During and after any major storm or natural disaster, our thoughts especially are with the thousands of families we serve and our team members in the areas impacted. We dedicate each second, every day to protecting homes, families, pets and property, and our commitment and caring only intensifies during hard times.

For over 40 years, we've been designing and installing custom security systems for homes and businesses across the USA. Contact us today to learn how easy and affordable it is to secure your family, and property.

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Please know that we're always here for you, 24/7, at 888-642-4567, on social media, or by emailing ccare@centralsecuritygroup.com. We also hope the following information and tips related to power outages and your alarm system are helpful should you experience an issue.

What Do I Do When My Alarm Panel is Beeping and Indicates "Low Battery?"
Alarm systems are equipped with backup power supplies in the form of a rechargeable battery. However, during an extended power outage at the location and to ensure you – and we – are aware of the battery's status, the backup battery may signal a low charge through an illuminated indicator and/or a trouble beep. The low battery charge status does not affect normal alarm operations until the battery power becomes too low to operate the panel. If power is restored within 12 – 24 hours, the battery should start recharging.

Typically, when we receive a low battery status signal from your system at our national monitoring center, we will call to ensure you are aware, to check if help is needed, and to assist you in silencing the trouble beep.

How to Troubleshoot your Alarm During a Power Outage or Low Battery Alert
The following are steps you can take – or things to be aware of – when your system is reflecting a low system battery and prior to calling us if help is needed:

• What do I do When my Alarm System Loses Power or Shows a Low Battery Alert
  If you have had a power outage in the past 12 hours, the battery may need to charge. When power to the location is restored, call us if the trouble light doesn't go out after 24 hours of power being restored.
  
  If there have been no power outages and there is electricity present at the location, please ensure the system's transformer is still connected to a working outlet. If the transformer is connected to a GFCI outlet, please then ensure the reset button on the outlet is pressed and functional. Check to make sure the breaker switch that is connected to this outlet does not need to be reset. To test if the outlet is functional, please unplug the transformer, and plug in another device to test for power.
  
  
• Is my Alarm System Working During or After a Power Outage?
  Alarm systems receive primary power from an outlet at the location. If the system's AC adapter is not supplying power, the system will temporarily run on backup battery for up to 12 – 24 hours.
  
  If there is no power at the location and your battery backup has been depleted, we will need to wait until power is restored to troubleshoot. The battery may last up to 12 – 24 hours. When power is restored to the location, the battery will recharge itself. This may take up to 12 – 24 hours to complete. Once power is restored, please review the steps in the first bullet above.

If you need help either during a power outage or once power is restored, please do not hesitate to call our Technical Support team anytime at 1-888-642-4567. We also offer specific system manuals and videos in the support section of our website.

Natural disasters, power outages, flooding, and evacuations can be chaotic, scary, and exhausting. To help as much as possible, before an emergency strikes, we offer steps to prepare. Most important, during any disaster, stay safe and tuned to local news and social media … and know we're here.

You're rushing out the door, and all the lights are still on. Pulling out of the driveway, and you forgot to lock your front door. You get to work and wonder if your son closed the garage. No worries! For wireless security system owners and Alert 360 mobile app users, there's great news. Our convenient mobile alarm app "Scenes" option gives you the ability to adjust multiple, connected devices in your home, using a single command on your phone or tablet. Using existing "Scenes" or setting up your own in the Alert 360 app allows you to control your home security or smart home devices with the touch of a button, saving you time, worry and effort and making routine parts of your day, safer, easier, or more comfortable.

For over 40 years, we've been designing and installing custom security systems for homes and businesses across the USA. Contact us today to learn how easy and affordable it is to secure your family, and property.

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More Convenience, Security with Remote Alarm App Notifications and Control
While it sounds too good to be true, it's quite simple – but oh so helpful. With Alert 360 app Scenes, you can control certain functions of your monitored alarm system or home automation for when you're home or away, including your thermostat, lights, locks, garage doors and more. Sample Alert 360 Scenes include turning off the lights and closing the garage door when you leave the house; lowering the thermostat and activating the security system when you go to sleep at night; or adjusting the temperature and turning on lights when you wake up – all by simply tapping a button on your phone, Apple Watch, or iPad app.

The Benefits of Using Mobile Home Security App Scenes and Alerts
With Alert 360 app "Scenes," increasing the automation factor of your Central Security Group system is as easy as selecting an option, such as "Night" or "Bedtime" when you want to control connected devices for that specific period in time or activity.

You can also automate connected devices or your Alert 360 smart home system using our mobile app; rely on Geo-Services to adjust your smart devices and wireless security system; and use your mobile security app automatic alerts and notifications to know when important events or activity have occurred with your system or in your home.

There's a savings and energy management factor as well as convenience. For example, if you select a Scene that adjusts the thermostat for savings while you're away and then set it to return to a comfortable level for when you arrive home, you'll save on energy use. From your home security app, you can also see which lights are on or off and adjust them as needed.

Use your Smartphone and Mobile App to Set your Security System for Daily Activities
Now that you have an overview, let's talk basics. Alert 360 includes preset Scenes of Home, Away, Sleep, and Wake Up. With your system and schedule, you're free to set up Scenes that make sense to you, such as Movie Night, Vacation, After School, or Weekend.

Then, simply configure each scene for a moment where you need to adjust several things at once: Leaving home? Tap the 'Away' button and your security system arms, your front door locks, your garage door closes and your thermostat adjusts to save energy. Is it bedtime? Tap 'Sleep' to dial down your thermostat, while your house secures itself for the night. These are just a few examples of how you might customize your remote security app functions to automate or control your home.

Easy Steps to Get you Started Using the Alert 360 Mobile App Scenes
When you're ready to use this Alert 360 mobile security app option to manage your smart home devices, it's easy to use and edit the preset Scenes – Home, Away, Sleep and Wake Up – or create your own following these simple and intuitive steps:

1. Get started by creating a "Scene" in your desktop or mobile app, using the emPower tab. Use the four pre-set Scenes, edit one, or create a new Scene based on your needs. Examples of custom Scenes used by other home security or smart home users include Kids' Bedtime, Movie Night and Vacation.
2. Then, create a button for your new Scene: Select the Scene name and click the three-arrowed icon and drop-down menu of icons to choose from, along with a choice of colors.
3. Next, specify what you want your Scene to do, using the list of Alert 360 devices and their options, such as arming your system to stay, locking your doors and lowering the temperature or lights during a custom "Movie Night" Scene.
4. Finally, choose "save" to confirm your new Scene.
5. When you want to use the Scene, swipe left on the Scenes option of your Alert 360 app and select "confirm."

At Central Security Group, we're available to help with any questions or assistance needed in helping you make the most of your Alert 360 app Scenes or other remote alarm monitoring options.

Receive Mobile App Alerts and Emails from your Security System + More
Every day, your security system or smart home can provide valuable peace of mind through email or text notifications based on rules or schedules you set around your family's plans or routine. With the Alert 360 home automation and security camera app, plus video monitoring, you can select remote commands, easily manage day-to-day system functions, and view what's happening at home. Our smartphone security system app allows you to:

• View and control your system with the app's easy to navigate dashboard: Arm and disarm your system, adjust lights, locks, thermostat and garage doors.
• Choose "Notifications" to add or manage your text and email notifications on the go. Choose push notifications so you can know the minute something meaningful happens at home, such as when a child arrives home, a package is delivered, or a door is accessed.
• Enable automatic rules and alerts based on your phone's location, using Geo-Services. With Geo-Services, you can automatically be alerted if you've left home without arming your system, have your thermostat adjust for comfort when you're close to home or lights turn on for safe entry.

You also can relax knowing that our app comes with an extra layer of protection, requiring a passcode. If you lose your phone, you also have the ability to safeguard your account and home by disabling the automatic log in from your online account.

Relax and Enjoy Every Day More with Your Home Security App
You're tired, busy, running from place to place, or just want one less thing to do. With all the things life throws at us and the fun to be had, automating or making control of your home even easier is a welcome convenience. If you're a home security system owner, take that next step in making your home work harder and smarter for you – from your office, the beach, or that cozy spot on your sofa!

You've probably seen the news of homeowners who've caught bad guys in the act thanks to their home security cameras or doorbell cameras. Advances in technology and lower costs have made security cameras with remote access a reality for families across the country who want to see what's happening in and around their homes or capture recordings for insurance and authorities. From keeping an eye on beloved pets, elderly parents, and teenage children to vulnerable areas around the home, such as swimming pools, medicine, liquor, or gun cabinets and safes, security cameras provide peace of mind and more.

For over 40 years, we've been designing and installing custom security systems for homes and businesses across the USA. Contact us today to learn how easy and affordable it is to secure your family, and property.

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Wireless security systems and the ability to control cameras with a convenient mobile app make securing your home easier than ever, but it's not always bad guys we're worried about. Sometimes, we just want peace of mind, to stay connected to loved ones, or control what's happening at home while we're away. Let's explore the benefits of installing home security cameras and additional low- or no-cost tips for keeping your home safe as we head into spring.

The Benefits of Remote Security Camera Monitoring
Today's affordable security cameras offer HD-quality recording, night vision, mobile app viewing and more. Think security cameras are too high-tech for everyday use or are only for upscale homes? Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you have an aging (or young) pet you'd like to check in on?
• Do you have school-aged children who arrive home before you?
• Would you like to know who comes to your front door whether you're home or not?
• Do you have packages delivered when you're not home?
• Do you have a swimming pool or backyard play area?
• Do you store valuables in your garage?
• Is there a sensitive area of your home you'd like to protect better?
• Would you like to see what's happening at home while you're on vacation?
• Do you have a rental or second property that you'd like to keep an eye on?
• Do you want to save money on your insurance premiums?

With your answers in mind, it might be time to consider the many benefits of a security camera system and how it might work for you. A simple home security camera installation would allow you to:

Remotely Monitor Teenagers, Elderly Parents, or Pets
Unfortunately, we can't be in all places and with the ones we love at all times. It's comforting to be able to check in using a convenient mobile app and remote monitoring to see that all is well. Home security systems allow you to see that an elderly parent is up and around, children arrived home safely from school, and a pet is secure and happy – all while you're out running errands, on a business trip, or stuck at the office.

Check out our additional tips for keeping your beloved pet safe in your home.

Deter a Break-in Before it Happens and Prevent Crime to Your Property
Want to know one of the best ways to stop a burglar? Show him that your home is protected, with a yard sign from a reputable security company and alarm monitoring 24/7. Having a visible security camera and posting that your property is protected by video surveillance also help. Studies have shown that most burglars will avoid a home with a security system and move along to one that's not protected. If a thief still attempts a break-in, most times the audible alarm will scare him away. Security cameras that catch a visual of the criminal also can help law enforcement.

If you can't install a camera near every exterior door of your home, remember that motion lights help illuminate areas thieves might target for easy entry. Also, while you're tackling spring yardwork, trimming bushes and limbs away from doors and windows will help prevent easy access or hiding places for burglars. Don't forget our other spring cleaning and yardwork tips that help make your home more secure year round.

Receive an Alert When Someone Visits Your Front Door, with a Doorbell Security Camera
Not only is a doorbell camera a great way to prevent porch thieves, research has shown that up to 30 percent of burglars want easy entry and simply walk into your home via the front door or use a window to get in. Some will even knock first to see if you're home. Up to 60 percent use force on a weak door or window. When you have the latest security services or smart home products and forget to lock a door, you can do so remotely, using a security app. At Central Security Group, our systems are capable of alerting you if you forgot to lock a door equipped with one of our automated door locks or if motion is detected in designated areas, such as an entryway.

Additionally, if you have a video doorbell, you can see and speak to anyone who comes to your door, whether you are upstairs or across town, letting a visitor know you're aware of his presence. Even without a doorbell camera, a high-quality security camera near the front door will record and alert you to a potential thief in action.

Overall, you'll want to eliminate easy access. If you don't already use them, installing dead-bolt locks and solid-core doors is a great task to add to your home improvement list for the spring. With the start of warmer weather and door-to-door sales, it's also a great time to review our tips for staying safe when a stranger knocks at your door.

Use Outdoor Security Cameras to See Who Stops By or Cases Your Property
Some would-be thieves will watch your home to learn your schedule or will stop by, pretending to be a trusted service provider who needs access to your home. It's easy to keep an eye on visitors, whether you are home or not, with today's easy-to-install, security cameras and remote security camera monitoring.

Remember: You can also use remote security cameras and our free mobile security app to help secure vacation and rental properties the same way as your primary residence.

Use Home Security Cameras to Secure Cabinets and Gun Safes
Sadly, sometimes the people we invite into our homes are the ones who help themselves to our valuables or sensitive items. Whether it's curious teenagers, nosey party guests, or someone looking for valuable items, you can keep an eye on areas where sensitive items – such as medications, guns, jewelry, or liquor – are kept, when you install home security cameras. At Central Security Group, our most popular Alert 360® system can alert you if these areas are accessed, sending a text and capturing an image of the incident.

Remotely Monitor Swimming Pools and Play Areas
Children should always be supervised when swimming or playing outside, but we can't always control who might access our exterior areas when we're not home, and sadly, sometimes our kids wander quickly out of sight. Having security cameras, along with access points that alert you when they've been opened, can go a long way in protecting your loved ones and anyone who comes onto your property. High-tech security systems will send you a text if the door to the pool has been opened or if a camera detects the presence of someone. Security cameras facing the backyard also help supervise older children – and even pets – who are playing outside.

Use Outdoor Cameras to Protect Valuables Outside Your Home
We recommend parking vehicles in an enclosed, secure garage but understand that's not always possible. Unfortunately, vandals and thieves often target cars parked outside of homes. If you can't secure your automobile, keep an eye on it and capture video of anyone who attempts to vandalize it or break into it. No matter if you use a security camera or not, always lock vehicles left outside and never leave valuables, including garage door openers, keys, work and personal documents with sensitive information, or cell phones, in the vehicle.

Finally, Where Should You Place Home Security Cameras?
As part of considering a security camera installation for your home, you'll want to consider the best places for video surveillance. Our professional security consultants and installers have years of experience in working with homeowners and recommend cameras near the following areas:

• Front doors and all main floor entrances
• Garages and gates
• First-floor windows
• Main hallways, especially to bedrooms
• The master bedroom
• Near sensitive areas, such as pools or safes
• Your driveway if possible

Home Security Cameras are More Affordable, Provide Easy Remote Monitoring

Video surveillance systems are no longer a service for only select homeowners. More and more busy parents and pet owners are choosing today's lower cost, home security cameras to protect their loved ones, properties, and overall peace of mind. For less than the cost of a family of four having dinner out, a monthly monitoring fee can help watch over your valuables, alert you to trouble, or send help even when you can't call for it. At Central Security Group, we're happy to help and offer free, no-pressure security consultations if you'd like to learn more about our affordable Alert 360® security camera options that can be customized to meet your needs.

It's a fact that a monitored home security system can help prevent break-ins. Even having a yard sign from a reputable alarm provider makes your home less likely to be the target of a home burglary. You probably also know a security system can help keep an eye on children and elderly parents, alerting you when they arrive home safely and ensuring they are secure at home. However, there are several other advantages in having a monitored alarm system that you won't want to overlook.  

For over 40 years, we've been designing and installing custom security systems for homes and businesses across the USA. Contact us today to learn how easy and affordable it is to secure your family, and property.

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The Surprising Benefits of Having a Home Security System
Today's security system providers offer so many more benefits that not only keep loved ones and property safe but add convenience and savings for busy families. Consider these five things a security system can offer you.

Savings on your Home Insurance Premium and Insurance Deductible Reimbursement
Many home insurance providers offer a discount on their insurance premiums if you have a professionally monitored security system. According to a survey of the nation's 10 largest insurance companies, the average premium discount for a home equipped with an alarm system is 20 percent. At Central Security Group, our Security System Ownership Certificate provides proof of eligibility if your insurance carrier offers such a discount. For less than the cost of a monthly dinner out for a family of four, you can feel safer knowing your home is protected and potentially enjoy savings on your home insurance!

At Central Security Group, we'll also pay your insurance deductible up to $1,360, the highest of any security company, in the event of a loss due to fire or burglary while being monitored, offering true peace of mind.

Contact your insurance provider today if you aren't already enjoying a monitored alarm discount on your home insurance premium.

Ability to Answer the Door from Anywhere Using a Video Doorbell
Our video doorbell allows you to keep a better eye on your front door whether you are upstairs or across town. With two-way voice, the doorbell camera enables you to speak to those who stop by – even uninvited guests – and lets them know you're aware of their visit. Seeing who's at your door before you answer it and being able to ask a visitor to show identification from the safety of inside your home also can help prevent you from becoming a victim of door-to-door security scams.

If you're reading this blog and want to save on a doorbell camera, check out our limited-time video doorbell offer.

Reduced Energy Use, Lower Utility Bills, and a Safer, Brighter Homecoming
One of the easiest ways to prevent break-ins while you're away is to remotely control lights and sound systems, making your home appear occupied. Controlling your lighting and other appliances can save energy too. Smart lighting devices, such as the Z-wave light bulb and plug-in, allow you to turn on or off lighting – controlling your energy use and avoiding the appearance of a deserted home – while you're out and about.

At Central Security Group, our free Alert 360 mobile, security app, allows you to easily control your home's lights, doors, locks, and more no matter where you are, and even if someone forgot to close or lock an entrance. Our home security app also can help simply and remotely light the way when coming home with your arms full of groceries or sports equipment.

If your security system also includes a smart thermostat, you can set and adjust the temperature around your family's unique schedule or control it via your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. As part of your security and home automation system, programmable thermostats and energy management devices can help save up to $1,000 a year for most homeowners.

Connection to your Amazon Echo or Apple Watch
Amazon Echo and the Apple watch easily integrate with your home security system and provide voice and mobile control within your home, from your office or the road. For busy families or elderly parents, it can't get much easier than remote- or voice-controlled lighting, locks, and smart thermostats.

Protection for your Pets During an Emergency
When you install monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, your alarm monitoring provider can send for emergency personnel when you're not home or are unable to call for help. Because we love our pets at Central Security Group, we also created an emergency, pet decal to place in our customers' windows and alert emergency personnel to be on the lookout for a beloved friend.

A full-service home security provider that offers home automation, wireless security, video cameras, a mobile app, and alarm monitoring provides benefits far beyond intrusion detection and protection from home break-ins. The ability to remotely control or set schedules for energy use create both comfort and savings that might surprise you! Today's security and smart home devices also are more affordable than ever before and their wireless capabilities make them easy to install and use – plus, when you choose the right home alarm company, they often offer exclusive benefits that help put money back in your pocket.

Whether you already have a home security system or are considering one, ask your security consultant about his or her provider's exclusive programs, savings, and benefits that can save you money and provide invaluable peace of mind.

Families do the most traveling during the Thanksgiving holiday, making it the busiest travel time of the year. No matter where you are counting your blessings, you'll want to protect your home from break ins and keep your family, friends and four-legged companions safe. Whether you're traveling out of town or hosting Thanksgiving dinner at home, we've got your security and safety tips.

For over 40 years, we've been designing and installing custom security systems for homes and businesses across the USA. Contact us today to learn how easy and affordable it is to secure your family, and property.

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Protect your Empty Home Using Automation and a Mobile Security App
Before you hit the road this Thanksgiving, ensure your home is secure and accessible. If you have a home security system that includes remote access, and wireless security cameras, remember, you can keep an eye on home from the road and stay connected. You can also use many of your security system's features to increase the security of your home while it's unoccupied. Before you go:

• Remember that burglars love an empty home. Before you leave your driveway, review our vacation security tips for when you're away.
• Use your security and home automation system to schedule your lights and thermostat while you're away.
• Make sure house sitters or trusted neighbors know how to operate your alarm system, which can help avoid false alarms.
• It's also a great time to make sure the emergency contacts listed with your security provider are up to date. Take a few minutes to check in with your alarm company and review your account.
• If your alarm system includes a mobile app, along with smart home or home automation solutions, one of the easiest ways to prevent break-ins while you're away is to remotely control lights and sound systems, making your home appear occupied.
• Use our video doorbell camera and Alert 360 app to see who's at your front door and even speak with them, so that it doesn't appear no one is home.
• Secure your home with our easy home security tips whether you have a system or not.

Share the Holiday Roads Safely with Millions of Other Travelers
AAA estimates that more than 89 percent of travelers will drive to their holiday destinations while almost four million are expected to fly. To keep your family and others on the road safe, follow the below holiday travel tips. For additional vacation security guidance, including at airports and hotels, check out our previous security blog, "Tips for Staying Safe on Your Next Vacation.

• Plan ahead for your holiday travels. Start with a full tank of gas. Check your tire pressure and windshield fluids.
• Map your route and check weather and traffic conditions. Give yourself plenty of time to get there, with a few stops to refuel your body and vehicle.
• Avoid driving when you're tired. Use frequent stops to rest or relax away from the wheel.
• Slow down and know it's most important that you arrive safely. If you miss the main course, there's still dessert and leftovers!
• Always buckle up, and never drink and drive.
• Be extra careful, allowing plenty of space between you and other drivers. Be aware that other travelers might be distracted, and use extra caution.
• Clean your vehicle's headlights, taillights, signal lights and windows.
• On the road, use your headlights as dusk approaches and during inclement weather.
• If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible or find a safe place to stop.
• Make sure you include an emergency kit in your vehicle and include items such as water, snacks, a flashlight, first aid kit, extra cash, and blankets.
• Stay healthy when traveling by plane, train, or automobile. Remember that everything you touch has been touched by someone else. Handle your own belongings as much as possible, and wash hands often with soap and water. Pack wipes and use them to wash hands or wipe down surfaces such as armrests. Pack your own travel pillow and blanket to create a barrier against the seat itself.
• Prevent sticky fingers and hotel thieves with our tips found in our previous travel blog. 

Be the Best and Safest Thanksgiving Host
If you're hosting Thanksgiving dinner or holiday guests, create a cozy and safe home where everyone can relax, including the chef. Keep these tips in mind:

• Before visitors arrive, make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working and consider installing monitored detectors so emergency personnel are alerted even when you're not home or are unable to call for help.
• Thanksgiving is a leading day for cooking fires. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and make sure everyone knows how to find and use it. Be aware of the potential for burns and fires when using turkey fryers especially, and follow all safety instructions associated with your fryer.
• Sadly, being burned while cooking your holiday meal is common if you're not careful. Prevent this and a trip to the emergency room by using pot holders and avoiding loose clothing when near the stove and oven. Closely supervise children who might help in the kitchen and around hot surfaces.
• Relax during the chaos and break from your routine. Remember: Smart thermostats will adjust your thermostat if doors are left open by visiting children.
• Give family members unique user codes for your home alarm system while they are visiting. Then, everyone can come and go as they please and your home stays secure.
• Review pet safety tips to protect your four-legged family members. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, an estimated 25 percent of pets die due to food-related choking incidents. Let everyone know that they must not feed your dog "table" food. Keep the name and phone number of the closest emergency animal hospital handy.
• While you're battling over the wishbone, know and avoid the 10 most dangerous Thanksgiving foods for pets: turkey bones and skin; stuffing, with onion and garlic, which can be toxic for animals or cause anemia; mushrooms, which can cause vomiting, seizures, a coma and possibly death; nutmeg and sage; alcohol; nuts, raw bread dough; and chocolate.

Keep these tips handy as the holiday season continues through January, and visit our monthly blogs for various home security and family safety guidance year-round. At Central Security Group, we're all about family safety and fun! We wish you a secure and happy Thanksgiving and remind you to share these holiday safety tips with loved ones.