Keep Security in Mind While Tackling Home Remodeling Projects
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
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Posted by: ESA Communications
Burglars are opportunistic creatures. If they see a vulnerable home, they are going to strike. Overgrown lawns, newspapers piled up in the driveway, a dark and quiet interior – these are clues that tell burglars the owners may be out of town and the home is vacant. For Immediate Release PRESS RELEASEESA Media ContactsLaurie KnoxVice President,Communications & Public RelationsPhone: (888) 447-1689 ext. 6825E-mail: [email protected] OgleCommunications SpecialistPhone: (888) 447-1689 ext. 6813E-mail: [email protected] BengtsonCommunications CoordinatorPhone: (888) 447-1689 ext. 6811E-mail: [email protected] ESA Reminds Homeowners to Keep Security in MindWhile Tackling Home Remodeling ProjectsThe Electronic Security Association (ESA) provides tips for protecting valuables during home improvement processIrving, Texas (July 17, 2013) — Burglars are opportunistic creatures. If they see a vulnerable home, they are going to strike. Overgrown lawns, newspapers piled up in the driveway, a dark and quiet interior – these are clues that tell burglars the owners may be out of town and the home is vacant.In addition to travelers, though, there is another group of homeowners who should be especially cautious of burglars: those who are remodeling their homes. Obvious clues include open areas covered solely by tarps, contractors frequently stopping by the house, or workers you don’t know walking in and out of your home. All of these signs point out one thing to a potential burglar – opportunity.Whether you are ripping up carpet or knocking down walls, it’s important to take security into consideration. If you’re investing time and money to remodel your home, protect that investment by following these simple security tips from the Electronic Security Association (ESA).Make sure the exterior of your home is well-lit at night. Outdoor lighting is especially important if parts of your home are temporarily exposed to the outside. Don’t give burglars the chance to sneak into your home undetected. Outside lights with motion sensors are an inexpensive and effective way to deter and expose potential burglars.Keep the work zone around your home clean and uncluttered.If you are undertaking a major project, you may have several contractors working on your home with tools strewn about your property even after the work day is over. Burglars can make quick money by stealing easily accessible tools, and may come back to commit a more serious crime. Speak with your contractor and make sure the crew takes or locks up all tools and equipment before leaving the work site each day. Any outdoor furniture should be removed from the premises or chained together or chained to something substantial to make it more difficult to remove. Use a trustworthy contractor for your home renovations. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to hear about dishonest contractors stealing from the homes on which they are working. Avoid hiring a dud by thoroughly checking the company’s references and closely reading the terms of your contract. To ensure your remodeling contractor is trusted professional, enlist help from a company who is a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). You can find a NARI member in your neighborhood here.Keep your alarm company in the loop. If you plan on making major structural changes to your home, contact your security company before beginning construction. The changes may affect the way your alarm system works in your home. If you are temporarily staying somewhere other than your home while renovations are taking place, consider increasing your security efforts by installing an enhanced home security system. An enhanced system complete with surveillance cameras gives you the power to remotely keep tabs on your property while you are away via a live video feed viewable through your computer, smartphone or tablet. For further protection, you may set special alerts that notify you by text or email when someone enters or exits your home.If you don’t have a security system, maybe it’s time to use some remodeling money to protect your two most valuable assets: home and family. Find a trusted enhanced home security company in your area by visiting www.secureplusweb.org.Even the most meticulously planned remodeling projects can elicit worrisome feelings; don’t add an increased risk of burglary to your plate. By following these simple tips, you may be able to discourage opportunistic burglars while the dust settles. ABOUT ESA Established in 1948, the Electronic Security Association (ESA) is the largest trade association representing the electronic life safety and security industry. Member companies install, integrate and monitor intrusion and fire detection, video surveillance and electronic access control systems for commercial, residential, industrial and governmental clients. In cooperation with an alliance of chapter associations, ESA provides technical and management training, government advocacy and delivers information, advice, tools, and services that members use to grow their businesses and prosper. ESA may be reached at (888) 447-1689 or on the Web at www.ESAweb.org. You are receiving this press release as a courtesy of the Electronic Security Association (ESA). If you prefer to receive information in a different format, or as an attachment, or if you need additional information, please contact the Communications Department.Electronic Security Association6333 N. State Highway 161, Suite 350 • Irving, TX 75038Toll Free (888) 447-1689 • Local (972) 807-6800 • Fax (972) 807-6883 All content 2013 © Electronic Security Association, Inc.