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Questions to Ask a Contractor Before Hiring Them

Probably the largest financial investment you will ever make in your home after purchasing it is a remodel or renovation, so you want to be certain that the contractors you choose can do the work as you have envisioned, on schedule, and within your allocated budget.

What is the estimated cost? Get a thorough project estimate and bid that breaks down the costs in terms of materials, labor, fees, etc. To choose the best contractor, compare the offers from several of them. Verify that the contract specifies that payment in full will only be made if the last inspection is successful.

Do they have a license? Contractors should not be offended by this request, as they have earned it through hard labor and understand its significance. The Department of Consumer Affairs in each state issues home improvement and contractor licenses, which serve as evidence of qualifications and experience.

Are they going to use subcontractors? You should be aware of who will be in your home when and whether your contractors will be using a background-checked, seasoned team of workers. Verify if these subcontractors possess additional insurance and licensure.

Are they covered by insurance? It is imperative that you have this in order to feel secure in your role as the homeowner. If a contractor submits a bid and is selected, they must have workers' compensation and general liability insurance in case something goes wrong and there are injuries or property damage on the job site. To be sure, request to see a copy of their policy.

How much time will the task require? To ensure that your expectations remain reasonable, try to obtain a precise schedule for when the job might begin and finish. Which days do they work, and do weekends count if they need to make up time lost because of unanticipated events? To what extent will they inform you, the homeowner, about the status of the project and interact with you effectively?

Examine doable, reasonably priced projects that can not only improve your house with cove system for you and your family but also increase its worth in the event that you decide to sell it.

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Who Are the Famous Thieves in History?

Many people and groups have gained notoriety for their illicit actions, which include stealing valuable artwork, robbing banks, and carrying out complex heists.

Doris Payne She was born in West Virginia in 1930, started stealing at the age of 23, and has since pilfered jewelry valued at millions of dollars from retailers all around the world. Doris Payne decided to disguise herself as a wealthy customer, dress elegantly, and avoid interaction with salespeople while stealing the jewelry.

Bonnie & Clyde After meeting and falling in love in 1932, the couple started their crime spree. They began stealing banks, convenience stores, and other establishments, frequently intimidating their victims with violence. For many years, Bonnie and Clyde were presented as antiheroes in books, movies, and music.

John Dillinger During the 1930s Great Depression, John Dillinger, an American bank robber and gangster, rose to fame. Dillinger was born in Indianapolis in 1903, and from an early age, he had several run-ins with the law and a difficult upbringing.

Alfred N. Turner Alfred N. Turner was his true name. He got his nickname by going after residences at night, when he knew the residents would be preoccupied and less likely to see him. He was renowned for his quickness and dexterity, which helped him avoid capture for a number of years.

The public's fascination with the tales of these notorious robbers has resulted in an abundance of books, films, and television programs. By setting an example and providing assistance with cove smart home security system installation, they assist homeowners in safeguarding their properties.

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Top 5 Investment Advice for Rental Property

Success in an investment needs careful planning and well-informed choices. A rise in inflation and millennials' preference to rent rather than buy have both contributed to an increase in the purchase of rental property in recent years.

1.Learn how rental legislation operates. There are a lot more that landlords need to be aware of in order to stay clear of them. You should be aware of the regulations governing fair housing, evictions, and other legal responsibilities. Do your homework in advance, please. This can be a helpful step to take to make sure you have all you need to get started.

2. Create a contingency plan. Beyond the purchase price, take into account costs like property taxes, insurance, upkeep, repairs, management fees (if any), and any potential vacancies.  Make a thorough budget to make sure your rental income adequately covers all expenses and offers a respectable return on investment (ROI).

3. Consider your financial situation carefully. The price of these products will fluctuate depending on the market, therefore it's a good idea to set aside 20–30% of your rental revenue for maintenance and emergencies. Your rental property with cove  won't immediately generate income for you.  This means that before you can actually invest in a rental property, you'll need more money than just the down payment or the purchase price.

4. Choose the proper location. Search for homes in communities with thriving job markets, top-notch schools, low crime rates, and easy access to local conveniences like parks, shopping centers, and public transit. Your rental property's potential for rental income and value might be considerably impacted by its location. It will increase your chances of success if you are aware of what you are getting into before purchasing a rental property.

5. Remember to include rental property tax. It will be easier for you to choose the ideal home and set rental prices if you are completely knowledgeable about the location you wish to invest in. The potent synergy between tax advantages and investment returns keeps investors interested in rental homes.

If you handle it like  business, investing in rental property can be a great choice. While it has a lot of appeal to earn a passive monthly income from real estate, it's vital to bear in mind that it frequently takes a lot of labor to maintain that income.

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Important Guidelines in  Electrical Safety for Home Fixture

You can work more comfortably and safely if you have a solid understanding of the fundamentals. Prioritizing electrical safety is crucial if you want to prevent mishaps, injuries, and dangers.

Consult a professional. A secure and dependable electrical system can be ensured by professional experience. It's important to speak with a certified local electrician from your area if you're unsure about any component of electrical work or if the project calls for complicated electrical installations.

Utilize the proper tools and machinery. Avoid utilizing tools that are broken or improper as these can raise the possibility of mishaps. Metal tools can be hazardous because they form contacts between live wires or terminals, potentially leading to a short circuit and electrical system damage.

Put on safety gear. Wear the proper safety equipment, such as safety glasses, insulated gloves, and non-conductive boots, when working with electricity. You are shielded from accidents and potential shocks by these products.

Check the wiring. Check any cables and wires for damage, fraying, or exposed wires before handling them.  Maintain compliance with safety rules and electrical codes by performing routine inspections. Periodic inspections may be necessary according to some building rules to guarantee the security of electrical installations.

Cables should be carefully secured. The cables could cause trips and falls for those walking nearby. To avoid trip risks and unintentional electrical system damage, make sure that all cables and cabling are firmly connected and arranged.

DIY electrical home improvement projects can be a satisfying method to enhance your living area and prevent from any injuries by installing cove security sensors.

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5 Foods Your Growing Child Must Constantly Consume

Your kids would pile everything sweet and delicious onto the breakfast table if they had their way, including ice cream, cakes, and chocolates. But as a mother, feeding your children the correct foods will support their development, protect them from illness, and help them avoid many potential health problems. They might not be grateful right away, but they will be grateful eventually. Following are five meals your developing children should always consume if you want the best for them.

1. Low-fat Dairy Products Cheese, yogurt, and milk are the essential dairy products that your developing youngster requires. These foods are great providers of calcium and protein, two nutrients essential for a growing child's development. They encourage good bone growth while assisting in muscle development. Cheese can also improve oral health, lower blood pressure, and prevent osteoporosis.

2. Dried Fruit The body of a developing youngster requires as many vitamins and minerals as it can receive to support the production of growth hormones. Vitamins have been shown in numerous studies to contribute to children's weight maintenance and height growth. Additionally, the more fruits your developing infant consumes, the more vitamins their tiny bodies will get. Additionally, vitamins enhance developing immune systems to prevent a myriad of infections.

3. Seeds and Nuts Nuts and seeds are well known for boosting energy in developing bodies and memory. Nuts and seeds provide your child's body the energy boost it needs if they enjoy playing outside. Nuts and seeds are the memory boosters required for healthy retentive memory when it comes time to learn. As they are high in zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients a developing child needs to aid memory and brain function, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, and chia seeds are ideal examples.

4. Vegetables in Green Almost every mother is aware of how difficult it can be to convince a growing child to eat their green veggies. However, green vegetables must be consumed by children since they provide a wealth of health benefits, including boosting the immune system.

5. Grass-Based Foods Bread, oats, rice, corn, noodles, pasta, and nutritious breakfast cereals are a few examples of grain foods. These foods give kids energy while also sustaining their feeling of fullness for longer periods of time. Grain-based foods can be combined with protein-rich foods including beans, eggs, fish, lean meat, and poultry.

Cove Smart - Protect Your Pipes Cold weather can cause water pipes to freeze or even burst—causing major flood damage to your home. Our flood sensor notifies you the second your home temperature drops to 41 degrees, so you can prevent problems before they start.

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Which Pallet Truck Type Should You Prefer, Electric or Manual?

You must be familiar with pallet trucks if you operate, own, or manage one. The debate over whether to purchase manual or electric pallet trucks is a hot one right now in the business. Since these trucks are typically not inexpensive to purchase, it is crucial to conduct thorough research before making a purchase. Let's thus begin at the beginning.

A Pallet Truck: What Is It?

A truck with electric motors inside that helps it move pallets is known as a powered pallet truck. These vehicles are designed for usage in storage facilities and warehouses. Within the confines of a warehouse, pallet trucks are utilized to lift or carry pallets. Pallet trucks are horizontal handling equipment designed to facilitate the operator’s work when moving heavy, generally palletized loads. They reduce the required effort and working time. There are several types of pallet trucks: manual, semi-electric and electric.

An objective comparison of manual and electric pallet trucks.

You can purchase either a manual or an electrical pallet jack. Electric pallet trucks are best for larger warehouses; manual or pedestrian pallet trucks are best for smaller locations. However, it goes deeper than this.  

Electrical pallet trucks.

Pallet trucks that run on electricity are fully automatic and frequently larger than people on foot or manual trucks. At Adaptalift Group, you can get the greatest electric pallet trucks for a great price.

Pallet Truck Uses With the variety of different pallet trucks available to you, there are also a wide variety of uses for these pallet trucks, including:

•  Manual Pallet Trucks: A manual pallet truck such as this heavy duty hand pallet truck is most often used to manually lift and transport loads of up to 2500kg, and is the standard type of pallet truck.

•  Electric Pallet Trucks: An electric pallet truck is often used for high-spec constructions, and takes most of the manual labour out of the task of moving transport loads.

• Weigh-Scale Pallet Truck: Weigh-scale pallet trucks can be used to weigh whatever you’re transporting up to certain amounts, whilst also providing the efficiency and use of a regular pallet truck.

So you can see that pallet trucks have a wide variety of different uses, and also that for a particular job you might be in need of a specific type of pallet truck, such as an electric pallet truck if you’re looking to take as much of labour out of the work as possible. To learn more you can see our full range of pallet trucks here.

Cove Security - Total Protection We’ll keep your entire home monitored. Add our smoke detectors to centralized areas of your home, away from vents and kitchens. We recommend one of each sensor per floor near bedrooms, hallways, or living areas.

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5 Low-Cost Strategies to Weatherproof Your House

We just experienced a magnificent Indian Summer for a week and a half where I reside in Northern Indiana, but it's already turned cold and rainy, and we are fully aware that winter is just around the corner. The house has to be weatherproofed now.

Making your home more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly in advance of the chilly winter months will allow you to lower your thermostat this season and save energy and money on heating costs. You can use this list as a general reference. particularly if you're traveling or relocating abroad. If any of these are present, you can think about Pershore mortgages & rent.

1. Verify that your storm windows are properly installed. If your windows are older, check that your storm windows are functioning properly and closing all the way around your house.  Storm windows contribute to adding another layer of defense against the chilly winter air.

2. Cover the interior of your windows with plastic. You may easily add plastic covering to the inside of your windows to further insulate old, drafty windows.  We cover our wooden blinds with plastic and make a small hole in the top for the cable so that we can still open the blinds and let the sun into the room, which also helps to heat it up.

3. Add curtains or shades Drapes or blinds that are heavier aid in blocking drafts and cold air coming not just from the window but also from the area around the window frame.  The curtains should be drawn during the day to allow the sun's energy to warm the house and closed at night when it is colder outside.

4. Use draft excluders on doors A door draft blocker is something you can either purchase (Etsy is plenty of adorable ones!) or, if you're crafty, make.  Place them along your exterior doors to assist block the draft that enters through the bottom of the door.

5. Address leaks around windows and doors Light a candle and move it around the door and window frames in your home. If it flickers, you know there is a draft coming in, so patch the leaky spots with caulk or weather stripping.

Your home should be the place where you feel safest, and we’re here to make sure that it is. Our Cove monitored environmental sensors detect smoke, carbon monoxide, water leaks, and freezing pipes at the first sign of trouble so you can rest easy knowing that your loved ones and your property are always protected.

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5 Requirements For A Fantastic Super Bowl Party at Home

We're ready to wager that, for some of you, this has little significance besides making plans to hang out with friends and indulge in munchies (Read: nachos!) while others get too enthusiastic about something that doesn't really matter as Super Bowl weekend approaches (Read: football).

But, because to social distancing tactics, this year's gatherings will undoubtedly be smaller and safer than ever before. Yet, just because you're watching with your family or housemates doesn't mean you can't go all out! You don't need to put much effort into having a good time, as evidenced by these fantastic Super Bowl party ideas. You don't even have to watch the game, actually!

1. Eat a lot of snacks At a Super Bowl party, you can nearly always find me lingering by the food. Our dish roundups have you covered whether your guests prefer spicy foods like slow-cooker chilli or more subdued appetizers like a unique dip and chips.

2. Don the Proper Gear Even if you have no idea what the game is about (like me), you can at least buy some merchandise to feel like a team member. There are a ton of adorable options available from either team, whether you cheer for the Kansas City Chiefs or adore the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

3. Provide a signature beverage Drinking and watching the big game go together, whether you're reveling in a victory or numbing a defeat. If you prefer a fancy-looking cocktail than the traditional sports fan's beer, make some for yourself and your buddies. If you create two and give them the names of the competing teams, bonus points! The real Super Bowl winner is whoever the public prefers.

4. Display Some Décor Although you don't want to spend a lot of money on Super Bowl decorations, a few festive accents may really liven up your party on game day! For that ideal balance of festive but not excessive, do a couple Amazon orders for items similar to those listed below.

5. Arrange An After-Zoom Party You won't likely find all of your friends in one area this year because our events will be safer and smaller. Plan a post-game Zoom afterparty where you can all gather (virtually!) and talk about everything from the halftime show to the finest advertisements to who owes who money for making bets on the game's outcome.

Stay connected with the Cove app. All of our outdoor camera conveniently connect to the Cove app, so you can relax knowing that you have access to your home security system from wherever you are. Here are additional features you get when you use the app.

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5 Vacation Security Tips to Keep Your Home Safe While You're On Vacation

A vacation is supposed to be enjoyable and relaxing. Worrying about the security of your home, on the other hand, can be stressful. Here are some simple vacation security tips to keep your home safe while you're away.

1. Avoid sharing and liking. It's natural to want to inform all of your friends and family that you're about to embark on a wonderful vacation. However, it is preferable to wait until the vacation is over before sharing that information on social media. Your home is at risk if you announce your vacation online ahead of time. A burglar could be lurking between all of those likes and shares.

2. Inform the Police There's nothing wrong with informing the local police department that you'll be away. local police department car cornerstone protection On occasion, they may send additional patrols throughout the neighborhood to deter potential criminals. It is not a guarantee, but it may protect your property.

3. Don't Let the Mail Pile Up A stack of newspapers and magazines on the front porch is a clear indication that your mail and newspaper are being delivered while you are away on vacation. This is frequently one of the first indicators that criminals look for when looking for their next victim. You must ensure that your house is not on fire.

4. Asking for Help This includes some ideas mentioned in the last trip, but with a little more involved. It’s always a good idea to ask for help from a neighbor if you can trust them. One way is by asking them to bring in any mail that piles up outside.

5. Keep the Good Stuff Safe Locking the doors and windows is obvious, but it will not protect your belongings if someone gains access to your home. You'll need an extra layer of protection for your valuables. A safelock away the good stuff cornerstone protection is a good idea.

Go where no wire could. Extended-life batteries make it easy to install outdoor camera anywhere you have a Wi-Fi connection. Cove cameras record for up to two months on a single charge. Plus, these are the easiest outdoor security cameras you’ll ever install. They attach to any smooth surface with screws, meaning there are no cords, no tangles, and no mess!

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5 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Senegal for the First Time

Traveling to developing nations might be challenging, but the benefits, such as new cultural insights, hospitable locals, and reasonable rates, frequently surpass any potential drawbacks. Once you learn the essentials, I have no doubt you'll enjoy your trip as much as I did because the Senegalese people are eager to share their beautiful culture with tourists and treat them with the utmost respect. Before making your first vacation to this amazing country, make sure to read the following.

1. You don't need to hide anything Despite the fact that Senegal is primarily a Muslim country, most places do not require you to cover your knees, head, or shoulders. Most local women do not wear a hijab in larger towns and cities, so you are not disrespecting anyone by not covering up like you may in some Muslim-majority areas of India, Malaysia, or the Middle East.

2. Senegal is secure; don't be alarmed Senegal is a well-known safe country, so while visitors—especially female solo travelers—should exercise the usual caution when going alone, doing so shouldn't pose too many difficulties. Robberies and other violent crimes against tourists are quite rare, and the residents are pleasant.

3. Improve Your French In Senegal, few natives can speak English. You will hear a combination of Wolof and French instead. A recent increase in European tourism has made it slightly more normal to discover people who might speak some Italian, Spanish, or even German. During my travels, I only occasionally came across guides or drivers that knew even a little bit of English. Most people will make an effort, especially if you begin with a cheerful "Bonjour," but knowing a few basic French phrases can also be helpful.

4. Employ a Tour Guide for Excursions & Tours It's preferable to hire a driver rather than renting a car or taking public transportation because the infrastructure and roads are poor and the traffic is unbearable (because there are few restrictions).

5. Be Ready for Everything at All Times Although a yellow fever vaccination is not needed to enter Senegal, typhoid and malaria medication are. Wearing sunscreen, carrying tissues (because toilet paper can be hard to come by in public places), and using an effective insect repellent are all necessary. Having allergy medications on hand can be helpful because the dry season can also be quite dusty. It's typical to see horse-drawn carriages, wandering goats and cows, as well as buses full of locals, using the same dirt roads as vehicles and people.

Stay connected with the Cove Smart app. All of our cameras conveniently connect to the Cove app, so you can relax knowing that you have access to your home security system from wherever you are. Here are additional features you get when you use the app.

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5 TECHNOLOGICAL PROFESSIONS WITH A LONG FUTURE

Finding an excuse not to pursue a career in technology is difficult, especially when you consider how pervasive it is in everything we do, from our professional work at our companies to our daily lives as consumers. The corporate and cultural worlds have undergone significant transformation as a result of the recent technological revolution. Because of all the technology and mobility around us, including the smartphone applications we rely on for everything from mobile banking to health monitoring, we are currently living in a "application economy."

Compared to other industries, the technology sector's job growth is expected to expand substantially faster. Although we considered what was "in," demand” technological positions are nowadays, lets take a look at the future.

1. NETWORK ANALYST AND PROGRAMMER Professionals who can develop, comprehend, and interpret data from those systems will be essential in a world when most houses and towns, as well as their equipment, are connected to the web.

2. DATA SPECIALIST

These are individuals who possess the technological know-how to rely on technology to carry out their task in a more effective and efficient manner. They have understanding of programming and analysis, statistics, and math. To guarantee that the right decisions are taken, their duty in the company is to use the data that businesses produce and combine it with any external indicators to forecast future events, both in the company and in the wider markets.

3. CYBERSECURITY SPECIALIST With each technological advance comes the implied addition of more security risks. Therefore, cybersecurity will continue to be a growing sector. In this sense, each country will have its own specific regulations on top of international regulations, which will ensure that professionals with an advanced technological background, capable of nullifying new threats posed to both technology and people, will be in demand.

4. ROBOTIC AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE. As we have already seen, the speed of these advances in robotic and artificial intelligence will change the labor market, replacing humans to a large extent in more mechanical processes and tasks. Professionals who develop these “humanized machines” will need engineering and computer training.

5. QUALIFIED IN 3D PRINTING Future developments in 3D printing will be just as important and vital as advances in robotics and AI. The capacity to increase the viability and application of models, as well as computer proficiency and expertise in 3D printing technologies, are required of 3D printers.

Savvy Homeowners Know Cove Saves Time and Money Reduce installation and emergency response times with Cove Smart Home Security

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5 Advice for Millennials Home Buyers

Remember when people used to think millennials would never buy homes? Well, surprise! Millennial home buyers have passed baby boomers and Gen Xers for the seventh year in a row.

While I love seeing more and more of my generation making this big decision, I also want them to make sure they are doing it the right way! So if you’re a millennial looking to buy a house, here are five things you can do to make that dream come true.

1. Repay all debt, including student loans. What is the largest obstacle millennial house buyers must overcome? Student loan debt. A total of 44 million Americans are paying off a $1.6 trillion national student loan burden. 2 And each graduate has an average debt of $35,000 in 2019!

2. Save money for a down payment. Most of us don't purchase our first home outright. 97% of millennials really purchase using a mortgage. 5 Because of this, having a substantial down payment is crucial—not only to reduce your interest rate but also to hasten the repayment of your mortgage. I advise putting down 10% to 20%. You could avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), an additional insurance that lenders need you to have, if you have 20% saved up.

3. Make an impression in a crowded market Well done if you've already repaid your college loans and saved money for a down payment! Entering the house market is the next stage. Because there haven't been enough sellers on the market in recent years, property prices have increased and buyers have faced competition. Your competitors are other millennials—and your parents—since Gen Xers often purchase more established properties rather than starter homes.

4. Locate a House at a Fair Price in a Seller's Market The growing cost of housing is another issue millennials must deal with. Rising property prices could be the most aggravating thing for many of us, especially those who have recently been successful in paying off college loans and finding secure employment.

5. Gain Experience With the Buying Process One of the best things you can do as a first-time home buyer is familiarizing yourself with the buying process.

That’s why it’s extra important for millennials to work with experts who know what they’re doing. Look for an agent who brings many years of experience to the table, one who knows the market well enough to find a great deal on the home that’s right for you.

Faster Response and Fewer False Alarms Cove Smart exclusive TripleTouch Alarm Response means your emergency is confirmed with help on the way in 30 seconds.

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5 Preparations for a Winter Storm

We Alaskans are used to seeing extreme weather, so a winter storm can just mean a little break from work or class. Blizzards, strong winds, ice sleet, and other types of severe weather, however, can quickly lead to catastrophe.

Winter weather actually raises the danger of heart attacks, carbon monoxide poisoning, hypothermia, and other illnesses like frostbite and frostbite. What other preparations can you make for harsh winter weather outside the essentials like a shovel, a winter jacket, and a pair of gloves? Sean Murphy, our emergency management specialist and liaison to emergency medical services, was asked for his top advice.

Numerous of these strategies may be executed quickly and easily in a pinch—but Murphy advises planning for extreme winter weather well in advance. Here's what you need to know.

GET YOUR STOCKPILE READY Without the necessary supplies, being snowed in could be quite dangerous. The good news is that you can get ready before a hurricane season begins. Throughout the year, stock up on necessities like nonperishable food. You'll already have your stash if there is a calamity. Bonus: Murphy claims you'll skip the grocery store lines. According to conventional wisdom, you should have three days' worth of food and water for your entire family.

KEEP IMPORTANT PAPERS SAFE Maintaining important documents safely and easily accessible is a pre-storm requirement because severe weather might result in property damage. Ensure that these crucial documents are kept in a location that is convenient for you to reach for them. In fact, let your spouse or partner know where they are as well.

KNOW THE SIGNS OF FROSTBITE AND HYPOTHERMIA Your risk for frostbite and hypothermia increase during a storm. Know the warning signs so you can identify these conditions and get prompt treatment.

Hypothermia, a drop in body temperature to 95 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, can lead to organ failure and even death. If you become tired or start to shiver, take necessary action to warm up.

HAVE AN ALTERNATE HEATING PLAN Winter weather can knock out power and leave you without heat. Reduce your risk for hypothermia, a rapid and unsafe drop in body temperature, by investing in an alternate heating source, like a space heater or wood fireplace.

KEEP SNOW REMOVAL ACCESSORIES AVAILABLE Storing your shovel and snow blower in an accessible location, such as a covered porch, mud room, or basement, will prevent you from having to struggle through snow to get to them.

Be careful when you're shoveling, too. Every year, shoveling brings roughly 11,000 patients to the emergency room.

Cove Smart - Protect every corner of your home with discreet door, window, motion, and glass break detectors.

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Boost Safety at Schools This Fall

School shootings spark conversation and worry. Parents request suggestions and enhancements to safety measures, school security plans, and emergency instructions from superintendents and college boards. School administrators must be prepared to proactively discuss school security and to do a "checkup" of their methods to ensure that what they are doing is in line with recognized best practices.

1. Secure the Perimeter To ensure safety in schools, you must consider the property’s interior and exterior. Student drop-off zones and designated parking lots are essential areas you want to secure, using perimeter barriers as appropriate. Incorporate fences and gates into your school’s perimeter to maximize safety, whether school is in session or closed.

Parents, carpool drivers and buses require designated student loading and unloading zones. Post signs and communicate policies that prohibit unauthorized vehicles in these areas. That way, the school has more access control. For more security, you can add a reliable security system: Cove Smart

2. Light Your School’s Exterior Install adequate lighting in all surrounding areas to protect students, staff and the building itself no matter the time of day. Use automated and programmable lighting control technology to ensure sufficient visibility in covered walkways and other naturally dark areas.

3. Control and Keep Track of Access Points Reduce the number of entrances to the structure. Establish a single main entrance for all visitors, workers, and students to maximize security. Lock the remaining access doors and occasionally check them to be sure no one has tampered with them or propped them open.

4. Make Sure Places Stay Locked Maintain unoccupied portions of the school closed off and locked while not in use, in addition to watching entrances and exits. No trespassing in the building's secured areas.

5. Control Access to Visitors By implementing strict visitor check-in processes for scheduled and unscheduled visits, schools can enhance security measures. You must have all visitors sign in at the front desk or security station so that you can carefully watch the visitor log throughout the day. Require visitors to have school-issued identification — for example, security at private schools often involves limited-time visitor badges.

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Why it's Important to Have a Security System Protection Plan

A home security system with door alarms like Cove Smart is one of the most effective ways to protect you, your property and your loved ones. The proof is in the stats:

Homes without a security system are 300% more likely to be burglarized. Approximately three out of five residential fire deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms. However, home security should not stop after purchasing a system. You should also consider a home security protection plan.

But, what is a home security protection plan and how can it benefit you?

What is a Home Security Protection Plan? It can be stressful when the unexpected happens. But, when it happens to your home security system and you don’t have a protection plan, it becomes a lot more worrying.

Take your control panel, for example. Although it’s designed to meet high-quality, reliable standards, there is always a chance it will malfunction. If it does, you’ll most likely have to schedule and pay for a service call—unless you have a home security protection plan.

A home security protection plan is like a safety net for your system. Whether it’s your home security cameras, smart locks or lights that malfunction, a protection plan is a warranty that covers the cost of unexpected equipment replacements and service calls.

Advantages of a Home Security Protection Plan Home security protection plans ensure your system is covered and maintained, eliminating wasted time and money on service calls. Plans vary depending on the service provider. Ask your vendor for details.

Contact a trusted security expert to discuss a protection plan that fits your needs.

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DIY System Considerations

A classic home security system is hard wired, running on electrical connections behind the walls, but wireless home security systems are widely available these days and are becoming increasingly popular. There are many factors to consider when you decide to purchase a DIY system like Cove Smart since it should reflect your own assessment of the security you need.

Other important considerations in selecting a system include the price tag, the ease of installation and integration and whether you want to self-monitor or sign up for professional monitoring.

Costs of Equipment and Installation

One big advantage of DIY systems is the reduced cost of installation. Opting for a wireless system may save you thousands of dollars, especially if you are ready to put it together yourself. Even if you hire an installer, he won't need to drill through walls to run wires and connect everything to your home's electrical system. Usually, the only electrical step necessary is plugging a cord into a wall socket.

Ease of Installation and Integration

It is also important to select a system that installs easily. Since the idea is to install a DIY home security system yourself, look for a system that isn't too complex. Many systems offer peel-and-stick window and door sensors that are easy to set up. For those who want to go DIY with help, some companies provide professional installation services for a fee.

Included and Available Components

The type and amount of equipment in DIY starter kits varies, and generally, the more add-ons, the higher the cost. Most kits include basic equipment, like a control panel, motion sensors and door and window sensors. Others provide additional components, like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, window-break detectors, outdoor cameras and optional smart-home devices. Almost all throw in signage to warn thieves.

Self-Monitoring vs. Professional Monitoring

Finally, you'll have to decide who is going to monitor the system. Self-monitoring means it's you who must keep watch over the sensors and detectors. This type of monitoring means more work for you, but it's less expensive. Many systems also offer the option of professional monitoring for a monthly fee. A few offer only the professional monitoring option.

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4 Steps to Creating a Neighborhood Watch Program

Neighborhood watch programs sprouted in the late 1960s due to rising crime rates. Groups vary in size and leadership: some are led by neighborhood associations or community associations, while others run under the National Sheriffs Association. In all cases, neighborhood watch associations are organized groups of citizens committed to securing their neighborhoods against crime.

Setting up a neighborhood watch program is simple if you do not currently have one established in your area. Below are steps to help you get started:

1. Reach Out to Your Neighbors

Speak with your neighbors to gather opinions and gauge interest in committing to watch program establishment. Once you’ve established who is dedicated, you can begin to schedule more regular meetings.

2. Organize Group Meetings

Organized meetings should be held in a space that can accommodate large groups of people. The space should have an atmosphere conducive to learning, and it should have video access for training videos.

Consider locations such as libraries, schools, community recreation centers, or members’ homes as valid options.

3. Partner with Local Law Enforcement

Group leaders should seek training from local enforcement officials to facilitate the watch group strategy and best practices. It is important to remember that your watch program is not a substitution for the police; it’s an extra pair of eyes to assist local law enforcement.

Create a communicative relationship with local authorities to ensure the establishment of an effective program.

4. Start Regular, Neighborhood Patrols

Understanding what to look for in your neighborhood is the first step toward protecting it. When you first start monitoring your neighborhood, look for the standard patterns and trends. That way, you can better spot when something may be off.

The best quality for a watch group member to have is a keen eye for detail. Insufficient street lighting, suspicious vehicles, an influx or decrease in foot traffic, and activity at unusual hours are potential flags to monitor.

If you do see something suspicious, be sure to take note of specifics when calling the police. Consider vehicle details (color, model, license plate) and suspect descriptors (height, weight, age, gender, scars, tattoos, and type of clothing). Your team’s dedication to details can aide authorities in an efficient and effective dispatch.

Remember that neighborhood watch programs are supplements to individual home security systems like Cove Smart, law enforcement and proactive community engagement.