Spring Cleaning: The Perfect Time to Assess Your Home Security Needs
Is the pollen gone yet?
Phew, that was a pretty horrible year for this yellow stuff in South Carolina! Now that it’s time to once again open windows and doors, let in the air (not pollen), right before we shut everyone down again for the summer heat… it’s also a perfect time to assess your home security needs as you’ll be spending time going through your home, inside and out.
When you do your spring cleaning, look for potential security issues. You know, two birds – one stone! 😉
Assessing your Home Security Needs During Spring Cleaning
Springtime cleaning is a great opportunity to evaluate your current security measures and identify areas that may need improvement. Why? You’ll be touching almost all your windows, doors (aka entry points), cameras, and systems as you clean and dust off the pollen that’s settled in all nooks and crannies. NOTE: This is even MORE important if you have a cleaning crew on retainer who regularly cleans your home – they might have inadvertently moved camera positions as they clean, touched sensors, or left doors and windows unlocked!
Finding Potential Home Security Risks During Spring Cleaning
- Doors and Windows
As mentioned above, check the locks on all doors and windows to ensure that they are functioning properly and that they’ve not been left unlocked by the cleaning crew. If you have any damaged locks or hardware, replace them immediately. - Outdoor Lighting
Evaluate your current outdoor lighting system to ensure that it is providing adequate illumination in the right spots. Consider installing additional lights or motion-sensor lights to deter potential intruders and to light up all areas of your front and backyard. - Landscaping
Check your landscaping to ensure that it is not providing cover for intruders. Trim back any overgrown bushes, shrubs or trees that could obscure the view of your home from the street, being sure to keep them trimmed all year. - Security System
Test your security system to make sure that it is functioning properly. If you are our customer, we are happy to help you do this. Besides testing in the spring, also test before a major hurricane. If you don’t have a security system, consider installing one to protect your home and family and to monitor from afar when needed. - Emergency Preparedness
Check the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace them if necessary. Review your emergency preparedness plan with your family to ensure that everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency. This is especially needed when you have children, have elderly parents who live with you, and when you live in a hurricane-prone zone. - Valuables
Take inventory of your valuables, such as jewelry and electronics, and consider storing them in a safe or other secure location – NOT in your bedroom, where burglars expect valuables to be.
Why Identifying Potential Vulnerabilities in Your Home Security is Important
By assessing these areas during spring cleaning, you can identify potential vulnerabilities in your home security. Why is this important? You can now take the proper steps to address them before they become a problem. Prevention is always better than fixing an issue.
Who Will you Call? Strand Security
If you need help addressing potential issues, as always we are only a phone call away. Call us anytime at 843-318-6392 for help with your home security and commercial security. Your security is our business.
Outdoor Security Cameras: Enhancing Your Home Security for Spring and Beyond
Now that the weather is cooperating, and it’s warmed up outside (bye, bye winter!), it’s logical that our children, pets and we ourselves want to spend MORE time outside. Spring is a great time to plant a new garden, install a pool and sit on the deck or porch under the stars.
With more outdoor activities, come more outside dangers. We’re not sure about you, but we’d love to know what Sparky is doing when he’s in the backyard. (Is he digging to China? Is he eating a shrub? The same is true for our children, their babysitters, and (elderly) parents.
How can you keep an eye on what’s going on outside in your backyard, even if you are at work, or in your home office?
Security cameras!
Benefits of Outdoor Security Cameras
Outdoor security cameras can be a powerful tool for enhancing your home security, not just in the spring, but all year round.
The benefits of installing and monitoring outdoor security cameras are vast.
Benefits include the following
- Outdoor security cameras deter burglars
- Being able to monitor your property remotely
- Instrumental in providing evidence in the event of a crime
Besides aiding in increasing your home security, outdoor security cameras can also prevent accidents and potentially save lives by allowing you to monitor kids, pets, elderly parents, and teenagers in real-time, from afar.
Types of Outdoor Security Cameras
When deciding on outdoor security cameras, we recommend you speak with an expert. If you are doing the installation yourself, you’ll want to do the proper research on both wired and wireless systems and the pros and cons of each of these options.
Learn more about wireless outdoor security cameras.
Installation and Maintenance of Outdoor Security Cameras
As outdoor cameras are subject to the elements, it is important you have a solid plan for maintaining outdoor security cameras, such as choosing the right location, ensuring proper wiring and connections, and regularly cleaning and checking the cameras. With the Atlantic hurricane season approaching each year in June, we highly recommend you test and check on your outdoor security cameras in April or May.
Outdoor Security Cameras and Smart Home Integration
One of the best features of a smart home is being able to integrate just about any system, including outdoor security cameras. This allows you to control your cameras remotely, receive alerts and notifications, and even automate your security system. You will be able to see what’s going on outside, from inside your home, your office or from anywhere in the world as long as you have Wifi service.
Outdoor Security Cameras and Privacy Concerns
last but not least, it is important to be aware of potential privacy concerns associated with outdoor security cameras. What is a neighbor complains about the location of the camera, or your wifi security is low and there are concerns someone can break into your system and watch your cameras? Be sure to speak to an expert if those are concerns on top of your list for your family and property.
Strand Security and Outdoor Security Cameras
We sell, install and maintain many different brands of outdoor security cameras and can help you make the right choice for your family and property. If you have commercial needs, we welcome you as well. We’ve done some amazing local Grand Strand Installations for commercial properties: check out this one in North Myrtle Beach!Â
Common Springtime Home Security Mistakes to Avoid
As spring arrives in South Carolina, so does… pollen.
If you live in the Myrtle Beach area of the Grand Strand, you might have seen this picture shared by Ed Piotrowski.
It’s not an oil slick, it’s a pollon-slick in the ocean! 😂
All this pollen doesn’t clean itself! After the trees have done their thing, it’s time for the humans to de-pollen their homes, porches, cars, windows and driveways!
Can we say it?
Yes, soon it will be time for… Spring Cleaning.
Common Home Security Mistakes Made in Spring!
Now we’re not saying these home security mistakes can’t be made during other months. We’re not saying that at all.
BUT… these mistakes are more likely to be made in spring when you are spending more time outside, more time opening windows and doors, and less time inside.
In no particular order, here are 7 common home security mistakes made in Spring!
- Leaving Windows and Doors Unlocked
Spring weather can be mild and inviting, but leaving your windows and doors unlocked can create an open invitation for burglars to enter your home. In the same spirit, when you - Not Updating Your Security System Frequently
If you have a security system in place, make sure to update it regularly to ensure that it is functioning properly and is tested. Check the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace them if necessary. If you changed the structure of your home (as in, you added an addition) you need to take that into consideration. Last but not least, technology ages fast. Make sure you have the best equipment for the job that keeps your family safe. - Ignoring Landscaping in the Spring
Overgrown bushes, shrubs and trees can provide cover for intruders attempting to break into your home. Keep your landscaping well-maintained, and trim back any overgrowth that could provide cover, especially around windows and near doors. - Hiding Spare Keys in Obvious Places
If you have spare keys to your home, avoid hiding them under doormats or in obvious places. Criminals do know where to look for spare keys, so it’s best to keep them with a trusted neighbor or friend. Your best choice is installing smart locks that never need another key, just a code! YOu’ would be able to lock and unlock your door from anywhere in the world! - Posting on Social Media while You Are Away
Be careful about what you post on social media. Sharing your spring break vacation plans or photos while you’re away can alert burglars that your home is vacant. Instead, wait to post those until you are back. Smart criminals will stalk potential victims online! - Not Securing Your Garage
Your garage can be a vulnerable entry point to your home. Make sure to secure your garage door with a strong lock and avoid leaving it open when you’re not around. Teach your children to close the garage door, and if it is open often, make sure to hide or lock up your bikes, motorcycles etc. so they are not in view and seen from the street during a driveby! - Failing to Install Adequate Lighting in and Around your Home
Adequate lighting can deter burglars from attempting to break into your home. Install motion-sensor lights around your property to keep your home well-lit at night. If you are away for an extended period of time, use smart technology to turn on lighting at night, or use timers.
Home Security Mistakes We All Make!
We are not saying we’ve not made these mistakes ourselves. Sometimes just reading tips like these can help you create better security habits around your home. By avoiding these common springtime home security mistakes, you can keep your home and family safe and secure. Don’t forget, your security is our business. Give us a call.
Ten Tips for Keeping Your Home Safe and Secure in Winter Months
Winter is here! Yes, even in South Carolina can it get cold, wet and yucky!
Now that the holidays are over and colder weather has arrived, how do we keep our homes safe and secure?
What does Winter in South Carolina Look Like?
Winter weather in South Carolina can vary widely depending on location and elevation. Coastal areas are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 60s Fahrenheit during the day and dropping to the 30s and 40s at night. Inland areas and the Upstate region, which includes the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Piedmont plateau, can be colder, with temperatures ranging from the 30s to the 50s during the day and dropping into the 20s and 30s at night.
Snow is rare in South Carolina, but it can occur, especially in the higher elevations of the Upstate. Ice storms are also possible, especially in the northern and central parts of the state. The best way to stay prepared for winter weather in South Carolina is to keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for cold temperatures and possible precipitation. It’s a good idea to have a winter emergency kit on hand, including warm clothing, blankets, a flashlight, and other supplies in case you need to stay warm and safe during a winter storm.
Whether you plan to travel or be home, work or work from home, these 10 tips will help you and your home stay safe and secure.
Ten Tips To Keep a Home Safe and Secure During Winter Months
- Keep your doors and windows locked at all times, especially when you’re not home. This will help prevent burglaries and other types of break-ins.
- Install a security system, such as a burglar alarm or surveillance cameras, to further protect your home.
- Consider adding deadbolts to your doors for added security.
- Keep your garage door closed and locked, as this is a common entry point for burglars.
- Keep your valuables out of sight and secure. This includes jewelry, electronics, and other items that may be tempting to burglars.
- Make sure your home is well-lit, both inside and outside. This will help deter burglars and make it easier for you to see what’s going on around your home.
- Keep your outside doors and windows clear of snow and ice. This will make it easier for you to see what’s happening outside and make it more difficult for burglars to access your home.
- Consider installing motion-sensing lights around your home. These lights will turn on when they detect movement, alerting you to any potential threats.
- Keep your shrubs and trees trimmed to reduce hiding places for burglars.
- Stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. If you see anything suspicious, don’t hesitate to report it to the authorities.
Call Strand Security in Murrells Inlet Before an Emergency Arrives!
We often get calls from people on the Grand Strand who’ve experienced a crime. The BEST TIME to connect with us and ask us for help is before an emergency so that a crime can possibly be prevented. We are only a phone call away!
The Best Home Security Tips of 2022 Per Strand Security
This year has been incredible. The growth we’ve seen in the Grand Strand area and in Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet and surrounding areas is incredible. New residents continued to move in as new homes were completed.
With so many new people in a relatively small geographical area, we need to be cognisant of friction this can cause.
Most often when a population swells quickly like it has on the Grand Strand, crime rate increases as well.
Home Security Tips for Grand Strand Residents
We’ve done our part by installing new home security systems, updates existing homes and systems and adding smart home technology for businesses and homeowners.
While we can monitor your home from afar with COPS monitoring, it’s important each homeowner takes an active role in keeping their home, their property crime-free and their family safe.
We’ve shared several new home security tips this past year, so let’s revisit the best of the best!
Drones, Facial Recognition and Smart Home Technology, Oh My!
We blogged about new trends and updates for 2022 and this included drones as security cameras, facial recognition to operate your smart home and additional smart home technology and did we ever predict it right!
Check out this featured story on window shades!
Fire Safety for Home and Family
Home security tips we gave earlier this year includes tips about home safety and fire hazards. If you have a family, you need to read this article and implement these home safety tips ASAP.
PS that article also has great tips about using lights and sounds to deter criminals. Music never sounded this sweet before!
Digging Up Unusual Home Security Tips for Golden Nuggets!
This fall we searched high and low for the most UNUSUAL home security and safety tips and oh boy, did we strike gold!
Most of these tips were about moving things around your home as not to be too obvious.
Move your keypad (so no one can see it through a window), move your spare key and even move your valuables. Did you know most people keep their jewelry in the master bedroom? Yep. Don’t put YOURs there! 😉
Got Bad Security Habits?
There are no bad security systems. Really. An armed system is great, but only if you … arm it! So many band habits result in bad decisions which lead to disasters.
To get your home and your family safe and secure, you’ve got to drop some of your own bad habits!
Listen to the Criminals for Home Security Advice!
Last but not least, we found some of the best home security tips for 2022 by asking criminals.
Most criminals do not want to encounter humans when they commit a crime. Most crimes are crimes of opportunity, which leave sus with these amazing tips: deter, deter, deter.
If you deter a criminal, they will move on to an easier target! Simple, but true.
Keeping Your Family Safe in 2023
If you are new to the Grand Strand, have just purchased a new home, or have started a family and new home security, we’d love to become your service provider. Give us a call anytime. Your security, our business. We live and work right here on the Grand Strand and we secure our home and our family with the same products and brand we instal in our customer’s homes.
3 Homeowner Stories. Being Thankful for Security Cameras
Today we want to share three stories of homeowners who are thankful for their security cameras. It is November and a great time be thankful for technology and home security systems.
If you are a homeowner and you are lucky enough not to have had the need of a home security system, or have not had an emergency in your home that warranted a call to police, fire or ambulance, you are indeed lucky!
Let’s hear the 3 homeowner stories how their Ring Cameras saved lives: a father, pets and teenagers!
My Ring Camera Saved My Life. Joey’s Story
We found this story on YouTube and Ring also wrote about it here.
Joey was home alone when he collapsed on his front porch on a hot summer day in Texas. Thank goodness he had a Ring camera! His son saw his dad, called mom who was out of town, who alerted a neighbor who called emergency services! Phew.
We are so glad that Joey is ok and that his Ring Camera saved the day!
A Passing Jogger Saves the Pets and a Home from Fire
This man is a hero!
While out jogging, he saw smoke and decided to take a detour to check it out. Good thing he did! He saw fire! After ringing the Ring doorbell, he first gets a recorded message saying the homeowners are not home. But the homeowner who wasn’t home, got an alert and answered the doorbell from a remote location.
ONce she saw the smoke coming out of her home, she begged the jogger to go inside and rescue her pets. Two dogs, a rabbit and a cat. He did! Due to his quick action he not only saved the pets, he also saved the home.
What a wonderful story! Make sure to watch the video.
Home Security Cameras, a Home Invasion and Parents Who Watch it unfold LIVE
This is one of the craziest stories!
As parents are out to dinner, three teenagers are home alone. Then gunmen appear and a home invasion is caught on camera and is livestreamed to the parent’s phone. They are able to call the police and then talk to these home invaders, warning them that the police is on the way.
This is a chilling one to watch.
Imagine what would have happened if they did not have these camera in their home! Police credit the camera system for the quick retreat of the criminals.
Phew. We got serious chills watching this video. We are glad the teens survived this home invasion.
You Never Know What Will Happen. Prepare for the Worst!
These homeowners prepared for emergencies and so should you. Coe talk to us at Strand Security now, or after the holidays. We’d love to help you choose the right system to protect those you love.
What Home Security Packages are Available to Grand Strand Residents?
“Bundle”
Who hasn’t heard that word in recent …commercials? Do you love savings? Do you like a deal, a bargain? Do you like feeling you ‘won’ better service, better pricing or better bundles? Who doesn’t love combining services for a better price point? Strand Security has you covered!
When we went looking for keywords YOU (our audience) were searching for on Google, we saw you are searching for Home Security Packages.
Do we ‘bundle’ here at Strand Security? Sure we do!
What Home Security Packages are Available to Grand Strand Residents?
The short answer about our bundles, or home security packages, is to ask us!
If you have a home security system, and want to create a smarthome, we can add those new components and that new service into a new package for you.
If you are a commercial customer of ours, and we take care of your business, restaurant, or any of your commercial systems, and you want to protect your family, we can create a home security package for you!
If you are considering purchasing or building a new home, and want options like a central vacuum, smart window shades, a sound system or a complete home theater build, we can bundle that!
Customizable Systems, Customizable Home Security Packages
No one customer of ours is alike.
No one customer has the exact same needs as another.
No one customers comes to us with the exact same issues as another.
We customize your home security packages for that very reason.
Do you already have an (older) system? We might be able to reuse some of the technology!
Home Security Packages are Based on Your Needs
When we work together, we look for the best solutions for your home.
We strive to your home secure, your family safe and your assets protected.
Your security is our business.
We work with
- Home owners in Horry County and Georgetown County
- Retirees
- New residents to South Carolina
- New parents
- Those who care for kids and elderly aka the sandwich generation
- Business owners
- and more.
Home Security Protection: Building, Family and Assets
We secure everything and everyone close to you.
- If you have an elderly family member in your care, we can provide a personal panic button to add to your system.
- If you need to give access to your home to several people (babysitters, contractors), consider changing your system to a smarthome system so you’ll never need a key again, just personalized codes for easy and secure access!
- If you have assets like expensive cars, baots, jet skis or other fun toys on your premises, you’ll want special cameras and sensors to secure those high ticket items.
Your Security is our business!
Give Strand Security A Call to Talk about Home Security Packages
We are only a phone call away! Let us know your problem and we will tell you how we can help you solve your problems or security issues.
Who Installs the Best Home Security Systems with Cameras in Myrtle Beach?
Do you already have a home security system with cameras? Do you live in the Myrtle Beach, Grand Strand area?
Then this might be an article you want to skip! 😉
We are going to talk about who installs the best home security systems with cameras in Myrtle Beach and while you might already guess the answer to be ‘Strand Security’, were are going to give you enough reasons to agree with us! Sound fair? Read on.
Why Choose Strand Security for your Home Security System?
We want to to feel good about choosing us as your service provider. We work closely with our clients so they can be sure to get what they want and need to protect their home, their assets and more importantly, their families.
Choose us because we use the same systems we install to protect our own loved ones. We only recommend brands and technology we have in our own homes! What is good enough for us, is good enough for our clients. We wouldn’t have it any other way.
Make the choice to go with us because we care about your safety and security. That is it.
Trust us with what is most dear to you and we will pull through.
Your security. Our business!
Why Choose Us for your Home Security System with Cameras?
We install not just home security system cameras, but all different type of cameras. While we provide services for homeowners on the Grand Strand, we also have a huge commercial division where we install security cameras of all sorts and types each and every day!
Chances are that whatever you think we need, we can provide along with advice and what we recommend you instal. We do keep up with the latest technology, the best brands and newest trends in our industry!
Why Choose Strand Security for Installation when you Live in Myrtle Beach?
We work where we live, we live where we work.
Locally owned and locally operated, we are your first choice of local home security systems providers. We’ve been on the Grand Strand for many years and provide excellent service. (don’t take our word for it, read the Google reviews!)
If you need us, we answer the phone.
If a problem arises, we will be there.
If you want to upgrade, we can do that!
What Makes Strand Security Your Best Choice for Home Security Systems Installation?
We have many years of home security systems experience.
We sell home security systems.
We install install home security cameras.
We maintain your home security system if you live within our area of work, anywhere in Horry County or Georgetown County South Carolina.
We offer the best service, at the most competitive pricing and we are a locally owned and locally operated small business. We live where we work!
For Home Security Systems with Cameras in Myrtle Beach, Connect With us!
We can’t wait to welcome you into the fold of Strand Security customers. It is as simple as picking up the phone. We are ready for your calls.
How To Secure Your Home: Never Fall Into These Three Bad Habits Again
Happy Fall Y’all
Can you believe Fall 2022 is here?
While you might be out enjoying the sunshine, slightly shorter days and plenty of cooler weather here in South Carolina, we are always on alert! Your security is our business here at Strand Security in Murrells Inlet!
Today, we’d like to discuss three bad habits many homeowners have, that put you and your loved one at risk for a home invasion, burglary or theft.
These are three bad habits homeowners have that put them at a higher risk for a home invasion or burglary.
1 Hiding Spare Keys Outside, in an Obvious Spot
While you might have grown up as a latch key kid, or knew where all your neighbors hid their keys, there is no need to continue this dangerous habit!
If you have lock on your doors with keys, do this one thing: Go and have 10 extra keys made and only give them to people you completely trust. That’s it. Stop hiding a key outside.
If you have an emergency and do need to hide a key outside, do it in a spot away from the door.
Never, and I mean never put your key in an envelope and put it in your mailbox. Don’t hide it under a rock either.
TIP: It’s best to replace all your door locks with a keyless entry system, and connect it to your smarthome system! Never ever have a use of a key again – all you need is codes to get in the door!
2 Forgetting to Lock Doors
Did you know that most burglaries happen between the hours of 10 AM – 2 PM?
Indeed, they do and what most people don’t realize is that often a burglar enters the home through an unlocked door. Front door, garage side door, backdoor. It’s easy to walk in if the door isn’t locked
If you have this bad habit, try setting reminders on your phone, or leave yourself a note on your car’s dashboard “STOP. Did you lock the door?” might be all it takes to get into the habit of locking up behind you.
Remember, most burglaries happen because of opportunity, not scouting! Entering a home where the door is unlocked is a huge bonus for someone who wants to remain unseen and unheard!
3 Refusing to Install an Alarm System
Last but not least, another bad habit is refusing to install a home security system all together! What makes you special enough to be spared the trauma of a home invasion or burglary? Nothing!
We serve people who want to prevent a home invasion, burglary or theft. Unfortunately we are also contacted often by people who’ve already been victims and want to prevent a second occurance. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Get an alarm system now. It’s doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, it doesn’t have to be too complicated either.
Contact Strand Security in Murrells Inlet for your Home Alarm System
We make the process of home alarms, security systems as easy as possible. Give us a call today to get started. We will be happy to answer your questions over the phone!
The Most Useful Home Security Tips Shared by Criminals to Keep You Safe!
When it comes to learning about crime, listen to the professionals. Professional criminals that is! Many people have interviewed criminals and from those interviews we have gained a lot of knowledge.
Don’t make the mistakes the victims of their crimes made. Instead, do this:
- Always prepare.
- Always be on alert.
- Always do you part in deterring criminal from targeting you.
How? Read this article where we’ve gathered the best home security tips from.. professional criminals!
When Answering a Knock on Your Door…
Ask questions! Oten burglars knock first to see if anyone is home. If you happen to be home and you answer, look at the person. Ask what they want and who they are looking for. Burglars might make up an excuse, or make up a name of a so-called neighbors. When you ask these types of questions, burglars back off!
A burglar using this method, might be dressed for the part. S/he might be dressed as a neighbor, blending right in.
Close your Blinds When You Are Not Home
Burglars will look through your windows to scout for valuables. They look for gun cases, jewelry boxes, expensive TVs or audio systems and more. If they see something they like, they will make your home a target!
Activate Alarm Systems!
Burglars report avoiding homes with alarm systems. They do not want to be confronted by police if they can avoid it. Not only install those home alarm systems, but activate them! They work to deters burglars.
Locked Doors, Windows, even 2nd Story Windows
Just because you wouldn’t climb, doesn’t mean a determent burglar wouldn’t. Their advice is to lock all windows and door, even 2nd story windows. If they find windows locked, or alarmed with a system, they will leave and go to another home.
Don’t Leave It Up To Fate
Burglars report that most of their crime is random: they look for opportunities. As a homeowner, do everything you can to prevent a break-in. It’s your job to let a burglar know that you are alert and aware!
Signs Deter Burglars
Signs deter burglars!
- ‘Beware of Dog’
- ‘No Trespassing’
- ‘Alarm System installed by …’
Lock Your Cars! Keep Valuables out of Sight!
Not only do burglars target your home, they also check out your garage! Lock your cars and more importantly than that – do not leave valuables in sight. They will grab keys, money, purses, phones and more.
Lock them in a trunk, or better yet, take them inside each time you exit your car.
Listen To This Advice By Professional Criminals
No matter where you live: suburbia, the city or in a rural community, crime happens. Be prepared to deter those who look for an opportunity to rob you. Play it safe and smart: do whatever you can to deter the criminal from targeting your home.
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