Just a few simple steps can help you improve the security of your home

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Security advice for homeowners in Leeds

Regular readers of our blog will know that we often discuss the importance of having a burglar alarm and although there’s no denying that you’ll be better protected with a security system in place, there are several very simple things you can do to improve the security of your home.

Lock your doors!

Although it sounds obvious, the most important step you can take to improve security is to lock your doors. It’s such a quick and simple thing to do but you’d be surprised at the number of homeowners who still leave the doors unlocked when they go out. Remember that an unlocked door presents the ideal opportunity for an opportunist thief to enter your property so don’t give them the chance: make sure you always lock your doors, even if you’re just popping out for five minutes.

Invest in decent locks

Buying cheap locks simply isn’t worth it so always buy the best that you can afford. If you’re tempted to buy a cheap lock, remember that you get what you pay for and it won’t seem like such a bargain if your TV and laptop are stolen.

Secure your windows

Never leave downstairs windows open at night as burglars find windows much easier to open than doors. If your downstairs windows have been fitted with locks you should use them – especially at night or when you go away – and never leave windows open when you leave the house unattended.

Keep door keys hidden

Always keep your door keys hidden from view and although it can be tempting to hang them up near the front or back door, it’s much safer to keep them well away from prying eyes and certainly never in reach of the letter box

Keep the lights on

Ensuring your house is well-lit whilst you’re out or away is a really effective deterrent to intruders. Timer devices are pretty cheap these days and it’s well worth buying a few to make your house look occupied around the clock.

Going on holiday? Take extra precautions

If you’re going away on holiday it’s important that you don’t advertise the fact. Piled up post, milk on the doorstep will send a signal to burglars that you’re away so make sure you let your neighbours know you’re going on holiday and try to mow the lawn just before you go.

Use your alarm

If you’ve got a burglar alarm then you must always use it when you go out or on holiday. If you’re worried that your alarm isn’t working properly or doesn’t meet your requirements, why not get in touch with a local alarm specialist such as Dalec? We’re happy to provide further information or a free, no-obligation quote.

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Protecting your offices with an alarm system

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As office premises are often the target of burglars and intruders, it makes sense to ensure that yours is adequately protected with a reliable intruder alarm system. However, installing alarm systems in offices can present a unique set of challenges such as the layout of the building, the value of the assets stored inside it and the number of people working there.

Here at Dalec we have worked with businesses across Leeds, helping them find effective security solutions designed to meet their requirements and budget. For us the first stage of any new office security system installation is to carry out a thorough assessment of the security requirements of the business; taking into account an existing security system and its strengths and weaknesses. We will also consider how existing security measures are implemented and enforced, how often they are reviewed and who is responsible for security.

Offices can be challenging places to install an alarm as many businesses have a significant number of staff, possibility working in large open-plan areas at different times of the day and night. In addition, some office premises have areas which can be accessed by the general public, alongside other areas which must be kept highly secure.

Our team of alarm engineers are highly trained and have experience of alarm systems in offices and businesses of all shapes and sizes. By choosing us for your office alarm installation you’ll have the reassurance of knowing that your new alarm system is being installed with skill, care and attention to detail.

If you would like further information on protecting your offices with an alarm system, or to arrange a free, no-obligation quote, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

In next week’s post we’ll be covering easy ways to protect your office or business premises from theft or unwanted intruders.

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Simple steps you can take to protect your business in Leeds

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Following on from last week’s blog post on office security, as promised we’re going to share a few relatively simple ways to improve the overall security of your business premises.

Keeping car parks safe

Just as you would protect the inside of your offices, car parks should also be safe places for your visitors and employees. With this in mind there are a number of cost-effective things you can do to improve car park security and security lighting is a great way to help your employees feel safe at night, whilst deterring potential intruders. Good lighting is very important and alongside security lights, it’s also essential to provide sufficient lighting over entrances and fire escapes.

Car park barrier systems provide enhanced car park security and are an effective way to crack down on unauthorised parking and as yet another way to deter intruders.

Controlling access

If your office is open to the public, it’s a very sensible idea to control who has access. Access control locks can be used to secure doors into private or secure areas whilst CCTV is a highly effective way to monitor visitors. It’s also worth bearing in mind that something as simple as issuing visitors with a temporary ID badge can be a highly effective way to improve security.

Think about how your office is arranged: access entry points should be positioned so that it’s not possible for unwanted visitors to move around unchallenged and any secure or sensitive areas should be located as far away from the main entrance as possible.

Simple yet effective

Even simple security measures such as security marking or labelling are great ways to encourage staff to be more aware of offices security. Here at Dalec we provide tailor made security systems for businesses of all shapes and sizes, so whether you’re looking for a simple security lighting system, or a bespoke intruder alarm, we’d be delighted to help. Our engineers operate throughout Leeds so why not get in touch for advice?

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Electrical safety in the garden part 1

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Although spring definitely isn’t here yet, it won’t be long until the days start getting longer and we start to think about tidying up the garden.

There’s no denying that electricity makes gardening much easier and it’s difficult to imagine managing without a lawnmower or electrical hedge trimmer, however the risk of injury (or worse) from electric shock is much greater than when using electrical equipment indoors.

It goes without saying that electricity and water just don’t mix so regardless of whether there’s a torrential downpour or heavy dew, never use electrical equipment outdoors until the ground has dried up.

However, provided you follow a few simple safety rules every time you use electricity in the garden, avoiding a serious accident is straightforward.

The best way to protect you from electrical shock and the risk of electrical fires is to fit a residual current device or RCD. Without an RCD, if you accidentally cut through an electrical lead, something as simple as mowing the lawn could kill you.

If you’re using a lawnmower or hedge trimmer it is very important that you make sure the cables, plugs and connectors are in good condition and free from damage. Always buy the best quality mower or hedge trimmer that you can afford and make sure you choose one that it made by a well-known brand. In addition you should read and follow the instructions carefully and check that the plug socket you use is protected by an RCD.

When you’re mowing the lawn make sure the grass is completely dry and that you wear shoes and not sandals or flip flops. Gloves and goggles are a good idea when using a hedge trimmer and make sure children and pets are kept well away from the appliance.

Come back next week to see our follow-up post which will offer more advice on using electricity safely in the garden.

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Don’t overlook door security

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Effective door security is very important if you want to safeguard your business or property from the risk of theft or unwanted intruders.

Although traditional locks and keys are a vital security measure, an over-reliance on keys can present a number of problems. When keys are lost or stolen, for example, this can cause a huge headache in terms of the cost of having locks replaced and when keys are copied without your knowledge, this creates a significant security risk. In addition, it’s not unusual for doors to be left unlocked by accident, leaving your property further exposed to risk of theft.

This is where an access control system can come prove to be incredibly beneficial and by installing one of these systems in your business premises or home, you’ll have the reassurance of never having to worry about changing the locks again.

Door access systems for office, business and residential properties

A wide range of door access systems are available and most are operated by an electronic key fob or door access token which is passed over a sensor by the door, allowing the user to gain access to the building. In the event of a key fob being lost, it can be deactivated and barred from the system, allowing the user to be issued with a new fob. Some systems work using an entry code system; when using this type of system, security can be ensured by regularly changing the access code. Voice access control systems are also available and these are an ideal security solution for residents of multi-storey properties or apartment buildings with shared entrance halls.

Contact Dalec on 01535 606006

Here at Dalec we have many years of experience in installing access control systems and we’re happy to provide advice on the best system for your budget and property. If you would like to find out more, or to arrange for a free, no-obligation quote, why not get in touch today?

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Electrical safety in the garden part 2

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Following on from our post last week on electrical safety in the garden, we thought we’d offer some more advice on using electricity safely in the garden.

Garden ponds make a great feature, especially with the addition of a water fountain, but when water and electricity are in close proximity, risk of electric shock is multiplied. Using a water pump that has been incorrectly installed or with a damaged main, has the potential to cause serious injury or even death.

If you decide to install a mains supplied electric water pump in your garden it’s important to buy one from a well-known reputable retailer and to buy the highest quality one that you can afford. Mains supplied water pumps must be protected by an RCD that it is tested every three months and installed according to the manufacturers’ instructions. Once the pump is installed, you should ensure that it is maintained so that it’s in good working order and if a problem arises, the pump must be disconnected immediately.

Extension leads and cables are an essential part of most peoples’ gardening kit and it’s almost impossible to mow the lawn or cut the hedge without one. However, before using an extension lead outdoors, you must make sure that it designed to be weather-resistant with moulded connections that will prevent moisture from seeping in.

Extension leads should always be uncoiled during use to prevent them from overheating and if you find any damage, the lead must be replaced.  Last and by no means least, always make sure your extension lead is stored in a dry place and that you follow the manufacturer’s’ safety instructions.

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Our guide to candle safety

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Hopefully we’ll soon have some lovely long summer evenings to sit out and enjoy the garden. Candles have become an incredibly popular garden accessory and whilst the soft light they cast is beautiful, it’s important to remember that they must be used safely if you are to protect your home and family from the risk of fire.

Unfortunately candles are responsible for increasing numbers of house fires and with this in mind; we thought we’d publish our top-tips on how to enjoy candles safely:

  • Burning candles should never be placed near curtains or other fabric, including outdoor parasols, wind breaks, tents, gazebos, cushions or door curtains.
  • Candles should always be placed in specially designed candle holders; try to choose candles holders with wide, stable bases which can’t be easily knocked over.
  • Burning candles should only be placed on heat resistant surfaces.
  • Candles should always be kept out of reach of children and pets.
  • Candles must never be moved whilst they’re burning.
  • Last and by no means least, it goes without saying that candles should NEVER be left unattended or burning when you go to bed or go out. Always double-check that candles have been fully extinguished – smouldering candles still have the potential to start a fire.

If you have smoke alarms don’t forget to check them every week to ensure they’re working properly and if you don’t have them, you should arrange to install them yourself or have them fitted as soon as possible.

Here at Dalec we provide a range of affordable fire protection systems for home and business owners throughout Leeds. From the installation of simple smoke alarms, through to the design of fire alarm systems for business premises, no job is too small for us. To find out more or to arrange a free, no-obligation quote, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling us on 01535 606 006.

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Electrical services for homeowners in Leeds

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Here at Dalec we offer a wide range of electrical services designed to cover all aspects of electrical installations for homeowners in Leeds. Whether you’re simply looking for advice on electrical safety, or are about to carry out major renovation work on your home, we can help.

Our general electrical services including general rewiring, through to electrical testing to ensure that the electrics in your home are safe and are working properly. Our team regularly carry out appliance installations, rewiring, socket replacements, lighting installations along with general repairs and maintenance.

In addition to general electrical and installation services, we also provide a comprehensive range of domestic security services to homeowners across Leeds.  We have the expertise to design and install bespoke security systems to suit your lifestyle and budget, or to upgrade or repair existing systems. We also offer an alarm maintenance package designed to offer peace of mind that your alarm is working exactly as it should be.

We are a reputable, established company and by choosing Dalec, you’ll have the reassurance of knowing that the electrical work carried out in your home is safe and meets the standards set for electrical installations.

No job is too small or too large for the team here at Dalec.  If you would like further information or a free, no-obligation quote, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Why invest in an intruder alarm for your business?

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If you’re going to invest in protecting your business from theft, installing an intruder alarm probably offers the best value for money in comparison to other security measures.

Which is the best intruder alarm for you?

A wide range of different types of intruder alarm are available with the most basic systems consisting of a keypad to operate the system, a control panel and sensors which are designed to detect movement and activate the system. These basic systems are often referred to as ‘bell only’ systems and as such are the cheapest option to install.

Increasingly sophisticated alarms systems are now widely available and are designed to make the most of the latest technologies. Of course the level of sophistication will have an impact upon the cost of a system and whilst you’re unlikely to need the type of alarm used to protect priceless works of art, features such as dual technology motion sensors and alarm activations direct to your mobile phone are great ways to provide peace of mind and enhanced protection.

Basic alarm systems usually sound a simple bell alarm or siren once triggered and depending on the type of alarm you choose, it’s possible to buy systems which will contact a control centre which will then contact the police, or even to fill the premises with dense smoke, designed to make it difficult for intruders to escape.

Contact Dalec for advice on protecting your business

Here at Dalec we have many years of experience of advising businesses throughout Leeds and West Yorkshire on the best ways to protect their businesses. Whether you’re considering installing a new alarm system, or have an older system which requires a repair or maintenance, we’d be delighted to help. To find out more or to arrange a free, no-obligation quote, please call us on 01535 606 006.

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Safety advice for electrical DIY

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Love it or loathe it DIY is something most of us end up doing and with spring rapidly approaching, the chances are you’re thinking of tackling those maintenance or decorating jobs you’ve been avoiding all winter.

Whilst DIY jobs are often unavoidable, it’s alarming to think that DIY mistakes are responsible for over half of all the electrical shocks which happen in homes in the UK. Around half of all men prefer to try and carry out repairs themselves, rather than asking using a professional electrician.

Serious electric shocks can be caused by a wide range of DIY errors but the most common include drilling into wiring, cutting power leads and attempting to repair electrical items whilst they’re still turned on.

With this in mind, the importance of electrical safety whilst carrying out DIY tasks is of paramount importance and although it can be very tempting to turn to the internet for DIY tips, it’s very important that the advice you use is from a reliable, reputable source.

If you need any electrical work or repairs, the best advice is to always use the services of a qualified, professional electrician.  However, if you are doing DIY, provided you follow the following safety advice, you should be safe:

  1. Always make sure you know where the cables are in your walls BEFORE you start drilling. Accidentally drilling, nailing or screwing into cables hidden inside walls is one of the most common DIY mistakes but provided you use a good quality cable detector, you’ll be able to locate buried cables and help avoid the risk of an electric shock.
  2. Turn off the power! Although this sounds obvious, you’d be surprised how many people fail to do this. Any work that is carried out near electrical wiring or power supplies must be done whilst the power is off so make sure you shut down the fuse box and where possible use battery-powered tools. In addition, it’s a good idea to double-check that the power is turned off before you start by plugging in an appliance into a socket and checking the mains lighting is off.
  3. A residual current device (RCD) can help to save your life as it will cut off the power if you make a blunder. You should have one fitted to your fuse box and if necessary, use a plug-in RCD.
  4. Power tools should be checked before you use them: make sure they are in good condition and if you can see any signs of damage such as frayed wires, make sure the equipment is repaired or replaced beforehand.
  5. Keep your eye on the power lead at all times as this can help you avoid tripping over it or accidentally cutting through it.
  6. Last and by no means least, if in doubt use a reputable electrician such as one of the team here at Dalec.

Our electrical services are available to residential customers throughout Leeds and for us no job is too small. If you would like to find out more, or to obtain a free, no-obligation quote, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on 01535 606 006.

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