A Little Extra Security Never Hurt Anyone

September 23rd, 2022



Although most of the statistics show that property crimes are on the decline, there are still a lot of the episodes taking place, even right here in Chico. The FBI reports that property crime decreased by 6.3-percent between 2017 and 2018. Still, though, the same study indicates that there were 7.2 million offenses in 2018, such as burglaries, motor vehicle thefts, and grand-larceny thefts. So, sure, the figures might be moving in the downward direction, but that does not mean Chico homeowners should become lax when it comes to security.

Doing so could prove to be a recipe for disaster. In most cases, burglars are creatures of opportunity. They walk around neighborhoods without really having a plan. Then, if they happen to spot an open garage, unlocked door, or unfastened window, they will slip inside the place to steal valuables. These criminals usually want jobs to go off fast and easy without a hitch. Therefore, according to most studies, they break-in between the hours of 10 am and 3 pm when the occupants are likely out for the day.

That does not mean that all burglars abide by these hours. Sometimes, thieves take action at night under the cover of darkness. Whatever the case may be, Chico homeowners need to know how to protect their properties. The next sections of this post are going to focus on some must-have equipment. Hence, curious persons should read on to learn more.

Security Cameras Benefits

Many times, visible surveillance cameras deter burglars. Why? Well, they don't want to take the chance of having their faces captured on video. Such an event can lead to them becoming identified and having to spend time behind bars. Most modern devices are compatible with smartphones. Thus, if a trespasser wanders onto your property, you will receive a notification on your phone. Then, you can view the live feed to discover whether a real or false alarm is taking place. Getting advanced warning allows the homeowner to contact the police and get them on the scene promptly. 

The Pros Of An Alarm

There are different kinds of alarms. One emits a loud blaring sound after the perimeter becomes breached. Often, the noise is enough to scare the intruder away. The other is a silent alarm that notifies a monitoring company to the problem. In turn, they contact officers and get them to investigate the situation. Either of these can be a good choice. It just depends on the consumer's needs and wants.

Should You Invest In Motion-Activated Lights?

As mentioned earlier, some burglars try to lurk in the shadows. However, by installing motion-activated lights around the property, they will kick on automatically as soon as movement is detected. The equipment can inform you and your neighbors about trouble being afoot if the yard looks like daytime in the middle of the night. Once again, these units may scare off perpetrators, but if nothing else, they will help you detect trespassers quickly.

Could your home use a little extra security? If you answered yes, give our office a call to schedule a consultation.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
    Call (530) 327-7268