Tip Tuesday: Summer Grilling Safety 101

Katelyn SmrecanskySecurity Resources

The weather is starting to warm up in many parts of the country which means people are spending more time outdoors exercising, going to the lake, entertaining and cooking outside with their grills. Grilling is a very popular method of cooking in the spring and summer and it’s important to review safety precautions to ensure a safe and tasty cooking experience. On average there are 8,800 house fires a year that are caused by grilling and close to half of all injuries involving grills are due to thermal burns. Additionally, three out of five households own a gas grill which means there is an increased risk of home fires. The peak month for grill fires is in July followed by May, June and August but they can occur any time of year if the proper precautions aren’t taken. Be sure to check out the dos and don’ts below before you fire up your grill next. Don’ts: • Use a grill … Read More

Eight Common Home Security Mistakes to Avoid in 2016

Katelyn SmrecanskySecurity Resources

It’s 2016 and thieves and burglars alike have become even more inventive. They’ve seen a lot of common mistakes that they know to look for. Better protect your home this year by avoiding these common home security mistakes. You only sometimes lock your doors: You may live in a nice neighborhood, have friendly and watchful neighbors, but that still won’t stop a burglar from breaking into your home. Maybe you leave a back door unlocked or the windows cracked when it’s hot out and you’re without air conditioning. It’s imperative that when you leave your house that all doors AND windows are shut and locked. Protect yourself as best as you can, it all starts with a simple lock up. You post your vacation plans online: This is a major red flag and it’s something we continue to bring up as a safety tip. Under no circumstances should you be posting about your vacation until after you return. Even if … Read More

Apartments Need Protection Too

Katelyn SmrecanskySecurity Resources

Security systems aren’t just for your typical home or office, apartments need protection too. Though some complexes have key card access and gated entry, it isn’t always enough to keep out the burglars. Below are some tips to help keep you safe in your apartment. • Before you pick a new apartment to live in, check out the neighborhood ahead of time. RAIDS Online connects law enforcement with the community to reduce crime and improve public safety. The website helps the public get a better idea of the crime activity in their area so they can make more informed decisions about how to stay safe. • Make sure the locks are changed from the person who lived in the unit before you. You never know who might have access to those keys if the lock is never changed. • Add automated lighting to your apartment so it looks like you’re home, even if you aren’t. • If there is no … Read More