There is a lot to think about, from a security perspective, in the city that never sleeps. As a cultural and financial hub of the world, New York City offers unique security challenges for businesses, residents and visitors. Having the right the right combination of everyday security features in place makes all the difference in simplifying and safeguarding your life:

Access Control Puts Security In Your Hands

Access control systems put every aspect of controlling your home in your hands. They can be integrated to work with wireless locks, intercoms, cloud-based cameras, thermostats and more, all from a single dashboard. Access control systems allow you to control who and when doors can be unlocked, no matter where you are. Entry to specific locations of your home can be narrowed down by person, day of the week, and time of day, using biometic or proximity devices.

Control and Convenience With Keyless Entry

The days of losing keys, forgetting to lock the door or having keys for pet-sitters, contractor or houseguests will soon be a thing of the past. Once a luxury only for the rich and famous, electronic door locks, also known as keyless entry systems or smart locks, can now grace the door to your home.

For NYC residents, especially those who make heavy use of on-demand deliveries, keyless entry systems provide remarkable control and convenience. Log records show the times and dates of all comings and goings of your home. So teenagers can’t sneak in after curfew and babysitters, dog walkers and cleaning people can be better monitored.

Keyless entry systems like Latch, are now being used at a range of properties, from East Village walk-ups to luxury doorman rentals. Another keyless entry provider, Kisi is turning its attention toward residences, with plans to roll out the system at a new 570-unit development on Staten Island.

Intercoms Help Intercept Uninvited Intruders 

In New York City, the intercom is your best friend. It saves you from having to run down to the lobby to let every appointment, delivery person, friend, worker or other visitor in that arrives. It can also be your first line defense against uninvited visitors or intruders. Many of today’s intercom systems have video capabilities, meaning homeowners can ask for identification to check and see if the person has the right credentials, has a parcel under his or her arm or is empty-handed malevolently looking in the window. Individuals should also think about hiring a professional locksmith to change any delicate locks around the house or consult a trusted security systems provider to leverage a silent alarm and round-the-clock monitoring.

Mailbox Security Protects Against Identity Theft

Whether an office, loft, condo, or apartment building, secure delivery of mail is essential to safeguarding confidential information.

There are a wide variety of mailbox solutions to meet both residential and commercial mail security requirements. This includes a variety of shapes and sizes for both indoor and outdoor use. Indoor building mailboxes are sold in individual units or groups to suit apartment buildings and offices. They are typically made of aluminum or steel and come in vertical or horizontal units. Freestanding mailboxes for outdoor use are designed to withstand heavy weather. They can be either column, post, or wall mount styles. The outdoor mailboxes we provide are large enough to accommodate different sized parcels and protect them from both tampering and bad weather conditions.

Among the latest “internet of things” are electronic letterboxes. With the advances of our digital world, they offer an ideal addition to an electronic access control system. Electronic letterboxes know when to expect your mail, notifies when it arrives and locks after delivery. Electric letterboxes can be opened using a fingerprint, code lock or electronic key. Using a companion app, users can check the status of their mail delivery, remotely lock or unlock the box and even dole out virtual keys to allow neighbors to pick up mail in the absence.

24/7 Protection For The City That never Sleeps

Innovations in digital technology and security make it possible for cities like New York to keep ahead of the curve. Advanced security providers like Paragon, turn these innovations into reality for residents, offices, apartment managers, retail businesses, developers, hospitals, schools and city facilities throughout the five boroughs and beyond. The best way to remain secure in the city that never sleeps is working with a qualified, locally trusted security provider. Combining locksmith services with a variety of advanced security solutions, such as access control, high security locks systems, surveillance cameras and alarms, can help create a holistic protection strategy. Paragon Security has been proudly serving customers all across the city including in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Staten Island for over 25 years. Don’t miss out on the experience of new locks and keys with the Paragon Security move-in special. Call today for more details 212.203.0821. 

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When it comes relocating, the process of moving is hard enough. Whether leasing a new apartment or purchasing a new brownstone, there are hundreds of little details to be taken care along the way. But before you know it, life will get back to normal. And when it does, you want the transition to the everyday use of your new home’s keys, locks, doors, and windows to be smooth, safe and hassle-free. Use this five-point move-in security check, from the experienced experts at Paragon, to make your move a security success:

1. LOCK CHECK

• LOCK CHANGE- This is a must-do for every landlord, tenant or homeowner. A properly locked door is your first line of defense against unwanted intruders, so it is essential to be proactive in replacing locks when moving to a new place. To mitigate the risk of unaccounted keys and to feel fully safe and secure in your new home, have all entry door locks changed by a qualified professional locksmith. This minor expense ensures proper installation and maximum protection to your family and your valuable belongings.
• KEYS-  Often times, apartment managers rotate old door locks between apartments with no regard to unreturned or missing keys. Even if your landlord says the locks have been changed, that does not necessarily mean they were replaced with new locks or that you are the only key holder. Don’t risk somebody being able to return to your apartment with an old key. Verify that your door locks are new, for peace of mind that you are the only keeper of the keys to your home.
• DEADBOLT- To reinforce the security of your new home, deadbolts should be used in conjunction with keyed entry locks on all exterior doors. Doorknob locks by themselves are not enough. Deadbolts add a layer of security by reinforcing your standard doorknob lock. It is always best to work with a certified locksmith expert to determine the grade and type of deadbolt that will best meet your needs.

To reinforce the security of your new home, deadbolts should be used in conjunction with keyed entry locks on all exterior doors. Doorknob locks by themselves are not enough. Deadbolts add a layer of security by reinforcing your standard doorknob lock. It is always best to work with a certified locksmith expert to determine the grade and type of deadbolt that will best meet your needs.

2. DOOR CHECK

The easiest way for an intruder to enter your house is through the door. All of your efforts to protect your home, including an electronic home security system, are useless if your entry door is not strong and secure. Having a good door system in place is key to providing adequate protection. When doors fail, it is usually in these three areas:

• DOOR TYPE- Check your door and door frame. A lot of homes in New York City have really old wood doors. They can be attractive, add a nice atmosphere to a home and look sturdy. However, they can also be experiencing wood rot, have lock problems and be an easy target for criminals. Entry doors should be solid core wood (at least 1 3/4″ thick) or metal wrapped. Your door should fit it’s frame tightly, with no more than 1/8″ clearance between the door and the frame. Check all wooden parts of the door and door frame, including the threshold, door jamb, and trim. Make sure there are no soft, spongy areas. With a wide range of residential doors from solid wood doors to steel security doors or metal calamine fire proof doors available nowadays, there is a door to meet every safety and security need for your new home.
• STRIKE PLATE- The strike plate is a metal plate affixed to the door jamb with a hole or holes for the bolt of the door. When the door is closed, the bolt extends into the hole in the strike plate and holds the door closed. A weak, failing or poorly installed strike plate can leave you at risk.  To check your strike plate, open the door and examine the strike plate for signs of disrepair. Look to see if the strike plate is securely fastened to the door jamb with four screws. If it is only secured with two screws, you want to upgrade to a four-screw strike plate. With this, you should use 3-inch screws to install, in order to bite all the way into the stud behind the door jamb.
• HINGES- The door hinge is what attaches the door to the frame. It is jointed and pivots as the door opens and closes. Door hinges are only as strong as the screws used to install them. To increase the security of your entry door, replace the standard 3/4″screw with 2″ to 3″ fully threaded screws. By using 2″ to 3″ fully threaded screws, you will  anchor the hinge into the sub-frame of your door, protecting you and your family from door kick-ins. Hinge pins that are exterior facing or exposed to the outside need immediate attention. If your entry door swings outward, check if your hinge pins are exposed. Intruders can remove the pins from the outside and gain entry by taking the door off the hinges. Ask a qualified security expert to examine your hinges and strike plates to ensure that you are fully secure.

3. WINDOW CHECK

• WINDOW LOCKS– Window locks keep intruders from gaining easy access to your residence, especially if your window is on the ground level. Treat all windows as potential entry points, and make sure all window locks are working properly. One of the best burglar deterrents when it comes to windows is a hefty window lock that is visible from the outside. Window pin locks are a simple, affordable yet highly effective burglar deterrent.
• WINDOW ALARMS- From a simple window sensor alarm to full-service dynamic home protection, there are a variety of window alarms on the market today.  In the city, window sensors are an essential part of your new home security. A window sensor alarm installs onto the window and detects when a window is opened or broken. When triggered, it sounds a warning alarm that alerts those inside and intimates the burglar into fleeing.
• CHILD SAFETY BARS- Children have an eager desire to explore their surroundings. This curiosity can lead to dangerous situations like leaning against a weak window screen or too far out a window to look outside. Child safety bars keep children safe from unexpected window falls and give parents peace of mind that a tragic window fall will not occur in their home.
• FIRE ESCAPES- Exterior fire escapes can be lifesavers during an emergency. But they also provide burglars with easy access to upper-level windows and balconies. The best and safest way to secure your fire escape, lower level or top level windows is with FDNY approved window gates. Burglars usually look for the quickest and easiest access. Window gates, security bars, and child guard security devices are key to window security because even if the glass of the window is broken, the window gate still prevents criminals from gaining access. Your window gates should be installed with quick release mechanisms that open from inside your home for emergency exit to your fire escape, in case of fire.

4. ALARM CHECK

• ALARM SYSTEM-  If you are lucky enough to have an alarm system in your new place, change the access codes and contact the alarm service to notify them of your occupancy. If not,  this could be the single most important investment to make in your new home. Studies show that homes without security systems are three times more likely to be broken into. And aside from 24hour a day monitoring, most insurance carriers offer discounts to home owners with alarm systems installed. While keeping burglars at bay is the foundation, security systems can be easily expanded—adding motion detectors, additional door or window contacts, temperature monitors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire protection.
• FIRE/SMOKE ALARM- Upon move-in, locate and inspect all fire, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for dust and lint build up that can hinder sensors. Replace the batteries and test to ensure they are functioning. Use Daylights Savings as a reminder to retest all alarms.  If you are in the market to purchase new, do your homework. Innovations in home security have evolved in recent years to include fire alarms that detect heat rather than smoke and motion sensors that can distinguish between a human intruder and a pet.

5. SAFE CHECK

• SAFE- A safe can be the last line of defense to protect your most valuable and irreplaceable possessions. Items such as jewelry, cash, firearms, and sensitive documents can be locked away in a fireproof case. Safes come in all sizes and range in price from under $100 to thousands of dollars. Find a safe that fits your budget and needs, and talk to your landlord about bolting it to a floor or wall, so a burglar can’t pick it up and take it. While a safe can’t guarantee the absolute protection of your property, it can be effective at hiding items from thieves who are just looking to grab valuables in plain sight and escape quickly.

As a densely populated metropolitan environment, New York City features a variety of high-rise buildings, condos, brownstones, townhouses, and multi-resident homes. It’s important to seek a qualified, locally trusted security provider to assist in changing  the locks and establishing a solid foundation of home protection specific to the unique security challenges of  your building or community. Paragon Security has been proudly serving customers all across New York City including in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Staten Island for over 25 years. Don’t miss out on the experience of new locks and keys with the Paragon Security move-in special. Call today for more details 212.203.0821.

Throughout the cold and often too long winter season in NYC, it is no surprise that 24-hour emergency locksmith services experience a significant increase in calls due to frozen locks. Ranging from cars, trucks, and boat locks to retail storefronts, office buildings and front door locks, freezing rain, and snow can freeze even the best of locks.

Early morning, after a long and cold night is the typical time to find a frozen car door, house or store lock. A common mistake is using hot water. People will rush to the nearest deli or neighbor to get hot water to pour on the lock in an attempt to melt the ice. While this might offer a temporary fix at the moment, filling the lock with water can lead to serious problems. And increase the chances that your lock will freeze again and again.

A simple preventative for frozen locks is spraying WD40 lubricant into your locks at the start of the season, as well as spraying into frozen locks to unfreeze and keep the lock from freezing again.

For pad locks which are high risk for freezing, spray WD40 into the keyhole and on to moving parts, then place on the heater to thaw.

As an extra precaution, be sure to have Paragon’s 24-hour emergency phone number (646) 604-9026 programmed into your cell phone so that you can reach us whenever you need to. Simply call us and you can expect us to be at your service on site as quickly as possible.

Electronic, programmable locks can offer superior protection without forcing users to sacrifice convenience. As a result, many people benefit substantially from electronic locks because such systems make it easier for them to protect their assets without creating the risk of security shortcuts being taken. This technology is applicable in a wide range of settings as well, not just in large apartment buildings or businesses.

Secure College Campuses
Having students memorize codes for doors or carry a bunch of keys can work in some small colleges or universities, but these solutions can create major problems when students tell all of their friends, including those who do not attend the academic institution, the codes to their door. For example, a man from one college may tell his girlfriend from a nearby campus the code for the dorm so she can get into the facility easily at any time. This may work well while they are together, but what if there is a nasty breakup and the girlfriend decides to get revenge? This could lead to a major security problem.

Electronic locks allow students to carry around a single keycard or fob to get into any door on campus that they are authorized to enter, alleviating security concerns while adding a key layer of simplicity and safety.

Secure Home Living 
For many homeowners, the process of leaving the house and standing outside the door locking the dead-bolt can be really annoying. Especially as temperatures drop in winter or inclement weather leaves rain, snow or sleet pounding down on an uncovered entry area. An electronic lock can integrate with mobile devices, allowing users to lock the dead bolt without having to stand by the door to do so. This eliminates the common shortcut of skipping the dead-bolt and hoping nobody tries to break in.

Furthermore, an electronic lock system can pay off in homes with outbuildings, such as sheds, detached garages and exercise areas. Having a single electronic lock system for the entire property can make it easier to move around without having to carry around a bunch of keys.

For many people, electronic locks may seem too complex to be workable in their situation. However, increasingly accessible mobile device and programmable lock solutions are making the technology a viable option in a wide range of settings. As a result, many people can find electronic lock solutions that fit their needs and their budget.

Commitment To Creating A Better Living And Learning Environment

Children deserve to be safe at home AND at school. Our Goal is to improve our business and increase our efficiency and profitability while keeping our commitment to help in the creation of a better living and learning environment in our world. Call 1 (888) 688-9771 to request a Free no-obligation consultation with a security expert to discuss safe-guarding your residential home or commercial building.

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Padlocks are a one-off cost for providing businesses or individual users a way to protect areas or possessions when left unattended. This can include tools at a business or job site, lockers at work or school, and any area that needs to be locked up to prohibit others from entering.

But what kind of padlock do you choose? Pay careful attention to the type of lock you purchase to make sure that your valuables will be protected against possible break-ins, theft or vandalism. The size, shape and cost of a padlock should reflect the value of the items you want to protect.

Low Cost = Low Security

A large padlock does not necessarily mean it is stronger. The type of material your padlock is made from has a big bearing on the security level and the price. If it is made from cheap materials it will be much easier to break than a smaller, hardened steel version with a protected shackle.

Durable and strong, padlocks are made to withstand force. Steel padlocks are somewhat stronger than brass as steel is a harder metal. Brass is a relatively soft metal making it quick and inexpensive to machine. So if the padlock is somewhere that may be vulnerable to burglars, steel should be your choice because it can more easily withstand cutting and prying.

Higher Cost = Higher Security

Solid steel and case-hardened steel padlocks are very durable and tamper resistant. They are typically used in higher security applications and are often chrome or zinc-plated to resist corrosion. Stainless steel padlocks are also very durable and tamper resistant but generally hold up to the elements better than solid steel.

One of the world’s leading producers of high security locks is Medeco with pick and drill resistance features that block thieves from gaining entry. When a thief sees Medeco locks on your interior or exterior doors, file cabinets, gates and other secure areas, he will likely decide it isn’t worth the risk.

The Medeco® The Protector II Series padlock is made of durable, industrial grade stainless steel and offers excellent resistance to harsh weather and extreme conditions. The hardened boron alloy steel shackles stand up to physical attack, providing strong resistance against cutting, sawing and prying. The patented Medeco3 mechanical cylinder resists picking, drilling and other sophisticated forms of physical attack.

• Unique deadlocking shackle locking mechanism for resistance to physical attack.
• Hardened boron alloy steel shackles (5/16″ and 7/16″ diameters) provide strong resistance against cutting, sawing and prying.
• Hardened stainless steel inserts inside the cylinder provide the ultimate defense against drilling and other forms of physical attack.
• Unique elevating and rotating tumbler pin system is virtually pick proof.
• Cylinders are constructed of durable machined brass components, designed to last the life of your equipment.
• Patented Medeco3 keys may only be duplicated by Medeco® or an authorized Medeco® service outlet, and only at your request.
• Locks can be keyed alike, keyed different, or master keyed depending on your specific needs.

With the vast selection of lock types out there, it’s important to know that you’re dealing with a professional that can tell you the differences and make a recommendation based on your needs. Give Paragon Security NY a call today for any and all of your lock-based needs.

Emergencies can be difficult when you are left not knowing how to get the help you need. For many people, common emergencies involve the home or apartment. One of the most frustrating problems can be getting locked out of a residence. While the threat caused by such a situation varies substantially, being locked out can often create a frightening sense of vulnerability. In densely populated regions like New York City, lock-related emergencies are a major issue of apartment managers or superintendents, not just residents. Knowing when to call a locksmith and how to choose the right service provider is an important part of preparing for problems.

When to call a locksmith
There are a lot of good times to get help from a locksmith, but it is important to understand the kinds of problems that such a service provider can help you with and the types of things that they may not be able to assist you with. One important consideration is that you have the right to open the locked door you are trying to get into. A good locksmith is not just interested in getting you through the door that you are locked out of, he or she will also be cognizant of protecting the property in general and following all applicable residential laws. As a result, it helps to have identification on you when trying to get through a locked door. In some cases, you will not be able to provide this kind of ID because you are locked out and didn’t have your purse or wallet with you, but you may still be able to get help, just be ready to prove your identify once you are allowed in the house. If you are a property manager trying to get into another person’s residence that you have the right to enter, make sure you have your credentials.

When you have everything you need, or are at least sure that you will once the door is unlocked, you can start to think about calling a locksmith. Many providers are open 24/7 and can help with a wide range of problems. If your key breaks when you are trying to enter your home, a locksmith can help. If you are a property manager who has to get into another person’s apartment for an emergency while they are away, a locksmith can solve your problem. Locksmiths can deal with a variety of emergencies and install new locks when they are finished, ensuring you or the properties you manage are still protected and safe after the issue has been dealt with.

Choosing the right locksmith
Knowing when to choose a locksmith is vital, but it is even more important to know what you are getting into when you call for help. Some locksmiths will try to hide costs or create complex pricing models that will leave you spending more than you expect to get the help you need. This can be a major issue when you are already stressed because of an emergency and a locksmith shows up and tells you that solving your problem will be much more expensive than you thought, and more than you can reasonably afford.

When selecting a locksmith, trust and reputation are key. It is often best to do some research before a problem strikes so you know who you will call if you get into trouble. Identifying a locksmith with simple and predictable pricing models and reliable services can be key to getting through a lock-related emergency as painlessly as possible.

The security of children has become an increasingly important issue. That’s why even school districts have begun to opt for high-tech integrated security systems when allowing visitors to enter the property.

A story recently appeared on IslandGazette.net pertaining to the installation of such systems in New Hanover County schools. Video intercom systems have been linked to security cameras, which allows someone monitoring CCTV to monitor access control to the buildings.

This is especially important for areas where the youngest of children, such as those in kindergarten, reside.

These systems allow for visitors to be stopped at the entrance. Cameras can then monitor them as someone monitoring the camera verifies the individual’s identity. They can then allow or deny them access, which disables visitors from accessing the school until they are authorized.

The idea behind this implementation is that it will increase the security to children and staff members.

Savvy businesses and homeowners interested in this same cutting-edge technology are making use of these systems to keep their persons and their property safe from unwanted intruders.

Paragon Security NYC is one of the leading providers of advanced security solutions such as integrated security systems for both residential and commercial establishments.

Contact Paragon Security NYC today for more information on how these systems can protect you.

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Safe School Week will be observed across the nation from October 19th to the 25th. This is the right time for schools to focus on what security procedures are most effective. Physical security needs to be a priority, as just controlling bullies is not enough.

According to a story published on www.securityinfowatch.com, there needs to be an emphasis on classroom doors being properly secured, and California is now requiring schools to do that by establishing a baseline classroom security protocol. This requires that any room holding five people and over be equipped with security locks.

These locks come in electrical and mechanical forms, and are ideal for school lockdowns plus preventing hallway clashes from entering a classroom. Keys are used to lock a cylinder within the door, thus preventing entry from the outside. Classroom occupants can exit the room immediately by turning a lever. This prevents students or anyone not authorized from locking a door.

Schools have sometimes used security measures that have turned out to be ineffective or counterproductive. Problems are most likely to happen within the school, instead of from an intruder.

Although the economy has begun to rebound and companies are hiring, homeowners and business owners still face a real threat of being burglarized. However, people are not alone when it comes to the protection of their facilities. Security cameras can play a vital role in taking care of watching a building.

According to www.fortbendstar.com, in a community near Fort Bend, Missouri, homeowners had surveillance cameras and video cameras installed on their property. Some of them were robbed, but they were able to provide police with video evidence. Although the crooks in several occasions left with valuables like game consoles, jewelry, cash and other items, they were caught on surveillance doing their wicked deeds. Once the police officers had the data from the cameras, they had a better idea how to proceed in the robbery cases.

The potential of having a burglary is real. People are welcome to contact Paragon Security NYC. These monitoring professionals have many years of experience. They can provide CCTV, security cameras or other devices that homeowners or business owners need for protection and peace of mind. They are able to answer difficult questions and are more than willing to stop by to give an estimate on installation services.