Source: saskatoonpolice.ca
The Saskatoon Police Service would like to advise citizens of a recent rash of Break & Enters to residential garages. Since October, there have been more than 40 occurrences reported where the perpetrator(s) had gained entry to garages with wooden overhead doors by removing one of the panels. Many times tools and machinery including large items like a snowmobile and snow blowers were taken, and in some cases nothing was taken.
Citizens are encouraged to report any cases as such, regardless of items being taken or not, and to keep a vigilant eye in their neighbourhood for suspicious activity or vehicles in alleyways or driveways that have garages with wooden overhead doors.
Added security such as motion lights and recorded video cameras can be beneficial to these investigations and should be referenced when reporting.
USE THIS CHECKLIST FOR BETTER GARAGE SECURITY
☐ Make sure everything is locked
The easiest way for an intruder to break in is without forced entry; you left a door or window unlocked. Make it part of your routine to ensure all access points are secure when you are done using your garage. The same applies for access points with your home and vehicles.
☐ Add motion lighting
A motion light has two components - a motion sensor and a light. When the motion sensor PIR detects a change in heat the light turns on an illuminates the area. Intruders do not like lighting because it's easier to identify them. Motion lights can be purchased from your local hardware store. We recommend a models with LED lighting. Solar-powered models are very easy to install on your own without contracting an electrician.
☐ Add Door and Window Sensors
A door or window sensor is connected to a security system and lets you know when a door or window is opened. An armed sensor triggers a siren and notifies our 24/7 Monitoring Stations to dispatch the Police.
Note: Most wireless sensors require a heated garage, 0 degrees Celsius or warmer to function properly. Cold temperature sensors are available.
☐ Add a Motion Sensor
A motion sensor is connected to a security system and lets you know when there is movement in front of the sensor. An armed sensor triggers a siren and notifies our 24/7 Monitoring Stations to dispatch the Police. This sensor would detect when an intruder removes a wooden door panel from an overhead door and enters the garage.
Note: Most wireless sensors require a heated garage, 0 degrees Celsius or warmer to function properly. Cold temperature sensors are available.
☐ Add Window Bars or Security Shutters
Sometimes adding security sensors isn't enough. In this case you should add a physical barrier to deter and prevent entry. Metal window bars can be purchased from your local hardware store. Roll up security shutters can be purchased online.
☐ Add a Siren with Flashing Strobe Light
A exterior siren with flashing strobe light is connected to a security system. When triggered by a door, window or motion sensor it creates 110db of unwanted ATTENTION. Intruders often leave the property.
☐ Partition the House and Garage
Modern home security systems have a programming feature called "partitioning". This allows areas to be armed/disarmed independently from each other. Partition 1 can be the Home and Partition 2 can be the Garage. When you are not using your garage make sure it is armed.
☐ Add Security Cameras
A security camera allows you to keep an eye on things and acts as both a deterrent and recovery tool. All evidence is recorded either to a cloud or local NVR (network video recorder) and is used in Police investigations.
REEDHD™ ColorVu security cameras use ultra low light sensors and a spotlight to see in full color at night.
☐ Add Warning Signage
We provide "Protected by Reed Security" warning signs and decals to our clients. When you have a monitored security system you are 400% less likely to experience a break in. Make sure intruders know you are protected.
All security devices are eligible for the Saskatchewan Home Renovation Tax Credit.
Contact us today for a No Obligation, 20 minute Smart Home/Business Evaluation or call 1.844.384.7233
SASKATOON SECURITY
Reed Security Headquarters
306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE (7233)
SuRe InnoVations
306.974.0888
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306.922.7200
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306.206.0700
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587.393.2800
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855.424.2324