How To Start Your Own Security Guard Company

Having your own security company can be very rewarding. Financially, there is great potential, and it feels good to know that you are helping people feel safe and secure. Below are necessary steps that must be taken as well as certain considerations that you may want to ponder before taking the first steps toward opening your own security guard company:

TESTING AND LICENSE Most states require written testing. One can inquire about exact state requirements by finding out which state run department oversees private security where you live. In California, for instance, it is the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services who are in charge of all the rules, regulations, and requirements pertaining to private security. Most states will send you study material, if you ask. The testing take a few hours and the costs vary. In California it costs close to 00 dollars to get fully licensed. Before the license is issued you must, of course, pass the test. Also, you must send in mock of drawings of what your security guard patches will look like. Every security company has their own patches which their officers must wear on their uniform.

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REGISTERING YOUR BUSINESS: Before you start your business, you must register it with the State. A tax I.D. and DBA should be completed before you even begin marketing your business. Fortunately, it is not expensive to register your new security company.

How To Start Your Own Security Guard Company

LEARN YOUR MARKET: Before you market your new security company you should get familiar with your current market. You should know, for instance, what a competitive rate is for security officers where you plan to work since that is what you are going to market.

Security guards in Los Angeles have different rates, for example, than officers in San Diego. Also, Learn about your competition. Before you enter the field, figure out what you specifically can add to the security guard industry that is different and will give you a leg up on the competition.

WEBSITE AND MARKETING: If you already have contacts to market your new security guard company then you are ahead of the game. Many new security company owners do no realize that it takes a great deal of time, thought, and money to development their business. Many markets are extremely competitive. Again, thinking about how you will market your security guard company before you actually have one is wise. Numerous local and state agencies can help you conceptualize your new business. There are security industry trade publications, various affiliations, and other relevant resources that you can find out about by researching online or visit your public Library. Your local chamber of commerce is also a good place to start.

INSURANCE AND WORKERS COMPENSATION: To employ armed security guards most stares require that you carry liability insurance. The exact amount varies. Workers compensation for all your employees is also generally required, but the good news is you can wait until you have your first client before putting out this expense. But it make practical sense to price out what minimal policies will cost you ahead of time. Usually, it's between two and three thousand dollars for most policies. The more officers you have, the more expensive it is, of course. Without an established track record in the security guard industry, almost all insurance companies will charge higher rates, but, again, you don't have to put any money up until you have signed on a client.

OFFICE EXPENSES: Starting small is always best. Many new security companies work out of their home initially. It's important to get all your security guard company forms in order. There are about a dozen security guard forms that you will need such as post logs, incident reports, and a company manual. Forms can also be found on the internet or at your local library.

GUARDS: You may want to start meeting security guards or running free ads to establish yourself in the business. New Security guard companies must network and prepare their staff, even if they are not hired yet. Knowing how to screen and recruit talented, reliable security staff is quite an art and takes experience so you may as well get exposed to it as early as possible. Put yourself out there and meet others in the community that may one day utilize your services. The more prepared you are, the better.

How To Start Your Own Security Guard Company

Mr. Scott Dinnerman is President of Excalibur Agency, a Los Angeles based security company serving a wide array of clients, including several Fortune 500 companies as well as smaller, local businesses. With over twenty years of experience, Mr. Dinnerman has worked for the largest security firms in the country, both as an officer and in security management. Mr. Dinnerman has hired hundreds of security officers in Los Angeles and is always striving to make our community a safer place to live and work.

Click here for more information on Los Angeles security guards

What is the Best Personal Defense Product For Women?

One of the most FAQ concerns safety for women. What is the best personal defense product for women for their personal protection and personal safety?

Personal defense products by definition are non lethal objects whose sole purpose is to give the user time to get away from a dangerous situation and seek help. And women are the targets of dangerous circumstances by a nine to one margin over men.

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More manufacturers of non lethal personal security products are gearing their products towards women for obvious reasons. Stun Master, Mace brand and Tasers International are just some of big names designing personal security products for the female market.

What is the Best Personal Defense Product For Women?

When the security of women is at risk they don't leave their self defense to chance. They rely on the Taser C2! It is the latest in self defense tools designed for women. One model even comes in pink.

The C2 has a near perfect reliability record with 95% effectiveness even against the most aggressive of assailants on drugs or alcohol. It has more stopping power than a 9 mm handgun. It works by shooting two electrified darts up to fifteen feet that can penetrate one inch of clothing. The darts can hit anywhere on the body to be effective. It uses electro-muscular disruption (EMD) to override the central nervous system.

The C2 will only function once the owner passes a background check. So if you have a felony in your history you may want to try something else for self defense. As always, purchasers MUST be 18 years old or older. Over 11,000 law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and 6 foreign countries use tasers for their jobs. How is that for an endorsement of effectiveness? When are you getting one?

What is the Best Personal Defense Product For Women?

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Caught on a Hidden Surveillance Camera

Hidden surveillance cameras are designed to do one thing-catch people doing something they shouldn't be doing. That something is usually illegal, immoral or both. They are used in business, office and home situations.

Do you have a nanny taking care of your kids? How about a baby sitter, usually a complete stranger, watching your little ones? Or if your kids are older, do you trust them and/or their friends at your house? How good is your home security? Can you use a hidden spy camera or surveillance camera to beef it up?

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If you own a business, security is very high on your list of priorities. Employee theft and customer theft account for nearly 70% of all business losses annually. That is a bunch!

Caught on a Hidden Surveillance Camera

A spy camera sends images to some kind of device for recording-usually a DVR. Some Spy Cameras have built in DVR's which really makes the whole process very easy with no muss or fuss. They record images on an SD card just like the one in your digital camera.

Regular spy cameras are either wired or wireless. The wireless models have a built in transmitter that sends the signal to a receiver which connects to a DVR or computer. They can transmit up to 2500 feet-nearly one half mile.

If you own a business you need at least one security camera-probably more to protect your assets.

There is no better way to protect your business or see what is going on at your home or office than with a hidden surveillance camera. When are you getting one?

Can you use a surveillance camera for home, office or business? You actually can't afford to not have one!

Caught on a Hidden Surveillance Camera

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Almost 50 Hidden Cameras to choose from.

Age and Social Security Disability

One of the most important criteria is your age. Social Security has decided your age is a very important factor. This reflects the philosophy that at certain ages it becomes more difficult to adapt to new situations, demands, and circumstances. So, if you are age 49 or younger, Social Security says every job in the United States is available. This means such jobs as toll booth collector, identification clerk, security monitor watcher, credit card clerk, etc. have to be ruled out.

Thus, even if you have an orthopaedic impairment that rules out your past relevant work (PRW) as a warehouse worker but you are 49 or younger, you would not be considered disabled because you have not ruled out the light/sedentary jobs I have cited above. This is so even if you have never been trained or educated for light/sedentary jobs. Social Security will assume you are still young enough to adapt to new job situations.

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If you fall into the age category 50-54 what SSA calls Approaching Advanced Age, you receive a bit more favorable treatment from Social Security. However, if you can still any jobs in the past that were PRW you cannot be considered disabled. But even if you cannot do any PRW jobs, your still relatively young age can still defeat your claim. Social Security does have the burden to show you cannot do other jobs when you have shown you cannot do PRW. But Social Security can meet its burden of proof by using a vocational expert to testify that (despite your orthopaedic impairment) you can still do other jobs in the national economy.

Age and Social Security Disability

If you fall into the age category 55-59 what SSA calls Advanced Age, you now receive much more favorable treatment by SSA. Again, if you cannot do PRW, the burden again shifts to Social Security to show you can do other jobs. But if your Advanced Education is combined with lack of education and skills you may be close to a winning disability case. This is especially the case if you also have impairment restrictions that restrict you to sedentary work. Sedentary (sit down work) work is defined as work that does not require standing more than two hours out of an eight hour work day and does not require lifting of more than ten pounds. Thus age has now become a much more important factor.

If you are in the 60-64 age group what the SSA calls Retirement Age, then the SSA really smiles on you. You may have to show only that you cannot do PRW. Social Security assumes you are too old to be retrained and new old to adapt to new work circumstances.

In summary, Social Security has made a decision to consider the applicant's age as a major component of the application. So, if you are only 49, you may want to work another year before you apply. More importantly, if you are 54, you definitely need to work another year and obtain the favorable 55-59 criteria treatment. But even then you may have to retain a skilled Social Security Attorney to maximize your chances.

Age and Social Security Disability

Jerry Lutkenhaus is a practitioner of Social Security Disability law in the Richmond, Virginia area for over 30 years. He was given an "AV" rating by Martindale Hubbell in 2003. Lexis Nexis listed him in the 2005 Bar Register of Preeminent Attorneys. For more information, see http://www.geraldlutkenhaus.com and http://www.virginiadisabilitylawyer.com You can call Jerry Lutkenhaus now at 804-358-4766 for a free consultation about your disability case.

Home Window Security Bar - Foil a Burglar's Main Point of Entry

Whether you have double hung windows, slider windows or the roll out kind, you will find a home security bar that will both fit and work with them. Even in the event that you forget to lock the window, the home security bar will prevent any would-be thieves from opening it.

On slider doors or windows typically they will generally fit in between the moving section of the door and window in the stationary jam; this would prevent the entire movable section of the window or door from being opened. A home window security bar can stop someone who sees a door or window unlocked from gaining access into your home.

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Windows of the type that slide up and down are known as double hung windows, with generally the upper part of the window being stationary. A home window security bar for these types of windows is constructed to fit in between the upper frame and the top of the bottom section of the window to keep them from being opened. For the type of windows that roll out using a hand crank that is located on the inside, a bar can be fitted between the cranks to keep them from being used to open the windows.

Home Window Security Bar - Foil a Burglar's Main Point of Entry

An Added Benefit Is Children's Safety

An added benefit of this device, in addition to preventing a potential break-in, is a home window security bar has a capability to prevent the window from being accessed and opened by children, avoiding possible serious injury if they try to climb out.

Various manufacturers of these bars have them designed so that they need a lock which requires a key to remove in order for it to function, which would give better insurance from stopping a child having an accident through an open window.

A burglar who is adamant about getting into your home however will still have the ability to break the glass of the window which would get around the home security bar. These security devices will typically discourage a casual burglar but a professional one will get through this device if he puts his mind to it.

A secondary option to a home security bar is that of metal window grates. They hook onto the inner part of the window frame and even in the event that the window is shattered and opened, entry would still not be possible. Many people do not like this kind of security device due to the fact that they feel like they are living in a personal prison.

It is a good thing to keep in mind that most security devices primary purpose is to deter a potential crime. They are one step in the prevention process to lessen the possibility of a criminal gaining entry to your home or business. As noted above with the home security bar a thief that is determined can choose to break the window glass and gain access to your home if they are either truly desperate or determined to get into your house, despite any of the security measures that are present.

Home Window Security Bar - Foil a Burglar's Main Point of Entry

Listen to Korbin Newlyn as he shares his insights as an expert author and an avid writer in the field of home security. If you would like to learn more go to Wireless Home Security System advice and at Home Security Tips.

Home Security - The Power Of Visual Security Deterrents

When we talk of home security the first thing that springs to mind is alarm systems, however there is much more to it than calling in your local alarm installer. A comprehensive home security strategy starts with visual deterrents.

While many burglaries are spontaneous, opportunistic crimes that can be prevented by simple deterrents such as security lighting, many are also well planned team events in which the perpetrators have conducted significant field research into your neighborhood and most importantly your property The professional burglar does his homework and the first step in his decision making process is the elimination of unnecessary risk.

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While obviously houses in dark streets, with rear or side lane ways surrounded by heavy foliage are a burglars delight because of the natural cover they provide, the surrounding topography of your neighborhood is not the only home security discriminator for the burglar.

Home Security - The Power Of Visual Security Deterrents

So what type of house is attractive to the burglar? The simple answer is one that looks easily accessible.

The first key discriminator for burglars when it comes to choosing which house in the street to rob is the presence of visual deterrents. Visual deterrents are your first level of security protection and the first features of your residence to be examined by the burglar.

Home security visual deterrents include external intelligent lighting, home security alarm system monitoring warning signs, perimeter fences, lockable gates, garages and/or sheds, visible and audible alarms, CCTV cameras, home security screens, active neighbors and our faithful hounds.

In order to provide a base level of home security, visual security deterrents are a necessity. Often, simply placing a security alarm warning sign in a prominent place at the front of your premises, whether your home is fitted with an alarm or not, will get your house struck off the burglars list. Visual deterrents are a powerful tool in your home security arsenal and do not have to include expensive technologies.

Remember, in the initial analysis of potential burglary targets, it is the criminals perception of your security capabilities that is important. Visual home security deterrents, whether real or perceived work.

Home Security - The Power Of Visual Security Deterrents

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Dog Attacks - The Absolute Best Long Range Protection

You may have read the stats about dog attacks in the United States. Five million of your fellow Americans are attacked annually. Over 800,000 of them require hospitalization and half of those are kids. On average the last 10 years, 15 people died from dog attacks annually. Those are the recorded statistics: many more people are terrorized by a charging dog.

And even though the statistics may not show it more Americans are walking, jogging and biking in an effort to lose weight. One of the growing deterrents to that is the growing problem of dog attacks and the question is how to stop charging dog?

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I really don't have any sympathy for dog owners who don't follow leash laws. And many dog breeds are trained to kill. So what are you supposed to do? It's one thing to watch a charging dog on TV, but if you've ever experienced it up close and personal as they say it's enough to make your hair stand on end.

Dog Attacks - The Absolute Best Long Range Protection

I go out for a walk every morning with my walking buddies. I used to carry the telescopic stun baton and it actually bailed me out on one occasion. Anymore I feel of the best long-range defense against dog attacks is the Mace pepper gun.

It shoots a concentrated spray of OC (oleoresin capsicum) up to 25 feet away. It has enough in the new canister delivery system for seven twenty five foot shots. So if you get panicky and miss, press the trigger and try again.

The pepper gun comes with a water test cartridge which is great for practicing. Twenty five feet is quite a ways and the practice comes in handy. This is the only product that allows for practice making it a unique system. The cartridges are replaceable and you can get a nylon or leather holster extra to hold the gun.

To make you feel more comfortable walking, jogging or biking don't worry about dog attacks. Get the absolute best long range defense against dog attacks-the Mace pepper gun.

Dog Attacks - The Absolute Best Long Range Protection

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The Mace Pepper Gun is the absolute best long range defense against dog attacks.

Telescopic Stun Baton.

The Best Protection Against Dog Attacks - The Top Three Products

For those of us who get their exercise by walking, jogging or cycling outdoors you are well aware of the constant threat of dog attacks. On an annual basis, close to 5 million Americans are bitten by dogs. Of those nearly 800,000 of them need to be hospitalized. And of those hospitalized close to half or 400,000 are children.

Those are the stats of the people who are actually bitten. There are countless millions of others were victimized by a charging dog or dogs. Would you like to know how to prevent dog attacks or how to stop charging dog? There are three tools that I recommend for self defense and dog attack prevention. They'll work as dog defense and will stop at charging dog.

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The first is called the electronic dog chaser. It uses an ultrasonic sound that will repel a dog up to 25 feet away. The sound is not harmful to dogs or humans. As a bonus it can be used as training tool.

The Best Protection Against Dog Attacks - The Top Three Products

The second is the telescopic stun baton. This 13 inch long device is activated at the touch of a button. When it is activated it extends to 21.5 inches, and electrifies last 8.5 inches with 800,000 Volts. When the baton is touched against any part of the dog he will not be your friend.

And the third and best way, in my opinion, is the Mace pepper gun. The reason I like it so much is because it is a long distance way of defending yourself. You see it shoots a 10% concentration of oleoresin capsicum as much at 25 feet away. Most pepper sprays, by comparison shoots 6 to 10 feet away.

Don't live in fear any longer. When you're exercising in the great outdoors carry any one of these three self defense products to prevent dog attacks

Those are the three best ways to prevent a dog attack. When are you getting one?

P.S. The telescopic stun baton and pepper gun work very well on human assailants too.

The Best Protection Against Dog Attacks - The Top Three Products

Get a FREE 25 page e Book on 'Making Your Home Secure' and save 10% off the purchase.

Two of the 3 best ways to prevent a dog attack are:

Mace Pepper Gun

Telescopic Stun Baton

What Are the Most Powerful Stun Guns in the World?

The more powerful the stun gun, the more effective it is. Make any sense? Of course it does.

They are one of the most effective self defense products there is. Law enforcement agencies have been using them for years. That is quite an endorsement of their effectiveness currently rated at nearly 90% effective.

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Stun devices are hand-held tools with two prongs on the end that produce an electrical charge. When applied to an assailant or 3 to 5 seconds the electrical charge causes the body to work very rapidly depleting it of all blood sugars needed for energy. All the assailant can do it is - NOTHING.

What Are the Most Powerful Stun Guns in the World?

The effects of these tools last 3 to 5 minutes - just long enough for you to get away or seek help. There is no long lasting damage from a stunning device.

Where is the largest selection of the most powerful stun guns in the world? There are some upgrades on existing products.

These new upgrades are the Pretender Stunner at 4,500,000 volts, and the Runt Stunner at three new voltages: 2,500,000 volts, 3,500,000 volts and a 4.5 million volt model which also come is a rechargeable version. There are no price increases associated with these new upgrades.

Add to those new products the 1,200,000 volt multi-function stunner, the double trouble at 1,200,000 million volts and the hot shot at 975,000 volts and you have the largest selection of the most powerful stun weapons in the world.

What Are the Most Powerful Stun Guns in the World?

The Most Powerful Stun Guns in the World

Runt Stun Gun

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Grisham Security Storm Doors

Security storm doors are products manufactured by the Grisham Corporation of Arlington, TN. They produce three lines of steel security storm doors. All of their doors feature 16 gauge steel and tempered safety glass. Double doors are available in all lines of their doors. All of their lines, Deluxe, Classic, and Sentry offer easy installation and heavy duty closers and they come pre-hung and pre-hinged. Brass slimline door handles are standard on Deluxe and Classic series with an upgrade to a brushed nickel slimline door handle. These Grisham Security Storm Doors have become very popular with many people today because of there quality built and because of there many options to choose from.

The Deluxe series comes in 27 different styles. With so many different styles its hard for any home owner not to find a style to fit their home. Five concealable hinges are available in this series. Available as an upgrade is a 2-way bank vault lock in brass only. One of the features in the Deluxe line as an upgrade is self-storing glass which allows for air ventilation when moved from its above position. There are no limitation on dimensions for all 27 styles. Colors are black or white.

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The Classic series features 14 different styles. In addition to the 16 gauge welded steel, their frames are 1" x 2" and they have an interchangeable screen panel. There are some limitations on two of their designs. All designs come in double doors. Colors available are black and white.

Grisham Security Storm Doors

The Sentry series offers as a standard feature double bore lock box. Twenty-six different styles are offered. This series is designed to accept most 2 3/4" backset locksets. The frames are 1" x 2" with interchangeable screen panel. And they can be keyed to most entry doors. Colors available are black and white.

These doors are heavy but open and swing easily due to the five hinges on which the doors are hung. The styles and colors are tasteful and add to any homes appearance. They provide for a high quality of security. Doors which open out are harder to kick in and burglars do not want to be seen when they are attempting a home invasion. Police indicate they like to see security doors which open out, and insurance agents say doors which open out can be better protection than a burglar alarm. The reason is to gain entry, the home invader has to use a truck to pull the door out of its frame. This action draws attention to him, something he does not want. So when burglars see a home with these type of doors installed they will go to the next house.

The interchangeable screen panel and self-storing glass allow for ventilation while preserving their security features. When the panels are closed the tempered glass provides a natural barrier between the Grisham doors and the front door, which will increase the insulation value of the opening and decrease heating and air conditioning costs.

Grisham Security Storm Doors

David has been writing articles for nearly 2 years. Come visit his latest website that discusses products such as the best steel security doors and a sliding glass door security that can be useful in your decision in your home security needs

Security Guard Post Orders

Post Orders are all the rules security guards must follow at any given post. Without post orders, officers simply do not know what to do, what is expected of them, and there is no accountability. Many posts that hire security staff put nothing in writing. More often than not, this creates huge problems. The more complicated a post is, the problems arise when all rules and expectations are not written down. Security personnel must know what is expected of them. Below are some key ingredients that all post orders must have.

1) Emergency contact information. This should include all tenant phone numbers in case something happens to their particular suite. Obviously, building management and police information must also be included as well as maintenance and engineering.
2) Emergency procedures must also be written down including but not limited to bomb threats, fire, theft, flood, kidnapping, and the list goes on.
3) Lock up procedures must also be covered.
4) Any pertinent phone directory information is usually included.
5) Check-in policy involves building access of couriers, guests, clients. The more specific one is the better. Must all visitors sign-in? Are V.I.P's exempt?
6) Report writing requirements are usually demonstrated through examples. DAR, also known as daily activity reports, should include an example of what is considered appropriate for a day's work so officers know how detailed they should be on their report. Also incident reports are important because they are used when serious accidents happen, and are often brought into the court of law to prove legal cases.
7) Customer service skills, a big part of security, should be stressed, defined, so that officers are clear on how the client wants people to be treated. Some clients, for instance, have a very strict anti-fraternization policy they want enforced.

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There is much more information that needs to be included in post orders. Every account is different and the rules should be tailor made to consider those differences.

Security Guard Post Orders

Security Guard Post Orders

Mr. Scott Dinnerman is President of Excalibur Agency, a Los Angeles based security company serving a wide array of clients, including several Fortune 500 companies as well as smaller, local businesses. With over twenty years of experience, Mr. Dinnerman has worked for the largest security firms in the country, both as an officer and in security management. Mr. Dinnerman has hired hundreds of security Los Angeles security guards and is always striving to make our community a safer place to live and work.

Internet Security Free Download from Google

Finding a decent, reliable internet security free download for you home computer used to be quite a challenging task. None of the software was from brand names you would recognize and to find a decent solution would require significant time researching - reading computer forum posts and reviews on CNet downloads. Most home users did not have the knowledge or patience to invest the time in selecting a good product.

At the 2006 the situation changed when Google introduced "Google Pack." Google Pack is a collection of over 10 free software programs. Included within Google Pack was 2 internet security downloads - an antivirus and an anti spyware program. The only program really missing to make this a complete internet security free download is firewall software.

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Nobody really knows why Google did not include firewall software however there are a number of possible of explanations. In the more advanced routers a solid firewall is often included within the hardware which means firewall software is not needed. Microsoft included firewall software within Windows XP SP2 for free. The Microsoft solution is not the best as it does not monitor outgoing traffic from your PC to the internet. I use and recommend the free ZoneAlarm firewall software for home users.

Internet Security Free Download from Google

The internet security software included within Google Pack is of high quality and is provided by some of the leading security software vendors in the industry. The anti virus software is provided by Symantec who make the Norton AntiVirus range of products. The Norton AntiVirus products are considered one of the best on the market and frequently score highly in independent tests. The version included within Google Pack is called "Norton Security Scan." Despite its name the product both scans and removes virus issues and is based on the award-winning Norton AntiVirus products.

The anti spyware software is provided by a company called PC Tools. PC Tools makes the leading spyware removal software called Spyware Doctor. Spyware Doctor continuously receives recommendations from leading PC Publications and has won numerous awards. Within Google Pack you will find Spyware Doctor Starter Edition which is contains the same spyware scanning and removal capabilities of the full version.

Given the quality of the software in Google Pack I recommend it as a top internet security free download choice. To make your computer's security complete all you need to add is the free ZoneAlarm firewall download.

Internet Security Free Download from Google

Richard Rogers is a PC enthusiast and runs a number of PC related sites. He recommends you download essential free software from Google.

Home Invasion: How To Prevent Termites From Taking Over Your Home

They are focused in their pursuits, they are abundant in number, and they are probably nibbling on your home right now. What am I referring to? Termites! One of the few insect colonies to eat continuously, a typical single termite colony can completely consume 2.3 linear feet of 2x4 pine in one single year. If that does not sound like much to you, consider the seriousness of the situation if that 2x4 was also one of the supporting beams of your house. Keep in mind also that where there is one termite colony there are usually others, clustered together in pursuit of food. Suddenly, that 2.3 linear feet seems significant, and it is, especially when it is multiplied four or five times.

Termites are one of the biggest contributors to home destruction, costing a staggering billion in damages each year. Thanks to the importing of the voracious Formosan termite from East Asia, that amount continues to skyrocket. Think about the following numbers for a moment. A termite colony consists of anywhere from 350,000 to well over a million workers, soldiers, and swarmers (termites with wings). A single termite queen can lay thousands of eggs per day and live between 30 and 50 years. That means a queen can recoup her losses and repopulate her colony even after tremendous devastation. This means the best way to fight this foe is to prevent them from ever touching your home.

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Before we can look at how to prevent them, let's look at the conditions that attract termites to an area:

Home Invasion: How To Prevent Termites From Taking Over Your Home

Soil: Most termites are subterranean, meaning that they build their colonies in the ground. They love the soil and build elaborate tunnel systems, called galleries, extending up to three feet below the surface. Termites will often use this versatile building material to create mud tubes leading from their underground colonies to above ground food sources, like the wood in your home.

Wood: Termites will consume any material that contains cellulose, and since wood contains a great deal of cellulose, termites devour wood voraciously. If a single piece of wood touches the ground, be certain that a colony of termites somewhere will know about it. Although some subterranean termites will consume other materials like vegetation, dung, and humus, their primary source of food, and their favorite, is wood.

Water: As with most living things, termites generally cannot survive without a source of water present. Whether in the form of a leaky faucet or the natural precipitation process of rain, termites will always seek some source of moisture to survive.

Now that the three conditions for termite survival have been identified, we can now look at ways to prevent termites from infesting your home:

1. Identify and fix all water leaks in your home, both internal and external. As mentioned above, termites need water, and it does not matter where they get it. If the water source comes from your home, all the better for the colony. It means they do not have to work as hard. Eliminating their water source removes one of the three requirements for survival.

2. Remove any brush or heavy growth from around your home. Vegetation can create areas of intense moisture, which is necessary for colony survival. Termites like it wet, so try and disappoint them as much as possible.

3. Eliminate any standing or pooling water from around your home.

4. Store all excess building materials and firewood away from the house. Remember that wood is their primary food source. Scrap wood touching the ground is an open invitation to hungry termites. If your property is not large enough for wood storage away from the house, create barriers beneath the wood to prevent direct access to the termites. Thick concrete slabs or heavy duty metal stands can be used to raise the wood off of the ground.

5. Use treated lumber for any wooden structures that will have direct contact with the ground. The chemicals in treated lumber do not guarantee that termites will not invade the wood, but they can act as a deterrent for decks and patios made out of treated lumber. Home improvement centers now offer concrete supports that raise the wooden support beams for decks and patios off of the ground. This would be a great way to avoid wood to ground contact.

6. Avoid using mulch near your home. Mulch provides two things to hungry termites: a food source and a water source. The qualities of mulch that make it attractive for use in the garden are the very qualities that attract termites. If mulch is placed near the exterior of your home, it is only a small step for a colony to move into your walls. As an alternative to wood mulch, try using one of the newer rubber mulches now available at your local home improvement center. They have the look of mulch and the benefits of mulch without providing the risks.

7. Never bury waste lumber or wood scraps in your yard. It acts as a magnet to termites and directs them to your property.

8. Remove any dead trees, old stumps, or roots in your yard. As these items decay, they attract termites to the area by providing a food source. When the food is gone, the termite colony will look for new sources of food. This includes your house.

9. Seal any cracks or holes within the foundation of your home. This will help prevent easy access for wandering termites.

10. Keep all gutters and waterlines clean of debris. Clogged gutters and waterlines leak, creating pools of water close to the house.

11. Make sure your home is properly ventilated, including your attic and internal crawl space areas. Adequate airflow prevents the buildup of moisture needed by termite colonies.

12. Periodically, get your home inspected for termite damage. A once-a-year inspection can save your home with early detection. If termites are not found in the home, the trained pest control specialists can at least offer recommendations to help you prevent an invasion. They may catch something you missed.

So what happens if you take all of these precautions and termites still begin to munch on your home? Use a pest control specialist in your area to help you deal with the problem. Here are a few of the treatment options that are currently on the market:

Liquid Termiticide: This liquid pesticide is generally applied around the foundation of the house, as well as underneath the foundation. For new construction sites, the termiticide is applied to the graded soil as the home is being built, but for existing buildings, the foundation is partially dug out and drilled to ensure proper coverage. There are termiticides on the market that act as barriers and repellents to termite invasions, and there are termiticides that act as nerve poisons, killing the termites upon exposure.

Subterranean Bait: Rather than acting as a deterrent to termite invasion, termite baits attempt to eliminate the colony at its source. Bait stations are set in the ground every ten feet or so around the perimeter of the home. The treatment begins when untreated wood segments are installed in the bait units to determine if termites are active around the house. The units are checked once a week, and if live termites are found, the wood is replaced with a toxic bait that is ingested by the termites and carried back to the colony. The toxins in the bait affect the termites by preventing the molting process, causing them to die 'within their shell'. This long acting toxin allows the termites to both ingest the poison and carry it back to share with their colony. Special bait units can also be installed inside the home if termites damage is evident. A new series of bait traps have been developed by Dow Agrosciences to fight the more aggressive Formosan termite, which can penetrate cement, brick, heavy duty plastics, and high-pressure water lines just to get to food and water sources.

The best treatment option is a combination of termiticides and bait units setup both in the ground and throughout the house. Termites are hard to kill, and they are even harder to eradicate, so be tenacious in your efforts. Your best bet is to call a professional to help you. Over the counter solutions do not offer the same level of effectiveness that professional grade products do. Your house is one of your greatest commitments you will ever make. It is worth protecting the right way by getting the help of professionals who know what they are doing. But remember. In this case, an ounce of prevention really can take you far, ensuring a better chance of keeping these nasty bugs from eating up your investment before you have a chance to truly enjoy the fruits of your labor.

©2006 Ian White Access 2000 Pty

Home Invasion: How To Prevent Termites From Taking Over Your Home

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Social Security Benefits After Divorce

Divorce does have some effects on social security benefits. The basics are quite simple. If you are entitled to receive social security benefits based upon your own earnings record, you will, of course, be able to collect social security after divorce based on that earnings record. However, if you were married for ten or more years, you might be able to collect social security benefits under your spouse's record after you are divorce. There are a few qualifications that you must deal with.

The first issue to be addressed is the amount of time that you were married before the divorce. To collect social security benefits based upon your former spouse's earnings record, you must have been married for at least ten years. If you or your spouse are considering divorce, this ten year time limit might be an important issue. For example, if you have been married for just nine years, and if having this social security benefit after divorce will help you, you might want to negotiate a one year separation before the divorce. That way, you have preserved your ability to collect social security under your soon to be ex spouse's earnings record after the divorce. The one year separation could have some impact upon other rights that you need to address. So, it is a good idea to discuss this issue with your divorce attorney or with an accountant before finalizing a separation or divorce agreement.

Security

You cannot collect social security under an ex spouse's earnings record if you remarry. So, if you have carefully preserved this benefit after divorce, you might want to be very careful about remarrying. You can collect social security benefits under the next spouse's earnings record, but the same time rule will apply. That is, you must remain married to that individual for ten years before you can collect social security under their earnings record.

Social Security Benefits After Divorce

Many people simply want to know how much they will collect in social security benefits. The general rule when collecting benefits under someone else's earnings record is that you cannot collect more than fifty percent of that person's benefit. So, if your spouse or ex spouse is going to receive a monthly benefit of 00, you cannot collect more than 0 if you collect under their earnings record. You need to know what your own benefit will be to decide if you would be better off collecting under your own earnings record or under a spouse or former spouse's earnings record after divorce.

The rules that pertain to collecting social security after divorce are different than the rules that pertain to collecting social security after the death of a spouse to whom you are still married. THose rules should not be confused.

You can always check with the social security administration to find out what your social security rights and benefits are. The social security administration also maintains a website that you can interact with to figure out your rights and benefits.

Social Security Benefits After Divorce

Jean Mahserjian has practiced family law for close to two decades and is the author of many books devoted to helping consumers understand family law, including the issues of child custody and support. To download free excerpts from her family law books, visit: Divorce Help

Home Security Signs and Decals - Do They Really Work?

With all of the home security and surveillance equipment available today, many homeowners are wondering how to best protect their home without spending a fortune. The homeowner on a budget may want to consider home security alarm signs and window decals. These simple and effective methods to guard against intruders are not only practical, but they are also affordable. Alarm signs are also an excellent options for those who are not comfortable with high tech home security equipment, no matter how effective it might be.

How well do home security alarm signs work? Statistics show that these signs are actually quite effective, even if you have no alarm actually installed on the home. Like a fake security camera, these signs make potential intruders take notice. A potential burglar can't be sure whether you really have a security system or not unless they're willing to risk setting it off. No burglar is willing to risk breaking into a home with an activated security alarm. By warning intruders that you have such a system (even if it's not true), the burglar will simply walk away. Like a scarecrow in the field, this decoy really works to scare away intruders.

\"Home Security\"

These security signs can be placed almost anywhere. Ideally, they should be immediately visible to anyone approaching your property, including those who may sneak around to the back door before ever approaching your main entry. There are signs designed for your yard or wall, and decals to place in the window next to your front door, or any other glass surface. Every ground floor entry, including all doors and windows, should have a sign. The security system sign by your front door should be visible from the street to let all every passerby know that your house is protected.

Home Security Signs and Decals - Do They Really Work?

Essentially, home security alarm signs advertise how well protected your home is. These signs will make an intruder think twice about entering your home. After all, no criminal wants to be caught in the act, and that's exactly what you're warning will happen. Why would he take the risk to break into your home, when there are so many other homes that have been left unprotected?

If you have a home security system installed, it will most likely come with such signs to place around your property. However, even if you don't have such as system, high-quality and professional-looking signs will keep burglars at bay. These signs and stickers must stand up to close inspection by would-be criminals. An experienced burglar won't be fooled by an obviously fake sign. Security system signs and decals are so inexpensive, and so easy to install, that it's surprising how few homeowners have taken advantage of them. These devices offer very effective home security protection at a very low cost.

In addition to signs warning of cameras or alarm systems, there are also emergency signs that alert emergency responders to the presence of children or pets in the home. These signs are crucial for a fast response time and quick rescue. Signs around your home aren't just criminal deterrents; they provide essential emergency information as well. Alarm signs should be seen as your first line of defense against criminals. A security sign or decal is certainly better than taking no security precautions at all. When used in combination with dummy cameras, wireless door and window alarms, and other home security devices, any intruder is sure to look for an easier target before choosing your home.

Home Security Signs and Decals - Do They Really Work?

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Home Security Essentials - Wireless Home Alarm Systems

Your home is your haven. This is your comfort zone where you can take the time off, relax and spend some quality time with your family. Since this is the place where you want to relax, it is just important to keep the privacy of your home and protect it from intruders or invaders. Fortunately, with today's latest technology, you do not have to worry about how to protect your home. There are now many devices that offer protection for your home and wireless home alarm systems is the most advisable to use.

Today's wireless security devices are technologically enhanced. Unlike wired alarm systems, this type of device run on radio wave frequencies, which will detect motion and instantly transmit it to your control unit. This will then alert the owner of the home about the invasion. This type of device can transmit signals within hundreds of feet.

\"Home Security\"

There are many advantages of using wireless alarm systems at your home. One of the benefits you can get from this type of alarm system is the obvious fact that it is wireless. Unlike previous hard-wired alarm systems, you do not need to worry about hiding the wires on your alarm system. This is very helpful if you have a large property to protect.

Home Security Essentials - Wireless Home Alarm Systems

This type of device is also battery operated. Unlike traditional hard-wired alarm systems that use electrical wires to transmit signals, wireless alarm devices use lithium-batteries. Homeowners are also notified once the device needs some battery replacement. And since it is powered by batteries, your device is not affected when there is a blackout or power shortage in your area.

Another good thing about this type of alarm system is it is easier to install as compared to traditional hard-wired devices. With this device, you do not need to run through every entry points in your home to install them. It is very portable and since it can penetrate most walls in your home, you do not have to drill holes just to install it.

You can also extend your monitoring area with this type of alarms. Since it is wireless, replacement is more flexible and can be extended to different areas including your pool, driveway, and guest house. This is very beneficial to those homeowners with a large area to protect.

This type of alarm system uses only one main control unit. This feature helps you control your device from only one location. If you want to secure all areas of your home, you can definitely benefit from this device.

Furthermore, this type of alarm system can also automatically alert various emergency services, like the police station, once an intruder is detected. With this added feature, you can instantly contact emergency services without having to dial your phone.

Another advantage of using this type of security system is that you can easily upgrade your device without the hassle. With the traditional wired devices, you need to go into every wall on your home and rewire everything. But with wireless devices, you just need to assign new codes to the main control unit of your device.

Home Security Essentials - Wireless Home Alarm Systems

As you can see, there are many advantages of using wireless home alarm systems in your home. With its high technological features, you can be sure that your home is protected and free from intruders.

To learn more about home security systems, you can visit http://home-alarm-systems.net/security.html

A Great Development of Modern Technology, Wireless Alarm Home Security Systems

Efficient Maintenance

These days security is a great concern for everyone. Modern lifestyle has rendered our home and family prone to a lot of crimes like robbery, theft and abduction. There are the concerns of everyone who think about his family and valuable property and savings. To address these issues the modern technology has developed wireless alarm home security systems, these systems are a great deterrent to criminals. It is very sophisticated equipment and they are very easy to operate and install.

\"Home Security\"

You do not need to dig holes and drill into the walls for wishing to install it because home systems are wireless, i.e. they don't need the wires for communication and conduction of data.

A Great Development of Modern Technology, Wireless Alarm Home Security Systems

Points To Be Pondered Upon For The Maintenance Of Wireless Alarm Home Security Systems

The most important thing to be kept in consideration for the efficient working of alarm security equipment is their proper maintenance. Their maintenance involves ensuring that the batteries of cameras are properly charged. Because, if the batteries are out of charge or have a low charge then you cannot reap all the benefits of wireless security systems. There is however, till date, no other alternative for batteries though they cause an inconvenience of changing frequently. There is a possibility that the batteries in wireless systems are regularly charged while working by providing them an electricity connection but that involves a proper wiring and hence would increase the installation problems. While the use of batteries not only decrease the problem of installation but also increase the efficiency of alarm systems. As it has been observed that whenever any robber or criminal enters in the home vicinity, he first looks at the wires to trace if any alarm home system has been installed in the house. But if you are using any wireless alarm system which does not use any wires, then you can place your camera and monitors anywhere camouflaged which the criminals would not be able to detect and would be monitored continuously by your wireless systems, thus enabling to launch any litigation against them.

How Can I Ensure That Batteries Of My Wireless Alarm Home Security Systems Are Working Properly?

You have to keep track that what is the normal time consumption of your batteries. When they are fully exhausted is not recommendable. There are some wireless alarm home security systems whose battery charge is displayed by a graphic image. This shows that how much battery remains and how much is consumed in your security system. It is better to change the batteries five days before to ensure the effective working of your security system.

A Great Development of Modern Technology, Wireless Alarm Home Security Systems

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Do it Yourself Home Security Systems - You Can Make Your Own DIY Security System For Your Home

One average there is around one break-in/burglary every twenty seconds, with around one in five homes being broken into on an annual basis. Therefore, it is absolutely paramount that you have a good security system set up in your home. In this article you are going to learn more about do it yourself home security systems that will help you to keep your house as safe as possible.

A crucial element of any do it yourself home security system are visible deterrents- these are things that would-be intruders see, and are then put off by, thus preventing a break in in the first place.

\"Home Security\"

A good example of this is security company stickers stuck in all the major windows of your house; any local security firm will provide you with these, and they will make a potential intruder think that your house has a good security system in place. You can also install mock security cameras around the outside of your house, and large window and door locks to ward off intruders.

Do it Yourself Home Security Systems - You Can Make Your Own DIY Security System For Your Home

Motion sensor lights in the main entrances to your property are also a good idea, as these have a very proven track record for reducing break-ins (especially at night) You can pick them up for very little from most electronics stores, and you can also install them yourself.

Choose locations such as outside your front and back door, as well as outside your garage if you have a separate one to the rest of your house. No sound do it yourself home security system is complete without at least one of these; they are definitely worth the minor investment.

Do it Yourself Home Security Systems - You Can Make Your Own DIY Security System For Your Home

Click the link to learn the single most important aspect of a do it yourself home security system; learn one of the best DIY security tips and discover how you can keep house safe for the smallest amount of money and effort possible.

Home Security System Statistics - Trends and Facts For Consumers

Why is a home security system so vital in today's society? Why should any home be equipped with an advanced, professionally monitored security system? A brief look at some of the relevant industry statistics will show you just how important it is that homeowners have an advanced security system in place in their homes.

Burglary - According to the FBI, a home invasion occurs once every 14 seconds. That means, in the time it has taken you to read this sentence, someone's home has been burglarized. In addition, the areas affected by increasing burglary rates have changed. Urban areas have traditionally been the most susceptible to this type of crime; however, home invasion is now being experienced in suburban areas in increasing numbers and even rural areas are beginning to suffer. Finally, experts state that a home without an alarm system is three times more likely to be burglarized than a home with a professionally monitored system installed.

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Fire - According to a recent study, 84% of fire-related consumer deaths were the result of fires in the home. Almost all of these homes had no alarm system or smoke detectors. Home fires are one of the leading causes of deaths in the home around the US and the incidence of these deaths continues to rise. A professionally monitored alarm system can protect your home and your family from this threat. Modern systems offer fire and smoke detection, as well as being able to alert the monitoring center to your plight. The monitoring station can dispatch rescue and fire crews whether you are able to communicate with the center or not.

Home Security System Statistics - Trends and Facts For Consumers

Home Accidents - Every 14 minutes someone dies in a home accident. Every 4 seconds, a homeowner is disabled in an accident within their home. These accidents can be prevented with the right home security system. For instance, modern systems allow remote communication with the monitoring center. The control panel of advanced systems contains a speakerphone with a considerable range, enabling homeowners to communicate with the monitoring center even if they cannot reach the phone. This has vast implications, providing greater security for the elderly, homes with small children and everyone else, as well.

Carbon Monoxide - Carbon monoxide poising kills at least 2,100 people every year in the US. More than 15,000 cases of accidental carbon monoxide poisoning cases are reported on an annual basis. This odorless, colorless, tasteless gas can seriously harm or even kill people in their homes. A modern alarm system provides carbon monoxide protection through advanced sensors. If the gas is detected, the alarm sounds, alerting the homeowner. Moreover, the alarm system notifies the monitoring center, which can then dispatch emergency crews to the home.

Obviously, there is an increasing need for advanced, professional security systems in the average home. Whether the threat stems from fire, flood, smoke, accident, carbon monoxide or home invasion, advanced monitoring systems help consumers maintain their health, happiness and safety through numerous means. Installing an alarm system today could save lives tomorrow.

Home Security System Statistics - Trends and Facts For Consumers

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