Simple and Effective Ways to Boost Your Home Security

When we think about safety, our homes should be at the top of the list. It’s where we spend most of our time, where our loved ones live, and where we keep our most valued possessions. However, keeping our homes secure doesn’t have to be a complicated or expensive task. Here are some easy-to-understand and practical tips for enhancing your home security, along with a few additional security measures for other aspects of your life.

1. Lock Up Tight

Doors and Windows: Secure your entry points like doors and windows, as they are common entry points for burglars.

  • Upgrade Your Locks: Invest in high-quality deadbolts for your doors and add additional locks to your windows.
  • Use Smart Locks: Control your locks remotely and receive alerts when someone tries to tamper with them.
  • Window Security Film: Apply security film to windows to make them harder to break.

2. Home Security System

Alarm Systems: These are essential for modern home security.

  • Basic Alarm Systems: These sound an alarm when a door or window is opened.
  • Advanced Systems: These can alert you and the authorities in case of a break-in.
  • Security Cameras: Place cameras in visible locations to deter intruders and capture evidence if someone tries to break in.
  • Smart Home Integration: Integrate your security system with smart home devices for remote control and monitoring.

3. Outdoor Lighting

Illuminate Your Home’s Exterior: Good lighting can deter burglars, as they prefer to work in the dark.

  • Motion-Sensor Lights: Install lights that turn on when they detect movement.
  • Solar-Powered Lights: Place these around your yard and driveway to ensure all areas are well-lit without increasing your electricity bill.

4. Neighborhood Watch

Build Community Security: Good relationships with your neighbors can enhance your home security.

  • Join or Start a Neighborhood Watch: Neighbors looking out for each other can deter criminal activity.
  • Stay Connected: Share contact information with trusted neighbors and keep an eye on each other’s properties.

5. Online Security

Protect Your Digital Life: Home security also means protecting your online information.

  • Strong, Unique Passwords: Use different, complex passwords for different accounts. Consider using a password manager.
  • Regular Updates: Keep your devices, especially those connected to your home security system, updated to protect against new vulnerabilities.

Additional Tips for Security

While home security is paramount, consider these additional measures to protect other aspects of your life:

  • Vehicle Security: Always lock your car, even when parked at home. Consider using a steering wheel lock or alarm system for added protection.
  • Personal Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Carry a personal safety alarm or pepper spray for extra security.
  • Cybersecurity: Protect your online accounts and personal information. Use two-factor authentication where possible and avoid sharing sensitive information online.

By taking these simple steps, you can significantly improve your home’s security and protect yourself and your loved ones from potential threats. Remember, the key to effective security is being proactive and staying vigilant.

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Common Mistakes Homeowners Make with Home Security

When it comes to home security, many homeowners fall into common traps that leave their homes vulnerable. Ensuring the safety of your home is paramount, and avoiding these mistakes can help protect your property and loved ones. Here are some of the biggest mistakes homeowners make regarding home security, along with recommended types of products to help mitigate these risks.

Neglecting Basic Security Measures

One of the simplest yet most overlooked aspects of home security is failing to lock doors and windows. Ensure all entry points are secured, especially at night or when the house is unoccupied.

  • Smart Locks: These allow you to control your door from anywhere using your smartphone. They can also auto-lock and unlock as you leave or approach your home, ensuring your doors are always secure.

Hiding Spare Keys in Obvious Places

Placing spare keys under doormats, in flower pots, or above door frames is a common practice, but it’s one that burglars are well aware of. Instead, give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or use a secure key lockbox.

Lack of Adequate Lighting

Darkness is a burglar’s best friend. Poorly lit exteriors provide ample cover for intruders to approach your home unnoticed. Install motion-activated lights around your property, particularly near entry points, to deter potential burglars.

Not Using a Home Security System

Many homeowners underestimate the importance of a home security system. Modern systems offer more than just alarms; they provide surveillance, remote monitoring, and emergency response features.

  • Home Security Systems: Comprehensive systems include alarms, cameras, motion detectors, and remote monitoring, providing extensive protection for your home.

Overlooking the Importance of Landscaping

While a beautiful garden enhances your home’s curb appeal, it can also provide cover for intruders. Overgrown shrubs and trees near windows and doors offer hiding spots.

  • Outdoor Security Cameras: These cameras provide surveillance around your property, ensuring you can monitor any suspicious activity regardless of landscaping.

 Sharing Vacation Plans Publicly

Announcing your vacation plans on social media can inadvertently alert burglars that your home will be empty. Avoid posting details of your absence online.

  • Smart Home Automation Systems: These systems can simulate occupancy by controlling lights, TVs, and other devices, making it appear as though someone is home even when you’re away.

Failing to Secure Valuables

Leaving valuables in plain sight is an invitation for thieves. Use a safe for important documents, jewelry, and other valuables.

Not Reinforcing Doors and Windows

Standard doors and windows can be easily breached. Reinforce doors with deadbolts, door jambs, and strike plates. Consider installing shatterproof glass or window security film.

Assuming It Won’t Happen to You

Complacency is a significant risk factor. Many people believe that burglaries only happen to others. A proactive approach to home security, acknowledging potential risks, and implementing preventive measures can go a long way in safeguarding your home.

 

Home security is about creating layers of protection that deter, detect, and delay intruders. By addressing these common mistakes and investing in the right types of products, you can significantly improve your home’s security. Regularly assess your security measures, stay informed about new security technologies, and foster a security-conscious mindset to keep your home safe.

Investing in home security is investing in peace of mind. Don’t wait until it’s too late—start making changes today to protect what matters most.

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Summer Security: Family Safety

Summer is a season filled with outdoor adventures, family vacations, and memorable gatherings. But for families, summer can also mean leaving home unattended for extended periods, with children out of school and the house bustling with activity. These factors can leave your home vulnerable to potential threats such as burglaries, thefts, and safety hazards. Investing in a home security system can provide your family with peace of mind and protection during this busy time. Here’s why a security system is essential for families during the summer months:

1. Family Vacations

Summer is the prime time for family getaways. Whether you’re spending a week at the beach or taking a road trip, leaving your home unoccupied can make it a target for burglars. A home security system with features like surveillance cameras, alarms, and sensors can monitor your property while you’re away and alert you to any suspicious activity.

2. Home Safety

Home security systems aren’t just about deterring intruders. They also protect your family by providing safety features such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, water leak sensors, and medical alert buttons. These devices can help keep your family safe from hazards while they’re home during summer break.

3. Outdoor Fun and Protection

Summer is synonymous with outdoor activities, from pool parties and barbecues to sports and games in the backyard. A security system can help protect your outdoor investments like grills, patio furniture, and sporting equipment. It can also monitor pool areas to ensure the safety of children and guests.

4. Keeping an Eye on Kids

With children out of school during summer break, they may spend more time at home alone or with friends. A home security system with cameras allows you to monitor their safety and ensure they’re following household rules when you’re not there.

5. Preventing Package Theft

Summer is a busy time for online shopping, with many families ordering supplies for vacations and summer projects. Unattended packages can attract thieves, especially in the summer months. A security system with surveillance cameras and alerts can help monitor deliveries and deter package theft.

6. Peace of Mind for Parents

A home security system provides peace of mind, allowing parents to keep an eye on their home and family remotely. Whether you’re at work, running errands, or enjoying a night out, you can stay connected to your home through your smartphone.

7. Smart Home Integration

Many modern security systems can integrate with other smart home devices for seamless automation and control. You can set schedules for lights and appliances, lock and unlock doors remotely, and receive notifications about specific activities such as a door opening or motion detected.

Choosing the Right Home Security System for Families

When selecting a home security system for your family, consider features that meet your specific needs:

  • Remote Access: Choose a system that allows you to monitor your home and control devices remotely through a smartphone app.
  • Professional Monitoring: Look for a service that provides professional monitoring and immediate response in case of an alarm.
  • Customizable Alerts: Set alerts to notify you of specific activities, such as when children arrive home or someone accesses restricted areas.

As summer approaches, take proactive steps to secure your home and protect your family. A comprehensive home security system offers peace of mind and safety features that allow you to enjoy the season to the fullest.

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Exploring Door and Window Sensors

When it comes to securing your home, door and window sensors are a smart and effective addition to any security system. These compact devices offer a layer of protection that can provide you with peace of mind and help safeguard your home from intruders. In this blog, we’ll dive into the technology behind door and window sensors, their benefits, and how they can be paired with other smart home devices for comprehensive protection.

How do Door and Window Sensors work?

Door and window sensors are typically made up of two main components: a sensor and a magnet. The sensor is mounted on the door or window frame, while the magnet is attached to the door or window itself. When the door or window is closed, the sensor and magnet are in close proximity, creating a magnetic field.

If the door or window is opened, the magnet moves away from the sensor, causing the magnetic field to break. This break in the magnetic field sends a signal to your security system, which will trigger an alarm or notification to alert you of the potential intrusion.

Some modern door and window sensors also offer additional features such as tamper detection, long battery life, and wireless connectivity, allowing them to seamlessly integrate with a broader home automation system.

Benefits of Door and Window Sensors

  1. Enhanced Security: Door and window sensors help detect unauthorized entry points, making it more difficult for intruders to access your home unnoticed.
  2. Easy Installation: These sensors are easy to install, often requiring just adhesive strips or screws to secure them in place.
  3. Real-Time Alerts: When paired with a smart security system, door and window sensors can send real-time alerts to your smartphone or smart home hub if a door or window is opened unexpectedly.
  4. Versatility: Door and window sensors can be used on a variety of entry points, including main doors, back doors, windows, and even garage doors.
  5. Energy Efficiency: By integrating door and window sensors with your HVAC system, you can automate your heating and cooling to adjust when windows or doors are opened, saving on energy costs.
  6. Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is being monitored for intrusions can bring peace of mind, whether you’re at home or away.
  7. Low Maintenance: Door and window sensors often have long-lasting batteries and require minimal maintenance, making them a convenient security solution.

Pairing with Other Smart Home Devices

Door and window sensors can work hand-in-hand with other smart home devices to create a comprehensive security system:

  • Smart Cameras: When a sensor is triggered, a nearby smart camera can automatically record footage, helping you monitor and document any potential security threats.
  • Smart Lighting: When a door or window sensor is triggered at night, smart lighting can automatically turn on, deterring intruders and providing visibility for home occupants.
  • Security Alarms: A triggered door or window sensor can set off a loud alarm, alerting you and scaring away intruders.
  • Voice Assistants: Integrate your door and window sensors with voice assistants for hands-free monitoring and control.
  • Smart Locks: Pairing door sensors with smart locks allows for automatic locking and unlocking based on sensor status, providing seamless access control.
  • Home Automation Systems: Integrating door and window sensors with a home automation system allows you to create customized scenarios such as arming your security system when you leave the house.

Door and window sensors play a crucial role in a home security system. By providing real-time monitoring of entry points and integrating seamlessly with other smart home devices, they help keep your home safe and secure. As technology continues to evolve, these sensors will only become more intelligent and capable, making them a must-have addition to any modern home security setup. Whether you’re looking to enhance security, save energy, or simply gain peace of mind, door and window sensors are a valuable investment for any home. Stay WISE.

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A Deep Dive into Home Security Systems

Home security systems are a multifaceted array of technologies meticulously designed to shield homes from the perils of intrusion, theft, and unforeseen emergencies. From rudimentary alarm setups to cutting-edge smart integrations, these systems stand as towers of protection, offering not only tangible defense but also invaluable peace of mind.

At its core, a home security system is an intricate tapestry woven from various components, each playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the sanctity of one’s home. These components encompass:

Surveillance Cameras:

Serving as the vigilant eyes of your security apparatus, surveillance cameras provide real-time monitoring and meticulous recording of activities transpiring in and around your property. Armed with state-of-the-art features such as high-definition video, infrared night vision, motion sensing capabilities, and even facial recognition technology, these sentinels stand poised to capture every moment with unwavering clarity.

Alarm systems:

As the vanguards of defense, alarm systems serve as the initial line of resistance, sounding the clarion call at the faintest hint of intrusion or breach. Ranging from rudimentary door and window sensors to sophisticated setups capable of detecting glass breakage, smoke, fire, and lethal carbon monoxide, these sentinels ensure that any threat is met with swift and decisive action.

Access Control:

Governing the ingress and egress of your fortress, access control systems bestow upon homeowners the power to regulate entry through a myriad of mechanisms, be it traditional keys, numerical keypads, biometric scanners, or the seamless integration of smartphone applications. With the ability to grant or revoke access remotely and meticulously track ingress and egress, these fortifications herald a new era of control and accountability.

Smart Home Synergy:

In an age of interconnected living, the integration of smart home technology with security systems heralds a paradigm shift in home fortification. Seamlessly intertwined with a plethora of smart devices and platforms, these systems bestow upon homeowners unparalleled control and automation, allowing for the harmonious orchestration of various home functions, from lighting and climate control to door locks and beyond.

Benefits of Home Security Systems

The decision to invest in a home security system yields a variety of benefits, these benefits include:

Deterrence: The mere presence of security cameras and alarm systems serves as a formidable deterrent, dissuading would-be intruders from encroaching upon your domain. 

Vigilance: With the ability to monitor your home in real-time from any corner of the globe, courtesy of smartphone apps and web interfaces, you can maintain an ever-watchful gaze over your domain, regardless of your physical whereabouts.

Rapid Response: In the event of a breach or emergency, home security systems facilitate prompt and decisive responses, swiftly summoning aid and minimizing potential harm or loss.

Insurance Incentives: Many insurance providers extend preferential premiums to homeowners fortified with security systems, recognizing them as lower risks for theft and property damage.

Automation: By seamlessly integrating with other smart home devices, security systems not only bolster fortifications but also enhance convenience, energy efficiency, and the overall quality of life.

Choosing the Right System for Your Home

Navigating the landscape of home security systems requires consideration of several factors:

Finances: Determine a budget with your security needs, encompassing both initial outlays and potential subscription fees for monitoring services.

Architectural Analysis: Tailor your security system to the unique dimensions and layout of your home, ensuring comprehensive coverage and protection.

Monitoring: Weigh the merits of self-monitoring against the allure of professional monitoring services, evaluating the costs and benefits of each approach.

User-Friendly Interfaces: Opt for systems characterized by intuitive interfaces +and effortless operation, facilitating seamless setup and day-to-day management.

Reputational Reflections: Thoroughly vet prospective security providers, scrutinizing customer testimonials, industry accolades, and the quality of customer support services.

Fortifying Your Foundation

In a world surrounded with uncertainty, the sanctity of home stands as an immutable bastion of solace and security. Through the judicious deployment of home security systems, homeowners embark upon a journey of fortification, safeguarding not merely possessions but the very essence of tranquility and well-being. Whether you opt for a rudimentary alarm setup or a sophisticated smart integration, the decision to fortify your fortress is an investment in peace of mind, an affirmation of your unwavering commitment to safety and sanctuary. By navigating the labyrinthine landscape of security options, embracing innovative technologies, and selecting the perfect sentinels to safeguard your sanctuary, you pave the path to a future fortified against uncertainty, imbued with the enduring assurance of safety and serenity.

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Smart Home Integrated Security Systems

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In an era where technology fills every facet of our lives, it’s no surprise that home security has undergone a significant transformation. Traditionally, home security relied on locks, alarms, and surveillance cameras. While these elements still form the backbone of protection, the integration of smart home technology has elevated security to unprecedented levels. Smart home security systems offer a holistic approach, connecting various devices to create a seamless and intelligent defense mechanism.

Key Components of Smart Home Security

  1. Smart Cameras: High-definition, internet-connected cameras enable real-time monitoring of your home. Some models feature advanced AI capabilities, distinguishing between regular activities and potential threats, reducing false alarms.
  2. Smart Door Locks: Say goodbye to traditional keys. Smart door locks provide keyless entry through PIN codes, biometrics, or smartphone apps. Additionally, they allow homeowners to remotely control access, granting temporary or permanent entry to trusted individuals.
  3. Motion Sensors and Smart Lighting: Integrated motion sensors trigger smart lighting, deterring potential intruders and illuminating dark areas around your home. This combination of technology creates an active defense against unauthorized access.
  4. Smart Alarms: Smart alarms send instant notifications to your smartphone, allowing you to assess the situation and take appropriate action, whether it’s a false alarm or a genuine threat.

smart home

Integration and Automation

One of the standout features of smart home security is the seamless integration of devices. Automated routines can be set up, such as locking doors, arming alarms, and adjusting lighting, all with a single command. This level of automation not only enhances security but also simplifies daily life.

Remote Monitoring and Control

Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or simply away from home, smart home security systems provide remote monitoring and control. Access camera feeds, lock or unlock doors, and receive real-time alerts, putting the power of security in the palm of your hand.

Privacy and Data Security

As with any technology, privacy and data security are paramount concerns. Reputable smart home security providers prioritize encryption and secure protocols to protect user data. It’s essential to choose trusted brands that prioritize the privacy and security of their users.

The integration of cutting-edge technology, automation, and remote accessibility has created a robust and intelligent defense against potential threats. Embracing the future means embracing smart home security where convenience meets unparalleled protection. As we continue to witness advancements in this field, the smart home will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of the evolution of home security.

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Travel Security Tips for Protecting Your Luggage

Say you’re planning a trip to New York. You determine your travel itinerary, book a flight, make hotel arrangements, and plan for how to keep your home safe while you’re away. As the departure day gets closer, it’s time to pack. You might start by making a list of everything you need to bring with you. Or perhaps you pack more with a general idea of what you need and add other things as you think of them. Whatever your method, equally as important as getting everything you need to your destination is getting it home again. Among the best ways to ensure this happens is by protecting your luggage. Here are some travel security tips to help you protect your luggage.

Protecting Your Luggage

When you’re traveling between destinations, never leave your luggage unattended. You probably won’t be able to hold onto it the entire time, but always at least keep an eye on it. Even then, there are certain features you will want your luggage to have to protect you from baggage thieves and criminals.

Suitcases

When you’re choosing what suitcase to buy, the anti-theft suitcases with heavy-duty zippers and locks may look like a good option. In reality, a locked-up suitcase isn’t going to do you much good. TSA-approved locks can easily be opened with a master key. In theory, only TSA personnel are supposed to have access to master keys. But enough people have made copies or even 3D prints of these keys that it’s not going to stop a baggage thief. Even if they don’t have a master key set, they can easily cut the lock off. How can you protect your suitcase, then?

  • Pack Light.

Whenever possible, only use suitcases that are small enough that you won’t need to check them. Should circumstances make it so you must check a bag, put all your valuables like laptops and tablets in your carry-on. Locks on carry-on items don’t have to be TSA approved since you would be right there to unlock it if they need to inspect it, so a sturdy zipper protected against being penetrated and a good lock can help you here. Then, if you manage to get some in-flight sleep, no one will be able to go into the overhead bin and get into your suitcase, pretending it’s theirs while you’re asleep.

  • Be Frugal

Don’t purchase suitcases that look expensive. These will be more appealing targets.

  • Add Flair

When you get to the baggage conveyor at the end of your flight, you’ll see a fair number of dark-colored or gray suitcases. If yours is also among these, add some flair to help it stand out. Then, you’ll be able to spot it faster and retrieve it before anyone gets a chance to steal it. You could tie a ribbon to the handle or add some strips of bright duct tape. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could go a step further and get that bright yellow suitcase.

Backpacks and Purses

Backpacks and purses should be made of a slash-proof fabric with reinforced straps, hidden compartments, and RFID blocking. If the worst-case scenario happens and your luggage gets stolen, you can take measures so that you aren’t completely out of luck. If you’ve put luggage trackers in your bags, you can more easily recover them.

Hotels

You arrived in New York safely, and thanks to the measures you took to protect your luggage, it made it safely, too. When you get to the hotel, you find out your room is on the main floor. To optimize hotel security, you’ll want to request a different room. Main floor rooms are easier for thieves to target. You’ll also want to be away from elevators, ice machines, and meeting spaces. Rooms in areas with more foot traffic are more likely to attract thieves since it looks less suspicious for them to be wandering in those areas.

Storing Valuables

Some hotel security measures are obvious. Never leave the door propped open. Lock the door and any windows and balcony doors when you leave. If the door is supposed to lock behind you automatically, make sure it does. Since a determined thief can find their way through a locked door, you may want to take additional measures to protect your valuables.

Many recommend storing your electronics, important documents, cash, and other valuables in the safe in your room. However, just as many videos have proven how easy it is to access a hotel safe. You will still want to make sure your valuables are protected when you’re not in your room, and you can still use the safe. Just add a secondary lock to ensure security.

When You’re Away

The point of a vacation is to get out there, see the sights, and do things, which means you’ll likely spend a lot of time not in your hotel room. To deter thieves, you can make it look like you are in your room. Leave the TV and a light on and hang the do not disturb sign. They won’t want to disturb a room if they think it’s occupied. Then, with your luggage protected, you can enjoy your day without any worries.

Safe travels!

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Four Things to Do in Denver

Did you know that even though Wise Home Solutions is headquartered in Utah, we provide home security and home automation services in six other states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, and Texas? Of those states, today we would like to briefly highlight Colorado.

Situated in the Mountain States Region, Colorado is widely known for its scenic landscapes and the variety of outdoor activities available at its four national parks and other areas of abundant nature. On a vacation to Colorado, you could go hiking, camping, skiing, or even sand surfing (unless you don’t like sand because it’s coarse and rough and irritating, and it gets everywhere). For those who aren’t the outdoorsy type, Colorado still has a lot to offer, especially in its metropolitan areas. If your vacation takes you to the capital or you live in the area, here are ideas of four things to do in Denver.

1. The Denver Botanic Gardens

With more than twenty-four acres of gardens, the Denver Botanic Gardens are a great place to explore natural beauty without leaving the comfort of the city. You can also get a glimpse of the world without leaving Colorado through the various internationally-inspired gardens. Other areas feature ornamental gardens, water gardens, and plants native to Colorado.

Visitors will find an impressive tropical display at the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory. Among other unique plants, it houses a corpse flower. These rare flowers only bloom once every seven to nine years, and the blooms only last 24 to 36 hours. Though chances are you won’t see the flower in bloom during your visit, you can see where it’s growing on your way through the conservatory. You may consider it a good thing if the flower isn’t in bloom. Then, you don’t have to find out for yourself why the Denver Botanic Gardens named their corpse flower “Stinky.”

2. The Denver Museum of Nature and Science

For an exciting and educational afternoon, stop by the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. You can go on a fun, interactive exploration through history starting with the fossils and displays in the Prehistoric Journey exhibit. A few rooms away, you’ll find an exhibit of Ancient Egyptian artifacts featuring two mummies that are on permanent loan to the museum. A touch table enables visitors to digitally “unwrap” the mummies’ stories. You can then learn about present-day wildlife and cultures in the Wildlife Halls and the Crane Hall of North American Indian cultures on your way to exploring the future possibilities presented by the Space Odyssey exhibit.

The museum also has a discovery zone for your curious kids and an IMAX Theatre, and you won’t want to miss the special exhibitions. These are always something different and always interesting, well-presented, and enjoyable for the whole family.

3. The Denver Mint

For a unique, behind-the-scenes experience, you can go on a tour of the U.S. Mint facility in Denver. You’ll learn about the history of the Mint and watch the full process of how coins are made. You won’t leave with fewer coins than you went in with because this money tour doesn’t cost any money.

Unfortunately, tours are temporarily unavailable as of March 2020. They have not yet reopened. However, it’s something to note in case you’re in the area when tours are available again. You’ll want to take advantage of this entertaining and informative opportunity. For now, there is an interactive virtual tour available.

4. Shopping and Dining

Denver’s numerous malls and shopping districts have something for everyone and all budgets. You’ll find everything from high-end designer stores to neighborhood boutiques. When you’re hungry following an afternoon of shopping, you’ll find just as many great places to eat.

If you like Italian food, there’s no better place to stop for dinner than Cinzetti’s, an all-you-can-eat Italian buffet in a Tuscan village setting. Buffets tend to get a bad rep, but at Cinzetti’s, you’ll only get the best quality food that will make you want to go back for seconds (and thirds, fourths, fifths, etc.) until you’ve eaten more than you do at Thanksgiving. Technically, Cinzetti’s is not in Denver, but it’s close and well worth the short drive to Northglenn.

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How to Safely Clean Your Outdoor Security Cameras

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If you have outdoor cameras, they can expose crimes, but in the process, they are exposed to nature. Installing your cameras under the eaves of your home can help protect them from birds, but they will still be subject to spiders, rain, snow, mud, that polluted precipitation that is a cocktail of rain or snow and smog, and more. Because of this, you’re going to encounter times when the cameras are dirty enough that it affects the image quality of the footage. When this happens, you’ll need to clean your cameras. Some recommend a consistent cleaning schedule as a better way of ensuring a long lifespan for your cameras rather than just occasional spot cleaning. Recommendations typically range from once a month to twice a year with spot cleaning as needed. Whatever you decide is the best schedule for you, you will want to clean your cameras in a safe manner that won’t damage them.

1. Don’t Add to the Statistics

Each year, there are more than 160,000 injuries from ladder falls in the US. Of the 300 ladder-related deaths, the majority are from falls of ten feet or fewer. Since most security cameras are positioned high enough that you’ll likely need to pull out a ladder to clean them, use proper ladder safely when cleaning your cameras so you don’t add to the statistics.

2. Check the Manual or Manufacturer’s Website for Special Instructions

For most cameras, you will be safe to proceed with the rest of the instructions in this guide, but some cameras require special care to prevent damage during cleaning. Tracking down a manual or sifting through a website may add a few extra minutes to the process, but it will be minutes well-spent, especially if you find your cameras have special care instructions.

3. Evict Spiders

If you have dome cameras, spiders are less likely to be an issue. These don’t have good supports for web building. If you have bullet cameras, spiders will love your cameras. They give spiders a sturdy base to build a home and a good tool for their hunt. Most outdoor cameras emit infrared light, which bugs are drawn to. As a result, many spiders have learned to build their webs in front of security cameras. Drawn to the infrared light, the bugs will fly right into the spider’s trap.

It’s a great survival strategy for the spiders, but it’s less convenient for you. Webs can block the view of the cameras and can trigger false alerts with motion-activated cameras. By regularly cleaning your cameras, you teach spiders that it’s not a safe place to build their webs, and chances are, you’ll see fewer webs going forward.
When you need to clean off webs, you probably don’t want to come in contact with them. If you’re the kind of person who doesn’t care about getting dirty, you can take care of all the webs from up close, but if you’d rather not, you can start by using a broom to sweep the webs off the base of the camera. Do not sweep over the lenses. If there are any webs on the lenses, you’ll have to get up close and wipe these off with a microfiber cloth.

4. Disassemble as Needed

If you have dome cameras, you will need to remove the dome before you will be able to clean the camera. Each brand will be different, so you’ll again want to turn to the manual or manufacturer’s website to find how to do this. If you have bullet cameras, these do not require any disassembly.

5. Blow off Loose Dust and Dirt

To most effectively blow off loose dust and dirt, use compressed air or a rubber air blower pump. Don’t blow on it yourself since there’s a high probability you’ll make it even dirtier in the process.

6. Exterior

To clean the exterior of your cameras, wipe them down with water. Then, dry them thoroughly. Do not use an excessive amount of water. Your cameras may be water-resistant, but too much water will damage them.

7. Remove Spots

If there is hard water or other buildup, you will want to clean this using a microfiber cloth and a lens cleaning solution. Do not use paper towels or any other material that could scratch the lenses. If you don’t have a microfiber cloth, get one. They’re usually inexpensive. If you don’t have a lens cleaning solution, you can substitute water for this. Spray the solution onto the lenses and wipe with the microfiber cloth. Make sure to completely dry the lenses so they don’t smudge while air drying.

8. Finishing Up

If needed, reassemble your camera. After that, you’re done, and you can now enjoy the optimal image quality that your cameras can provide again.

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Make the Most of October with These Fun Family Activities!

With Autumn in full swing in a particularly unusual year, some of us might be feeling tired of sitting around at home. Luckily, the new season brings tons of new ways to have fun with the whole family! So, we put together a list of some fun things you can do this Fall (at home and outside!) to make some memories with the people you love.

1. Take a Hike!

Fall is the perfect season for hiking. Cooler weather, less-crowded trails, and not to mention the beautiful scenery. Use an online service like alltrails.com to find some awesome hikes near you! You can even sort local hikes by difficulty to make sure you find a trip that’s fun for you and doable for the whole family. If you’re feeling cooped up at home, hiking is a great way to reconnect with nature and take a needed break.

2. Have a Bonfire

What’s fall without a campfire? With the cooler weather, a bonfire is a great way to get the family together to roast marshmallows and reconnect. Use a backyard firepit at your home, or head to a local park/recreational area. And, if you want something a bit more exciting than your run-of-the-mill s’mores, you can always try putting together a tin foil dessert, like these awesome tin foil berry crumbles. 

3. Make Pumpkin-Flavored Everything

Looking for a simple (and tasty) way to get into the fall spirit? Get yourself a can of pumpkin concentrate and start baking! It’s super easy to throw a bit of pumpkin into your class waffle, pancake, and loaf recipes to give your food a nice, seasonal twist. Our favorite? This pumpkin bread french toast.

4. Head to a Pumpkin Patch

Sure, it’s easy to go to your local grocery store and pick up some pumpkins—but what’s the fun in that? Look online to see where the nearest pumpkin patch is to you. Trust us, it’s way more memorable to take a trip to the pumpkin patch than it is to pick them up from the local supermarket.

5. Curl Up Indoors with a Halloween Movie and Some Maple Hot Chocolate!

October is the perfect time to relax, sit back with your family, and enjoy some fun Halloween movies at home! Here’s a list of 40 kid-friendly movies to watch this October! We also love this super quick, easy maple hot chocolate recipe. 

With the cooler weather and more time spent indoors with your family, you might find that it’s worth it to invest in a smart thermostat to keep your home the perfect temperature. If you want to learn about how you can make your home smarter, give WISE Home Solutions a call at 1-844-904-9473 for a free, no-obligation quote!

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