ADT Home Security Systems in Los Angeles, CA - Fall 2014

October has quickly come to an end. Imagine that, only two months left in 2014! The holiday season is full of fun festivities and things to do both in and out of the home.  El Capitan Theater will be featuring Tim Burton's the Nightmare Before Christmas in 4D from October 24- November 2! This classic holiday fare, in 4D will feature interactive sensory effects, including lights, scents, wind, snow and fog. This event will be a BLAST for the entire family! ICE at Santa Monica Pier opens November 1st. This 8,000 square foot beach-side ice skating rink is a great activity to enjoy with friends and family. Turkey Trot Los Angeles starts at 10:00 A.M. on November 27. The trot has 5k and 10k routes through historic Los Angeles. There is also a "widdle wobble" 1/2 mile family run. After the event the family can stop by the post event festival at Grand Park. 

No matter what your agenda may be for the month of November, it is important to protect your Los Angeles home with a monitored ADT security system when you are away enjoying the season, at work, or simply out and about. Staying up to date on Los Angeles crime and being vigilant in your neighborhood are both healthy habits to keep.

If you currently have a monitored security system for your Los Angeles home, make it a part of your everyday routine to arm the system. If you've ever had that nagging feeling that you forgot to lock up you know it always seems to hit you when you've already got to work. With an ADT Pulse security system, those are worries of the past. You can even have it text you if you forget.

If you invested in a ADT Pulse security system, you are probably well aware of the convenience of being able to check the status of your alarm system via your mobile device, arm or disarm the system remotely, program notifications or even set a schedule of when your alarm should arm or disarm. 

Whether you are a  new homeowner or investing in a monitored home security system has long been on your checklist, now is the perfect time to schedule a free home security review. During your consultation we will help you customize the ideal alarm for your family, home and budget. Our ADT Los Angeles Security Consultants will meet with you at a time most convenient to your schedule and we can typically have your system up and running within a day or two of your consultation. 

LAPD Crime Prevention: Personal Security 

LAPD has designated 12 crime prevention circulars as crime prevention tips of the month for the year. LAPD's November tips are on the subject of automated teller machine visits and the area in close proximity to the customer's transaction. Select an ATM located near the center of a building. An ATM further from the corner reduces the element of surprise by an assailant and increases effective reaction time by the user;

ATM Selection Consideration:

• Do not select an ATM at the corner of a building. Corners create a blind area in close proximity to the customer's transaction. Select an ATM located near the center of a building. An ATM further from the corner reduces the element of surprise by an assailant and increases effective reaction time by the user;

• Identify an ATM with maximum natural surveillance and visibility from the surrounding area. This will create a perceived notion of detection by a criminal and increases the potential for witnesses;

• Select an ATM at a location void of barriers blocking the line of sight of the ATM. This includes shrubbery, landscaping, signs and decorative partitions or dividers. Barriers provide hiding areas for would-be assailants;

• Select an ATM that is in a well-lighted location;

• Whenever possible, select an ATM that is monitored or patrolled by a security officer;

• Select an ATM with a wide-angle transaction camera and/or a continuous transaction surveillance camera. Consult the bank or location management for this information;

• Solicit prior criminal activity statistics from law enforcement for the ATM site and surrounding neighborhood; and

• Avoid ATM locations with large perimeter parking lots and numerous ingress and egress points.

Considerations Prior to and During Transactions: 

• Maintain a small supply of deposit envelopes at home, in your car or office. Prepare all transaction paperwork prior to your arrival at the ATM site. This will minimize the amount of time spent at the ATM;

• Maintain an awareness of your surroundings throughout the entire transaction. Do not become so involved with your transaction that you are not aware of changing conditions around you;

• Do not wear expensive jewelry or take other valuables to the ATM. This is an added incentive to an assailant;

• Be aware of anyone sitting in a parked car in close proximity to or at a distance from the ATM location;

• When leaving an ATM location make sure you are not being followed. If you are being followed, drive immediately to a police, sheriff or fire station, crowded area, well-lighted location or open business. Flash your lights and sound your horn to bring attention to your situation; and

• If you are involved in a confrontation and the attacker is armed with a weapon and demands your money or valuables, COMPLY.

Check out ADT's Free Personal Security App called ADT Canopy