regain your sense of safety within your home is to reinforce your security measures. The first step is to replace any locks, doors, or windows that were damaged during the burglary. By replacing any non-functioning points of entry, you are likely to discourage criminals from targeting your home. The next and most effective security measure is to have a home security system installed. By installing a security system, you are 300% less likely to be targeted by criminals due to it being the best tool for preventing home invasions.

The most important thing to remember is it is okay to feel uneasy in the days after a home burglary. Allowing yourself to feel these emotions and letting them run their course is another important step in regaining confidence within your home. So, if you feel an extreme level of stress or anxiety, seek help. It is okay to lean on those around you for support, whether it is family, friends, or a therapist. Next, try to stick to your normal routine. Continuing with your daily schedule can help assist you in settling back into your home.

The best way to ensure your family’s safety is to be proactive with the security of your home. Criminals often seek out an easy target, don’t let your home become one. The professionals at Fleenor Security can help put you back in control of what occurs within your home. Contact us today and request a free system quote!

The post Dealing with The Aftermath of a Home Burglary first appeared on Fleenor Security.

Following are 10 reasons why every home should be equipped with a Wireless Home Surveillance System:

1. Systems are Wire-free

Wireless mesh communication networks and applications are the future of the alarm industry! Fleenor Security uses a secure cellular connection that notifies their locally owned UL central station in a matter of seconds. Not only does this ensure the safety of your home but it eliminates the fear of criminals cutting your phone line, which would render a traditional security system useless. On top of keeping your home safe and secure, wireless home video systems allow for a quick installation and gives you the option to move and/or add on to your surveillance system later!

2. Interactive Monitoring

Home surveillance systems give you a wide variety of options to help take your monitoring to the next level. This system will allow you to monitor multiple camera views to ensure the utmost safety and security of your home. Simply download Fleenor Security’s Total Connect app and view all camera angles from your smartphone no matter where you are!

3. Instant Alerts

Using the latest technology, Fleenor Security Systems keeps you and your family safe and secure. In addition, Fleenor gives you peace of mind while keeping you connected even when you’re away from home. Wherever you are, you will receive instant alerts when the monitor is triggered, keeping you in the know constantly. You even have the option to have a 10 second video clip sent to your email every time a sensor is triggered!

4. Crime Deterrent

Contrary to popular belief most burglars are actually quite intelligent and will spend days scouting out your property and developing a plan. One of the most effective ways to prevent a potential break-in is to not only have a sign indicating you have a monitored security system in place but to also have visible cameras placed in and around the home. A burglar’s intent is to break-in with as little effort and risk as possible. If you have a video surveillance system in place, odds are they will skip over your home and move on to an easier target.

5. Check in on the “Fur Babies”

Time away from your furry friends can cause stress not only for your pets but for you as well. Installing a camera system inside your home gives you the option to check in on them from a computer, tablet, or smartphone and view live stream footage. Whether you are away on vacation or just spending time at work, a video surveillance system can come in handy. It will bring you peace of mind and ensure the safety and needs of your pets are met.

6. The Safety of your Children

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could always keep an eye on your children? Keeping your kids safe is a parent’s number one priority but due to other responsibilities you can’t always be right there with them. Fortunately, installing a video surveillance system within your home can be the next best thing. Whether it is checking to see if your child got off the bus safely or monitoring your newborn from within their nursery, a camera within the home can be proven useful when ensuring the safety and security of your children.

7. Save Money on Home Insurance

Most major insurance companies will lower premiums if you protect your property against potential break-ins, fires, or water damage. In fact, on average installing monitored security devices in your home can reduce your homeowner’s insurance by up to 20 percent.

8. Keep Helpers in Check

Whether it is making sure your pets are feed while your out of town or keeping an eye on the babysitter, a video surveillance system can help bring you peace of mind and ensure your home and loved ones are well cared for. If you are a person who tends to worry, having a camera within your home will help ease your mind and allow you to enjoy your time away!

9. Automatically Alert Authorities

One of the greatest assets of a home surveillance system is the fact that you won’t have to worry about trying to get in touch with the authorities. A Fleenor Security system will immediately contact the appropriate authorities should the need arise.

10. Evidence for Authorities

Burglars very rarely leave evidence behind that could link them to their crime, leaving authorities with little information to go off of and all items stolen given up on. The traditional monitored burglar system will alert authorities but if they arrive after the burglar is gone, there is not much else that can be done. Installing a home video surveillance system will ensure that video footage is taken of the burglar and will be vital in making sure they are caught.

Juggling all of life’s responsibilities can be daunting. A video surveillance system installed by the professionals at Fleenor Security can help put you back in control and bring you peace of mind. Contact Fleenor Security for a free system evaluation today!

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First, if you’re driving your vehicle it needs to be checked out. Secondly, you need to keep the kids safe and entertained during your time away from home.

Regarding your vehicle, the following are some great tips to consider before hitting the road:

• Take your car in to have a tune-up. Make sure the tires are inflated at the right pressure, the oil has been changed recently, you have wiper fluid, the battery is fully operational, etc. Don’t forget to make sure your spare tire is usable too!
• Inspect your child safety seats if you have little ones that still use them to be sure that they’re in good working order.
• Update your emergency kit and be sure you have a flashlight, phone charger, a blanket, water and jumper cables.
• When packing put the heaviest bags in the lowest spot and toward the center of your vehicle. Tie down bulky items like strollers and make sure you can always see out of the windows.
• Never drive while sleepy. Get a good night’s sleep before you hit the road and if you get tired, pull over and take a nap or have another adult do the driving.
• If you don’t have a GPS system in your car, download a good cell phone app, like Waze or Google Maps. Or go the old-fashioned route and use a map!

One of the biggest challenges that come with traveling with children is figuring out how to keep them entertained during long drives.  Here are some ideas to consider:

• Each child should have a backpack with some of their favorite toys, games, etc. Trust us, this goes a long way in making a trip successful. Craft supplies are also a great way to pass time.
• Have plenty of snacks on hand and also bring a cooler for veggies, drinks, etc. Not only will it keep the kids happy, you won’t have to stop constantly to fill up.
• If your children have iPads, cell phones, or portable DVD players before you leave make sure they’re fully changed.
• Make the trip a learning experience for the kids. Pick up some children’s geography book that tells the kids about the cool things in each state.
• Talk to your kids about your trip, what they’re looking forward to, what they like at each stop. Don’t let them stay on the electronic gadgets the entire time!
• Play some great music that the whole family likes and sing along together.

You’re on vacation and you want everything to go as smoothly as possible so make sure your car is in great shape and your kids have plenty to do to keep them occupied. Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to a spectacular family vacation!

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Network IP Video cameras (1 Megapixel and up) provide the most current video technology to fit your every need. Fleenor will custom design a video solution to fit your needs, from a bullet style camera to a dome style.

Fleenor’s Wireless Total Connect cameras give you the ability to know at all times what’s happening in your home and they’re inexpensive. You can check on the babysitter, make sure your pet is OK, see if the repairman is staying on task or even check to see who’s ringing the doorbell. When these cameras detect video motion, an email with a 10-second video clip can immediately be generated for you to watch right then, or at a later time.

Fleenor Security’s recorders are also in place, ensuring that your home is being watched at all times. You can choose to record video 24 hours a day or only when movement is detected. Another plus? You can archive video for as long as you would like.

The advantages of having a video surveillance system are many. Outside of receiving a customized system, you receive:

• The ability to remotely view cameras on your smartphone or computer
• Real-time video alerts about whatever is happening around your home
• The ability to store and access archived video from a mobile app or home
• Reduced costs due to advancements in technology that have improved the camera’s capabilities

Let Fleenor Security help you keep an eye on the things that matter most. Give us a call at 423-282-3755 and we’ll be happy to help you decide which residential camera system is best for you.

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