Seasonal Security Solutions for the Countdown to Christmas!

Throngs of shoppers braving the frosty high streets, ever-expanding piles of presents under the tree… and a whiff of anticipation in the air for criminals everywhere – Christmas is well and truly upon us.

As we get caught up in the goodwill and merriment of the festive period, it can be easy to allow thoughts on home and personal security to drift to the back of our minds. However it is important to remain vigilant, as Christmas is seen as a time of maximum opportunity for burglars and pickpockets.

Keep yourself and your possessions safe with our Super Seven Tips:

1)  Pickpockets and bag thieves thrive in the hustle and bustle of high streets and shopping centres at this time of the year. Equip yourself with Anti-Theft Items to frustrate criminals.

2)  The rise of Digital Pickpockets that skim data from contactless cards is also a serious concern for shoppers this Christmas. Make sure you have a Card Defender to protect yourself from possible theft and identity fraud.

You can read our previous blog about the growing threat of contactless card crime Here! 

3)  If you’re not usually home before dark, Segment Timers are perfect for setting your tree, decorations and regular house lights to switch on automatically, giving burglars the impression your home is occupied.

4)  In the days leading up to Christmas, lots of expensive new presents are stored under the tree. Don’t advertise this bounty to burglars; keep curtains or blinds closed and doors and windows locked and alarmed.

5)  The festive period is prime time for Bogus Callers, who take the opportunity to pose as carol singers or charitable workers. Always remember to utilise peep holes and Door Chains when answering. If you’re not sure, don’t open the door!

6)  Outdoors, make sure all access points are well lit with quality Security Lighting. Indoors, make sure you have (and use!) a reliable motion alarm system.

7)  Hopefully you’ve ended up on Santa’s Nice List this year… Make sure you mark all new gifts and valuables using Property Marking Kits to deter thieves from targeting them. Don’t lose your presents before you’ve had a chance to enjoy them!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Solon Security! 

Celebrate with 10% OFF at our retail site redlinesecurity.co.uk with code: XMAS16

Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week 2016 – What you need to know.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week 2016 is running for the 11th consecutive year between Monday 21 – Sunday 26 November. 

As part of this year’s awareness week, we’ve pulled together the essential information you need on the dangers of Carbon Monoxide and how you can stay protected.

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon Monoxide (known as CO for short) is an extremely poisonous gas, which can be lethal. It is often referred to as the Silent Killer, due to it being colourless, odourless, tasteless and not visibly irritating to the skin.

Where does CO come from?

Any time fuel is burnt, fumes are created; CO is present within these fumes. This includes fumes from everyday sources such as engines, stoves, grills, fireplaces, furnaces and campfires to name just a few.

How can CO cause harm?

Constant exposure to the gas, be it indoors our outdoors, can lead to Carbon Monoxide poisoning. This is a serious condition that can lead to death in some cases, affecting both people and animals alike. Those breathing in the gas during their sleep are at particular risk.

What are the symptoms of CO poisoning?

The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headaches, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pains, and confusion. CO symptoms are often described as “flu-like” by sufferers.

How can I protect myself from CO poisoning?

Installing a dedicated CO Detection Alarm is the only way to constantly guard against the dangers of Carbon Monoxide. These incredibly useful units will constantly monitor the air around them and alert you to the presence of dangerous levels of CO.

Should my landlord provide CO alarms within a property?

YES. As of March 2015 private landlords in the UK are legally obliged to ensure all of their properties are equipped with working smoke and CO alarms. If you live in rented accommodation and do not have a CO alarm, speak to your landlord immediately (this includes student accommodation). If you live in a private residence, it is your responsibility to purchase one.

Where can I use CO alarms?

CO alarms are typically battery operated and can be wall/ceiling mounted in any residential or commercial environment. Modern CO alarm units are also very compact meaning they can be easily transported for use while travelling, such as in hotels or holiday homes. Some are also tested to operate at low temperatures, meaning you can use them in caravans, boats or even tents.

Where can I get a CO alarm?

Redline Security supply two types of CO alarm, both certified to CE and British Standard EN50291:2012, and are offering a special discount price during CO Awareness Week:

Kidde 7DCO 10 Year Battery Life – Features a digital display for constant monitoring of CO levels.

Kidde Lifesaver 7 Year Battery Life – One of the most compact alarms available, perfect for portable use.

For more information on CO poisoning, and Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, you can visit the official charity website here: www.covictim.org

Student Security – Which Bike Lock is Best for You?

A fresh university year is upon us once again, which means the coming weeks will see campuses across the UK come alive with the sound of bells and chains, as eager (or probably just late) students whizz around on their bikes.

Commuting via cycling is a consistently growing trend amongst UK students, particularly in recent years as universities have started offering discount schemes on buying bikes for their scholars (if you’re not aware of this, check with your SU) and investing in making campuses and surrounding access roads bike-friendly.

Most importantly, as well as being a good way of working a bit of exercise into your daily routine, cycling to and from uni is also every student’s favourite ‘F’ word… Free!

The only downside to two-wheeled travel? The danger of opportunist bike thieves. Almost all universities now provide sheltered and well-lit places to park your bikes, but it’s still down to you to ensure the bike is locked and secured.

The right lock can make the difference between finding your bike waiting for you when you return, or having to buy a replacement. So which bike lock is best for you? Check our three different categories below to find out:

Police ApprovedIf you want the ultimate in bike locking security in terms of strength and reliability, then then Master Lock Gold Sold Secure D Lock is the one for you. Holding both the coveted Secured by Design and Sold Secure accreditations, these locks have been tested to the highest level by Police and Locksmith Associations. Available in a variety of colours, these locks come with three keys and a carrier bracket that allows you to conveniently attach the lock to your bike whilst riding.

Lock/Alarm ComboPerhaps you want the security of a hardened steel shackle, with the added deterrent of a 110dBs two tone siren? In which case this Padlock Alarm ticks all your boxes. Compact and easy to transport, the keyed lock is fully weather resistant and tamper proof, with the powerful alarm using shock sensor technology to ward off thieves.

Quick and Easy
If you’re looking for reliability mixed with affordability, then consider the Master Lock Self-Coiling Combination Padlock . This low cost, lightweight lock is quick and easy to use, with a 4 digit combination lock eliminating the need to carry a key. The lock also self-coils when not in use, making it convenient to transport and carry.

TOP TIP: As well as locking your bike frame, using locks or cables on your wheels will enhance your bike security even more!

After considering the different options available, also take some time to assess your own circumstances:

How expensive is your bike? It is common consensus that you should spend at least 10% of the value of your bike on a lock to secure it.

Where and when do you use your bike? Does your university have a secure bike parking facility? If so you can probably get away with a slightly cheaper lock, just to reinforce your security. However if you leave your bike in public places e.g. tied to posts and railings then the most secure lock may suit you more.

For more bike security and road safety equipment, visit ww.redlinesecurity.co.uk 

Holiday Security Top 10 Tips – Summer 2016

Are you getting ready to head off on your holidays this month? 

If you’ll be leaving your property unattended then make sure it’s left in the most secure condition possible. Our Holiday Security Top 10 Tips should help:

1. Ensure all valuable items are left out of plain sight. Put things like laptops, games consoles and jewelry boxes inside cupboards or drawers.

2. Mark all property with your details using a UV marker pen. This invisible ink shows up under UV light and helps Police identify and recover stolen items.

3. Remember to test and set your home alarm system before you leave. As well as attracting attention when activated, highly visible alarm systems will deter thieves from targeting your property in the first place.

4. Check, double-check and triple-check all doors and windows are closed and locked. The same applies to your shed, garage and any outbuildings you have.

5. Set timers to switch on lights and other appliances to make it appear someone is home whilst you’re away. Remember, an obvious empty house is an obvious target for burglars!

6. Make sure any garden tools and equipment, including ladders, are stored and locked away in a shed or garage. Don’t leave easy pickings lying around!

7. Motion sensor security lighting is ideal for discouraging thieves and trespassers from entering your property. As well as deterring entry, the bright lights will attract attention and discourage burglars.

8. Consider installing CCTV at your property for maximum protection. Certain remote systems now allow you to check the camera feed from your smartphone, wherever you are in the world.

9. Ensure you cancel and milk or newspaper subscriptions you have for the duration of your time away, a build up of bottles or papers will make it obvious your home is empty.  Also consider asking a trusted neighbour to tidy away your post.

10. Finally, avoid putting your travelling plans on social media! Information on when you’re leaving and how long you’re gone for can easily find its way into the wrong hands… Wait till you’re back, then share all you like!

For more safety tips and essential holiday security products, visit our website at www.redlinesecurity.co.uk or call 01352 736125.

Product Focus: Holiday Security Pack

It’s that time of the year again, summer holiday season is upon us! Maybe the kids have just finished school, maybe it’s the annual ‘slow period’ in work, or maybe you’ve just decided you need a well-deserved break! Whatever the reason, plenty of us across the country will be heading off on our jollies over the coming weeks.

Whether you’re jetting off into the sun or enjoying a domestic break here in the UK, one sure fire way of enjoying your holiday to the max is feeling safe in the knowledge that you have left your home secure against the threat of burglars and intruders.

That’s where the Holiday Security Pack comes in – with just one great-value purchase you can equip your property with 5 high quality home security devices, as selected in partnership with UK Police forces!

Read on to find out how the contents of the Holiday Security Pack can hold the fort while you’re away!

1. PIR Alarm with RF Key Fob

This simple but effective alarm unit uses PIR motion sensor technology, with a powerful 130dBs siren ready to shock intruders and attract attention. Key fob activated, a mounting bracket is included for optimum positioning in your property and battery power means no wiring is required for easy installation.

2. Key Fob Autodialer

One of the most popular home security devices on the market. The key fob activated autodialer connects direct to your phone socket and stores up to 3 programmable numbers along with a 20 second user-recorded message. In the event the PIR sensor detects motion, the unit autodials the 3 numbers and plays the message, alerting the listener to the intrusion. A 125dBs siren is built-in, giving you the additional option to shock intruders as well.

3. FakeTV

As seen on Dragon’s Den, This Morning and The Gadget Show, the FakeTV is a hugely useful device that mimics the LED display of a television, giving the impression that someone is home watching TV, even when your property is unoccupied. An after-dark timer means the unit can be set to activate automatically in the evenings for added protection.

4. 24hr Segment Timer

The essential Holiday Security item; segment timers are easy to use accessories that allow you to set specific times for lights and other appliances to switch on/off. Fool burglars into thinking someone is home in the evenings by having a hallway lamp flick on, or the kitchen radio crackle into life.

5. UV Property Marking Pen

A UV marker pen allows you to mark valuables and accessories with your details (such as name, number & post code etc.), in invisible ink that only shows up under UV light. In the event of valuables being stolen, UV marking makes it easier for Police to identify and subsequently return any  stolen items.

To purchase your own Holiday Security Pack, or to shop for other security essentials including Safe Cans, External Alarm Systems and Remote CCTV, visit our retail website www.redlinesecurity.co.uk.

SPECIAL OFFER – ALL orders throughout July and August will receive a FREE UV Property Marking Pen and you can use our ‘Summer16’ code for 10% off your order total!

2016 Festival Security Tips!

Our calendars have officially switched to summer time, which means the 2016 UK Festival Season is ready to get into full swing! From Glastonbury to Secret Garden Party, revelers of all ages up and down the country are dusting off their wellies, shaking out their tents and getting ready for a summer to remember.

With this in mind we’ve pulled together a list of 10 Top Tips for good Festival Security to help you enjoy yourself safely:

1) Lots of people will be using their phones to capture their favourite bands on film or snap some memorable selfies with their friends; a simple Bunjee Cord will ensure your phone won’t be dropped, lost, damaged or swiped by pickpockets in a crowd.

2) A Personal Alarm is the kind of thing you’ll hopefully never need, but it makes sense to carry. Available in a range of designs and sizes, these alarms will discourage attackers and draw attention when needed.

3) If you’re camping, make sure you never leave valuables unattended in your tent! Opportunist thieves are known to roam campsites while people are off enjoying the bands, don’t leave them anything worth taking.

4) If you’re worried about leaving other items like clothing, or even food and drink in your tent then consider investing in a small Padlock to hook through the zips. This will prevent easy entry and make your tent less likely to be targeted!

5) For those of you who love to get right in the thick of it at festivals, you can be the most vulnerable to pickpockets whilst in amongst a large crowd of people. Items like Secret Pockets allow you to store cash and cards securely on your person, hidden from sight!

6) If you’re wearing a bag or backpack whilst enjoying the acts, consider investing in a Carabiner Hook. These cheap, lightweight clips can secure the zips of your bag together, meaning you’re less likely to be a victim of bag dipping.

7) If you’re leaving your car parked up at a designated car park, be sure not to leave valuables in plain sight or advertise their presence in any way. Items like a Sat Nav Windscreen Cloth can help your car remain inconspicuous.

8) A reliable torch is an absolute must for any festival goers who are camping (that walk back to your tent after the final act can be dark and wobbly!) Items like Wind Up Torches are brilliant for illuminating your path and conserving battery life!

9) Looking for some light in your tent at night? A PIR Night Light can illuminate your surroundings when needed, or be set to switch on whenever someone walks past for added security!

10) Most importantly make sure you enjoy yourself, but do so responsibly!

For more information on personal safety and security, visit our website www.redlinesecurity.co.uk.

Product Focus – Card Defender

Contactless cards are fast becoming the norm in Britain, with over 81 million debit and credit cards in circulation now carrying the functionality. In fact, it has been predicted that contactless payments will outstrip cash payments as soon as 2025!

Unfortunately, as “tap and go” technology has improved consumer convenience, it has also improved the scope for criminals and fraudsters to target victims. With all of your payment details now stored on a chip within your card, your pocket, wallet or purse is constantly broadcasting data, ready to be transferred to a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reading terminal or device when it comes into close contact.  For more information on how this works, view our guide HERE.

So how can you protect yourself from the dangers of Digital Pickpockets?
Solon Security are here to help and have recently introduced our innovative Card Defender –  a simple, cost-effective device that has the potential to save you Thousands of pounds, for as little as 89p!

The Card Defender is a credit card sized sleeve that is the perfect for storing your contactless card inside. The wallet is made from a special RFID blocking material that means your card details cannot be skimmed by tech-savvy thieves using handheld payment terminals or mobile phones. As long as your card is inside the Card Defender sleeve, your money and identity are secure!

The Card Defender works with all forms of contactless cards that rely on RFID signals, including credit and debit cards, travel cards (such as Oyster Cards), IDs and swipe cards.

Since it’s launch the Card Defender has proved immensely popular with our trade and retail customers alike, with scores of UK Police Forces purchasing them for distribution to their communities, while members of the public have been taking advantage of our outstanding value bulk pricing online.

Join Solon Security in the fight against Digital Pickpockets by equipping yourself with the most innovative, reliable solution to contactless card crime – the Card Defender is available now online at www.redlinesecurity.co.uk, or by calling our team on 01352 736125.

Contactless Card Crime – What you need to know.

The past couple of years have seen a huge spike in the usage of contactless cards, with an estimated 81 million debit and credit cards across the UK alone now carrying the functionality. That’s not to mention the amount of wireless travel cards and work IDs that now carry your personal information.

As the popularity of “tap and go” cards has increased, so too has the danger of Digital Pickpocketing (also known as Electronic Pickpocketing). We’ve prepared this handy guide to get you clued up on the subject, as well as providing a solution for protecting yourself from falling victim:

What is contactless card technology?

Today most new payment and access cards will contain a chip that allows the information on them to be read by simply holding them on or near a scanning device. This works via RFID technology.

What is RFID technology?

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) refers to the use of radio waves to read and capture information stored on a tag or chip that is attached to an object (such as the chip attached to your credit card). These tags can be read from up to several feet away and do not require a direct line of sight.

What are the benefits to using contactless cards?

Contactless cards allow you to pay for transactions (currently up to a max of £30 in the UK) by simply presenting your card over a reader for approximately one second, rather than the hassle of inserting your card into a machine, entering your pin and waiting for confirmation.

What are the dangers of using contactless cards?

Tech-savvy criminals have seized upon the new tap and go culture by using handheld payment terminals or mobile phone apps to ‘skim’ the card information of those around them. The criminals can use these devices to charge the maximum £30 from your card direct to their payment device straight away, or store your details for unlimited use online later on. This has become known as Digital Pickpocketing.

When am I at risk of Digital Pickpocketing?

As RFID technology works within several feet and without a clear line of sight. you could be the victim of a digital pickpocket when you are standing in a shopping queue, on public transport, in a lift, or even just walking down the street.

Is it a real danger, or just scaremongering?

Unfortunately it is the former; the subject is a growing concern with ITV recently running a special report on it’s Tonight program. The total amount lost to Digital Pickpocketing in 2014 was over £150,000, with the number of contactless cards in circulation growing all the time. Recently a research team from Which Magazine were able to purchase a £3,000 TV online using the information they had ‘skimmed’ from a payment card.

How can I protect myself?

Digital Pickpockets can be foiled by a simple innovation developed by Solon Security: the Card Defender is a handy, credit card sized sleeve that you can keep your contactless card inside. The sleeve is made of a special RFID blocking material that prevents your details being skimmed, protecting both your money and your identity from tech-savvy thieves.

For more information on the Card Defender, view our Product Focus blog HERE. 

Your Checklist for Beating the Bogus Callers

Doorstep Crime can affect people of all ages, but in particular the elderly and vulnerable members of our communities.  Such instances of crime often involve Bogus Callers i.e. criminals pretending to be someone they’re not in order to gain your trust or distract you.

Bogus Callers can take many forms, from those posing as workmen or police officers, to those who claim their car has broken down. Once at your doorstep the criminal will try and talk their way inside to commit a burglary, or distract you long enough for an accomplice to slip in through another entrance.

How can you protect yourself against Bogus Callers? Simply follow our handy checklist below for what to do when there’s a knock at your door:

Are you expecting anyone?
If not, consider whether you should answer at all, particularly if it is after dark.

Can you see who is calling?
Using a peephole, electronic door viewer, intercom, or even just glancing out of a window can help you establish if the caller may be suspicious.

You’ve decided to answer.
Before you open the door, are your back doors and windows shut and locked? This will prevent sneak-in burglaries whilst you are occupied at the front door.

Have you applied your door chain?
These essential bits of kit allow the identification and verification of callers, without allowing them access. The higher quality chain the better.

You’ve partially opened the door with your door chain applied.
If the caller is a stranger then ask them who they are and what they want. 

Is the caller claiming to be in trouble or that their car has broken down etc?
Do not feel obligated to invite them in or to leave your home, offer to call the police or breakdown recovery. Don’t worry about being rude, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Is the caller claiming to be from an organisation?
Ask to see some ID. Ensure you check it closely, a genuine caller won’t mind handing their credentials over.

Does their ID seem genuine?
If you’re not sure, call the organisation they claim to represent. Always try and use a number you find yourself (e.g. online) rather than the one that’s on their ID. 

If you decide to call their organisation.
Shut the door again whilst doing so. A genuine caller will understand and won’t mind waiting.

Does everything check out?
You’ve now completed the Lock, Stop, Chain, Check process for identifying Bogus Callers and combatting Distraction Burglary. You can return to your visitor with confidence. However if you’re still in doubt, just keep them out!

For more information on Bogus Callers, or to view our range of crime prevention products, visit www.redlinesecurity.co.uk or follow our twitter account @SolonSecurity.

 

Outdoor Security: How to ‘Spring Forward’ Securely

This year the 27 March sees the clocks officially Spring Forward, meaning we can all begin to enjoy longer days and lighter nights. This time of the year also means we can look forward to 3 bank holiday weekends in the next 10 weeks!

Many of us will use the coming months as an opportunity to get out in the garden to salvage our flowerbeds, or blow the dust off our power tools in the shed. Others will see the upcoming bank holidays as the perfect time to get the BBQ out for it’s first turn of the year.

Whatever you’re planning to do follow our 5 Top Tips for good outdoor and garden security:

1) The first time you get back out into your garden, take the time to have a walk around your perimeter and see if you can spot any potential weakspots; if you can spot a way in, so can a burglar!

2) Whether you’re toiling with your new hedge trimmer or re-mastering the handling of your lawnmower, ensure all tools and equipment are safely locked away after use inside your shed.  Don’t leave valuable items out in the open for thieves to snatch!

3) There’s no point in having a shed if you don’t keep it locked! Make sure you have a sturdy locking hasp and/or padlock fixed to the door and consider shock sensor alarms for the doors and windows.

4) Many burglars will target walls or fences as the simplest ways to breach your perimeter. For a simple but ultra-effective solution consider installing a lightweight wooden trellis on top of your existing fencing, making them near-impossible to put weight on and deterring climbers!

5) Whilst you are occupied in the back garden busy planting, painting or barbecuing, some opportunist thieves will look to target the front of your home, undisturbed. Ensure the front of the house is protected with reliable door and window alarms that will get your attention if activated.

To view our full range of outdoor security products visit www.redlinesecurity.co.uk.