sept - oct 2009 safe & sound magazine

A publication of

ALARM SYSTEMS & HOME THEATERS

VOL.

1 IS

SUE

1

THE FACES OF SAFET Y THE FACES OF SAFET Y

Read their story on page 4

vol 1 issue 1 part 1.indd 3 8/26/2009 2:05:59 PM

To Advertise Please Visit Us Online at certifiedalarms.com or call 225-928-78672

vol 1 issue 1 part 1.indd 4 8/26/2009 8:10:43 AM

To Advertise Please Visit Us Online at certifi edalarms.com or call 225-928-7867 3

On The Cover

A Publication ofCertifi ed Alarm Systems & Home Theaters

Safety is not only a police issue: it is everyone’s responsibilityKnowing how to keep you, your family, your home or business safe is critical, no matter where you work or live. With resources for children, parents, seniors and professionals, Safe & SOUND provides helpful safety tips and useful information for everyone. Whether indoors or out-doors, at work or at home, Safe & SOUND has got you covered!

On ThThT e CoCoC ver ContentsTravel Safetypresented by: Live Oak Auto Glass

Home Safetypresented by: Certifi ed Alarm Systems

Pet Safetypresented by: Dodge City Vet

Real Estate Safetypresented by: Coldwell Banker One

The Wooden Bowl

Self-Defense 411

Are You Getting the Most from Your Surveillance System?

Make Your Home TheaterSystem INvisablepresented by: Certifi ed Home Theaters

7

9

17

19

15

14

16

12

4 The Faces of Safety

Safe and Soundwith Certifi ed

Alarm.

PUBLISHER/CEO

This magazine is recyclable.Safe & SOUND is published bi-monthly by Certifi ed Alarm Systems & Home Theaters, 1113 Florida Blvd., SE, Denham Springs, LA 70726. Copyright 2009 by Certifi ed Alarm Systems & Home Theaters.

All rights reserved. Safe & SOUND is staff produced and cannot be held responsible for any unsolicited materials. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork. The opinions expressed in Safe & SOUND are those of the authors or advertisers and do not necessarily refl ect the views of the owners, nor do they consti-tute the endorsement of products or services herein. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any paid advertisement.

Rusty Howard info@certifi edalarms.com

ART DIRECTORMary Milton mary@certifi edalarms.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORIALS

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Lilah LeBouef [email protected]

Brittany Langridgebrittany@certifi edalarms.com

Jason Caldwell [email protected]

April Mae Boudreau april@certifi edalarms.com

ADVERTISING, PHOTOS, ANDCORRESPONDENCE SUBMISSIONS

1113 Florida Blvd., SEDenham Springs, LA 70726225-287-0652 newsletter@certifi edalarms.com

CFO Jan Howard & CEO Rusty Howard

Photo courtesy of Debbie Medlock Photography (see ad on page 6)


4 To Advertise Please Visit Us Online at certifi edalarms.com or call 225-928-7867

By Carol StuartBy Carol Stuart

Safe and sound. It’s the feeling you have when you reach your home, walk in the door and close it fi rmly behind you. If it’s been a bad day at work or traffi c was unbearable, you might even lean on that door, because it’s such a relief to fi nally be home where you belong; where you can relax and feel secure.

Little wonder that this new magazine’s publishers, Certifi ed Alarms and Home Theaters, choose that name – Safe & SOUND. It’s perfect, because it describes the feeling Rusty and Jan Howard have offered to their customers from the beginning, when they founded the company 18 years ago.

Getting Started “Have you ever started out working on a project thinking it was going to be really easy, then as you got further into it, you started to realize you may have bitten off more than you bargained for?” Rusty Howard asks. “Little did I know what we were about to embark on. Growing Certifi ed has been one of the most challenging, yet rewarding, things I have ever done.”

The business began in 1991 in a one-room offi ce with one phone line and two desks, which Howard rented for

Safe and Sound with Certifi ed Alarms

$200 a month. He had been in the alarm business for 10 years and had experience in installation, service, selling, as well as manning a monitoring station. His partner, now his wife Jan, provided the administrative acumen.

During those early years, a serious building boom meant sales were fairly easy. Devotion to quality

wasn’t really needed for an early success, but from the beginning, the Howards

provided the best – best individualized planning, best installation, best

products, and best service as well; but with such a high-quality product, most service calls were for expansion, not repair.

Keeping Up with the Times

After the fi rst year and a half, Certifi ed Alarms was able to purchase

an existing building on Florida Blvd. in Denham Springs to accommodate their

growth. But the Howards didn’t rest on their laurels. Instead they remained ever on the alert, not just for the sound of their alarms, but for the rumor of a new product that would further enhance the safety of their customers. Also, to provide peace of mind to families and businesses by offering the best in sales, design, installation, service and monitoring of security systems.

By Carol Stuartwith Certifi ed Alarms

Rusty & Jan Howard 1995

The Cer tifi ed Team 1995


Certifi ed Alarm Systems and Home Theaters also offers state-of-the-art design and installation of all your sound and media needs Beyond guarding their doors and windows, Certi� ed Alarms o� ered to watch the inside of their customer’s houses as well. Video monitoring systems could watch the baby while they were home or the baby’s caretaker while they were gone. It could also provide a window on teen activities for parents in another room or a look at who’s at the door before opening it and letting in danger. With individualized installations, the camera’s observations could be viewed on a computer, television, or even the Internet.

Fire alarm systems from Certi� ed Alarms went beyond smoke detectors, which only alert homeowners who are at home to hear them. Certi� ed’s experts review the newest and fastest responding technology available to protect your home, corporate o� ce and the occupants inside. Certi� ed’s � re alarms are equipped to notify, not only the monitoring station, but also and simultaneously the � re department, reducing their response time by an average of 22 critical minutes. With a commercial � re alarm system from Certi� ed Alarms, you’ll know your business is protected with the latest state-of-the-art intelligent technologies versus yesterday’s analog technology. Certi� ed can provide � re alarm systems for businesses of any size or type. Whether you own a small retail store, a large warehouse or anything in between, a Certi� ed technician will design a � re alarm system customized to meet your needs as well as all relevant codes and regulations. Certi� ed’s 24-hour monitoring center also promptly noti� es the � re department so that � res are quickly extinguished and damage is minimized.

Cushioning the Cocoon Installing and wiring products that provide a cocoon of security to a home or business in order to keep its occupants “safe and sound” has always been, and remains today, the focus of Certi� ed Alarms. But company representatives have also been alerted to other possibilities for cushioning that cocoon through many services available with low-voltage wiring.

Certi� ed can simultaneously provide phone, cable, intercom and computer wiring, as well as home automation, central vacuum and home theaters, selling only the highest quality products. Wherever possible, especially with new construction, Certi� ed plans and installs everything as a package, saving customers both time and money.

“We now represent GE, Sony, Bose, Klipsch, Dirt Devil, HAI (Home Automation Inc.), and Generac as our signature line of products,” Rusty said. “We also now buy factory direct on all of our products so we can pass these savings on to our customers.”

In south Louisiana, more than most areas, a home generator can be more than an attractive extra. As Katrina, Ivan, and Gustav have demonstrated so e� ectively, it can o� en become a necessity. Certi� ed is proud to be a Generac whole-home generator dealer. � is automatic, hands-free backup power supply will kick in and run for a couple of days before requiring any attention.

Continued on page 20

5To Advertise Please Visit Us Online at certifi edalarms.com or call 225-928-7867



By Brittany Langridge

Live Oak Auto Glass is at your service with only one call. Curtis and his crew will come to your location, at a time of your convenience, and will ready your vehicle for any long trip ahead.

Windshield Wellbeing: A Road Trip Must-Have

A road trip with the family is a staple in American living. Each year,

thousands of travelers pack their family vehicles to embark on the highways of this great country, seeking an adventure that can be remembered by all. Most of these road-trippers remember to inf late their tires, check their oil, and fuel up before hitting the interstate; however, many overlook the inspection of their windshields. James Curtis, owner of Live Oak Auto Glass, has shed some light on the importance of a clean, clear view of the road while travelling. “Whenever you go to a different state, there may be some minor alterations to the road regulations that you may not be familiar with,” says Curtis. “Also, you will be studying street signs you aren’t familiar with, and you may have never been on this road before. If you take away all the distractions that you can by having a clear windshield, you will help ensure the safety of a good family trip,” he said. According to Curtis, the windshield is the only piece of glass in a vehicle that is protected with a layer of plastic in between two panes of glass. This makes certain that most debris striking the glass will not enter the car, and it also aids in the prevention of passengers being catapulted through the windshield in the event of an accident. This safety glass is made to crack, not burst into pieces; but Curtis stresses that even a small crack can be dangerous to the driver. When planning for a vacation by way of the road, Curtis emphasizes that the windshield should be examined before driving away. The Louisiana State Police requires that windshields must be clear of cracks, stars, and knicks in order to pass the safety inspection test for vehicles on the road in the state, so it is important to regularly check your glass to make sure your windshield is legal. “If their windshield has knicks or small cracks, my suggestion would be to have those repaired. If there are any long cracks over six inches, the windshield needs replacing,” he said. Live Oak Auto Glass is always available to help with any auto glass repairs. With over 12 years of experience

in the field, Curtis guarantees the satisfaction of every customer. “I build my business around the quality of my work. With every job, we do our best to give them a great price, extreme performance, and we always strive for perfection,” Curtis says.



LOCATION133 ASPEN SQ., STE. DDENHAM SPRINGS, LA 70726CONTACT(225) 791-6215

-IN-HOUSE STUDIO-PORTRAITS-COMMERCIAL/CORPORATE-GRADUATION-CALL FOR APPOINTMENT



Take into account fi re safety when decorating your home. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors. You should plan ahead

to use only battery-powered lanterns or chemical light sticks in place of candles for decorations

and costumes. This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home smoke

alarms. If you do not have a smoke detector, please call 225-928-STOP. Protect your house from unwanted intruders or property vandals. Halloween night trickery, in many cases, ends with at least one house in a neighborhood being vandalized. Have your security alarm programmed if you leave the house to trick-or-treat with your

children, and explain to children the difference between tricks and

vandalism. Also, monitoring your home with such equipment as security cameras

and motion-detecting lights will keep your house from being the target of any shenanigans.

Halloween is a holiday like no other, and always proves to be enjoyable for the whole family, so it is important to make sure that everyone enjoys the festivities without any mishaps. Have fun, be SAFE, and HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

HOME SAFETY TIPSThe moon is full, the wind’s a chill ... This Halloween will be quite a thrill!

Scooby Doo’s frightened friend, Shaggy always said that he wouldn’t go anywhere with “scary,” “spooky,” “haunted,” or

“forbidden” in the title. During Halloween, however, it’s diffi cult to come across a house without something creepy in the yard or on the door; and that’s the point of the holiday! Carving pumpkins, building haunted houses and picking out outrageous costumes makes the month of October an entertaining and exciting time for all ages; nevertheless, safety is always an issue. It is imperative that during this ghoulish holiday, homeowners should be aware of the safety problems that could “creep” up throughout the night. With tons of characters roaming the streets, there are precautions that can be made to ensure that the only nightmares on “All Hallow’s Eve” are the fun ones. Make certain that trick-or-treaters are safe while on your property. Ensure that there are no tripping hazards or anything else that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house. Check for water hoses, fl ower pots, low tree limbs, and other obstacles that could be dangerous. Also, keep a clear path from your driveway to your door, so that visitors don’t have to walk through bushes or the yard in order to reach your doorway.

By Brittany Langridge



& Breakfast

Satisfy Your Hunger with Yummi Donuts or Breakfast!

1000 Florida Ave SE Ste C, Denham Springs, LA70726 (next to Subway and Texaco)243-4037

Mon – Fri: 5am – 11:30 am Sat & Sun: 6am – 12:30 am

FREE GLAZED DONUT or

10% of Entire PurchaseMust have this ad for offer.

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fi ve Invisible® 191 ADAPTiQ® speakers, and the Invisible Acoustimass bass module. The Invisible Acoustimass houses dual 5 1/4 -inch woofers as well as all of the power amplifi ers. The Invisible Acoustimass® module produces the deep, powerful low notes that bring action scenes to life. This Lifestyle® system has a host of innovative Bose technologies and can ADAPTiQ® its sound to your room, so you know your system is delivering the quality experience you expect from Bose. It can also digitally store up to 200 hours of music, while the uMusic® intelligent playback system actually learns your taste in music and selects songs for you; and with wireless room-to-room expansion options, it’s never been so simple to enjoy more music throughout your home.

BOTTOM LINE - The Lifestyle 38 system is a fi ne example of how technology inexorably evolves and improves. It builds on the essential features and quality of the previous Lifestyle home theater systems but adds the advantages of hard-disk music storage and instant access. Interestingly, the uMusic® features tip the balance of this home theater system back from video to audio — something music lovers will surely appreciate. Experience the Lifestyle® 38 Series IV system – a home entertainment system so innovative, it could only be from Bose; the most respected name in sound.

Make yourhome theater system

INvisibleA complete, high-performance home entertainment system that employs the most advanced Bose technologies available.

This is not your father’s stereo — or your iPod. The Bose Lifestyle 38 combines elements of both and adds its own share of functionality and fl exibility. The Lifestyle series has been a Bose mainstay for years, offering DVD playback with 5.1-channel surround sound in an attractive, easy-to-use package. This latest addition to the family goes beyond home theater, introducing both hard-disk storage and the uMusic® intelligent music-management system. You rip up to 200 hours worth of CD music to the internal hard disk in MP3 format, and as you make selections, uMusic® “learns” your tastes so it can automatically play the music you enjoy the most. Our most popular Lifestyle® system features the uMusic® intelligent playback system, now with HDMI connectivity. The Lifestyle® 38 Series IV DVD home entertainment system features action-packed sound for your movies and music. It features a host of innovative Bose® technologies, such as 200 hours of music storage and the ability to customize its sound to your room. This system now includes the VS-2 video enhancer, which simplifi es the integration and use of multiple video sources (even those with HDMI). It enables both audio and video switching at the touch of a button and automatically provides the highest video quality your TV can accept, from any attached video source.

Introducing the Bose® Lifestyle® BUILT-INvisible® DVD home entertainment system. Experience performance, elegance, and innovative Bose technologies that will change the way you listen to movies and music. The heart of the system is the stylish media center, which has a uMusic® hard-drive system, an AM/FM tuner, CD, and DVD player. For home theater action, the package includes

It felt like I was actually at the game!“After visiting Certifi ed’s showroom, saw a demonstration, I

was so impressed I wanted one for myself. I couldn’t believe the quality of reception and surround sound. It felt like I was

actually at the game. Certifi ed provided the professional and affordable service that I was looking for. The entire process

(from booking to end) was simple, fast and reliable.

I, not being very hi-tech, found the system is very user friendly. They answered my questions every step of the way - not only in

advance of the booking, but during the installation as well.

This system completely exceeded my expectations. I am still amazed of the sound and quality of every movie or golf

tournament I watch.

I’m extremely happy with the end result and have been enjoying my new Bose Lifestyle® 38 BUILT-INvisible system ever

since. Thank you, Certifi ed!”

-Bob Brunet Owner of Brunet’s Cajun Restaurant, Baton Rouge, LA


13

Certifi ed Home Theaters features BOSE®, SONY®, and KLIPSCH as our signature lines. Whether you are looking for just a television, surround sound system, background music, or a complete high-end home theater room, including a large projection screen, to theater-style seating, we can make this happen for you and your family. Remember, whether you are building a new home or updating an existing one, we offer a no-obligation in-home consultation to design a system that will be easy to use, affordable, as well as expandable for your family’s future entertainment needs!

We have found that many consumers have trouble getting their products professionally installed from the “big box stores.” That is where our expertise serves as your solution. Whether you purchase your entertainment system from us or another company, we will professionally install it for you. Just schedule a service call and we’ll take care of the rest!

At Certifi ed Home Theaters our main focus is YOU: the client. We know your home electronics system is a big investment. Our professionals will provide you with extensive options, comprehensive designs, complete installation, and in-home service for your system. From discriminating homeowners to custom builders, we offer options for all budgets and lifestyles. We offer a No-Obligation Home Assessment! Let us show you how Home Integration can enhance your lifestyle! We offer a complete suite of products that range from safety to entertainment to fi t your specifi c needs. Haven’t you waited long enough? Call us today at 225-928-7867, or visit us on the web at www.Certifi edHomeTheaters.com for the latest updates and specials!

To Advertise Please Visit Us Online at certifi edalarms.com or call 225-928-7867

We have found that many consumers have trouble getting their products

Everything I needed plus more!“I always wanted a home theater system of my own. I am

enjoying it even more than I had anticipated. It is so easy to use—doesn’t even require perusing the directions, which I really

like. Of course, the sound is terrifi c, but in addition to that, it just seems to have been designed so well. And the remote—

everything is just terrifi c.

Converting from our cumbersome setup to a “state-of-the-art” system which eliminated some eight components and several

remotes does everything I needed plus more!

Thanks again for your advice and your patience!”-Buster Smith

Owner of Dodge City Farm Supply, Denham Springs, LA

entertainment to fi t your specifi c needs. Haven’t you waited long enough? Call us today at 225-928-7867, or visit us on the web at www.Certifi edHomeTheaters.com



www.staffordamusements.com

One coupon per customer. Free delivery within 25 miles.

Each year, millions of women are victims of violence, usually, at the hands of

someone they know. Every woman should know how to recognize and reduce their risk of becoming a victim and how to effectively resist a physical attack if necessary. A woman who fi ghts back gains an 86% chance of avoiding the rape and incurs little chance of additional injury.

The Baton Rouge Police Department will be hosting another series of The Equalizer, a free self-defense class for women. Participants must be at least 13 years old with no current injuries. This class involves hands-on, physical training.

For more information about atending The Equalizer, and for course schedules, please contact the Training Academy at 225 389-3886 or visit online at www.ssgt.us.

Self-defense

4 11

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The Wooden Bowl

Candy Corn RiceCrispy Treats What you’ll need:

* 1/2 cup butter * 10 cups crispy rice cereal * 9 cups miniature marshmallows * 2 cups candy corn * Yellow and red food coloring

What to do:

1. Mix rice cereal and candy corn together in a large bowl, set aside. 2. In a large pot, melt butter and marshmallows over low heat; stir until smooth. Be sure to have an adult with you around the stove. 3. Remove from heat and add two drops yellow and one drop red food coloring, stir. 4. Add cereal mixture to the pot of melted marshmallows. Stir quickly to combine all ingredients. 5. Spread the sticky cereal mixture onto a large buttered baking pan, and press down with buttered hands. 6. Let cool and cut into squares.

care any longer when a fork dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth was soiled.

On a positive note, I’ve learned that, no matter what happens, how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow. I’ve learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles four things: a rainy day, the elderly, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights. I’ve learned that making a “living” is not the same thing as making a “life.” I’ve learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back sometimes. I’ve learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you, but, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others, your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will fi nd you. I’ve learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision. I’ve learned that even when I have pains, I don’t have to be one. I’ve learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone.

People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. I’ve learned that I still have a lot to learn. I’ve learned that you should pass this on to everyone you care about. I just did.

By Anonymous

A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson. The old man’s hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered. The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grandfather’s shaky hands and failing sight made eating diffi cult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the fl oor. When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth. The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. “We must do something about father,” said the son. I’ve had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the fl oor. So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.

When the family glanced in Grandfather’s direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food. The four-year-old watched it all in silence.

One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the fl oor. He asked the child sweetly, “What are you making?” Just as sweetly, the boy responded, “Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up.” The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.

The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.

That evening the husband took Grandfather’s hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to



Are You Getting the Most from Your Video Surveillance System?Get Proactive with Real-Time Remote Video MonitoringBy Jason Caldwell, Acadian Monitoring Services

security analysts can also utilize your camera network to conduct effective “virtual guard patrols” that encompass your entire facility. In addition to saving you money on guard costs, these advantages increase your chance of catching perpetrators red-handed and allow you to verify alarms to ensure a faster response from law enforcement. With real-time, remote interactive video monitoring you can dramatically reduce the chances that your business will fall victim to crime again.

America On Watch (A Division of Acadian Monitoring Services) partners with Certified Alarms to offer affordable, interactive 24/7 remote video monitoring for your business. We can provide you with a custom-designed virtual security solution and monitor your premises at a fraction of the cost compared with hiring security personnel. Whether your business is a convenience store, bank, automotive dealership or industrial facility, you’ll get state-of-the-art security coverage without outrageous costs. That’s a real value investment.

It’s time to take a proactive approach to your security. Contact Certified Alarms today and ask about real-time, remote video monitoring.

Every business requires a unique security solution to protect its

assets, employees, customers and critical infrastructure. You know your business can benefit from security but your overhead and inventory costs are already high and hiring one or more security guards is very costly. Security cameras and motion detection devices are often essential components in a security solution. However, even with today’s tremendous advancements in camera technology, even the most expensive security systems sometimes fail to dissuade criminals.

Current video surveillance solutions can do little more than record incidents and alert the business owner and police after the fact. Then begins the process of sifting through hours of recorded footage to locate the incident in question and hope that the video provides enough evidence to apprehend, prosecute, and/or recover property. This is called security after the fact: verification that an incident took place, and in best-case scenarios, the identity of the perpetrator(s). Is your video surveillance system able to alert you prior to an incident taking place and then actively assist responding authorities? It is if you employ real-time, interactive video monitoring.

The most common way to monitor video surveillance is to hire on-site private security personnel to watch a CCTV system as well as patrol a facility at regular intervals. This solution is extremely expensive and a security guard is limited only to what he can see at a particular moment based on the number of cameras he is trying to view at one time or his position within the facility as he conducts his patrol sweep.

A more viable, and cost-effective option is to employ a real-time, remote interactive monitoring solution that is event-driven and responds proactively to events before or as they are taking place. Technology handles the alert and a trained video security analyst takes care of the rest, remotely.

With real-time, remote video monitoring, you get the best of both solutions at a fraction of the cost and you can protect your business not just before and after – but also DURING a crime. Interactive video monitoring enables expertly trained video security analysts to respond to events instantaneously and allows them to provide real-time updates to responding authorities and business owners to ensure that any incident is resolved with minimal casualty and loss. Video



Pets Need Vets!By L.T. LeBouef

Halloween is a fun time for people: Parties, dressing up, and of course, candy! For pets, however, it can be pretty terrifying and even dangerous. Aside from costumes there are other things you need to keep in mind to ensure your pets safety.

If you hand out candy for trick-or-treating, make sure you pets are secured in a location away from the front door. Even if a constantly ringing doorbell doesn’t bother your cat or dog, an open door can be pretty

tempting to some and they may try and dart out.

If you dress up your dog for Halloween, make sure any

straps are not too tight and can be broken

away from if your dog gets caught

in something. Make sure the costume has no dangling parts or decorations that can be chewed off and choked on.

I

If you dress up your dog

PET Halloween SAFETY:

magnet with the Animal Poison Control hotline number, something every pet owner should keep handy. You can order the pack from their website at www.aspca.org.

In the South Louisiana summer heat, most pet owners are diligent in keeping their pets supplied with fresh water. As we head into September and October, however, some may become a little more lax. Do you know how to check your pets for dehydration? Li� the pets’ coats and let the fur fall. If the fur does not fall immediately, but slumps where you li� ed it, your pets are probably getting dehydrated. � is can cause kidney and bladder problems and make your pets sick.

Your pets and livestock do so much for you. Return the favor and get them the best veterinary care. Dodge City Veterinary Hospital is here waiting to help you.

Because pets age faster than humans, a good vet is the second-most

important person in your pets’ lives. Dodge City Veterinary Hospital in Denham Springs is a full-service veterinary clinic and hospital providing preventative medical and surgical care. We have four Doctors of Veterinary Medicine — Dr. Scott F. Smith, Dr. Gary L. Sullivan, Dr. Larry D. McCaskill, and Dr. Virginia C. Einck — on sta� to provide the very best possible care to the furry, feathered, and scaly members of your family. Because your pets are so important, we keep our prices reasonable, and we are open from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday and 7 a.m. till noon Saturday. We o� er everything from � ea control and other pet products to grooming and boarding, in addition to medical and surgical treatment for all breeds of large and small animals.

We would like to share a couple of safety tips with you to help protect these important members of your world. � e ASPCA o� ers a free pet safety pack that includes stickers for the windows in your home to alert rescue personnel that you have animals in your home that need their help as well. � e pack also includes a


18 tTo Advertise Please Visit Us Online at certifi edalarms.com or call 225-928-7867



Safely Sell Your HomeWhy Using a Realtor Keeps You Protected By Brittany Langridge

Aconcern for safety has become a huge priority for any homeowner who

decides to list their house on the real estate market. By using a licensed realtor to stage, show, and sell your home, the stress of a safe sale no longer becomes your worry. Realtors ensure the safety of their clients as well as the client’s property. Every real estate broker reminds sellers that strangers will be walking through their home during showings or open houses. They assist in hiding any valuables, including prescription medications and alcohol, as well as personal information such as bank statements that could be used for identity theft. Licensed agents always warn their clients of the dangers in allowing outsiders to view their home, and realtors do their best to keep the sale safe. When listing a house with an agent, buyers are asked to make an appointment with the agent to schedule a viewing. Potential buyers are not allowed to enter the home unannounced or without supervision. Realtors make certain that the privacy of the seller is a top priority; no potential buyer should know the identity of the homeowner until the closing of a sale, if at all. Also, realtors guarantee that each potential buyer entering a seller’s home will be documented, and the personal identification of the buyer will be on file. In the event of theft during a showing, lock boxes on the door will record the agent who has entered the home, and that agent will have to provide the information of the buyer that was viewing the property.

Moreover, realtors can be your safety buffer in the legal aspects of the sale. Someone of experience deals with the purchase agreements, referrals of inspectors, lenders, and title companies, as well as all other matters involving the law when selling your home. Large quantities of paperwork that accrue during negotiations are handled by the agent, leaving the seller to state their demands and sign on the dotted line. Today, with so many home-buyers looking for their dream home, it is important to have a broker who can protect your privacy, identity, and assist while your house is on the market. Call Kayla Johnson of Coldwell Banker One at 225-413-3762, and have peace of mind when selling your home!



Why UL Monitoring? It does little good to install the highest quality alarm equipment available if no one hears the alarm, or hears it too late. Poor monitoring can make even the best safety equipment worthless. Certifi ed Alarms, however, provides the very highest standard of monitoring to its customers. In whatever way their homes, offi ces, businesses or vehicles are threatened; whether by burglary, fi re, medical emergency, or other danger; distress signals provided by Certifi ed Alarms equipment are heard 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year. That continuous monitoring is provided through the oldest, locally owned UL (Underwriters Laboratories) approved monitoring station in Baton Rouge. Okay. So what does Underwriters Laboratory approval mean anyway, and is it really necessary? Well, no, it’s not necessary, but, many insurance companies require UL-approved monitoring or offer a discount for it. Once more, Certifi ed Alarms customers are assured of several advantages that non-UL approved systems may not have. Underwriters Laboratories requires all alarm monitoring facilities to be approved to their highest standards. In an on-site inspection, they also look for compatibility listings of all equipment, construction requirements, two fi re-rated security doors and a back-up power supply. In addition, the station must have at least two staff members on duty at all times and those staff members can’t be running an answering service in their spare time, as many alarm company owners do to “better utilize” their staff. Certifi ed Alarms also offers its monitoring services not only to customers who have purchased its products but also to those who have competitors systems. Wireless alarm transmission is for fast, safe and reliable alarms reporting. Every second counts when disaster strikes. Telephone lines can take as much as 30 seconds or longer to send your alarm to the monitoring station while your wireless alarm arrives in 2-3 seconds. For this reason, Certifi ed Alarms recommends CAS-IntelliNet Radio Monitoring System. CAS-IntelliNet’s long-range radio mesh alarm communications system allows no single point of failure. The signal self heals and re-routes itself intuitively without the need of phone lines, wires or towers. Also, this wireless connection is so reliable it’s approved for UL Fire Monitoring.

Digital Video Surveillance Done Right. Certifi ed Alarms’ commitment to service means that each security and surveillance solution is a custom project based upon the customer’s current and future needs. The company specializes in a wide range of technical areas: IP cameras, Fiber & Ethernet Networks, Mesh Technologies, Analog Surveillance, Hybrid Security Systems, Point of Sale Systems, and Access Control. Certifi ed Alarms’ Video Monitoring Services can protect interior or exterior spaces and can be customized and integrated with other elements of your electronic security systems. The company’s service utilizes the most technologically-advanced equipment on the market and monitors your building. Certifi ed can call up video cameras at your business on a specifi c schedule, with operators serving as virtual security guards touring your property; or Certifi ed can remotely view your property in response to an alarm signal. This allows you to reduce the cost of 24-hour security guards while improving the reliability and regularity of guard tour security checks. Video analytics uses advanced technology, which enables numerous important functions. Motion detection is one of the benefi ts of video analytics that can be adjusted to different sensitivity levels. Another signifi cant function is the object detection. The software is programmed to differentiate various objects and also identify if an object changes or disappears. To learn more, please read “Are You Getting the Most from Your Video Surveillance System?” on page 16. Certifi ed Alarms is bridging the gap to provide various services to help you keep an eye on your business anytime from anywhere! Business owners and managers--you can view critical sectors of your sites (including multi-business locations) via PC or mobile devices. Certifi ed Alarms constantly strive to stay on the leading edge of technology and keep all of their employees well trained.

Home Theater and Beyond Another one of Certi� ed’s extras – Home � eaters – has become more than a company sideline. Certi� ed Alarms is now called Certi� ed Alarms and Home � eaters, as the sign on their new 20,000 - square - foot building proudly proclaims. � e advertising outside is carried out on the inside with a complete Home � eater demo room featuring Bose, SONY and Klipsch products.

With these products, Certi� ed Home � eaters can provide everything from a simple television (SONY, Samsung, Toshiba, LG, Hitachi, and Sharp), to a surround sound system or background music, to a complete high-end home theater room with a large projection screen television and theater seats. Not only are Certi� ed’s prices comparable to the big box stores, but they can have it professionally installed by one of their certi� ed technicians who meet stringent requirements; rigorously background checked, and drug screenings. As Certi� ed Alarms has always provided for your family’s safety with an individualized plan based on a no-obligation home consultation, Certi� ed Home � eaters also provides for your family’s entertainment needs.

AND THEY’RE NOT DONE YET! Protect your vehicle, protect your family, protect yourself, and manage your entire � eet with a NavLogix Portable GPS Tracking Unit from Certi� ed Alarms. � is is a multi-purpose, portable GPS-tracking beacon ideal for a variety of vehicle applications such as � eet management, personally owned vehicles and personnel security, including lone worker protection.

It does not require installation, enabling the device to be moved between vehicles. Combined with a web-based mobile

Why UL Monitoring?Why UL Monitoring?

That continuous monitoring is provided through the oldest, locally owned UL (Underwriters Laboratories) approved monitoring station in Baton Rouge. Okay. So what does Underwriters Laboratory approval mean anyway,

continued from page 5



monitoring system, the device provides key information about vehicles and an unprecedented level of protection. In the event of a theft or critical alarm, you’ll receive notifi cations via email or cell phone; the item location can be tracked in real-time by Certifi ed’s monitoring station operators, who will dispatch the appropriate emergency personnel.

Certifi ed Alarms has Home Automation systems for complete integrated home solutions for every lifestyle and budget with a full range of home control systems and accessories. HAI offers more options than ever before, plus comprehensive integrated product families for true plug and play ease, including energy management, security, lighting control, multi-room audio, surveillance, access control, and home entertainment options! HAI’s products can increase the energy effi ciency of your home via lighting control, temperature control, and control of large energy using devices. Multiple interfaces let you choose how to monitor and control your home. You can use an intuitive touch screen, remote control, or television as a fun way to interact with your system. Enhance your security and energy effi ciency with remote access from a cell phone, telephone or computer.

“We also own a company called INOWD (International Network of Web Design), and of course our new magazine, “Safe & SOUND,” Rusty said. “Jan and I, along with our entire staff want to thank every one of our family, friends, and customers for your support and loyalty over the last 18 years. We look forward to serving you and your families in the future and for many years to come.”

� e Certi� ed Team “Jan and I realized early on that we were only going to be as successful as our team was,” Rusty Howard said, “so we set out on a mission to attract the best team possible.”

The Howards started out with good friends, pictured below: Back Row: Wylann Cloud, Commercial Installation Manager; Mike Staley, Sales Manager; Barry Schexnaydre, Purchasing Manager. Middle Row: Harley Willard, Parts Man-ager; Dean Burks, General Manager; Ricky Geter, New Construction Sale.s Front Row (seated): Rusty Howard, President/CEO; Jan Howard, CFO; Mandy Quartz, Personnel Manager; David Quartz, Service Manager.

That team has grown enormously over the years. Certifi ed Alarms now has many more employees, including 21 installers and service technicians. This team is trusted by Certifi ed customers to enter their homes and businesses and install the devices that they will entrust with the security of their property, and more importantly, with the safety of their families.

It goes without saying that all of Certifi ed’s installers are certifi ed them-selves as well as being bonded and insured. They are, in addition, loyal to their company and dedicated to serving its customers. Why? Because they have been chosen with care; their backgrounds and references are checked before they start training; they are drug tested and state-licensed before they start work.

When Certifi ed Alarms and Home Theaters recently opened its new state of the art facility, the building included amenities such as a complete home theater demo room, a huge kitchen with a full glass overhead door and a great view of the outdoors along with other employee-friendly features. Plans are also in the works for an employee day care center, a new training area, and a fi tness center.

The people who enter Certifi ed Alarms customers’ homes are part of a team of industry professionals that truly understand the value of dedication and hard work. The entire corporate team is a tightly woven group that works together in perfect harmony. Certifi ed’s track record with their clients has been outstanding in the past, and the company fully intends to keep it that way in the future.

“A friend of mine once told me, before you can play ball you must build a team,” Rusty Howard said. “Now, let’s play ball!”

Photo courtesy of Debbie Medlock Photography (see ad on page 6)


To Advertise Please Visit Us Online at certifiedalarms.com or call 225-928-786722


To Advertise Please Visit Us Online at certifi edalarms.com or call 225-928-7867 23


AMX-LA40 SEPT-OCT09

PRESORT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDDALLAS, TX

PERMIT #1404

To place a ad in Safe & SOUND, please call 225-928-7867 or visit certifi edalarms.com/safeandsound

A D V E R T I S I N G


sept - oct 2009 safe & sound magazine

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