Personal video security

Greetings, my readers and friends and customers I would like to introduce you to a product I love. The video surveillance system by uniden. The reveiw today is on the model G455 and the G755. The difference between the models is the screen interface size. The G455 has a 4.3 inch screen while the G755 has a 7 inch screen. Technology is on the move and these systems prove that. The camers are 2.4 ghz sending a wireless signal to the interface screen which is a DVR recorder that the company provides with a 4 gig card. The camers record events in 2 min intervals and catologe it by camers name 1-4. The camers are set off when they see motion. The system comes with two cameras and has room to ad two more. The cameras see very good at night also. Set up is easy as camera wires are only for power so an outlet must by near by or extensions power wire will be needed.
  The company has a web site you can sighn in for a free access to view your cameras on the web with your PC. After you are setup you may watch you camers remotly on your computer or your android smart phone or iphone. Yes folks this system is what I call personal video security. So if your ready for a high tech system with out spending  thousands of dollars,check out personal video security by uniden wireless, you will be impressed.

Spike in vehicle breakins

 

Westfield police report rash of vehicle break-ins, urge residents to lock their vehicles

Republican file photo

WESTFIELD – Police, probing a rash of vehicle break-ins over the last month or so, urge residents to lock their vehicles - especially at night.

Lt. David Ragazzini, head of the detective bureau, said 37 such break-ins, mostly into unlocked vehicles, have been reported since June 12.

“We get a fair amount, but that is a pretty high number,” said Ragazzini. “For the most part they are unlocked vehicles with valuables left inside over night."

Such things as wallets, laptop computers and GPS systems have been taken. “It’s quick and easy and nobody locks their car,” Ragazzini said, adding that most of the break-ins involve vehicles parked in driveways or in front of residential properties.

The vehicle break-ins have been scattered throughout the city with clusters reported in the downtown area and in neighborhoods off Western Avenue and East Mountain Road.

Police from a number of other Western Massachusetts communities, including Southwick and South Hadley, have reported a spike in vehicle break-ins.

How to reinforce entry doors

Greetings,

 

I am posting the most basic of security for our outter doors. Installation of a good deadlock and screws that reach the studs are very important for door security. I have been to a few break ins that I would just remove the lock which was not even damaged in the break-in. The door would then need heavy repair or replacement to complete the job. Yes, and the old undamaged lock returned to the door if it was a heavy duty lock, with a new heavy striker plate and long screws to reach the studs.

  So with a wood framed door, the strength is in the striker with the long heavy duty screws. Also for security sake do not skimp on a lower grade 3 lock for the big box chains. They are un-keyable and their srike plates are cheap.

Step 1: Overview

I never realized how easy it is to kick in a solid door that has old hardware until I tried it on our demonstration door. With two kicks in only five seconds, I destroyed the doorjamb and was in the house.
You need to upgrade the deadbolt and lockset plates of your exterior doors if you haven’t already done so. FBI burglary statistics show that 65 percent of break-ins occur by forcing in the front, back or garage service door (not to mention the 12 percent of entries where burglars find your “hidden” key or simply walk in through an unlocked door).
In this story, we’ll show you how to strengthen your exterior doors in three ways. We’ll replace an old deadbolt with a quality Grade 1 deadbolt. Then, we’ll replace the deadbolt strike plate with a four-screw strike box and faceplate—attached with 3-in. wood screws that reach the wall frame. Finally, we’ll replace the lip strike plate and its wimpy 3/4-in. screws with 3-in. wood screws. We’ll also show you a handy method to turn a small deadbolt hole into a larger hole.
The techniques we show in this article will work on any type of exterior door. But keep in mind that these techniques may not be as effective if you have glass sidelight windows or large glass panels in your doors.
For this project, you need only basic carpentry tools, as well as a 2-1/8 in. hole saw bit and a 1-in. spade bit (check the deadbolt packaging for the exact bit size required). Home centers usually carry deadbolt installation kits with the right size bits.

Step 2: Check all exterior doors

A secure entry starts with a solid door and a Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolt with a solid 1-in. long throw bolt (see “Buying a Deadbolt”). Any exterior door that only has a lock in the doorknob isn’t secure. A sturdy screwdriver or small pry bar can quickly bow the doorjamb enough to release the latch.
Check your existing deadbolt. First, make sure the screws are tight. Open the door and extend the throw bolt. If it extends less than 1 in., or if it’s wobbly, a new deadbolt will be more secure.
Next, check the doorjamb and both strike plates. Remove the screws from the deadbolt and lockset strike plates on the door frame. If the screws aren’t 3 in. long, replace them, and also upgrade both plates. (Note: Use shorter screws if sidelight windows are less than 3 in. from the doorjamb.) These longer screws will reinforce the doorjamb, which is a vulnerable spot.

Step 3: Replace the deadbolt

1 of 3

Photo 1: Remove the old lock

Unscrew and remove the old deadbolt. Measure the hole size and backset distance before buying a new deadbolt.

2 of 3

Photo 2: Rebore the hole (if necessary)

Clamp 1/4-in. plywood over the hole location. Mark the new, larger hole centered over the existing hole, then bore it with a hole saw.

3 of 3

Photo 3: Install the new deadbolt

Screw in the new deadbolt, chiseling out additional wood if necessary to get a flush fit. Then insert and screw in the new cylinder.

« Previous Photo

« Previous PhotoNext Photo »

Begin by removing the old deadbolt. Almost all types are held by two screws on the interior side of the door and two screws on the faceplate (Photo 1). Measure the cylinder hole size and the “backset” distance, that is, the distance from the center of the hole to the door edge (Photo 1). You’ll need these dimensions when you purchase a new deadbolt.
Photo 2 shows how to enlarge a deadbolt hole using scrap lumber, a task that is only necessary if your new deadbolt is too big to fit the existing hole (the normal size for a cylinder hole is 2-1/8 in.). The scrap board engages the center guide bit of the hole saw and keeps the new hole centered. Otherwise, you can’t get a clean and accurate cut.
To find the starting point for the hole saw bit, clamp the scrap board to the door and mark both the vertical and the horizontal center of the new cylinder hole. Make sure to hold the drill level and straight so the hole saw bit doesn’t bind and jerk your wrist and arm. If you don’t have a full-depth hole saw bit, chip the wood away from a partially drilled hole, then continue drilling. Go slow so you don’t splinter the opposite side when the bit goes through the door.
Now clean up the hole and test-fit the deadbolt. If the throw-bolt hole (which runs from the cylinder hole to the door edge) is too small, clean it out with a file. Make sure the attached throw-bolt strike plate fits flush (Photo 3), then attach the bolt followed by the deadbolt cylinder. Hand-drive the screws; a power drill may strip the threads.

Odds of Home Burglary*

Your house is at greater risk if:

• It sits on a corner lot (more visible to a browsing burglar and a natural place to stop and ask for directions)
• It is located close to a major highway exit (less than 1 mile)
• It is located on a through street, which gives a burglar a quicker escape (dead-end streets and cul-de-sacs are safer)
• It borders a wooded area or playground (provides concealed access for burglars)
• It is in a wealthier neighborhood
• It features no signs of young children living there (burglars avoid as someone may be home)
• It was recently purchased (burglars know you haven’t yet developed close familiarity with neighbors)

Effective burglary deterrents:*

• Burglar alarm installed
• Deadbolt locks on all doors
• House is occupied
• Newspaper and mail picked up
• Lights and noise (TV, radio) inside house (set on timer when gone)
• Car in the driveway
• Motion-activated exterior lights
• Dog in the house

(*Taken from a research study, “Knowing Your Odds: Home Burglary and the Odds Ratio,” by S. Hakim, G. Renger and Y. Shachamurove, City College of New York and University of Pennsylvania, Sept. 2000)

Step 4: Replace the lockset strike plate

1 of 1

Replace the lockset strike plate

Remove the lockset's lip strike plate and 3/4-in. screws. Predrill and attach a new plate with No. 8 x 3-in. screws that are angled in slightly to catch the stud. Predrill with a 1/8-in. bit.

To further reinforce the doorjamb, install a new plate in place of the old lip strike plate that serves the doorknob lockset. Attach it with 3-in. screws. Make sure the screwheads seat flush with the face of the strike plate. We used No. 8 x 3-in. screws. No. 10 x 3-in. screws (used for the deadbolt plate) were too large. Remember to angle the screws back slightly to be sure to catch the framing (Figure A). Again, you may have to chisel a slightly larger mortise and predrill to drive the screws.

Old verses new deadbolts

Buying a Deadbolt

Most people choose a deadbolt for its color or finish, but when entry security is paramount, the critical deadbolt feature is its grade. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) subjects all locks and components to attacks by hammers, saws, wrenches and other tools. Then it grades the lock: Grade 1 (best and toughest), Grade 2 or Grade 3.
Most locks you find in home centers and hardware stores are Grade 2 or 3. Some Grade 2 locks may list Grade 1 components on the package, but that doesn’t give the lock a Grade 1 rating. However, Grade 2 is still a good-quality lock for residential use. We only found one fully compliant Grade 1 deadbolt in local home centers and hardware stores. Professional locksmiths also are a good resource to find Grade 1 deadbolts.
Before you shop for a deadbolt, measure the hole size where the current cylinder fits, as well as the “backset” distance from the center of the cylinder hole to the edge of the door (Photo 1, Step 3). Most new deadbolts require a 2-1/8 in. cylinder hole, but some of them have inserts to fit the smaller 1-1/2 in. hole, so you don’t have to drill to enlarge the hole (Photo 2, Step 3).
The backset distance is usually either 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 in., so make sure the new deadbolt has the identical backset. Most new locks are adjustable to fit either backset dimension. Just read the box carefully (you may have to open it and read the directions to find the information).
Also decide whether to buy a single cylinder (keyed on exterior side of lock only) or a double cylinder deadbolt (keyed on both sides). Check local building codes too, as they may prohibit double cylinder locks for fire safety reasons (it’s more difficult to escape because you must have the key).

Step 5: Replace the deadbolt strike plate

1 of 6

Photo 1: Mark the deadbolt hole

Mark the center of the existing deadbolt hole. Then remove the old strike plate.

2 of 6

Photo 2: Score the outline of the new strike plate

Align new strike faceplate on the jamb, predrill screw holes and attach it. Score around the inner and outer edges with a utility knife. Remove the faceplate.

3 of 6

Photo 3: Drill out the strike box

Drill two holes that span the strike box dimensions, using a 1-in. spade bit.

4 of 6

Photo 4: Chisel the jamb

Chisel out the strike box and strike plate areas so the strike plate will fit flush with the doorjamb surface.

5 of 6

Photo 5: Install the strike box and plate

Drill pilot holes for all four No. 10 x 3-in. wood screws. Install the top and bottom screws.

6 of 6

Photo 6: Finish up

Drive the final two screws so they're flush inside the box.

« Previous Photo

« Previous PhotoNext Photo »

Install a heavy-duty strike plate to strengthen the doorjamb. We didn’t use the strike plate that came with the deadbolt. We opted for a more secure strike box plate that features four screws instead of two. (Two screws are installed inside the strike box to add strength; see Photo 6.) Mark the center of the old deadbolt strike plate (Photo 1), then temporarily install the new faceplate and deeply score around it to mark its position (Photo 2).
Next, remove the plate, then chisel and drill out space for both the new plate and the strike box. If the strike box is larger than the existing hole, use a 1-in. spade bit to bore two holes, spaced apart the width and the depth of the box (Photo 3).
Now remove the wood with a wood chisel to fit both the strike box plate and the faceplate (Photo 4). Be sure to use the wood chisel with the bevel side against the wood to keep from gouging too deep.
Finally, mount the plate and box and attach them with four 3-in. screws (Photo 5). Predrill pilot holes into the wall studs to make the screws easier to drive. Set the screws snug to the plate; overdriving might bow the jamb.
Now, kick back and rest a little easier, knowing you’ve made your home more secure.

Figure A: Doorjamb Cutaway

Figure A: Doorjamb Cutaway

Three-inch screws will go through the frame and penetrate the wall studs 1-1/2 to 2 in. Angle the screws back slightly into the wall to make sure they hit the studs. The studs become the primary door reinforcement, not the jamb.

DI 2000s driveway informer

The Driveway Informer Di2000S-A

The latest technology manufactured in the USA within strict military manufacturing guidelines

The Di2000S-A is wireless driveway alarms kit that ships with sensor/transmitter and a plug-in receiver. The sensor uses Passive Infrared Technology (PIR) which means heat and movement must trigger the sensor. This helps to eliminate false alarms other sensors are vulnerable to like shadows, headlights, rain, etc. The sensor is capable of transmitting a wireless signal of up to 2,000 feet to the receiver/speaker. Terrain, building materials, and other environmental factors will decrease the transmission range.
This system was designed to alert when movement is detected within the detection zone, but may be placed anywhere. For example, you can place a sensor outside over your storage shed or barn to alert you when someone approaches the door. Retail stores can use the sensor to alert customers when someone enters the store.
The receiver will play one of four tones set by the transmitter. For example, you can place a sensor on the driveway and when it detects movement, the receiver plays a “ding” tone. You could set another transmitter/sensor on another area and when it detects movement, it can play a “dong” tone. This enables you to distinguish which sensor is triggered. You also have the ability to add as many receivers to the system as you want thus increasing the listening area of the set.
If you are a looking for an indoor entrance alert, you may be interested in the DA50L-A Wireless Entrance Alert Set. These products are compatible with each other. The key differences are that the sensor on the Di2000S-A is weatherproof and emits a straight line as a detection zone whereas the DA50L-A emits more of wider detection zone.
The Di2000T-A (Transmitter/Sensor)

The Di2000T-A is an outdoor rated PIR based transmitter that detects any movement within the detection zone. The sensor shoots out a invisible signal that is approximately 1' x 1' at 25 feet to 2' x 2' at a distance of 50 feet. Ideally you would mount the sensor so it could shoot a mean across your driveway or other area you want to monitor. When the automobile passes through the detection zone, the sensor sends the wireless signal to the plug-in receiver/speaker in your home.
The transmitter/sensor consumes very little and ships with a 9-volt battery. Located inside the cover are six dip-switches (numbered 1-6) which allow you to pair it with receivers and determine which of the four available tones it will signal.
The Di2000R-A (Receiver/Speaker)

The DI2000R is a receiver/speaker that is not weatherproof and is powered by a plug-in 12VDC power supply (w/ 6 foot cord.) The receiver can sit on a table or may be easily mounted with factory - drilled mounted holes located on the backside of the speaker.
The receiver also features a resettable counter triggered by the sensors that are paired to it. Like the sensors, the receiver/speaker also features 6 dip-switches which are located on the back of the unit. Dip switches numbered 1-4 must match transmitter/sensors you want to pair with the speaker, number 5 controls the output of the 12VDC terminals on the back of the receiver (with a one second or five second 12VDC output) and dip switch number 6 is for future use.
Dip switch 5 controls the output of the 12V DC terminal screws on the receiver. The provides power for accessories that use 12 Volts like buzzers, horns, sirens, strobes or anything other 12VDC powered devices. The unit also features an external speaker terminal (SPKR) screws which will allow you to add an auxiliary speaker. A volume control knob adjusts volume on receiver and auxiliary speaker.
How it Works

Both transmitter and receiver have antennas that allow 360 degree rotation and pull away from sides of boxes. For best results in communication between transmitter and receiver it is ideal for the antennas to be on the same plane. Example: (If one antenna is pointing up in the vertical position, then the other antenna should be pointing up also. If one antenna is in the horizontal position, then the other antenna needs to be horizontal and pointing at each other for optimum reception). When it comes to distance in communication between transmitter and receiver environmental condition need to be considered. Line of sight without obstacles is ideal. Every tree, bush, fence, car, building in direct line of sight will reduce communication between units. These units should give you approximately 2000’ range between transmitter and receiver, In some cases you may get a distance of to 3000’. You may also add additional transmitters to one receiver or additional receivers to one transmitter.

The Day prayer returned to school

Columbine Student’s father 12 years later
Guess our national leaders didn’t expect this, hmm? On Thursday, Darrell Scott, the father of Rachel Scott, a victim of the Columbine High School shootings in Littleton , Colorado , was invited to address the House Judiciary Committee’s subcommittee. What he said to our national leaders during this special session of Congress was painfully truthful.
They were not prepared for what he was to say, nor was it received well. It needs to be heard by every parent, every teacher, every politician, every sociologist, every psychologist, and every so-called expert! These courageous words spoken by Darrell Scott are powerful, penetrating, and deeply personal. There is no doubt that God sent this man as a voice crying in the wilderness…

The following is a portion of the transcript:
“Since the dawn of creation there has been both good & evil in the hearts of men and women. We all contain the seeds of kindness or the seeds of violence. The death of my wonderful daughter, Rachel Joy Scott, and the deaths of that heroic teacher, and the other eleven children who died must not be in vain. Their blood cries out for answers.
“The first recorded act of violence was when Cain slew his brother Abel out in the field. The villain was not the club he used.. Neither was it the NCA, the National Club Association. The true killer was Cain, and the reason for the murder could only be found in Cain’s heart.
“In the days that followed the Columbine tragedy, I was amazed at how quickly fingers began to be pointed at groups such as the NRA. I am not a member of the NRA. I am not a hunter. I do not even own a gun. I am not here to represent or defend the NRA – because I don’t believe that they are responsible for my daughter’s death. Therefore I do not believe that they need to be defended. If I believed they had anything to do with Rachel’s murder I would be their strongest opponent.
I am here today to declare that Columbine was not just a tragedy — it was a spiritual event that should be forcing us to look at where the real blame lies! Much of the blame lies here in this room. Much of the blame lies behind the pointing fingers of the accusers themselves. I wrote a poem just four nights ago that expresses my feelings best.
> Your laws ignore our deepest needs,
> Your words are empty air.
> You’ve stripped away our heritage,
> You’ve outlawed simple prayer.
> Now gunshots fill our classrooms,
> And precious children die
> You seek for answers everywhere,
> And ask the question “Why?”
> You regulate restrictive laws,
> Through legislative creed..
> And yet you fail to understand,
> That God is what we need!
“Men and women are three-part beings. We all consist of body, mind, and spirit. When we refuse to acknowledge a third part of our make-up, we create a void that allows evil, prejudice, and hatred to rush in and wreak havoc. Spiritual presences were present within our educational systems for most of our nation’s history. Many of our major colleges began as theological seminaries. This is a historical fact. What has happened to us as a nation? We have refused to honor God, and in so doing, we open the doors to hatred and violence. And when something as terrible as Columbine’s tragedy occurs — politicians immediately look for a scapegoat such as the NRA. They immediately seek to pass more restrictive laws that contribute to erode away our personal and private liberties… We do not need more restrictive laws. Eric and Dylan would not have been stopped by metal detectors. No amount of gun laws can stop someone who spends months planning this type of massacre. The real villain lies within our own hearts.”
“As my son Craig lay under that table in the school library and saw his two friends murdered before his very eyes, he did not hesitate to pray in school. I defy any law or politician to deny him that right! I challenge every young person in America , and around the world, to realize that on April 20, 1999, at Columbine High School prayer was brought back to our schools. Do not let the many prayers offered by those students be in vain. Dare to move into the new millennium with a sacred disregard for legislation that violates your God-given right to communicate with Him. To those of you who would point your finger at the NRA — I give to you a sincere challenge…Dare to examine your own heart before casting the first stone!”
”My daughter’s death will not be in vain! The young people of this country will not allow that to happen again.”
Darrell Scott

Do what the media did not — let the nation hear this man’s speech. Please send this out to everyone you can.
God Bless