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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Posted on Sunday, June 11, 2017 by Paragon Security
Move-in / Move-out Security Check For Tenants, Landlords & Homeowners
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.
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Posted on Monday, May 8, 2017 by Paragon
Closing The Window Of Opportunity For NYC Burglars
As the weather warms up, residents and business owners open new windows of opportunity for burglars. Detective Jack Meeks, the spokesman for the New York City Crime Prevention Bureau, warns that the most common entry points for thieves in the city are windows or fire escapes. This risk increases in the spring and summer months.
The good news is that they are also preventable. Detective Meeks explains that intruders have two major enemies, time and noise. So the security of your home or business can be easily strengthened by increasing the time it would take and the noise it would make to gain entry. Thereby increasing the likelihood of being seen.
Take proper precautions in securing all accessible windows, including basement, first floor, top floor, and fire escape windows. The following safeguards will help close the window of opportunity for burglars and prevent the possibly of a break-in:
FIRE ESCAPES
Exterior fire escapes can be lifesavers during an emergency. But they also provide intruders with easy access to upper-level windows and balconies. FDNY approved window gates, security bars, and child guard security devices are essential to securing your fire escape, street level, lower level or top level windows. Even if the glass of the window is broken, the window gate prevents thieves from gaining access to the premises. Be sure your window gates are professionally installed and equipped with quick release mechanisms that open from the inside in case of fire or emergency exit.
WINDOW LOCKS
Treat all street level windows as potential entry points. Install heavy duty window locks, that are clearly visible from the outside. Window pin locks are a simple, affordable yet highly effective burglar deterrent. Check your window locks regularly to make sure they are working properly.
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. Window sensor alarms install onto the window and detect when the window is opened or broken. When triggered, it sounds a warning alarm that alerts those inside and intimates the burglar into fleeing.
WINDOW GATES
An important consideration is whether to use window gates or window bars. Window gates should be installed on any window that could be accessed from the outside. Windows on the second story or higher generally do not need a gate because they are too difficult to enter. However, you should think about any architectural features of that may make it easy for a thief to climb to that window and open it. New York Protection Gates, Manhattan Protection Gates and folding gates also offer superior protection and functionality. Consult a professional window security solution provider to determine the right solution for your specific needs.
WINDOW BARS
Buildings without window bars are targets. Windows that are not covered by bars can be broken easily and used as entry points by burglars. Generally speaking, bars can work on windows that you will not need to climb out of. However, you may, in an emergency, be in a downstairs room and unable to exit through a door. For example, a fire may trap you on one side of the house, unable to get to any exits. If bars are on all of your windows, you could be in trouble. Having one or two windows in each street-level room that are gated instead of barred can provide a better level of safety.
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.
PROPER INSTALLTION
Choosing the right window security feature is just the first step. It’s important to seek a qualified, locally trusted security provider to ensure proper installation to meet the unique security challenges of your building or community.
Security You Need. Service You Deserve.
Paragon Security offers a selection of eye-catching designs of window gates, security bars, and child guard security devices that are custom fitted and installed as part of your residence or business overall security plan. Paragon Security has been proudly serving customers all across New York City including in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Staten Island since 1988. Call today for more details 212.203.0821.
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Posted on Saturday, March 18, 2017 by Paragon Security
Easy Solutions For Improved Door Security
Nowadays, security is everybody’s concern. Our families, coworkers, and clients count on us to provide a secure environment to go about the daily routine of our busy lives. One of the most important components, yet often overlooked features in our day to day security are doors. Opening, closing, locking, unlocking, answering, buzzing and knocking are just a few of the interactions we have each day with doors. This familiarity with the doors in our lives can fade their importance into the background, taking them for granted. Show your door some love and reinforce its security with these easy solutions:
Know Your Door
Does your door show it’s age? Doors exposed to wind, rain and extreme temperatures can become warped over time. This can create major security problems, especially if the door does not open and close properly. What condition is your door hardware in? Good quality metal door hardware offer fine design and superior strength for further security applications. Be certain that your door seals, hinges, knobs and handles are of the highest production level. Having a good door in place is key to providing adequate safety. If time has compromised your door’s ability to function properly, it may be time to replace.
Aluminum doors are the strongest doors on the market today. Both storm and screen doors are available with aluminum construction. They are six times stronger than steel doors and impervious to rust for a maintenance free lifetime. For contractors and developers, or for home or business owners considering a new high-quality door, consider aluminum.
Double It Up
For added protection, consider installing a security door. They provide safety with elegance for the exterior of your home or business. A security door is a second, sturdy metal storm/hurricane-type door with its own deadbolt and reinforcement. Security doors allow you to open the regular door for fresh air or to talk to someone, but still have a locked, secure door between you and the outside. It also provides a very difficult barrier for unwanted guests or potential intruders.
Let The Light In
There is no need to sacrifice sunlight and beautiful views for a secure home or business. Glass doors provide safety features just as doors made from other materials. Residential glass security doors are best made with shatter resistant laminated safety glass in a steel or aluminum frame. For commercial doors, bullet resistant glass made from acrylic polycarbonate and glass-clad polycarbonate are available.
Can It Stand The Heat?
The importance of fire alarms and sprinklers is well known. But how resistant to fire is your door? There are a full range of external and internal fire resistant and fireproof doors available. These doors are tested and authorized by the Underwriter’s Laboratories, Inc. (U.L.), In addition to fire door installation, doors can be reinforced with the installation of release mechanisms which will allow doors to shut automatically at the sound of the fire alarm. Typically left open, in a fire scenario, this will ensure that fireproof doors automatically shut, and prevent the expansion of fire throughout the premises.
Lock It Up
Great locks make great neighbors! Doors & All entrances, including service doors and gates, should have high security locks. A lock’s security level is determined by its ability to withstand tampering, which reduces break-in attempts. Characteristics found in high-security locks are heavy mechanisms, and keyway resistance to tools or improper keys. These heavy-duty locks are usually equipped with auto locking mechanisms with magnetic locking solutions.
High-security locks contain a patented key control system, which means that the keys can only be duplicated by an authorized dealer. Paragon Security is authorized to match and confirm keys in case you need copies. Choose from a variety of high-security locks, such as deadbolts, cylinders, or padlocks.
Always Know Who Is At The Door
Knowing who is at your door is no luxury. For New Yorkers it’s a NECESSITY! Even when you’re not at home, Digital Door Viewers keep you protected and in control. Video intercoms work with a mounted or fixed door hole camera and an LCD display for viewing. There are models built for either indoor or outdoor use. Select a video intercom for another means of identifying your visitor – for extra added security. Video surveillance camera systems utilize closed-circuit television (CCTV) or IP technology. Strategically placed video cameras transmit signals to centralized monitors for viewing. Be sure to choose a CCTV system that meet the security requirements of New York City commercial and residential buildings.
Raise The Bar
For extra protection while home or at night you can use security bars that either wedge against the door usually under the handle or a jammer that slides into place preventing the door from opening. On sliding doors it’s always recommended to place a bar behind the slider or/and install pin locks to prevent the door from opening.
With a wide range of commercial and residential doors from steel security doors to metal calamine fire proof doors, solid wooden doors of all species, iron doors, aluminum doors and store front installation, there is a door available to meet every safety and security need. Choosing the right door requires expert advice. Do not hesitate to reach out to a security specialist for complimentary advice on making the right choice.
In the next few months, residents at a handful of buildings in the city will be able to walk up to their apartment doors and go inside without fumbling for keys. And if the dog walker or cleaning service comes by while they are out, residents can use an app to let them in remotely. Ditto for deliveries.
Keyless entry systems are starting to make their way to your apartment door. While smart locks have been available to individual homeowners for a few years, developers and property management companies have been hesitant to lose the key, citing the cost of upgrading hundreds of locks and the risk of losing money if the technology goes the way of Betamax.
LATCH Access Everywhere.
Latch, a new keyless entry system from a two-year-old start-up with the same name, is being introduced at a range of properties, from a four-unit East Village walk-up to a 431-unit luxury doorman rental in Chelsea, managed by real estate firms that have invested in the technology, like Corigin and Pan Am Equities. KISI, another keyless entry provider that has made strides in offices, is also turning its attention toward residences, with plans to roll out the system at a new 570-unit development on Staten Island in March (installed by Paragon Security).
For residents, especially those who make heavy use of on-demand deliveries, the pitch is control and convenience. Instead of doling out keys to your pet-sitter, contractor or houseguests, you can issue a virtual key. Instead of worrying about extra keys floating around that you lent out but never got back, you can simply disable access.
Landlords and property management companies can track the comings and goings of workers, guests and deliveries. If a tenant moves out, or doesn’t pay his rent, “keys” can be turned off. Access to health clubs, children’s lounges, pools and bike rooms can also be easily added or subtracted.
Designed by Thomas Meyerhoffer, a Swedish-born designer whose early career includes tenure at Apple, Latch is a contemporary take on the classic mortise lock. Perched above the traditional keyhole, a discreet camera sits behind a circular touch screen. Like an unblinking eye, it records who is at the door, so residents can determine whom to let in. Bluetooth technology allows Latch to communicate with your phone.
Once you register and download the app, there are a number of ways to open a door. You can use the app on your smartphone, input a key code on the circular touch pad on the door, or use an old-fashioned key. “We realize that not everyone will want to use it digitally,” said Luke Schoenfelder, the chief executive of Latch. The app can also be configured so that the door unlocks automatically upon sensing the phone in your pocket.
Access via key codes can be issued permanently, temporarily for deliveries or on a set schedule, as for a dog-walker. The system creates a record of every entry so you — and your landlord — can see who has been there and for how long.
Because your custom passcode always lets you in, you won’t get locked out if you leave your phone in a cab. You can also deactivate the code by logging into your account, if your phone is lost or stolen.
KISI Cloud Managed Office Access
KISI, a cloud-based control system, is designed for buildings with doors that are electronically wired. Once it is installed, tenants can download the app to turn their smartphones into their keys. Depending on how the system is configured, tenants either tap a button on the app to enter the building or touch their phone to a reader as they would at an office turnstile. One drawback: Because your phone is now your key, you’ll need to find a workaround if your battery dies before you get home.
To learn more or schedule a demonstration call 1 (888) 688-9771 or CLICK HERE and a Paragon representative will be happy to help. You will see our prices and know-how are second to none!
Security and regulatory compliance needs create a business environment in which organizations have to carefully control who has access to different types of information. While the focus of such discussions is often on the IT side of data protection, many companies maintain paper records, in-house IT infrastructure and other physical assets that have to be protected. Keeping hackers out of the network is not the only access control concern that organizations have to keep in mind.
Because physical access to records and IT equipment can create major security problems and lead to a regulatory breach, businesses have to build multiple layers of access control into their facilities.
Establishing exterior access control setups
Organizations should have at least two layers of security to prevent individuals from accessing their offices. If a company is in a shared building, the first layer of defense – the parking area and entry points – should be secured by the building owner. However, organizations should be aware of the nuances of the locking system and ensure its employees know the proper ways to enter and secure the building. Companies that own their own facility gain more control of the entry points, but have to be responsible for proper security. Generally speaking, a flexible locking system that allows for easy entry for authorized personnel is needed at this first layer. Having security personnel present can also help since initial entry should rarely be obstructed with locks during normal working hours.
The second layer of entry-point access control has to be put in place at the main entry to corporate offices. If the facilities are inside a shared building, fairly simple locks can be used because easy access is needed during work hours and external security systems should provide more complex protection at other times. In a single-business facility, a more nuanced approach that accounts for authorization for different parts of the office is important.
Dealing with internal access control systems
Once inside the office, the locking system has to be more nuanced. Individual offices and storage rooms should each have their own locks. Only authorized personnel should be able to open these. While a key-based system can work in this type of scenario, it can be unwieldy for individuals that have to access a variety of rooms. An electronic solution, on the other hand, can be more flexible. For example, key cards that store all of an individual’s authorizations enable an individual to carry a single card that lets them get where they need to go, but does not work in doors they are not allowed to open.
Such a system can present risks, however, when extremely high levels of security are needed. In such a setting, biometric scanners and other specialized solutions can pay dividends. Using code-based locks can also help in some circumstances.
However, there is more than just locking offices and storage rooms that has to be considered. For example, an organization that stores key records internally may need to give administrative assistants access to a room where sensitive documents are stored, even if those employees do not have the authorization to view every file. Similarly, an accountant or human resource worker may need to enter the same room, but only be able to access certain files that the assistant cannot see.
These types of nuanced scenarios pose a major challenge that organizations have to keep in mind. Using a combination of safes, specialized file cabinets and even building walls with lockable doors into storage areas may be necessary to properly protect files.
There are many layers to access control in an office, but the right combination of advanced locks can enable organizations to develop a simple, but highly secure system for access control and data protection.
Published originally on: NYPD Crime Stoppers. Security monitoring of a Brooklyn apartment recently caught this burglary suspect on surveillance video, leaving the building through the front door. The suspect gained entry to the apartment by climbing the fire escape outside the Brooklyn building on Lincoln Road. Choosing a window that was not gated, alarmed or locked, he was able to simply pushed open the fourth floor window.
Upon entry to the apartment through the window, the suspect removed a Dell laptop and an Apple laptop and then fled out the front door of the apartment building. Anyone with information in regards to this incident is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-577-TIPS or logging onto the Crime Stoppers Website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM.
TIPS FOR BURGLAR PROOFING YOUR APARTMENT
Stories like this are all too common in New York. But the good news is that they are also preventable. It is up to us as residents and business owners, to safeguard our family and employees. It is essential to take every precaution in making sure all accessible windows, including basement, first floor, top floor, and fire escape windows are secure.
There are a variety of window alarms on the market today. From a simple window sensor alarm to full-service dynamic home/business protection. A window sensor alarm installs onto the window and detects when a window is opened or broken. By sounding a warning alarm, it alerts those inside and intimates the burglar into fleeing. For maximum security, you may consider an Integrated Wireless Security System with 24/7 alarm system monitoring and Motion Detectors. These systems are easy to operate for the user and can also double as burglar alarms and fire alarms. As the security system picks up signs of an intruder, an alarm is set off and police are dispatched the police to your home or office if needed.
Don’t underestimate the power of a good lock. Deadbolts and other types of window locks are excellent, but the best burglar deterrent is a hefty window lock that is visible from the outside. A window pin lock can a simple, affordable yet highly effective burglar deterrent.
Windows that are not protected can be broken easily used as a point of entry by burglars. The best and safest way to secure your fire escape, lower level or top level windows is with a FDNY approved window gates. Window gates can be highly effective at bolstering home security for multiple reasons. Burglars usually look for the quickest and easiest access. The installation of window gates act as a deterrent because the gates make the home appear to be more difficult to break into. Even if the glass is broken, the window gate still keeps them from gaining access.
With proper installation, window gates and/or security bars are firmly attached to the building structure with bolts and screws. And fitted with quick release mechanisms that open security gates from inside your house for emergency exits in case of fire. Architectural features of on the exterior of your building can often be used by thieves for climbing to higher levels without window gates. Fire escapes, in particular, represent a major risk. Not securing a window that is accessible via fire escape leaves everyone and everything inside vulnerable. And an easy target. As the fire escape represents an extremely accessible entry point for most burglars.
Choosing the right window security feature that meets all applicable standards, is just the first step. It is also worth considering the slight distinction between New York Protection Gates, Manhattan Protection Gates and folding gates. In many cases, your solution provider can help you make the right choice. Next you must you must be certain the features are installed correctly by a professional locksmith / security company. Installation makes all the difference when it comes to finding the right solution for your needs. As part of extensive window security services, Paragon Locksmith NYC offers a selection of eye-catching designs of window gates, security bars, and child guard security devices that are custom fitted and installed as part of your residence or business overall security plan.
Key Fobs Simplify Security For Multi-tenant Dwellings
Think back for a moment about the janitor at your school when you were growing up. If your school was anything like mine, that person had a lot of keys. So many keys that you probably wondered how they could remember what everything went to. Sometimes people just can't keep track of that. Large buildings with multiple locked entries and closets can present a logistical nightmare for people who need a lot of keys or those who have to control access. Sometimes, organizations end up learning this lesson the hard way.
While traditional keys can present major access control challenges, key fobs can simplify the entire process and give facility managers the control they need to keep everybody and everything safe. This is especially true in multi-tenant dwellings, where there are plenty of people who need access to facilities and any errors in the access control system can lead to considerable damages.
Considering the benefits of key fobs
A recent Habitat report explained the value of key fobs by telling the story of one apartment building that experienced a theft a few years ago and has completed a major lock system upgrade since. At the time, a thief was able to, somehow, gain entry to the building and an apartment without forcing any doors, breaking any windows or showing a single sign of forcing entry. However, that person was able to leave the apartment complex with an extremely valuable stamp collection that could not be tracked down.
According to the news source, the problem became clear pretty quickly – there were too many locks and public access areas to make sense of. It was also too cost inefficient to maintain a robust key-based access control system. If a superintendent moved away the owner was left with a huge ring of keys that opened plenty of doors. At the same time, there is no way to prove that no keys were copied. As a result, every lock that the superintendent may have had a key for had to be changed.
After taking stock of the situation, the apartment owner turned to an electronic key fob that could be given to every resident, service staff member or employee. If a renter has a maid, that maid could be given a fob that is programmed to only access the main entrance and the employer's apartment. At the same time, public areas could also be protected. A room that provides bicycle storage for tenants could be locked to all residents except those who regularly use bicycles. Similarly, maintenance staff members do not need dozens of keys, they only need a single fob that is programmed to let them in any doors they have to enter. An electronic key system provided the flexibility and adaptability needed to reduce long-term costs and enable better access control.
Evaluating the value of key fobs in multi-dwelling housing units
Actual key fobs may have a few long-term limitations, but the concept that makes them popular is clearly a viable one for apartment building owners or managers. Replacing traditional locks can be extremely expensive and developing secure access control protocols can be a major hassle, especially since tenants do not always follow the rules. As a result, electronic locks that allow for programmable locking and unlocking through radio frequency technology or similar means can pay major dividends. Over time, key fobs may be replaced by smartphones with secure apps that can be customized for a dwelling, but the concept is still the same – programmable locking solutions can simplify and improve access control in large facilities.
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Posted on Saturday, January 2, 2016 by Paragon Security
Smart Technology Improves Apartment Security In NYC
Managing and securing a high-rise apartment building in a major metropolis like New York City can be daunting. You have hundreds, possibly thousands, of people living in the same facility. The nature of these types of properties is one in which diverse and strategically planned integrated security solutions are integral to protecting people, possessions and the property, making a combination of personnel and technology essential.
Balancing people and tech
When managing a large property the technological landscape can get extremely complex if you depend too heavily on technology to handle every aspect of identifying people who are authorized to enter different parts of the building. At the same time, there are also way too many people coming in and out to ask a receptionist or doorman to notice when somebody who shouldn’t be there tries to get into the building. Finding success in this area depends on being able to balance technology and personnel to complement one another and protect property.
This is especially clear at the initial point of entry. On one hand, you don’t just want to let anybody into the building. On the other, you can’t put too much into initial access control because you want tenants, their family members or their friends who are visiting to have relatively easy access to the building. As a result, it is often viable to not have locks or intercoms at the initial entry point and instead have a doorman outside and receptionist inside to identify anybody who looks suspicious or shows danger signs. Once this first entry area is taken care of, different access control systems can be applied to individual floors, stairwells or the elevator.
A good intercom system that lets residents “buzz” guests in can help too, but having a person present to supplement that system can be key in a property where you may have a variety of people going to an apartment, such as maids, delivery personnel, personal trainers or other individuals.
When it comes to access control, technologies like intercoms and advanced lock solutions are vital to protecting the property, but it often helps to also have people available to deal with unexpected circumstances or difficult issues.
Programmable locks
Electronic lock solutions that can be programmed to handle a variety of conditions can also be an asset in large apartment buildings. Using such locks, combined with key fobs, building managers can control who is able to go to different parts of the apartment building without authorization. For example, the system can be used to make sure tenants are only able to access the part of the storage area where there belongings are stored, making it easier to prevent theft of items while they are in storage.
This is another area where having personnel available can help ease any problems. If a person’s key fob malfunctions or they get locked out, having a security staff that recognizes residents can easily perform the actions necessary to let that person in.
Advanced security technologies give apartment building managers many opportunities for superior protection and security. When technology is used well alongside security employees, the overarching benefits can be considerable. Technological solutions can overcome the limitations of security workers and vice-versa, leading to an environment in which residents feel safe and building managers can be prepared for a variety of contingencies.
Posted on Tuesday, December 8, 2015 by Paragon Security
We’re On The Move In November!
Paragon Security’s New Home: 24 West 8th St., NY NY
Once Every 20 Years
As one of New York’s leading locksmith and security companies, Paragon has been operating from the same location at 86 Christopher Street NY, NY 10014 in the West Village, Manhattan for more than 20 years. The move to 8th St. in Greenwich Village represents a major step forward for expanding and improving Paragon’s business and services to New Yorkers.
Founded 1988, Paragon Security has grown to become New York’s trusted security business. Offering everything from standard locksmith services, to commercial security services, intercom and security systems installation, security products for sale, and much more, Paragon Security is proud to help make New York safer. Paragon Security serves customers all across New York, including in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, The Bronx, and more.
New Location, Same Great Customer Service
The company move to a location will allow Paragon Security to better serve customers, with a larger space, more accessible location, more modern facility with better key shop and more room for inventory storage. Speaking on behalf of Paragon, founder and president Yaniv Zohar commented,
“We’re very excited about our new and improved office location at 24 West 8th Street (between 5th and 6th avenues) and believe this block is going through very positive change powered by our landlord Buchbinder & Warren and other landlords on the block. Doing business on Christopher street for more than 20 years, this is a major change for our business, and we are sure our customers will follow us to the new location and will help us continue to expand our business and serve our clients and community.”
Paragon’s office move will be complete on November 1st, so stop for a cup of coffee or free security consultation.
Visit Our New Location for 20% OFF ALL Key Duplications
Yale Real Living Deadbolts Starting at $395 (w/ installation)
