Monitor your property with the new and improved HiLook 8-Channel 5MP Network Turret Kit.

Easy to use and at a lower cost, the latest in HIKVISION technology is the perfect surveillance system for your home.

The new HiLook IP camera system offers simple installation for you to be set up in moments and comes with 4 x 5MP outdoor turrets that connect to an NVR to be viewed on a monitor or on the smartphone HiLook Vision app.

The 8-channel NVR manages and records from up to 8 cameras and is preinstalled with a 2TB HDD. The 8CH 5MP Network Turret Kit is an upgrade from its 4MP kit predecessor and features IP67 weatherproof cameras with up to 30m range of infra-red LED night vision. Its HDD capacity is expandable to 8TB if storage space is required, while H.265 and H.264 video compression reduces bandwidth requirements significantly by up to 75%, allowing for efficient data storage and the best possible video quality. NVR features and functions also include the ability to connect to third-party network cameras, as well as live view, storage and playback of connected cameras at up to 5MP resolution.

The 8CH 5MP Network Turret Kit is available as a ready-to-install kit complete with an 8-channel NVR with 4 cameras which are powered via PoE (Power Over Ethernet) from the NVR box. The HiLook IP system uses Hik-Connect for easy network management offering instant playback for specific channels during multichannel display modes, smart search features to help pinpoint specified areas in a video, as well as improved smart playback features that help boost playback efficiency.

The newly-launched HiLook 8CH 5MP Network Turret Kit from PSA Products is the latest in HIKVISION technology and is the ideal upgrade for your integrated security camera system.

Available from your preferred electrical wholesaler. For more information, please visit: https://www.psaproducts.com.au/products/8ch-5mp-network-turret-kit/

The post New Product HiLook 8CH 5MP NETWORK TURRET KIT appeared first on PSA Products.

PSA has appointed and endorsed Service Today, to carry out installations and service on our entire range of home safety products. Both companies demonstrate values of reliability, responsiveness, quality service, and technical expertise throughout its long history in the services industry.

With over 25 years’ experience serving Australian families in need, Service Today prides themselves on being a responsive and reliable home services provider with a reputation for quality workmanship. The nationwide company provides electrical, plumbing, heating, and cooling services to Sydney, Wollongong, the Central Coast, Geelong, Melbourne, and Adelaide. The capability to provide services across a broad range of disciplines allows Service Today to be a one-stop-shop for Australian families, saving them the time and hassle of finding multiple reliable operators.

All Service Today technicians are experienced, highly skilled, and certified to undertake the tasks they perform. Parts and labour are guaranteed, so customers can rest assured the company will get the job done right the first time around.

Service Today technicians have also been trained to treat the customer’s home with respect, taking utmost care in their work and always returning everything to where it should be. The friendly team are on call to respond to any emergencies that may arise in the evening, on weekends, and even on public holidays. No matter when a customer reaches out for help, the Australian-based call centre will dispatch a technician within two hours, guaranteed. Customers can arrange a same-day servicing or next-day installation job on request.

Last but not least, Service Today supports the local community by donating a portion of their profits to the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s ‘Real Men Wear Pink’ campaign and running a charitable raffle draw through the Kids with Cancer Foundation Australia. PSA Products is confident Service Today has got what it takes to install and repair its wide range of home safety devices. PSA looks forward to having Service Today provide Australians with the convenience and quality of service that they deserve.

The post Introducing Service Today appeared first on PSA Products.

Designed with the capability of detecting visible particles from smouldering fires far more rapidly than an ionisation alarm, the advanced photoelectric sensing technology provides occupants with an early warning in the event of fire. The mains-powered device runs off a standard 240V source and features a 10-year non-removable lithium battery to last the life of the product.  Measuring a mere 110mm wide and 28.5mm high installed, this low-profile alarm and single-piece design facilitates quick and simple installation and blends seamlessly into any interior space.

The LIFESAVER SILHOUETTE 5800ACF is designed with a user-friendly dual ‘test’ and ‘hush’ button that allows occupants to be confident it is working through regular recommended testing, and to silence nuisance alarms when required. The green and red LED indicators communicate the status of the unit, while a low battery warning signals when its lifespan is coming to an end. This smoke alarm is fitted with an integral dual anti-insect mesh, reducing the effects of insects and debris build up and the occurrence of nuisance alarms.

While the LIFESAVER SILHOUETTE 5800ACF may operate as a standalone alarm, it can also be interconnected to up to 24 units and the device seamlessly integrates with a variety of other PSA products, including heat, smoke, and carbon monoxide alarms.

If you’re looking for the security needed to protect the home with the added bonus of being aesthetically pleasing, look no further than the PSA LIFESAVER 5800ACF flush smoke alarm. This easy-to-install and highly effective photoelectric comes with a 10-year warranty and is designed with the latest in smoke alarm technology on the market, providing the best detection across a range of fires.

The post Safety meets Style appeared first on PSA Products.

PSA Products has got what it takes to overcome even the most complicated physical, geographical, and budget constraints when installing a home or business security system. The company excels at determining the most practical and cost-effective method, providing their happy customers with a functional solution that won’t break the bank.

The following case study documents just one of the many occasions where PSA has succeeded in doing exactly that:

A client required a live monitoring service at the front entry and the driveway that ran along the side of their property. The issue arose because the camera was located some 200 metres from the NVR control room, which was at the back of the property. Due to the distance involved, standard cables and PoE switches wouldn’t have been a budget-friendly or practical option.

PSA and Penguin Rd Electrics proposed a solution which involved installing a state-of-the-art Honeywell IP Camera System that utilizes a Wireless Access Point (WAP). This kind of system serves as a wireless transmitter and receiver, sending an IP signal from the camera towards a receiver which connects to the NVR through a network switch.

Running at 2.4 GHz, this equipment retains crystal clear video clarity and involves almost zero latency at the NVR. Furthermore, the method is substantially more cost-effective than wiring cables over such a distance.

Both the client and the contractor were thrilled with the outcome.

EQUIPMENT USED:

• Honeywell 8ch NVR (Part No: PSAHEN08103)
• Honeywell 8MP IP Camera (Part No: PSAHBD8PR1)
• IP-Com 2.4GHz Wireless Access Point, 500m range (Part No: PSACPE3)
• IP-Com 4 Port PoE Switch (Part No: PSAF1105P-4-63W)

	We installed cameras along the side of the building.
	We installed a Wireless Access Point near the camera, as well as a power supply and PoE switch. Two cameras can simultaneously transmit signals through a single WAP.
	A WAP was installed on both ends, seen here circled in red. The distance between the two is approximately 200m.
	The setup can capture clear high resolution imagery.

Why Use A Honeywell IP Camera System

IP cameras have become the option of choice in the security industry due to their high resolution capabilities, analytical features, expandability and ease of installation.

Standing for Internet Protocol, IP monitoring systems can capture, transmit, and store footage through a computer network and can connect to the internet.

In most applications, IP CCTV cameras will be connected to a Network Video Recorder (NVR), which processes information and stores data. However, if there should be more than 64 cameras or any kind of special analysis, the IP CCTV system could be connected to a computer server using central management software to fulfil these requirements.

As a leading brand in the commercial security sector, Honeywell has been manufacturing cutting edge products for over 75 years. The trusted multinational brand has earned a reputation for its commitment to cyber security, researching technological innovations and producing quality devices that exceed all international standards.

PSA, an Australian owned company since 1985, designs, manufactures and distributes complete security and intercom products to the electrical and security industries. Visit our website to view our complete range of security and CCTV range of products.

The post How PSA and Penguin Rd Electrics Solved a CCTV Issue appeared first on PSA Products.

The HG3000 model features updated circuitry, which makes it more resilient against ripple control systems and electrical interferences. As a result, it’s more reliable than ever before.

An Easy One-Time Installation

The HG3000 is a mains powered device with a 9V battery as a backup. A licensed electrician can install the device onto a wall or ceiling in a matter of minutes! All they need to do is fit it onto the easy slide base plate and connect to the main power via a 3-pin terminal block. It’s powered by a 240V AC 50Hz sine wave supply, which is suitable for almost all Australian homes.

Complies With Australian Standards

The HG3000 complies with the AS3786:2014 Australian Standard, is Activfire Approved, an Australian Standards Certified Product, and holds Australian Electrical Authority Approval. Furthermore, the smoke alarm can be used for 2017 Queensland smoke alarm legislation because it supports connectivity with up to 24 devices. Homeowners must install interconnected devices throughout several sections of the home.

Complying with current federal and state requirements provides homeowners and tenants with valuable legal protection in the event of a fire.

A Safe And Hassle Free System

The HG3000’s photo-optical sensing technology is designed to rapidly detect the most common types of house fires. Should it detect smoke on the premises, the alarm will ring at 85 dB, which is enough to awaken home owners from even the most profound slumber. The alarm will continue to sound until the smoke has cleared from its chambers, at which time it will automatically reset.

However, the householder can quickly silence or hush the unit in the event of a false alarm – such as a kitchen mishap – by pressing the hush button. This feature mutes the alarm for 10-15 minutes, by which time the smoke should have cleared. In the event of a power failure occurring before a fire, the alarm will continue to function thanks to its in-built 9VDC backup battery. Householders will be alerted should the backup battery run flat by an intermittent beep and flashing lights.

The HG3000 is also designed to minimise false alarms specifically to insects and bugs that may enter the smoke alarm.  The sensing chamber is protected by a fine bug mesh to stop small insects from falsely activating the smoke alarm, giving you peace of mind, and reducing nuisance alarms.

Boasting optimal functionality, durability, regulatory compliance, and convenience, the HG3000 is the best photoelectric smoke alarm yet.

Visit PSA’s website at https://www.psaproducts.com.au/products/hg3000-240v-photoelectric-smoke-alarm-with-9v-battery-back-up to grab yours today!

The post Protect Your Life With The Homeguard HG3000 appeared first on PSA Products.

The changes came into effect back in 1^st January 2017, as a result of the 2011 fatal Slacks Creek fire, a tragedy that no one wants to see repeated. The recommendations on changing to photelectric smoke alarms came from discussions with the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and are based on their extensive experience. Even though there is a phased roll out of the new standards, there will be an increase in the demand for qualified electricians who are needed to fit the interconnected units. The rental market alone comprises a sizeable number of properties that have to be brought up to the required standard and landlords will be pushing for work to be completed before they hit the next deadline.

Whenever there is such a demand in the market, it is really important for those qualified to fit and install these systems, to keep themselves safe. Even though the client is pushing for a quick finish to the work, health and safety does come first, so let’s look at the right way to work safe in terms of smoke alarm installations.

Choose the right product

New properties and those that have been substantially renovated, have to have interconnected Australian Standard 3786-2014 photoelectric smoke alarms like the LIF5800RL/2 and LIF5800/2 smoke alarm, the LIF10YPEW or the wireless interlink base, LIFWMB2. These have to be fitted by 1 January 2022 in leased or sold homes and by 1 January 2027, in all other homes, and hardwired 240v smoke alarms have to be fitted by a qualified electrician.

Make sure that the product you are fitting conforms to the correct AS standard. A reputable smoke alarm company will publish all the manufacturers’ product sheets and installation information on their website, to assist with the safe installation of these alarms.

Identify key risks

There are a number of risks faced by electricians when installing photoelectric smoke alarms and these are linked to the working conditions and type of build and area of installation. Ensure you or your employer have carried out a proper evaluation of the job and ensure risk assessments are in place to ensure safe working.

The most common risks faced are:

• Working at height
• Working in enclosed spaces
• Working in heat
• Contact with asbestos containing material (ACM)

Working at height

Smoke alarms are fitted above head level which could mean, particularly in an older property, working in homes or offices with a high ceiling space. If ladders are used, these should be checked to ensure they are in good condition. Users should maintain three points of contact (hands, feet, body) on the ladder and the ladder should be used according to proper instruction. Wherever possible, the ladder should be secured firmly at the base or held by another person if angled away from a wall. If working in a ceiling space, then make sure there is sufficient light to ensure that the electrician can see and step securely on joists or beams, instead of the ceiling material as this will increase the likelihood of a fall. Make sure that someone else knows that the electrician is working in the ceiling space and keeps in contact with them until the work is completed.

Working in enclosed spaces

As noted above, when installing a photoelectric smoke alarm system, it may require access to a loft or ceiling space. Before entering this form of enclosed space, it is important to isolate the electricity and turn it off at the switchboard. Then using a torch or portable light, before starting any work in what will be an unfamiliar area, take note of any existing risks that could be hazardous to health.

This means checking if there are vermin in the roof space (posing hazards such as bites or Weils Disease from the urine of rats or they could have gnawed through protective cabling leaving wires exposed). Check for sharp objects, low or awkward corners that could require stooping and twisting, high temperatures, poor lighting, ACM’s or electrical conductors, such as solar conductors or consumer mains that cannot be de energised.

Managing these risks means letting someone else know where and when you are going to be at work in these areas. Use portable lights or a torch to enable better visibility in the ceiling or loft space and wear the appropriate protective clothing. If there are electrical conductors, test to ensure the conductive foil insulation is not energised and avoid any contact with electric cabling, equipment and fittings. This also means using manual tools or battery-operated ones, where possible. Plan your route across a ceiling, using joists and beams, as well as avoiding any obstacles that could cause a slip, trip or fall.

Working in heat

Doing any form of work in humid and hot spaces is going to be uncomfortable. Ceiling spaces and enclosed areas can trap heat and have very little ventilation so ensure you take regular breaks. Avoid prolonged working in the area, particularly when temperatures are higher and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Lack of water and dehydration can lead to confusion and dizzy spells – not an ideal state when working with electricity!

ACM’s

Asbestos does not present a hazard to health unless it is disturbed, cracked or starting to break down. When fibres in asbestos get into the air, it can be inhaled by the people in that area. It is very important to confirm if asbestos is present and if it will be disturbed by routine installation procedures, such as drilling holes to install a smoke alarm. Asbestos can be found in ceiling sheeting, in floor tiles and in some fixatives in window frames, so check before carrying out any work on a ceiling. If there is no other option than to drill into bonded ACM’s, follow the government guidelines on safe work procedures before undertaking any such work.

Once the installation is complete, issue the certificate of testing and safety, and you are free to get on with the next job in hand while ensuring that you follow the above safety checks as you go.

To view our smoke alarms that are compliant with the new Queensland legislation, click here. For general information about the new legislation and how it can affect you, read our article here. If you are a landlord or currently managing a rental property, read our article here.

The post Smoke alarm legislation changes in Queensland – Work Safety appeared first on PSA Products.

Insurance pay outs can also be affected, and the individual could be prosecuted because they fail to follow the correct safety measures. Reputational damage can also be a result of that, impacting business drastically as those wanting to rent properties may turn to other landlords with a good safety record.

There are hundreds of rental properties out there on the market today, with landlords undertaking renovation projects, to add properties to their portfolio. All this adds up to an overhaul of safety measures in the rental market. Pleading ignorance of any changes to legislation is no excuse and so, with the smoke alarm legislation changes in Queensland, this is one article that landlords cannot afford to ignore.

What are the changes?

All dwellings in Queensland are required to have interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms fitted in all bedrooms, on every level and in the hallways, that connect the bedrooms and sleeping areas with the rest of the property. This is part of a ten-year roll out programme across the state, to have interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms fitted and it has been planned to happen over 3 time periods starting from 1 January 2017. The first phase requires all new builds and renovations to have these type of smoke alarms fitted. By 1 January 2022, they must be fitted in all domestic properties that are sold or leased and by 1 January 2027, fitted in all other domestic dwellings.

What does this mean for landlords?

Houses and rented properties in Queensland are required to have smoke alarms that confirm to the latest standard. For landlords who are in the middle of renewing any tenancies at the moment, properties must comply with this legislation now. Even for selling homes, these new laws apply, so don’t get complacent and think that this does not apply to your rental business.

In order to comply with this legislation, it is important that landlords check what type of smoke alarms are currently fitted in the property. If these are existing hardwired 240volt smoke alarms, then they have to be replaced by a hardwired 240v photoelectric smoke alarm and fitted by a licensed electrician. For existing homes owned by landlords, there can be a combination of smoke alarms, either 240v or battery operated, and the connectivity can be hard wired and wireless. The most important thing is to ensure that approved smoke alarms are fitted and to discuss the individual requirements with a professional smoke alarm company.

What are photoelectric smoke alarms?

Photoelectric smoke alarms are the best system of detection when it comes to slower smouldering fires. Inside this type of alarm is a light sensing chamber. A beam of LED light is shone across the chamber in a straight line. What happens when smoke enters this chamber, is that it interrupts the beam of light and deflects it from its straight path onto a photosensor in a different part of the same chamber. Once this occurs, an alarm sounds and allows the tenants time to evacuate the dwelling.

What choice of approved photoelectric smoke alarm is available?

Fortunately, there are a number of smoke alarms available that will ensure landlords conform with the change in legislation. It makes sense because a landlord may have a number of properties to manage, to fit alarms with battery backup. Fitting a smoke alarm with battery backup will not only give peace of mind but reduce the time spent changing batteries. The LIF5800RL/2 smoke alarm features the required photoelectric sensing technology but never needs to have the battery changed during the lifespan of the alarm. If there is an interruption to the power supply then again, these alarms will continue to function and also alert the occupier if a battery is running low, by emitting a consistent beep.

Other types of system harness the power of technology and use wireless to link each unit. Products such as the LIF10YPEW, which have a built in RF radio frequency wireless interlink control and the ability to interconnect up to 24 units, is a good system to have, especially where there are a number of sleeping areas and hard-wiring interlink is difficult or not possible. If one of the RF units that are interlinked is triggered, then all the other alarms in the same RF interlink system will also sound. This is a good system for rental properties of multiple occupancy and compliant with legislation.

Top of the priority list for portfolio management for landlords has to be to review all existing rentals and the requirements against the new legislation. Then start to ensure the compliant and required number of units are fitted to existing properties. Make sure this is made clear in any information given to current and prospective tenants and don’t get caught out by the new requirements.

To view our smoke alarms that are compliant with the new Queensland legislation, click here. For general information about the new legislation and how it can affect you, read our article here. For more information about work safety and the smoke alarm installations, click here.

The post Smoke Alarm Legislation Changes in Queensland – Obligations by landlords appeared first on PSA Products.

The law refers to dwellings which cover units (Class 2), and houses and townhouses (Class 1A). Photoelectric smoke alarms must be fitted, and this refers to the way these alarms are able to detect smoke. Interconnection of alarms means that if one alarm is activated, then the rest will also sound. These devices can be wired or wireless.

When speaking about hardwiring, it refers to the connection required to the electricity supply of the domestic dwelling. A storey is the space in a building that is situated between one floor level and the roof or floor level. Finally, when talking about renovations, the term “substantial” is used, and this refers to the work under a business development improvement. However, the total building works equate to 50% of the dwelling over a 3-year period. So, bearing these definitions in mind, let’s look at the legislation changes and what it means for you.

Existing dwellings

Home owners and those who hold an existing property portfolio since 1 January 2017 should note that this legislation came into effect on that date and will have a direct impact on them. Smoke alarm units in these dwellings, since that date, have to be photoelectric, work when tested, not be less than ten years old, not contain an ionisation sensor and be interconnected with every other smoke alarm in the dwelling.

This means taking an audit of any current units in the properties owned at present and making sure they comply with the new requirements. Electricians should ensure that if asked to fit new alarms, that they meet the AS 3786-2014 standards, such as current products on the market like the LIF5800/2 and LIF5800RL/2 smoke alarm, or the LIF10YPEW and LIFWMB2.

Next, they have to be fitted on each storey and in each bedroom with one in the hall that connects the bedroom and the rest of the home. If there isn’t a hallway, a compliant smoke alarm has to be fitted in the area that is most likely to be the exit route used in an emergency. These units have to be either powered by a non-removable battery or hardwired by a qualified electrician.

Dwellings sold, leased or if a renewal of the lease is imminent

From 1^st January 2017, for existing dwellings, the obligations of the landlord and tenant continue, with regard to installing and testing of smoke alarms. This should be part and parcel of the tenant’s agreement and if it is a home owner, then ensure that regular testing and maintenance of the smoke alarms are factored into routine home maintenance. When selling a property, the seller has to lodge Form 24, stating the requirements have been met with the Queensland Land Registry Office. When installing these units, electricians must ensure they issue a certificate of safety and testing. Plus, it will be a very busy period for those in the electrical trade, so ensure that for self-employed or employed electricians, a quick refresher on health and safety requirements is needed, particularly when installing products that have not been used before.

From 1^st January 2022, the same conditions that are set out for existing dwellings (see section above) must be met for dwellings that are being sold, leased, or when a lease is up for renewal. Again, taking stock of the property portfolio and carrying out an audit and check of current smoke alarm systems, has got to be at the top of the list for landlords and property rental companies. It is also worth speaking to an experienced smoke alarm company that specialises in smoke alarms, to decide on which types of models they offer, will be best suited to your needs. The requirements of a house or unit of multiple occupancy is going to differ from a one-bedroom apartment, for example.

Substantial renovations and new dwellings

Property developers, as well as firms who employ electricians, and the home owner who is planning a serious home reno, should take note of the changes in the law. From 1^st January 2017, the development approval process changed to ensure that applications for new builds and substantial renovations received either on that date or afterwards, brought the dwellings into compliance with new legislation. (Conditions again are same as those for existing dwellings)

Installation requirements

When undertaking a new build or renovation, it is important to discuss the placement of smoke alarms with your electrician and builder. Likewise, if it is an existing dwelling, the electrician needs to be shown the relevant access space, such as ceiling and loft areas and told if there are any hazards of note, for example asbestos-containing materials in the older build. For stairs, sloping ceilings or open exposed ceilings with beams, there are specific requirements set out in the Building Fire Safety Regs 2008 with regard to smoke alarms, but otherwise, it is best to follow guidance on the prescribed locations.

Smoke alarms mustn’t be placed within 300mm of a light fitting, within 300mm of the corner of a wall and ceiling, nor within 400mm of the blades of a ceiling fan or 400mm of an air-con vent. Wherever possible, they should be installed on the ceiling. Sometimes it is not going to be feasible for the above prescribed locations to be met, particularly in bathrooms or kitchens where steam and smoke could affect the photoelectric smoke alarm. In this case, it is best to place them in an area that will give the best warning to those living in the dwelling. Talking to the electrician and planning where to locate these units prior to installation, is going to pay dividends.

Remember, the clock is ticking, so start getting on with making sure that you are compliant when it comes to smoke alarm legislation and ensure we all keep ourselves safe and our property secure from fire damage.

To view our smoke alarms that are compliant with the new Queensland legislation, click here. If you are a landlord or currently managing a rental property, read our article here. Find more information about work safety and the smoke alarm installations here.

The post Smoke Alarm Legislation Changes in Queensland appeared first on PSA Products.

Apartment safety

If you are several floors up, you need to know who you are allowing into the building, if not for your sake but for your neighbours. Even with street level access, there are several reasons why you need to install the right intercom system for your home.

The primary reason is to establish communication with the individual trying to enter the premises. Entry should really be limited to the residents, family members and friends, delivery and service personnel. If someone does not have a good reason to be on the premise, then they do not get any access.

If you have mobility difficulties, then automated access to the property and being able to screen visitors without running up and down stairs or using a lift, is another reason to ensure there is a suitable intercom system installed. Whatever the reason, you need to evaluate the layout of the building, the entry and exit points, the number of people it needs to service and if it can be integrated into other systems before deciding on which system best suits your requirements.

Who else needs to use the system?

The size of the apartment complex is the first point to consider, if you are the landlord responsible for high rise apartments or condominiums, this will narrow down the options available to those suitable for handling the needs of a large building. In this case, thinking about the accessibility and user experience is important; if users have to search for a name for example.

Given that most of us will be looking to have a system installed in just our own apartment, one of the systems that work on a smaller scale is going to be the best option.

Do you need audio-visual capabilities?

If you are only looking for an audio intercom that allows you to speak to the person on the other end, there are a number of home security packages that will suit your needs. However, if you have hearing difficulties, or need to be able to see who you are speaking with, then choose a system that has a video intercom. Some of these come with a built-in camera to allow for identification of the visitor and this is particularly useful for the elderly resident.

If the property comes with solid doors (no glass entrance for example), and without the opportunity of easily identifying who is on the other side of the door, a video intercom is going to be the best choice.

Do you need to integrate the intercom with a locking system?

Technology has moved on apace, and today’s intercoms can be integrated with an access control system. Not only can they open doors and lock exit and entry points, but also operate gates and be integrated with other surveillance systems such as your CCTV. If you have need for secure access to the property (for e.g. caring for a parent with dementia or have young children in the household), having an integrated intercom system will be invaluable.

Do you need a system that you can operate remotely?

With today’s mobile technology and smart phones, there are intercom systems that you can answer without even being in the apartment. If someone comes to the door and rings a smart door bell, then you are able to view who is on the property through your smart phone provided you have the connectivity. You will be able to communicate with the visitor giving the impression the property is occupied which is a great security feature.

This sort of connectivity to the apartment, through smart technology and the right type of intercom system, would be ideal for those whose work may require them to be away from home for more than one day at a time. If you are working down at the bottom of the garden and cannot hear the door bell, is there a system you can operate remotely from your mobile once you have established who needs to be let into the building?

Planning how to use your intercom in your daily life will enable you to review those systems that are going to be suitable for your needs.

Speak to a professional company

There are a number of intercoms on the market today from wired to wireless, from simple audit conversations to ones that can open and close doors, windows and gates. Talking through the type of apartment you live in with the needs and requirements of your family and your lifestyle will help narrow down the best system to suit your requirements.

PSA Products have been protecting Australian families for over 30 years with a complete solution of fire, security and intercom products. Contact them today and discuss what type of intercom system would be most suitable for your apartment building.

The post Tips On Choosing a Suitable Intercom System For Your Apartment Building appeared first on PSA Products.

Common causes

Fire needs a heat source, oxygen and fuel in order to ignite. This is known as the Fire Triangle. By removing any one of these elements, we are going to prevent or put out a fire. If we look around the home, there will be fresh air flowing through the house (the oxidising agent), there is certainly no end of fuel in the form of furniture, soft furnishings, wooden floors and painted surfaces and there will be a number of heat sources. We heat and light our homes with electricity, gas or oil. We may smoke cigarettes, or light candles to create ambience in a room, keep our beds warm with electric blankets, and use a tumble dryer to dry our clothes.

Electricity

As the weather gets a little colder during the winter months, householders turn to their heating systems or electric blankets to keep them warm. One of the most common causes of an electrical fire is overloading the electricity circuit. Ensure that you do not plug in too many plugs or extension leads around the home and make sure that you regularly check the condition of the wiring.

Home appliance wiring should be covered by an insulating material, so if the wire is damaged or the metal wires can be seen poking through, switch off the appliance and get them looked at by a professional. Switch off heaters when not in the home, and install a heat source alarm. If using electric blankets, make sure they are rolled up after use and not folded as this can cause damage to the wiring. Turn off electrical appliances at the power point before retiring for the night.

Open fires and heaters

There is nothing better than an open fire but make sure you have a fire guard in place to prevent sparks jumping out and start to smoulder on a wooden floor or carpet. Get the chimney swept out on a regular basis as a chimney fire can get going very quickly if there is corroded soot in the flue. Keep all items at least one metre away from a heater or fire and don’t drape clothes on top of electric heaters.

All heaters must be installed by a professional and serviced on a regular basis and if you have small children, ensure they are supervised around heaters and open fires. There is a temptation for little fingers to push small items through heating grills or get too close to a fire as they are not able to understand risk. Install smoke alarms in the home so if a fire does catch and smoulder at night when you are asleep, this will raise the alarm. You can quickly get your family and yourself out of the home safely before getting the fire service to deal with any blaze.

Candles and cigarettes

While the number of smokers is on the decrease, if you do have a smoker in the home, take additional precautions. Safely dispose of cigarette ends in a metal container and pour water on them before putting in the garbage bins. It should go without saying that matches or lighters must be kept well away from children and that adults should never risk smoking in bed.

Candles around the home are used for a number of reasons; citronella candles are good for chasing away mosquitoes and insects, and we do leave them burning a long time. Aromatherapy candles are great for creating a calm and sweet-smelling atmosphere, or just having fairy lights, candles and some colourful bunting, brings a quirky and fun atmosphere to parties.

If left unattended, candles can be knocked over by the family dog or small child. Or, if too near to curtains they can flicker in a draught and the material can catch fire, and they should never be left to burn while the family are asleep.

Cooking and kitchen fires

The kitchen has a number of appliances and fuel sources including cooking oils and fats. If left unattended, oil in a frying pan will quickly reach a very high temperature and start to spit out fat droplets. The oil can combust and start a kitchen fire which fills the house with thick black smoke that damages the lungs. A fire can start without you being aware unless you take precautions. Never leave hot fat unattended, and remember to install heat alarms and smoke alarms as a preventative measure to keep you and your property safe from fire.

Following the above top tips and speaking to a professional home safety company who can advise correct fire detection equipment and alarms for your property, will save lives and give you the peace of mind to continue enjoying living in your family home.

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