A&R Security Services provides security services to businesses across South Wales and the South West/

A&R Security Services provides:

Keyholding & Alarm Response Services

Manned Guarding

Mobile Patrol

 

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Alarm System, intruder alarm, false alarm, false alarms, Security Services, A&R Security Services

Alarm systems: How to avoid false alarms

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Intruder alarms are a great way of alerting that someone is trespassing on your business. However, if your business is equipped with an intruder alarm, there is a chance that you will experience a false alarm.

False alarms are a lot more than just a nuisance-they can put a strain on emergency services and could potentially incur costly fees.

So, what are the causes of a false alarm?

User error

It’s estimated that 70% of false alarms are caused by user error. This is both a good and bad thing. On the positive, this means that 70% of false alarms can be eliminated and quickly dealt with – with proper training. On the downside, it indicates that employees aren’t properly trained when it comes to the intruder alarm.

To reduce the number of user errors and false alarms, it’s important that staff are properly trained (especially those who are earliest and the last to leave) and are informed of the most up to date passcodes, as well as showing them how to unlock and lock your business properly, arm and disarm the alarm and silence any false alarms.

Motion detectors

Motion detectors are a great way to ensure that you have no unwelcome guests walking around inside your business. However, sensors now are incredibly sensitive to the slightest of movement – which can cause issues.

People aren’t the only things that move. Falling objects (unbalanced paper, umbrellas, coats, etc), object such as blinds or balloons moving in a breeze and even large insects have been known to set off motion detectors.

To minimise the chance to false motion detection, you should ensure that your office is clean and tidy if anything that could potentially activate the sensor before leaving. Moving objects from air conditioning and remove any insects as soon as possible.

Unsecured doors and windows

Most alarm systems will be connected to sensored doors and windows. If one or of these doors or windows is poorly fitted, a false alarm may be triggered. This is because ill-fitting doors and windows may be able to move the slightest (even when closed) triggering sensors especially if there is bad weather conditions or someone slams a door somewhere else within the building.

To reduce the chance or windows and doors setting off your alarm, make sure that all doors and windows are properly fitted. Meaning that when they are closed there is very little to no movement when pushed or pulled.

How to reduce false alarms

Even though the main culprits for false alarms have been highlighted, there are some other things you can do to reduce the chances of experiencing a false alarm.

Carry out routine maintenance – False alarms can be triggered by a fault within your systems. Simple things like batteries running out, short-circuiting or damage. Carrying out regular check can ensure that these don’t happen. If you have an older alarm system – it may be liable to falsely alerts so it may be a good idea to upgrade to a newer system.

Keep everyone in the loop – if you make any changes to your system, it is best to notify your monitoring service provider. This includes adding or changing passcodes, adding or removing authorised users and making changes to arming times/locations.

Enforce entry/exit procedures – it’s important to inform employees of which entrances and exits they are permitted to use and what times. Make sure that employees lock all doors and windows correctly before leaving and show authorised users how to properly arm the system before leaving.

Log all false alarms – If your alarm system is falsely alerting on a regular basis, make sure that you record the time and dates of every occurrence. This will help you work out why your alarm system is falsely alerting and allow you to put measures in place to prevent it from happening again.

Make sure your system is properly installed – when having a new alarm system installed, ensure it is being installed by a certified security provider. An alarm system that hasn’t been installed correctly is far more likely to falsely alert.

 

A&R Security services provide alarm response and secure key holding services to businesses in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Bridgend, RCT and South Wales. For more information about our services call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

Hopsitals, Hospital, Hospital Security, Security Services, Security

Is your hospital security at risk?

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In recent years the Welsh NHS has been increasingly under stress despite having increased budgets for a number of its services. Although the NHS is one of the biggest employers in Wales and the UK – it has seen a number of shortages which has had an effect on A&E waiting times and the performance of their services.

With so many relying on the NHS in Wales it is important that healthcare facilities and hospitals can deal with any threats from both patients and employees.

So, there are some questions to consider when implementing security in healthcare facilities and hospitals.

How often are risk assessments conducted?

Carrying out risk assessments is vital to ensure that you can spot potential hazards which could injure patients and staff, cause ill health or leave people in a vulnerable position. By holding regular risk assessments, hospitals can spot potential hazards before they cause major disruptions.

Are my staff subject to violence?

In Wales, alone there have been 18,000 reports of violent attacks, aggression or verbal abuse on staff either from patients or other employees in hospitals.

The most effective way to check that your staff are protected from violent behaviour is to install CCTV systems in areas such as entrance areas, reception areas, waiting areas, outside nurse stations and staff rooms and corridors.

Another way in which the situations can be avoided is by hiring security staff and station them in areas where there may potential for conflict.

Also implementing reporting systems will also help staff to record everything that happens, so evidence can be provided if any legal action is taken.

Are Medicines and hazardous substances secure?

To ensure medicines and hazardous substance are not stolen, ensure that they are locked away in secure cupboards and other secure locations within the building. For added extra security, ensure that doors and cupboards are PIN secured or padlocked when not in use to avoid anything being stolen or tampered with and conducts regular audits to ensure they don’t end up in the wrong hands.

What equipment needs to be updated or secured?

If equipment is outdated or in need of repair, make sure that they are replaced or fixed as soon as possible. Make sure that they are regularly checked and maintained, and any faulty machinery have warning signs to alert staff and patients no to use it.

How Secure are the staff entrances?

Within hospitals there are areas that the public cannot enter. But having doors or corridors without key card scanners or password protected doors can allow the public gain access to confidential records.

Is there help for staff suffering from stress?

Mental health well-being is something that can become compromised especially dealing with stressful situations on a regular basis. It is important to offer staff help if they feel overworked or unable to cope with the challenging demands that they face. Doing so ensure that staff are not overworked and reduce of medical mistakes.

 

A&R Security Services can provide comprehensive security solutions to healthcare facilities in Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Bridgend and South Wales. If you are in need to Manned Guarding, Mobile Security or Concierge Services call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

Robbery, Armed Robbery, Violent Robbery, Robberies, Violent Robberies, Armed Robberies, Violent Crime, A&R Security Services

Violent robbery rise blamed on police cuts and rise in smartphone use

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In recent news, it’s been reported by the BBC that robberies are increasing at a faster rate in England and Wales than in any major developed country.

Within the last year, it’s been found that 269,000 young people were involved in or at risk of violent crime and that the use of smartphones and cuts to police patrols are behind the rise.

Between 2014 – 2018 robberies in England and Wales has increased by 33%, which researchers believed was significant because robbery acted as an entry point for violent crimes. With knife-related robberies increasing by 33%.

Violent crime recorded by police in England and Wales has risen by 19% in the last year – with the number of homicides (including murder and manslaughter) rising from 649 to 739 an increase of 14% since the end of September 2018. This is the highest total for crimes since 2007.

The report run by the BBC suggested that the availability of smartphones are connected to the increase of violent robberies with 8 in 10 people in the UK using them, higher than any country.

It also suggested that pressure on policing after budget cuts to officer posts between 2010 and 2018 was a contributor to the increase and pointed out that only 7% of robbery cases resulted in a suspect being charged compared to 21% four years ago.

Mr Redgrave from Crest Advisory said “ Criminals respond to incentives and if they feel they’re not being effectively policed – often these crimes are opportunistic – we’re likely to see an increase in these types of offences”

However, a spokesperson from the Home office suggested that changes in the way that robberies were logged are partly responsible for the rise in violent robberies.

“We are pleased with improvements in police recording, which have contributed to reported increases in robbery offences” they also added “ We are giving police the tools they need to keep families, communities and our country safe, including recruiting 20,000 new police officers and making it easier for them to use stope-and-search powers”

For more information about the report, robberies or violent crimes visit the BBC News website here.

A&R Security Services provide comprehensive security solutions in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, South Wales and South West. For a free quote call 01656 713950 or visit our website for further details of our security services.

Customer Experience, Customer Service, Business Security, Security Services, A&R Security Services

The Importance of Customer Experience in the Security Industry

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For business owners, it can be a bit of a minefield to find the right security service. They want to know that the security provider that they have chosen will give them the best possible service as well as listen to their needs.

That is why here at A&R Security Services, we listen to our customers and tailor our services to them and any changes are noted and implemented.

So, here are some ways in which the customer experience will enhance your business by hiring security professionals

Transparent security presence.

Security guards should convey the impression that guards are ready to protect staff, clients and visitors by performing manned patrols at your business. Manned Security guards can quickly respond to incidents, as well as acting as a point of contact for anyone who needs assistance.

Face of the business

If you have a business or building that has front of house services, having concierge or front of house guards can protect your business. As soon as someone enters your building, they are greeted by a friendly and familiar face – who not only is able to protect them, but also act as the face of your business. Having front of house or concierge security staff to greet everyone who comes and goes will ensure your reputation for customer service is upheld. As simple as it sounds, greeting visitors as they enter, and leave will give them the idea that they are appreciated and valued by your business. Also, it is a way for your security guards to identify and describe people easily if anyone commits a crime.

Maintaining client’s relationships

Having consistent security will reassure your customers that security guards will always be around to keep watch and protect. Having security guards to take the time to listen to clients worries and needs will confirm that the solution provided by the service will be delivered and help maintain a good relationship with your customers.

Addressing mistakes to gain trust

We all know that mistakes happen, and we learn from them. So, for professionals it’s better to address issues straight away and apologies to the customer – not run away from it and deny it ever happened.  When your business accepts that something went wrong, it will gain trust from customers who will be reassured that the mistakes are unlikely to happen again, and every effort will be made to fix the situation as soon as possible.

Human interaction

With the world thriving on the latest technological advancements, it is important for us to remember that the value of human interaction has in daily life. Creating a place in which customers can receive personable and physical recognition from staff can help customers who perhaps feel lonely, or in need of a friendly face. Security guards can be that form of human interaction at any time day or night.

Attention to Detail

One way in which you can guarantee customer satisfaction is by paying attention to the small things. Security guards paying attention to the smallest of details can go a long way especially if there is a problem that needs to be fixed.

Risk assessments to determine solutions

Having regular risk assessments of the premises will ensure that all areas are maintained for consistent monitoring, deterring crime and dealing with emergency situations. Security personnel can keep track of findings and compile reports so that legally you are covered for any claims made against your business.

Here at A&R Security Services, we offer tailored security solutions to businesses across Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Bridgend, South Wales and the South West. To find out more about our Manned guarding, Mobile Security Patrols, Secure Keyholding and Alarm Response Services – call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

Manned guarding, office security, manned office guarding, manned guards, A&R Security Services, A&R Security,

Why manned guards are beneficial to your office building in Cardiff.

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There are multiple office blocks located in and around the city of Cardiff, with many being home to multi-million-pound businesses. Having manned guards located outside or inside your building is an effective way of dissuading criminals from attempting to commit a crime at your business.

Here we’ll be highlighting some key benefits that come with having manned guarding

Strong visible presence

When protecting your business, you want criminals to know that it is effectively guarded and protected. Having uniformed manned guards can give a strong security presence and warning to anyone scoping out your business.

24/7 monitoring

Manned guards can operate at any time of the day. They can monitor CCTV and monitor who is coming in and out of your building – making it more difficult for criminals to attempt anything.

Rapid Response

Whether it is an alarm sounding or an intruder being caught on CCTV – as manned security guards are already on site they can quickly respond to an emergency or notify mobile security. If there has been an incident, they can log them in incident report books, detailing any security events so that you have a record of what has happened.

Health and Safety Skills

If there is a medical emergency or fire, having first aid and fire safety trained manned guards will be beneficial. If any of your employees or visitors become unwell, if a fire breaks out or there is a health and safety issue- a manned guard knows how to deal with the situation in a rapid and professional manner.

Prevent unauthorised access

Most new office blocks will have inbuilt security features such as key card or fob entry to prevent any unauthorised access. However, there are office blocks that are older and do not have access security systems such as key or fob entry in place.

Manned guards can act as concierge, keeping track of who is coming in and out of the building and notifying employees about visitors being there to see them.

Keyholding services

Alongside manning reception, monitoring and H&S skills, manned security guards can offer secure key holding services. If your office building is having work done out of hours or you have earl/late deliveries, manned guards can allow them access into your property but also monitor who is coming in and out of your building.

Here at A&R Security Services, we offer professional manned guarding to businesses in Cardiff and across South Wales and the South West. To find out more about our services call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website for more details.

 

SIA, SIA Licensed Guards, SIA Security Guards, Construction Site Security, Construction sites, Construction Site, Construction Security, Security Servives, Security, Cardiff, Newport, Bridgend, Swansea, RCT, A&R Security Services, A&R Security

Construction Site Security – Why should you have fully SIA licensed guards on your site?

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Construction sites up and down South Wales can become very easy targets for criminal activity. The construction industry suffers enormous loses as a result of theft of equipment and materials, and damage by arson attacks. It is estimated between £600million and £1billion were lost because of theft alone from construction sites across South Wales and the UK.

A large portion of these losses can be attributed to inefficient or non-existent construction security measures.

Construction sites are easy targets for thieves. Constant staff turnover means it is difficult to keep good construction site security records. High-value equipment such as heavy machinery can lead to quick turnover and easy profits for successful thieves.

Even though construction sites are easy targets for criminals, many sites will contract external security services with fully licensed guards.

So why is it important to have fully licensed SIA security staff?

SIA (Security Industry Association) is an organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry.

Anyone who wants to work in the private security industry must have a full SIA license. Having a full SIA license means that anyone who is a security guard is legally able to work and have the skills and training necessary to operate.

However, fully licensed SIA security guards also require a CSCS Construction Related Occupation (CRO).  The reason why security guards must hold a CSCS card is to show that they can operate safely on a construction site. During day or night patrols, individuals must be aware of specific health and safety risks that are exclusive to a construction site. This is so that a security guard can work safely, efficiently, minimising the possibility of accidents.

SIA Licensed Security guards can perform a range of duties on a construction site including:

·         Manned and Mobile guarding

·         Door/ gate supervision

·         Public Space Supervision (CCTV)

·         Secure Keyholding

Manned / Mobile Security

Having Manned and or Mobile Security is effective at deterring any potential criminal activity. Having security guards not only allows you to place them in areas that are likely to be entered by criminals, but you can also have them patrol the site – covering all areas. This is especially helpful overnight or when the site is unattended for a period of time.  We at A&R Security services can provide manned guarding services to properties that require guarding 24/7, deterring any criminals from attempting to vandalise or steal from your site.

Door/Gate Supervision

Construction sites aren’t just new builds – they can be redevelopments of existing buildings. But these types of construction sites can still be easy targets for criminals. Placing guards in front of gates or doors can help monitor who is coming in and out of your site and watch out for any suspicious vehicles or activity.

Public Space Supervision (CCTV)

CCTV is frequently used by businesses and can be used as an effective deterrent for construction-based crimes. Placing security cameras around the perimeter of your site will discourage criminals but also identify any who try to either enter, vandalise or steal from your site.

CCTV can be an effective way for Security guards to monitor but also rapidly respond to any infiltrations. CCTV can also be used in court to help prosecute any offenders who manage to steal or damage the site.

Secure Key Holding

Although it is very easy to give someone a set of keys to your site in case of an emergency there is no stopping that person from letting anyone into your site and causing criminal damage. Security Guards can hold your keys and quickly respond to any suspicious activity on your site during out of hours. They can also allow trades onto your site and monitor them coming in and out – and can securely lock up your site at the end of the day.

If you are interested in Manned Guarding, Mobile Patrols, Secure Key Holding or other commercial security services please visit our website or call us on 01656 713950

Bridgend, Business, Business Security, A&R Security, A&R Security Services, Retail, Healthcare, School, Office, Construction, Manufacturing

Bridgend – Guide to protecting your business

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Bridgend is a bustling town with good transport links to two of South Wales’ largest cities Cardiff and Swansea and is close to stunning scenic locations. But like many towns and cities – Bridgend is no stranger to crime. In recent months from June 2018 to June 2019, the total amount of crime reported in Bridgend has steadily fallen from 750-667 being reported.

But this doesn’t mean that business owners in Bridgend should let down their guard and relax. They are still at risk of becoming targets for criminal activities.

So, what strategies can implement to protect your business?

Lock and key:

Having a lock and key is a basic security measure but it works. However, some lock systems can be picked or easily damaged when a large amount of force is used. If you’re installing new doors or locks, make sure that they are British Standard BS3621 and bear the kitemark or are classed a lever 5 mortice deadlock. Alongside using a lock and key, you can also use roller shutters on windows and doors on the front and back of your business. This prevents criminals from looking into your business to see what is available to take but also stops them from damaging your property.

Keyfob/passcode systems:

Mostly used in medium to large premises Keyfob and passcode systems are great at limiting where people can access. For example, if you have a room or section of a building that shouldn’t be open for the public to enter, you can close it off with the use of a keyfob or passcode. This can also be used at the front of the property or by the reception area so that you can monitor who is coming in and out of your business.

 Secure Keyholding:

Many business owners will leave a spare key with a trusted friend or business partner in case of emergencies. But Secure Keyholding services allow security staff to enter your property without anyone else having to be present and check for any disturbances if there has been an alert to one. Also if you are having work carried out of hours and don’t want to pay an employee overtime, your security provider can send someone to let contractors in and also monitor who is entering and exiting your building.

Alarm systems:

Alarm systems are readily available from many DIY stores and security providers such as ourselves. Alarm systems are effective at dissuading criminals at entering your property further by alerting anyone in the vicinity. But be aware, some alarm systems can go off without anything triggering it disturbing neighbours around the area. Most security providers such as ourselves can install and monitor alarm systems, responding to an alarm system going off.

Exterior Lighting:

60% of criminal activity associated with business happens under the cover of darkness. Installing exterior lighting can increase the security of your business – lighting areas of your property that are not normally visible to CCTV or Security Guards. Motion-activated lighting can be a very effective deterrent as any motion can activate the light making criminals feel exposed and caught.

Manned/Mobile Security:

Having security guards at your business is an effective deterrent to criminals. Manned guarding allows you to position guards in key areas such as front of house, access points and blind spots. Mobile guards allow you to have guards patrol your business at scheduled or unscheduled intervals putting criminals off from attempting to enter your property. Mobile guards can patrol your business externally and internally and can quickly respond to any emergencies or suspicious behaviour.

CCTV:

CCTV is frequently used in businesses throughout Bridgend and can be monitored either manually or remotely. Depending on the system you are using – you can place a number of cameras around the outside and inside of your property in inconspicuous areas. CCTV allows either yourself or your security guards to monitor for any suspicious activity and can quickly respond to any disturbances.

A&R Security Services are providers of commercial security solutions. From alarm installations and monitoring to manned and mobile guarding, we can provide professionally tailored services with that personal touch. For more information about our security services – visit our website or call 01656 713950

A&R Security Services, A&R Security, Security, Mobile Security, Mobile Patrols, Security Services, Cardiff, RCT, Newport, Bridgend, Swansea

Benefits of having A&R Mobile Security Guards

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Businesses in South Wales and the South West are constantly under threat from criminals and so installing or implementing strong security is an effective way at dissuading criminals from attempting to cause a crime at your business.  One strategy that can dissuade criminals from your property is mobile security guards.

Mobile security guards are an effective way of dissuading criminals from attempting to cause a crime at your business – Whether that is on one or multiple sites. Unlike manned guarding, mobile security can perform regularly scheduled or un-scheduled checks on the entirety of your property. This makes mobile guards perfect for shopping centres, rural businesses, industrial estates and large industrial units.

Here we’ll be highlighting key benefits that come with having Mobile Security Guards.

Strong Visible Presence

When protecting your business, you want criminals to know that it is effectively secured and protected. Uniformed mobile security guards can give a strong presence and warning to whoever is scoping out your business.

24/7 Monitoring

Mobile security guards can operate at any time of the day. But most criminals like to operate under the cover of darkness to avoid being spotted. By ensuring your property is being monitored regularly it will make it more difficult for criminals to get at your property.

Rapid Response

As mobile security guards are not fixed to one position they need to quickly respond to any emergency – whether that is an alarm sounding, an intruder caught on CCTV or guards getting notified of suspicious behaviour.  For them to quickly respond to any emergency, a good mobile patrol team will ensure that they are always either on-site or in close proximity to it throughout the duration of their shift. Mobile Security will also record any incidents in logbooks, detailing any security events, so that you have a record of what has happened.

Health and Safety Skills

If there is a medical emergency or a fire, having first aid and fire safety trained mobile security guards will be beneficial. If any of your employees or visitors become unwell, if a fire breaks out or there are a health and safety issues – a patrol officer knows how to deal with the situation in a rapid and professional manner.

Internal Patrols

Mobile Security can patrol your property externally, but they can also patrol internally. They can monitor and patrol areas of your building such as warehouses, rooms that contain valuables, corridors and stairways.  While patrolling they can remove any health and safety hazards and ensure emergency exits are clear of any clutter and debris.

Keyholding

Alongside patrols, monitoring and H&S skills, Mobile security guards can offer secure key holding services. If your business has work scheduled to be carried out after working hours or you have early/late deliveries, mobile security can allow them into your property but also monitor who is coming in and out of your building. Also, if your alarm system goes off, mobile security can enter your property and check for any suspicious behaviour.

Here at A&R Security Services, we offer professional Mobile Security Guards to businesses across South Wales and the South West. To find out more about our services call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.  

Pride, Cardiff Pride, Cardiff, LGBTQ, Security, Event Security, Event, Security Services, A&R Security Services

How to keep yourself safe during pride!

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Pride is the biggest celebration of the LGBTQ community in the world and every year Cardiff celebrates with a massive two-day event spectacle within the heart of the city.

If pride is your first event or you’re a veteran, keeping your personal security in mind is important. There are a number of potential risks and threats, so it’s always best to be prepared for anything that may ruin your experience.

If you’re worried about your personal security, then take a look at our guide on staying safe at pride.

Theft:

Consider bringing a cheaper or older model phone which is unlikely to get stolen. 

Take a bumbag or money belt rather than a rucksack or a handbag as criminals will catch sight of these and attempt to open or take them – especially in crowded areas.

Disposable cameras may be a thing of the past, but they are less of a target to criminals compared to expensive digital camera’s or phones. If you cannot get hold of a disposable camera, take an older model camera. 

Never leave your valuables unattended even for a few minutes. If you are sat with a group of friends, make sure that all of your bags are in the middle of the group. If you need to leave to get food or use the toilet, ask one of your friends to keep an eye on your bag.

Download ‘Find your phone’ on your smartphone so if someone did steal your phone, you can track it and hopefully get it back securely.

 

Sexual Harassment/attacks:

If you feel pressured into anything sexual or get harassed, get the attention of the event security staff who should be on-site 24/7, or tell a friend where you are immediately.

Stay in groups of friends and never walk away on your own, even if you know the layout of the event grounds.

If you see something which classes as sexual harassment or violence, report it to the event security or police right away – don’t just walk away.

 

Anti-social behaviour:

Stay out of arguments or fights and report anything which gets out of hand to event security.

If you feel uncomfortable in an area of the event, move somewhere else away from arguments or anti-social behaviour.

Report anything suspicious to event security staff or call 999 in an emergency – such as people in possession of weapons.

Respect other event-goers so don’t try to get a good spot for a performance – everyone is there for a good time and to feel safe.

 

Health

Do not accept illegal highs from anyone – no matter how much that person is trying to convince you.

Stay hydrated and eat well.

Weather in the UK can be unpredictable so make sure you have adequate outerwear such as pack-away raincoats and daps.

Carry a first aid kit with you for minor injuries such as cuts, grazes and stings.

 

Terrorism:

Report any suspicious activity, bags or objects to event security or police and get far away as possible.

If you think there is an emergency, call 999 and look out for event security staff who have walkie-talkies or radio mics

If something does happen – keep calm and follow instructions from event staff/emergency services.

Keep your phone charged in case you need to make an emergency call and let people know that you are safe.

 

Holiday Home, Holiday Home Security, Security Services, Security, A&R Security Services, A&R Security

Guide to Holiday Home Security

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A holiday home is a great investment if you want somewhere to get away from the hustle and bustle of a busy life. So keeping your holiday home safe and secure is paramount, especially if it is not occupied for most of the year.

So, what can you do to keep your property safe?

Keep your property under lock and key:

Good security should start with the basics and having a lock and key is important to keep your property safe. But as all property owners know a lock can be easily picked and keys can be copied. When taking on any new property especially a holiday home, make sure you install a lock that bears the Kite symbol (comes under British Standard BS3621) or is classed as a five-lever mortice deadlock. Some insurers may require you to have your windows fitted with key-operated locks to insure the contents of your property over a certain amount. If your property has shutters some insures may ask if they have internal catches.

Alarm systems:

Alarm systems aren’t a requirement for insurers unless the contents of the property are of high value. But installing one will give you peace of mind. Installing an alarm system is a great way of deterring criminals, however, some alarm systems will activate without anything triggering them, and so you may upset a few neighbours if it goes off and you’re not there to deactivate it. If you do install an alarm system and live far away, consider leaving a key and your alarm code with someone local and who you can trust or have a security firm to monitor your system.

If you’re renting the property during peak season or even out of season, make sure to leave clear instructions on how to operate the alarm and what to do if something does go wrong. Encourage guests to lock all windows and doors before leaving the property for the day. It may also be worth installing a lockbox or small safe so that guests can store their valuables away.

CCTV :

CCTV is a great way of monitoring the perimeter of your property while you’re not there. Reputable security firms can offer and install a range of CCTV systems that would suit your needs. Some CCTV systems can connect to the internet allowing you to remotely monitor your property. If you have a CCTV system installed by a security firm, ask if they do surveillance monitoring.

Security Lights:

Security lights are readily available from any DIY store and are an easy solution to deter criminals from your property. Security lights come in a variety of light options and are triggered by movement, making them perfect for making thieves feel like they have been caught in the act. Security lights are very effective if you are in view of other properties.

Time Switches:

Time switches are extremely useful for creating the illusion that someone is home – even when they aren’t. If you’re leaving your holiday home empty for a period of time,  install time switches to turn lights on during certain times in the evening so that it looks like someone is home.

Be careful of what’s on show:

Thieves will often look through windows and see what is available for them to take. When the property is empty of occupants (whether that is for a short or long period of time) make sure that valuable items such as phones, laptops, money and keys are out of sight. Also when leaving make sure that all windows and doors are locked and any garden tools and ladders are put away and locked out of sight, so that an intruder cannot enter your property.

Speak to your neighbours:

When buying a holiday home, it is always good to introduce yourself to your neighbours. When you talk to them, mention that your property will be unoccupied for long periods of time. When you’re not there, leave contact details with them so that they can get in touch with you if anything happens or there is suspicious behaviour around your property.

Insurance:

Getting the right insurance is important to protect your property. When buying a holiday home, seek specialist advice from a holiday home insurer – whether your property is in the UK or abroad. Many who own holiday homes will seek advice from their main home insurance providers but this would result in adapted policies that would restrict you, especially if your property is going to be empty for months at a time. In the end, it is best to consult with an expert in holiday home insurance who can offer policies to suit holiday homeowners particular needs.

If you would like to know more about our security services or would like to have a free quote, call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website for more details