New & Noteworthy

DRUGS ARE FUELING A 10 PERCENT INCREASE IN BREAK-INS

The Saskatoon Police Service has a Crime Mapping Tool that you can use to learn about all the criminal offences and traffic collisions that have occurred in our community.

In 2017 Saskatoon had 2543 property crimes (break-ins) which is a 10 percent increase over the 2292 property crimes we experienced in 2016.

What's causing the increase in property crime?

One of the reasons is that our city is growing. As of July 2017 Saskatoon's population was estimated at 271,000. As our city grows so do the social problems that go along with it. 

Another reason is we now have a synthetic drug problem - specifically with fentanyl and crystal meth. People are addicted and need money to fuel the addiction. There's also a big increase in theft of vehicles, theft from vehicles and armed robberies.

Check out this 2016 interview between former Saskatoon Police Chief, Clive Weighill, and Global News. (the video quality is poor ,but the explanation is good).
   



What can you do to combat break-in's, vehicle theft, theft from vehicles and robberies?

1. USE COMMON SENSE

  • DO NOT advertise on Facebook or Instagram that you are on vacation. Social media is the equivalent of a diary in a glass house.
  • You may think you’re letting your friends and family know you’re having a great time, but people often forget to change their privacy settings. Thieves will also know you are travelling.
  • If you like to post photos - post them after you get back.
  • If you lose a key, then get the locks changed. A better alternative is to eliminate keys altogether by installing an alarm.com smart lock with built in keypad.
  • Ask all strangers for identification. The person who is “lost” and looking for directions could actually be a burglar checking to see if someone is home.
  • Never hide an extra key outdoor - especially underneath a mat or on top of a light fixture. This is the first place the bad guys look. Leave an extra house key with a friend or a neighbor. Again, a better alternative is to eliminate keys altogether by installing an alarm.com smart lock with built in keypad.
  • For insurance purposes take photos of the contents of your home and keep all receipts in an off-site location. Great options are Google Drive, Microsoft Cloud and Dropbox.
  • Write down the model and serial number of all electronics. This will come in handy for a future Police report and insurance claim.
  • Do not leave valuables such as your wallet, loose change, electronics and expensive clothing in a vehicle. 


2. MAKE IT DIFFICULT

  • Door chains are easy to bypass. Install deadbolts. We have alarm.com smart lock options with built in deadbolts.
  • Install window bars on all basement windows. They are a great visual deterrent and can be connected to a monitored home security system.
  • Install a stopper or stick on all sliding doors and windows. You can find these at your local hardware store such as Home Hardware, Canadian Tire or Rona.
  • Make sure all doors and windows are locked. Many burglars go door to door looking for targets that forgot to lock their front doors.
  • For cabins, consider installing roller window and door shutters. Visit kimbel.ca to see samples.
  • Do not leave unattended vehicles running
  • Do not leave keys in a vehcile
  • Make sure you lock the doors on your vehicle


3. MAKE IT LOOK LIKE YOU ARE AT HOME

  • Burglars target unoccupied homes so keep your home well lit at night. Install timers that turn lights, radios and televisions on at different times. This gives the appearance that someone is home. A better option is to install alarm.com smart lights and smart appliance modules and setup on an alternating schedules.
  • If you’re taking an extended vacation of more than a week, hire a student or service to shovel your driveway.
  • Cancel the newspaper and have a friend or neighbour pick-up your mail.
  • Park a vehicle in the drive-way. Don’t forget to lock the doors and remove any valuables.


4. INSTALL A MONITORED HOME OR CABIN SECURITY SYSTEM

The insurance companies agree. You are 400% less likely to have a break-in and can qualify for an insurance discount of up to 25%.

  • NEW! $0 Equipment, $0 Installation Plans
  • No Phone Line required
  • 24/7 Monitored Protection from intrusion, fire, flood, low temperature, and carbon monoxide
  • Includes Police / RCMP and Fire Department dispatch and Call List notification
  • Optional ALARM.COM - control your smart lights, smart locks, and smart thermostat with *free apps
  • Optional ReedHD™ Wi-Fi Doorbell - Know Who's at the front door, record audio and video onto the cloud
  • A monthly subscription is required for all service plans



5. IN CASE YOU DO HAVE A BREAK-IN

  • If it looks like a door or window was forced open, DO NOT go inside. The Burglar may still be on site.
  • Call the Police from your mobile phone and wait.


6. ALWAYS GET 3 QUOTES

  • Do NOT Sign Up with Door to Door alarm companies with Limited Time Offers. Before you know it you will be on the hook for thousands of dollars with a company that doesn't have a local office
  • Many door to door alarm companies have summer programs (May to September only). After that good luck.
  • Be sure to search Google for reviews and ask friends and family who they use for home security.


If you would like more information on Smart Home or Business Security & Automation please Contact Us for a Free Security Evaluation.

SASKATOON SECURITY INQUIRIES
Reed Security Headquarters
Call 306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE (7233)
SuRe InnoVations
Call 306.974.0888
PRINCE ALBERT 
SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.922.7200
CALGARY 
SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 587.393.2800
REGINA 
SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.206.0700



WHEN IS IT TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR SECURITY CAMERAS?

The first sign is when security cameras are NO LONGER EFFECTIVE. A video surveillance system is a valuable tool that businesses use to Re-gain Control, Reduce Theft and provide valuable Business Insights. If you no longer Trust your security cameras then there's a Problem.


FIRST SIGNS OF INEFFECTIVENESS:

  • Security Cameras are missing from your computer screen
  • Security Cameras are fuzzy and produce grainy images
  • Security Cameras are obstructed (due to renovation)
  • Security Cameras are not recording properly
  • You cannot remotely view Security Cameras on your smartphone
  • You no longer have Confidence in your CCTV system


If your Video Surveillance System is 5 to 10 years old, then many of the above problems are common. Sometimes your Video Surveillance System can be fixed with a service call and other times a partial or complete Upgrade is needed.

SECURITY TIP: A yearly service call to clean cameras and update firmware can improve the performance of your CCTV system by 15% to 20%.



4K HAS THE SAME RESOLUTION AS 26 STANDARD DEFINITION CAMERAS

We all watch TV - think of the difference in quality between regular channels and HD channels. ReedHD™ can help solve more crimes using less cameras due to increased image quality. A standard video surveillance camera records in 0.3 megapixel (VGA 640x480 pixels). ReedHD™ records in resolutions up to 4K (3840x2160 pixels) and gives you a better opportunity to record and recognize Faces, License Plates and Objects. A ReedHD™ 4K camera gives you the same resolution as over 26 standard definition cameras (based on pixel counts).

If you would to like Book a Service Call Click Here

If you would like to See ReedHD™ Sample Video Click Here

If you would like more information on Upgrading Your Security Camera System Click Here for a Free Security Evaluation.

SASKATOON SECURITY INQUIRIES

Reed Security Headquarters
Call 306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE (7233)
SuRe InnoVations
Call 306.974.0888
PRINCE ALBERT SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.922.7200
CALGARY SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 587.393.2800
REGINA SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.206.0700



4 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING A MODERN HD SECURITY CAMERA SYSTEM

ReedHD™ Hi-Def Security Camera systems have become an important tool for businesses and families. CCTV systems of the past were bulky and expensive and only banks, airports, large retailers, grocery stores and big businesses could afford them. Not anymore! Thanks to early adoption, mass production and payment plans ReedHD™ Hi-Def Security Camera packages are very affordable. We still install video surveillance systems at traditional businesses, but they can now be found just about everywhere – small businesses, gas stations, local restaurants, boutique stores, farms, grain processing facilities, mines, construction sites, schools and at homes.

So, what should you look for when shopping for a modern HD video surveillance system?

1) Ease of Use

We recommend the “try before you buy” method and demo the system you are considering investing in. We have a variety of systems to fit every budget, but the general rule is you get what you pay for. A user managing 4 cameras at a single site has different requirements than a Security Manager that manages 200+ cameras in multiple cities. Our certified technicians will professionally install your ReedHD™ Hi-Def Security Camera system and ensure you understand how to view cameras on your smartphone, search for evidence and make a back-up for the Police.

2) Performance

The image quality of security cameras and recording lengths are performance indicators. Security cameras have resolutions ranging from VGA (640x480) to 7K (7360x4128). Some companies advertise “HD quality”, but the cameras may only be 720p (1280x720) HD. You will find a lot of these cameras at Costco and on-line stores. 720p HD is great for a homeowner or small business wanting the basics, but 1080p (1920x1080) should be the starting point for high definition security cameras. We go above and beyond with ReedHD™ Hi-Def Security Camera packages and often use 4MP (2560 x1440) which is 30% greater than 1080p. Ultra HD 4K (3840x2160) will soon be our new standard. The higher the security camera resolution, the more details you will get on playback. This is extremely important when using our digital zoom tool when looking for evidence. We have samples of HD video surveillance on our YouTube channel.

If you have a compound or construction site you should consider ReedHD™ Smart Cameras. They have built in video analytics and that can detect People and Vehicles or when an object is removed from the security camera view. Next they alert you via smartphone or our UCIT Video Monitoring Stations (who will dispatch the Police). This is an effective way to intervene while a crime is in progress and reduce losses.

You should also pay attention to the NVR (network video recorder) and storage requirements. HD Security Cameras use a lot of storage so the first question should be “how many days would you like to record for”? At Reed Security we use a camera calculator tool that factors in the amount of movement, the scene, the frames per second and the resolution of each HD security camera. Most people need 14 days to 30 days of recording before recycling the data. An NVR with 4 cameras should have 2TB of storage, 8 cameras should have 4TB of storage, and 16 cameras should have 8TB of storage as minimums.

Most people forget that you also need a fast high speed internet connection to view the HD security cameras remotely on your smartphone app. At Reed Security we work with you and your internet provider to make sure you are on the right package for downloading and more importantly uploading video. We recommend a package with 1 MBPS upload for a quality remote viewing experience.



3) Effectiveness

Having an expensive 7K (29MP) HD security camera that can record license plates from 2000 feet away won’t do you any good in poor lighting conditions or if there is an obstructed view. We have installed nearly 20,000 security cameras and have consulted local Police services on optimal placements to help solve crimes. An experienced Reed Security Specialist knows which cameras to install where to ensure your video surveillance solution is effective when you need it most. We also recommend placing several Protected by ReedHD™ warning signs and decals at a site to make potential criminals think twice before committing a crime. Internal theft (employees, shoplifting) is far more common than external theft by an 8:1 ratio. We install warning signage on the inside of the building too - in particular high risk areas such as cash registers and exits.




4) Affordability

What should a HD security camera package cost? If you want an inexpensive system and you are prepared to install it yourself then consider Costco. A very basic system is $500 to $2000 (no labour) and the quality is OK for a basic home or small business. Disadvantages are: poor storage capacity, poor HD quality, poor reliability, poor warranty, no customization of views, pre-made (maximum 25 feet) cables that limit installation locations and if you are not tech savvy a pain to setup for remote viewing on your smartphone or desktop PC.

ReedHD™ Hi-Def Security Camera systems are professionally designed and installed. Our solutions are customized to your needs and budget so the pricing varies. The price ranges from $2500 for a 4 camera 4MP HD security camera package to $100,000+ for a 60 HD security camera solution. The most popular option is our Business Bundles. One low monthly fee covers it all - equipment, parts and labour warranty, helpdesk tech support, on-site service and *free upgrades. It's also a great way to preserve your capital, deduct the payments on your corporate tax return and grow your business.


If you would like more information on Smart Home or Business Security & Automation please Contact Us for a Free Security Evaluation.


SASKATOON SECURITY INQUIRIES
Reed Security Headquarters
Call 306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE (7233)
SuRe InnoVations
Call 306.974.0888
PRINCE ALBERT 
SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.922.7200
CALGARY 
SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 587.393.2800
REGINA 
SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.206.0700
LLOYDMINSTER 
SECURITY INQUIRIES
Coming Soon


LEADING CONSTRUCTION DISTRIBUTOR PARTNERS WITH REED SECURITY

Security Building Supplies are veterans in the construction industry since 1968 and supplies lumber and building materials to home builders, renovators, and general contractors.

We supplied and installed a layered security solution which included:

When the project was over we interviewed Jay Fafard, VP of Business Development, and these were his comments:

1. Reed Security proved to have the most detailed quote and provided the best pricing. Both the Sales Representative and the Owner drove to our facility to walk through exactly what we needed and give us advice on where they felt our resources were best spent. We didn’t know exactly what we wanted but we were presented with our choices and Reed Security made it easy to find the best solution for our facilities. 

2. As well, the professionalism and expertise made Reed Security come across as a major player in their field. Our CEO was amazed to find out they were a locally grown business.

3. I would recommend Reed Security any day of the week for both residential and commercial solutions. From first contact with Reed Security right through until the completion of the project the staff was committed, a pleasure to work with, and most importantly knew exactly what they were doing. Reed Security made the process feel easy and straight forward when I am sure that isn’t close to the reality.

Reed Security makes Families Feel Safe and keeps them connected. We also help Businesses Re-gain Control and Grow their Bottom Lines.

Contact Us online today to book your No Obligation, Free Security Evaluation.

SASKATOON SECURITY INQUIRIES...CALL 306.653.3200

REGINA SECURITY INQUIRIES...CALL 306.206.0700

PRINCE ALBERT SECURITY INQUIRIES...CALL 306.922.7200

CALGARY SECURITY INQUIRIES...CALL 587.393.2800

LLOYDMINSTER SECURITY INQUIRIES...COMING SOON

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SASKATOON POLICE ADVISE INSTALLING ALARM AND CAMERA SYSTEMS


Global News, November 29, 2016, David Giles

Saskatoon police advise people to take measures following rash of break and enters

Saskatoon police are asking people to ensure valuables are locked up and property is secure following a number of break and enters on the city’s east side.

Police said there were 12 break-ins at businesses, homes and garages over the weekend.

Overall, police said break and enters city-wide are up slightly, with 1,952 reported since the beginning of the year compared to 1,930 over the same period in 2015.

Police said there are steps people can take to help prevent break-ins.

One of those measures is to install an alarm system and surveillance cameras.

Officials said valuables should be locked away, adequate lighting is in place, doors and windows are locked, and keys and remote garage door openers removed from vehicles.

Police also said serial numbers of valuables should be recorded to help with recovery in the event they are stolen.

Any suspicious activity should be reported to Saskatoon police.

Contact Us online today to book your No Obligation, Free Security Evaluation.


SASKATOON SECURITY INQUIRIES...CALL 306.653.3200

REGINA SECURITY INQUIRIES...CALL 306.206.0700

PRINCE ALBERT SECURITY INQUIRIES...CALL 306.922.7200

CALGARY SECURITY INQUIRIES...CALL 587.393.2800

LLOYDMINSTER SECURITY INQUIRIES...COMING SOON


Reed Security makes Families Feel Safe and keeps them connected. We also help Businesses Re-gain Control and Grow their Bottom Lines.

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LOCATIONS

SASKATOON SECURITY
Reed Security Group (HEADQUARTERS)
14-1724 Quebec Avenue
Saskatoon, SK S7K 1V9
Ph: 306.653.3200
1.844.384.SAFE (7233)

Sure Innovations
1701 Saskatchewan Avenue
Saskatoon, SK S7K 1P7
Ph: 306.974.0888

Nine Yards Technologies Inc.
Ph: 306.341.2477

 

REGINA SECURITY
ViboPulse Services
Ph: 306.206.0700

WINNIPEG SECURITY
Guardian Advanced Solutions
Ph: 204.250.7510 or 204.878.0061

PRINCE ALBERT SECURITY
Thor Security Ltd.
1-243 South Industrial Drive
Prince Albert, SK S6V 7L9
Ph: 306.922.7200

 

NIAGARA REGION SECURITY
Alltech Smart Security
Ph: 289.990.3234

KAWARTHA LAKES REGION SECURITY
Dot Communications
232 Kent St W Unit 4
Lindsay, ON K9V 6A4
Ph: 1.833.368.2666

 

CALGARY SECURITY
Oxford Security Systems
#501, 2903 Kingsview Blvd SE
Airdrie, AB T4A 0C4
Ph: 587.393.2800

EDMONTON SECURITY
Ph: 1.844.384.7233