Wheelie bins are on the whole, a great invention, but their misuse is a growing problem across the UK. Examples of misuse range from use in arson attacks, to use by burglars as a getaway cart!

...but the Wheelie Bin Lock from Insight Security, offers a simple, practical and low cost solution for 'domestic' and 'commercial' users.

Wheelie Bins Used for Arson Attacks:

Whether first hand, or on the BBC TV News, we’ve all seen the consequences of wheelie bins that have been used in arson attacks on schools, homes or businesses.

When used for arson attacks, typically the wheelie bins are stuffed with combustible materials to form a fire bomb, then positioned against a doorway or other vulnerable point of the building and set alight! 

…the resulting damage can run into tens of thousands (or in extreme cases, hundreds of thousands) of pounds,  …but the Wheelie Bin Lock (also referred to as: Wheeley Bin Locks) will stop your wheelie bin being misused!

Wheelie Bins Used as a ‘Getaway’ cart:

BBC’s popular ‘Beat The Burglar’ TV series, offers practical advice on how to protect your home against burglars.

In a recent episode, the 'ex villain' presenter of the show, demonstrated how a wheelie bin makes an excellent vehicle for carrying away the items stolen from your property …having filled the bin with the items stolen from the house, he simply wheeled it away down the street in the owners wheelie bin!

Chaining up your wheelie bins with a Wheelie Bin Lock will ensure your bin won’t be used as a getaway cart for the burglar!

Wheelie Bins use as a climbing aid:

You may lock up your ladders, but what many people overlook is that the wheelie bin can be used by thieves or vandals, as a climbing frame to gain access to your flat roofs or other vulnerable areas!

Locking up your wheelie bin in a safe area will ensure that yours can’t be used in that way …once again, the Wheelie Bin Lock offers a practical low cost solution!

Wheelie Bins and the vandal:

We all know that kids have nothing to do these days! …so it’s hardly surprising that cases of mindless morons emptying the contents of wheelie bins onto the street or into gardens, etc. are not uncommon.

Not only is the result an unpleasant mess, but it could also pose a health risk, or encourage unwelcome animal attention from the likes of rats, foxes or seagulls.

The wheelie bin lock provides a simple solution!

Ideal for Commercial or Domestic use:

Available in a range of sizes, low cost Wheelie Bin Locks are suitable for domestic or commercial use and will help protect you against the above threats and lots more...

For more information or to buy on-line, visit the Insight Security ‘on-line security shop’

Summer is here again, a time for relaxing on the beach, leisurely pub grub, a day exploring a country home or frightening yourself to death on the latest ride at one of the major theme parks!

Whatever you’re doing however, there’s always the problem of how to protect the valuables you leave in your car, which is where an in-vehicle car safe is a blessing.

Here are some tried and tested vehicle safes

Your Sat.Nav. may be magic at getting you to your destination, but who wants to cart it to the beach or around a theme park?

What do you do with your camera or your laptop computer while you enjoy that pub lunch?

Do you really want to take those valuable rings on to the beach?

Of course you could just take a chance and leave your valuables in the car, but that’s a risky strategy. While the theft of vehicles has dramatically reduced over recent years as manufacturers have added immobilisers and other protection to make driving a vehicle away much more difficult unless you have the key, the theft of items from vehicles has been on the increase right across the country (over 2,000,000 p.a. in the UK), so theft of items from our car is a serious risk to all of us!

Vehicle safes are designed to be attached to a suitable anchor point within cars, vans, truck cabs, or even boats and caravans. Available in a range of sizes and security levels, smaller units can easily be anchored under the front passenger seat of most cars, while others are intended to be secured in the boot.

Most car safes are anchored to the vehicle by means of a special security cable, which wraps around a suitable robust fixture such as a seat runner, or seat belt anchor point, with the leading end of the cable being locked into the safe. With this type of vehicle safe, not only are your valuables stored out of sight, but if thieves do break into your vehicle they’ll not be able to grab your safe and run.

With quality car safes available from under £30 (less than the cost of your pub lunch!), they’re easily affordable by everyone, so why take a chance with your valuables?

Use this link for more information about a great value range of tried and tested car safes.  

There are many reasons why you may need to leave a key to your home for your children, trusted cleaner, careworker, etc. and a safe way to do it, is with a secure outdoor key box.

  Here's one example

These robust little key safes are available in a range of models, with a choice of a digital keypad (as shown above) or tumbler type dial to enter your secret code. Typing in your secret access code allows the key box to be opened and the stored key or other contents to be removed.

Some outdoor key safes are designed to store just one or two flat keys, whilst others are large enough to store several keys and / or credit card size access control cards, so there’s a model that’s just right for your needs.

Permanently fixed outdoor keysafes, are designed to bolt or screw to a wall or external bulkhead, while others have the general appearance of an oversize padlock, where the key is stored in the body section and the shackle is designed to attach the unit to a metal gate or other suitable anchor point.

In use, you simply set your secret access code, which you can then share with trusted persons who you want to have access to the stored key or other contents (you could even use it to leave payment for your window cleaner!).

Changing your access code is very quick and easy and you can change it as often as you like. So if you want stop an existing user from having further access to your key box, just change your code and don’t tell them the new one.

There are many different models to choose from. Prices range from modest to ridiculously high, manufacturing quality from questionable to excellent and ease of use from simple to “where’s the blasted user manual”!

You can check here for the latest prices on a selection of best value outdoor key safes and key boxes, or for more information on how they work and how they could help you, visit; the Insight Security website where you’ll find full details of the best of the leave-a-key bunch;

http://www.insight-security.com/key-leave.htm

Perimeter security, as your first line of defence, is arguably the most important aspect of any security strategy .

A well thought out security plan involves many layers of security, however, the main thing to remember is this:  If your building or grounds look well protected, most burglars or intruders won’t even bother to take a closer look and instead move on to easier pickings.

So what type of perimeter security is best for you?

There are many products available ranging from anti climb paint, to wall spikes and rotating anti climb spinners. The first thing to bear in mind however, is that there are restrictions on what you can use for different height walls and fences. 

Here’s a quick guide to the best anti climb products around and where you can use them:

#1   For metal fences or walls at least 5’ 6” high

Your main limitation here is the height.  5’ 6” is too low to fit any of the more aggressive anti-climb systems.  This is because it may present an unnecessary risk to the public (or trespassers!).

Here’s a good solution:

Roller Barrier Non Aggressive Anti Climb Barrier

Roller Barrier would be a good option at this height because it’s virtually impossible to climb yet, with the absence of spikes, it won’t injure anyone.

Roller Barrier is a row of polycarbonate cylinders that independently rotate about a central spindle.  Essentially, each cylinder is just too large for an adult to gain a hand grip.  This makes it impossible for an intruder to get a grip and pull themselves up. 

Because of its non aggressive nature, Roller Barrier is rapidly becoming the anti climb product of choice for schools and public buildings and you'll also see it used trackside by the rail network. 

Another reason that it's popular with schools and local authorities is that the main component is manufactured from recycled polycarbonate, so it's environment friendly and helps with recycling targets. 

#2  For walls, metal fences and gates above 6’

You have a number of choices:

Razor Comb
It’s an oddly named product because it’s blunt and not at all ‘razor like’.  However, it looks menacing, which is what makes it effective. 

Razor Comb is fixed down by a row of screws or bolts, alternatively, it can be welded on to metal gates or fences. 
Security Grade: low

Razor Channel "U" Profile
This is a galvanised steel channel with 45 degree angle cut-outs on either side of the U forming a row of uneven spikes.

Razor Channel ‘U’ Profile is easy to fit by simply screwing, bolting or welding it on to the top of walls, fences or gates. 
Security Grade: medium

Razor Channel "W" Profile
Manufactured in the same way as the ‘U’ profile, Razor Channel ‘W’ Profile is a galvanised steel fabrication that looks a bit like a concertina or ‘W’ shape. 

It sits on the outside edge of a wall, fence or flat roof with one spiked edge pointing forward and the other spiked edge pointing upward.

It’s easy to fit by simply screwing or bolting it on to the top outer edge of walls, fences, gates or flat roofs. 
Security Grade: medium

Here are the main options:

Razor Spike 11
This is a highly aggressive fixed barrier originally developed in South Africa.  Manufactured from galvanised (weatherproof) mild steel, Razor Spike 11 is highly effective at keeping the more determined intruder out.

Rows of barbed spikes (like fish hooks) spring out in different directions sending out a clear message to any would be intruder.
It’s simple to fit with rows of pre-drilled fixing holes ready for screw or bolt fixing.

Because of its effectiveness and aggressive yet attractive appearance, this product is installed worldwide on properties ranging from the private homes of football stars, to many types of commercial property as well as on Government buildings such as Embassies.
Security Grade: high
 

Now we move up a gear to ‘rotating’ anti-climb barriers and spinners. Rotating barriers provide a more formidable obstacle for intruders, particularly when embellished with spikes!

RotaSpike
This aggressive looking anti climb system is designed to be mounted on wall or fence tops.  The system comprises a series of spiked collars (each featuring 3 protruding spikes welded to a central collar), which when fitted rotate freely around a central spindle.

RotaSpike is a steel fabrication that’s fully weatherproof thanks to its galvanised finish.  As an option, it can be also be supplied with a durable paint finish in a range of colours.
Security Grade: high
 
Vanguard
Vanguard is regarded as one of the most difficult anti-climb barriers to defeat.  In fact it was tested by the British Army who confirmed this. 
 
It’s manufactured from ripped aluminium tubing, formed into a peeled banana shape, the rotating vanes are mounted on a central spindle supported by fixing brackets at 2 metre intervals.

Vanguard is the number one choice for use around commercial depots, yards and vulnerable railway trackside areas. It’s also widely used by banks and hotels, around their delivery areas.
 
The standard finish is natural aluminium however it can also be supplied in a choice of durable paint finishes.
Security Grade: high

Note ; remember, where use of a spiked type rotating barrier is not an option, Roller Barrier could be the ideal solution.

1. The minimum safe height for installing hazardous anti-climb barriers is 2 meters above ground level (higher height restrictions may apply in some locations and for some products).
   
2. Where ever you install them, make sure there’s no possibility of anyone accidentally falling onto them.
   
3. Make sure warning signs are clearly displayed at all approaches to the barrier (at least one every 5 meters on straight runs).

And finally...

Check out these links for the best prices and more information:
      
Fixed barriers:  

Razor Spike 11
Razor Channel "U" Profile
Razor Channel "W" Profile
Razor Comb
Spiked Collars for Poles & Downpipes

Rotating Barriers:  

Roller Barrier
Vanguard
RotaSpike

Other Related Products:  

Warning Signs
Anti Climb Paint

 

Anti Climb Paint is a practical measure and one of the effective tools in the security armoury to protect against lead theft from roofs!
 

A massive escalation of theft of lead from roofs has led Sussex Police to warn people to check their roofs after wet weather has caused many such thefts to come to light!

Thieves have targeted the roofs of; shops, as well as many schools, churches and hotels amongst other buildings and in many cases, the theft was not identified until internal water damage resulting from heavy rain became evident.

The problem has become such an issue, that the Police are urging anyone spotting metal being removed from buildings to call 999 and report the fact - even where the workpersons look genuine and are are wearing hi-vis jackets, etc.
 
Other advice includes;

- painting key areas of lead roofs with grey anti climb paint, which makes removal of lead a much more difficult and messy business.

- ensure that roof access areas are well lit at night

- installation of wireless alarms to monitor roof access areas

- installation of CCTV (or image recording system)

For details of a wide range of proven security products visit the Insight Security website 

Security Seals for Parcels and Goods in Transit

There are many situations where it's important to know if someone has tried to gain access to, or could have tampered with, the contents of some type of sealed container.

There are of course products such as 'Pull Tight' security seals and ties that can be used with many types of container, but these are not suitable for use with the humble cardboard box.     

To solve the problem, Insight Security have introduced to their product range, a large, tape type - tamper evident parcel seal - designed specifically for applications such as use as a tamper evident seal for boxes and parcels in transit.
 
Supplied in roll form, the self adhesive labels simply peel off the roll and are applied directly to the receiving surface. The special adhesive on these labels is designed to bond effectively to fibrous surfaces such as cardboard, as well as plastic surfaces.
 
Once stuck in position, any attempt to lift or remove the label from the surface will result in a message warning that the tape has been opened thus indicating that the parcel, etc. could have been tampered with.

...and once the warning message (which is laminated into the adhesive layer) has appeared, it is not possible to reseal the label and hide the message.

How do you protect your;

• Laptop Computer,
• Satellite Navigation System,
• Mobile Phone ...and other valuables

when you have to leave them in your vehicle?
 
 
If you're not locking them in a secure vehicle safe, you're at high risk of losing them!
 
Why? - well there are some 2,000,000 vehicle break-ins in the UK every year - that's one break-in every 13 seconds! ...and there's no place in the country that's free from risk!
 
So you'll be glad to know that there are a great range of vehicle safes available which will protect your valuables, and if you hurry, you can grab a unit at a special offer price from as little as £17.99 ex vat from Insight Security.
 
...but you really will have to hurry, these crazy prices are only available for existing stock, and the offer ends 28th February at the latest.
 

The Leave-a-Key key safe provides a simple and practical way to leave a key safely at your property to allow an authorised person access in your absence.

Traditionally people have resorted to hanging the door key on a piece of string inside the letterbox, hiding a key under the external doormat or a nearby plantpot, etc, but the Leave-a-Key key safe offers a much safer way to solve the problem! 

Already a favourite with home helps and health visitors calling on the elderly or infirm, who may not be able to get to the door to let them in, external key safes are not a new idea, but Insights price breakthrough now means that everyone can afford one.

These key safes also offer a practical solution to leaving keys for children returning from school to a temporarily empty house, leaving keys for guests hiring holiday cottages or caravans, etc.

Which is the right key safe for you?

In very simple terms, all key safes are basically a code controlled lockable box which can be attached to the outside of your building, caravan, gates, etc.

In operation, you will place a key into the box and lock it shut (usually just by inserting the locking security faceplate into position and pressing it home). To access the stored key you simply enter the security access code that you have set, which releases the faceplate so that you can access and remove the key again.

If you want other people to be able to get at the key, you simply tell them the secret access code ...and with the best key safes, you can change the security code quickly and easily, as often as you like

...so if you no longer want someone you have given the code to to enter you property when you're not there, simply change the code.

The main considerations when choosing a key safe are; size and type of access mechanism (digital keypad or tumbler operated lock).

Size:

If you only want to store one or two cylinder lock type flat keys, virtually any of the leave-a-key key safes will provide adequate internal storage capacity.

For bulkier keys or if you need to leave several keys, a keysafe with a larger internal capacity will be required, such as the digital keypad operated Leave-a-key Maxibox or the 4 tumbler Masterbox key safe.

Access mechanism:

Tumbler Lock operated units;

These are generally the cheapest type of Leave-a-key units and the access code is typically entered via a 3 or 4 wheel tumbler combination lock. These are perfectly good units that won't break the bank, but from a security point of view, a 4 wheel tumbler should be the minimum choice (allows 9,999 combinations - a 3 wheel tumbler only allows 999 combinations).

Setting the tumblers into position to open the key safe is a little more fiddly that using a digital keypad operated unit and of course tumbler locks are not as easy to use in the dark!

One other consideration with a tumbler lock is weathering, ...the numbers on the tumbler wheels tend to weather and become more difficult to read over time, so our advice would be to buy a unit where the tumbers are protected by some type of weather shield such as the Masterbox Leave-a-key key safe (currently on offer £19.95 ex vat)

Digital Keypad operated units;

Simpler to use, a unit with a digital keypad is obviously a much better choice if the keysafe will need to be used by the elderly or infirm, anyone with failing eyesight, etc, or simply for convenience. 

As with Tumbler Lock units, the security access code should be quick and easy to change and you should be able to change it as often as you like (be warned, there are units out there that only allow you to change the code a certain number of times).

Again, a weather protector cover for the keypad is recommended, however because of the layout of the keypad with this type of unit, you can key in the access code by feeling the position of the keys alone, so if the numbering becomes less visible, it's not so much of a problem (and you could even do it in the dark!).

The compact digital keypad type Midibox Leave-a-key key safe from Insight Security is a great little unit which is currently on offer for £29.90 ex vat 

The digital keypad type Maxibox Leave-a-key key safe stores bulkier or multiple keys and is currently on special offer for £25.80 ex vat 

Some Other Useful Weblinks;...

...view a full range of Leave-A-Key key safes and emergency key boxes 

...view all types of key management, key storage and key control products including key safes, key cabinets, key tracking systems, etc.

Still not sure? - need advice?   ...contact the Insight Security helpline: 01273 475500 their advice is free, but could save you a costly mistake!

Could you be buying from a "Dodgy" UK Website?

This morning, the BBC and all other major UK news channels have been giving significant coverage to the problem of buying goods on line from what purports to be a UK based company with a ".co.uk" web address, only to find that the company is not British and the goods could be counterfeit.

The case used to illustrate the problem for the morning newsround, featured a victim who purchased a pair of Nike trainers on line from a plausible .co.uk website, only to find that the website belonged to a company in China, and that the trainers were in fact fakes!

So how can you protect yourself?

When you are considering buying on-line you may want to consider taking some extra precautions before parting with your money. A couple of simple things you can do are;

 - use the "WHOIS" internet checking facility to see who owns the website

 - make sure the website clearly shows a UK trading address and telephone number

 - if you're worried about the supplier, you can always phone to check that it's a valid telephone number

 - you can check the validity of the post code using one of the various free on-line postcode checking facilities or you can use "google maps" to see that the property actually exists and is what it claims (a recent check I made on a business trading address using "google maps", clearly showed the location to be a flat in a residential block, ...may be not a problem for some types of business, but certainly in this instance the property was not a large warehouse as indicated by the website!) 

To keep things in perspective, the old adage "if it looks to good to be true..." is worth remembering. And whilst for some types of product, a cheap copy may be perfectly adequate (or even desirable), when it comes to something that must be as described and the genuine article you need to be more rigorous with your checking!

A good example of an area where buying the genuine article is critical is security products. A metal detector that detects "sometimes" it more dangerous than one that doesn't work at all and the same principle applies to most other security products whether it be a personal alarm, padlock or whatever.

Good websites will show:

Check out the Insight Security website to see how a good company website will provide you with full company address and contact details including; company name and trading address, phone & fax numbers, company registration number, etc (not just an e-mail address or mobile phone number!)

...and the Insight-Direct On-Line security shop also shows full contact details on the "CONTACT US" page ...while you're there, don't forget to check out the current security product bargains!

It's not exactly rocket science, but making a few simple, practical checks like those mentioned above, before you buy, makes very good sense and could save you a costly mistake  ...happy & safe shopping.

Insight Security have extended their range of galvanised spiked anti climb brackets and anti climb pole collars that you can buy at on-line prices through their Web Shop.

Custom built spiked anti climb collars for poles with diameters of;

              76 mm (3.0")     89 mm (3.5")      100 mm (4.0")      114 mm (4.5")

can now be bought on-line and as these popular sizes are normally available from stock, the units will typically be delivered within 3-4 days of placing your order.

If you have an urgent need for the product or require delivery on a specific date, simply call the Insight Customer Services line - tel: 01273 475500 - they'll be happy to take your order over the phone and arrange delivery to suit your requirements.

If the product you need happens to be temporarily out of stock when you want to order, or you require a bespoke size unit, manufacturing leadtime should be no more than 10-14 days maximum under normal circumstances ...and the product may be available sooner.

Insight also offer a range of "Instant - Spiked Anti Climb Brackets", which they fabricate from their Razor Spike anti climb barrier. These versatile units can be produced to fit any size of post or pole and can normally be delivered within 1 to 2 working days of order if you're desperate.

As well as providing a very low cost anti climb solution, the Instant anti climb brackets also offer installers a convenient and practical solution where it's not possible to wait for a bespoke unit to be manufactured. 

Other perimeter security and anti climb devices offered by Insight include; anti-climb paint (available in grey or black), wall and fence spikes, rotating anti climb barriers including the popular Non Aggressive "Roller Barrier" anti climb barrier which is rapidly becomming the preferred option for schools, etc. as there is no risk of children impaling themselves should they try to climb it. ...and don't forget the warning signs!

Visit www.insight-security.com for details of their full range of tried and tested perimeter security products  

The answer of course depends on what you want to use it for!
 
If for example you are looking for an under vehicle search mirror, your requirements will be very different than if you're a dentist needing to inspect the inside of a patients mouth (it would be tricky to get a 300mm diameter inspection mirror into a mouth!),

...but lets be sensible about it, and assume that your requirement is for a security mirror for use in searching vehicles or premises for contraband, explosive devices, stowaways, etc.
 
What are the key considerations?
 
   1. Size
   2. Material
   3. Lighting Conditions
   4. Weight and usability
   5. Cost
 
Lets consider each of these areas in more depth:

1. Size
 
If you are looking for a personal security 'pocket type inspection mirror' you will probably want to make sure that the mirror size is no greater than say 65 x 120mm or you'll need a pretty large pocket.

For other types of inspection mirror, a larger format mirror will offer a larger viewing area and therefore make searching or inspecting a larger area quicker and easier.

Typically round mirrors from around 140mm diameter to around 400mm are favoured, whilst rectangular mirrors up to around 300 by 400mm are also commonly used.
 
2. Mirror Material
 
Historically glass has been the favoured choice, however it is obviously a fragile material which is easily broken. The new generation of plastic mirrors are now rapidly taking over as the favoured alternative for this type of application.

There are however a wide range of types of plastics available ranging from the virtually unbreakable polycarbonate type material, to the cheaper but more fragile acrylic type materials. Being softer than glass, plastics are more prone to scratching, however some plastic mirrors are available with a specially coated surface which offers a level of protection against scratches.

Other materials include polished stainless steel, however not only are such mirrors very expensive, but their performance can be seriously compromised by scratching or denting.

3. Illumination & Lighting Conditions
 
To many first time buyers, the addition of a supplementary light source to the search mirror seems an unnecessary luxury (and expense), however established users are well aware that in many situations it's not just a luxury, but an absolute essential.

Try using an inspection mirror to search the underside of a vehicle at night! That's a case which most people can see would require a light source to make it viable, however in practice its just as essential when trying to inspect the underside of a vehicle in bright sunlight.
 
Any fitted light source should be capable of generating a significant level of illumination to be effective. In some cases a simple torch would be perfectly acceptable , but as a general rule of thumb, anything less than 40-50 lumens light output is unlikely to be effective (be warned; many of the products currently on sale are fitted with totally inadequate light sources).

4. Weight and usability
 
If you're only going to use your search mirror for 5 minutes a day, this area of consideration won't be high on your priority list, but if you are expecting your operatives to use such products for hours at a time, it's absolutely critical. 

Weight is an obvious consideration, the heavier the unit the less usable the unit will be and the more likely that the operative will be distracted from the task of concentrating on the search activity. A trolley type search mirror, features castors on the underside which is one way of minimising the weight issue.  

Operational length - it is important that your mirror is comfortable to use. An inspection mirror with a 2 metre handle for instance, will be a challenge for a shorter operative to use, while a unit with 1 metre handle will place considerable bodily stress on a tall operative during use. The solution is a telescopic type handle which can be locked at any length (rather than at fixed stops) between its fully closed and fully extended position.

Mirror size - a very large mirror on a long handle would be difficult to control if used in windy conditions to inspect the top of high sided vehicles, ...but a smaller format mirror would be required to check into cramped or restricted areas - make sure you choose a mirror size suitable for your requirements.
 
5. Cost
 
Obviously cost is an issue for any organisation, especially in the current economic climate, but this is certainly one of those products where 'Value' is much more important than 'Price'. ...and remember when calculating the lifetime cost of ownership of these products, items such as batteries, etc. can have a significant impact (low energy LED lighting for instance can operate for 100 hours or so from a couple of small batteries, a conventional torch will operate for just a few hours on a set of batteries).

We hope you have found this helpful, but if you would like more details of a proven range of effective search and inspection mirrors,

visit;   http://www.insight-security.com/mirrors.htm

alternatively to buy on line now,

go to;    http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/DotNetShop/listsubgroup.aspx?Group=11&SubGroup=4

...or if you would like to discuss your requirements and get some practical advice from a security expert, just call Insight Security on; 01273 475500

their advice is free ...and could save you a small fortune

It's not everyday that the promotion of a security product at an exhibition generates the level of enthusiasm that the Non Aggressive Roller Barrier anti climb system achieved at the ALARM annual Conference and Exhibition, so it's great to buck the trend.

Although Roller Barrier has been available for around two years now in its present beefier and upgraded form, it's still a product which many local authorities are unaware of - even though they desperately need it.

Those Local Authorities that do know about it, are already specifying it for use in and around schools, as the total lack of spikes which could cause impalement injuries makes it the safest anti climb barrier currently available anywhere.

In addition to reducing the risk of impalement which can lead to costly compensation claims, Roller Barrier is manufactured from Recyled polycarbonate, so it can also help with meeting recycling targets.

It's simple to install, maintenance free and cost effective (and obviously weatherproof, UV stabilised for long operational life and flame retardant).

But don't just take our word for it! - check out the product in detail at the Roller Barrier page of the Insight Security Website.

...or you can check out Roller Barrier and the ALARM Conference and Exhibition.

It is now some months since the government publicly recognised the threat of the economic recession leading to increased burglaries and other crime.

Well, despite their predictions being suspect in many areas, it seems that at least they were accurate with that prediction, and sales of Adaptabar Security Window Bars have soared as domestic and commercial users across the UK beef up their security to tackle the growing threat.

It is well known that a favourite break-in point for burglars is a vulnerable window, especially where it is not easily overlooked from the street or other parts of the building(s). But securing a window against break-ins is not only easy, but need not cost an arm and a leg.

A security grille or burglar bar type window security bar system will provide robust protection agains the burglar. The choice of system will depend on a number of factors, but basically the choice will come down to opting for a low cost modular window security bar and grille system, or a custom 'made-to-measure' unit, which will naturally be more expensive as it will require a professional surveyor (and sales visit!) prior to delivery and then professional installation.

The Adaptabar Modular security grille and window bar system from Insight Security offers a practical low cost solution which is so simple to install that even someone with basic handyman skills can fit it - potentially saving the cost of employing a professional installer!

Insight have just put up a new page Adaptabar Security Window Bar System  on their website describing the system and its benefits, so if you are considering beefing up your window security, we would recommend you log on to check it out

- it could save you a fortune, and the product can normally be delivered from stock, so there's no tedious wait for sales visits, surveys and the bespoke manufacturing.

Great news for key managers, now everyone can afford a key storage cabinet with digital codelock access.
 
Now you don't need to worry about getting dozens of keys cut for all those users authorised to have access to the centrally stored keys. Just give each authorised user the access code that you have programmed into the codelock and away you go!
 
Worried about security when an employee leaves? ... simply change the code (you can change the acccess code as often as you like) and give each currently authorised user the new code. And remember, your master code (which you can also change as often as you like) will always allow you to open the cabinet as well as allowing you to change the access codes.
 
With prices from under £65.00 for a cabinet with digital codelock fitted, your key problems are solved!

Checkout the options at;
 
      http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/DotNetShop/listsubgroup.aspx?Group=7&SubGroup=1

As the recession bites, more and more companies are finding themselves forced to shed staff in an attempt to reduce operating costs to a level which will allow them to continue trading. For many however, this means that there are times when staff may be required to work alone - raising "Staff Safety" and "Employer Duty of Care" issues.

The good news however is that the "Lone Worker Alarm" offers a simple, low cost way to provide a safer environment for staff working alone or out of site of colleagues.

The Lone Worker Alarm is a reliable, wireless based RF alarm system. The belt worn transmitter features an aid call button that the wearer can press at any time to summon emergency assistance, and an internal tilt switch which automatically activates an alarm call in the event of the wearer collapsing, falling, etc.

When activated, the transmitter sends a wireless signal to an on-site receiver station where an operator can initiate help. Where the on-site receiver station is not manned, as an option, the receiver can be fitted with a telephone autodialler and set up to automatically send a message onward to any manned telephone (mobile or landline) where help can be raised. 

Whether you have just one member of staff, or dozens of workers to protect, on a single or multiple sites, the Lone Worker Alarm System can be tailored to meet your exact requirements.

"Lone Worker" has been reliably and cost effectively protecting staff throughout the UK for many years, where users range from the print industry to Local Authorities.

For full details of the product visit;

http://www.insight-security.com/ala-lonework.htm

To buy at special on-line prices, visit;

http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/DotNetShop/listsubgroup.aspx?Group=17&SubGroup=4

Although we can't always believe all that the government tell us, their warning shortly before Christmas that crime rates would rise as unemployment escalates and personal incomes drop, are already showing signs of fulfillment.

History has shown us time and again through various economic recessions, that incidents of vandalism, burglary and theft increase as money becomes tighter and jobs become harder to find and less secure, whilst crimes of violence also tend to increase.

Violent crimes are often associated with attempts at material gain, i.e. robberies or intent to rob, although worry or frustration over job security (or lack of a job), spiralling debt and / or reducing income, etc. can in some, trigger violent reactions to the most trivial of incidents as behaviour becomes less rational.

Personal Safety

When it comes to personal safety and protection, basic common sense precautions designed to avoid putting youself in risk situations are a far better option than worrying about what would help you to get out of a sticky situation. Carrying a personal security alarm can offer a sense of comfort, especially on dark winter nights, but on their own, they won't make it safe to walk alone through deserted streets, and remember carrying any sort of weapon is not only illegal, but also pretty stupid as statistics show us that the chances of getting injured or worse increase dramatically if you do!

Today, the Conservative Party released figures (obtained from the police in England and Wales under the Freedom of Information Act) indicating that there were some 277 fatal stabbings in the UK within just 12 months (the highest figure for 30 years). The good news however, is that for most of the 60 million plus UK population, the chances of being the target of violent attack is statistically fairly remote for those living outside of a limited number of notorious inner city areas and employing basic common sense principles to their everyday lives.
       

Protecting your premises and valuables

When it comes to protecting your property and possessions however, we are all at much greater risk, especially where items that can easily be converted into cash are concerned (and there is a ready market for most things!). Fortunately there are now a wide range of proven, cost effective security products available to choose from that could help you to protect your premises and your valuables. Anti Climb perimeter security products, CCTV monitoring and recording systems, physical locks and lock down systems, all have a part to play, but which measures would be best for you?

When considering what security measures to introduce, a few basic considerations will ensure that you don't waste your money and that you get the best value security solution - that's the right one for you. Although these basics may sound obvious, based on over 20 years experience of advising clients on security matters, be assured, even very large companies get it wrong from time to time, so how much more at risk of wasting money on the wrong solution are the inexperienced without an army of employed security specialists to call on?

So what are these basic considerations?

1. Carry out a risk assessment (see below for details of how to obtain your free copy of the free Insight Security Risk Assessment Guide) - this will highlight the areas of greatest risk, in which your money will be best spent for maximum benefit.

2. Security measures implemented before you have become a victim are more likely to have been carefully considered and costed, than when you're faced with having to respond instantly to plug a hole after an incident. The immediacy of a Knee jerk response to plug a hole in the security system after an incident usually means that the most obvious (not necessarily the best) option is normally the one adopted. Not only is there less time to consider all the options, but the urgency of the situation often also leads to higher costs.

3. Locate and buy from a reputable, specialist security supplier who has a good track record and a reputation for delivering proven security products (they should also be happy to give impartial security advice without charging you for it and provide good after sales backup and support ...and be likely still to be in business a couple of years hence). 
 
4. Keep your security solutions simple. The more complex the solution and its implementation, the more there is to go wrong - and the more chance there is of operator error.

5. Remember even Fort Knox is not impregnable - any security measure that can be conceived and implemented, could also be breached, given enough time, money, knowledge and resources. In practical terms, the most cost effective form of security will normally consist of a series of measures (each designed to delay and frustrate the potential criminal), implemented in a way that means they have to be tackled sequentially - the longer a thief is on site, the greater the risk of being detected and caught ...and easier pickings will look increasingly attractive!

6. Training: when you've implemented your new security measures, make sure that the relevant people (staff or family, etc) know about them, and where applicable how to use them properly. A high security lock is pointless if the key is left in it or hanging next to it, an alarm system that no one knows how to set or arm is unlikely to be very effective in the event of a break in. These may sound like daft examples of security failures, but they're drawn from a long list of real life instances! 

Insight Security have been supplying best value, proven security solutions to domestic users as well as to organisations of all size throughgout the public and private sectors for 20 years, and have a well deserved reputation for providing practical no nonsense advice and excellent after sales support as well as delivering quality products on time.

To download your free Risk Assessment guide, visit;

     http://www.insight-security.com/pdfs/Risk%20Assessment%20Guide%20(HK).pdf

for general advice and an "introduction to / overview of", a wide range of security products, visit;

     http://www.insight-security.com

To buy proven security products - at on-line prices, visit;

     http://www.insight-direct.co.uk

Insight Security - the UKs  "One Stop Security Shop"

Great news, - Insight Security have slashed the price of its Prikla Anti Climb spikes, so now you can buy the best, for the lowest ever price - from just 69p per 500mm strip (or just £1.38 per metre).
 
...and the exciting new Prikla SupaStrip (Brick Strip)? - from £2.49 per 500mm strip (or just £4.98 per metre)!
 
How are such low prices possible?
 
Simple - volume sales have led to lower buying costs, so rather than pocketing the difference, Insight have decided to pass it on to its customers!
 
Don't miss out of this great opportunity - buy now at;
 
http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/DotNetShop/listsubgroup.aspx?Group=9&SubGroup=2

Arson attacks are not just confined to November 5th, however the time around bonfire night is fraught for potential victims, thanks to the easy availability of powerful fireworks.
 
For many home owners and business organisations, an arson attack is often born out of a longstanding grudge or some type of dispute and the attack is often targetted at the letterbox through which the recipients postal mail is normally delivered.  
 
Insight Security offer a range of anti arson letterboxes, designed specifically to thwart such attacks, including steel mailboxes and fireproof mail collector bags designed to fit over the inside of your letterbox.
 
 
For details of the range of anti arson products available visit;
 
 
    http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/DotNetShop/listgroup.aspx?Group=23

There are times when you need to provide access to your home but you may not be there, or perhaps just can't get to the door to let someone in. The 'Leave-A-Key' key safe is a proven and practical solution to the problem, as used extensively by Local Authorities and other public sector organisations as well as by personal users.
 
It provides a secure way to leave a key safely for; your home help, carers for the elderly or incapacitated, your children returning from school....

  ...OR JUST AS AN EMERGENCY KEY FOR WHEN YOU LOCK YOURSELF OUT!

The robust metal housing with its weatherproof sleeve, bolts firmly to your house or building with the fixings supplied, then your keys are deposited and locked securely behind the removable keypad operated face panel.

To let authorised people into your home, all you have to do is tell them the personal access code you have set - Simple and Convenient!  And remember, changing the code is quick and easy, and you can do it as often as you like, so if you decide that you want to stop someone you have given the current code to from being able to open the key safe, simply change the code.

Every day it is providing reliable access for Home Helps, Carers, Nurses, Paramedics, emergency services, etc, here are just a few of the benefits:

              -  No more Keys to manage or lose
              -  Eliminates the need for Police forced entry
              -  No need to arrange key-holders, etc.
              -  Maintenance free

  For details of the full product range visit;

     http://www.insight-security.com/key-leave.htm

   To buy on-line at Special Offer Prices, visit;

     http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/DotNetShop/listsubgroup.aspx?Group=7&SubGroup=5

    but hurry ...the special offer price is only available for a limited period - make sure you don't miss out!

"Burglaries have soared by up to 82% as the credit crunch takes its toll in Sussex" (Brighton & Hove leader - 9th October 2008)  
 
Well, the government predicted that it would happen, and for once they seem to be right!
 
As money becomes tighter, and the prospect of job losses becomes more imminent, inevitably theft and crime rates increase as certain elements of society look to find easy ways to supplement their income.
 
The good news is that not every area will suffer a swing of 82%, but if comfortable Sussex is suffering, you can bet that there will be other locations that will suffer much more extreme rises ...and no area can expect total immunity.
 
There is of course no simple solution to solve all security problems, however as in most domestic burglaries, entry to the premises is achieved via a side or rear window, many people are turning to low a cost Adaptabar solution to beef up their security and foil break ins at their most vulnerable windows.
 
Adaptabar is a simple yet robust modular security bar & window grille system, produced by UK based Insight Security. The system features a range of security bars that fit over the inside of the window, which can easily be converted to a customised security grille by the addition of optional lateral spacer bars. Because the bars are telescopic, even if you are slightly adrift with your window measurements, the bars should still fit (just try fitting an expensive, custom manufactured security grill, into a recess just 2mm too small at one end!).
 
Installed by professionals in a range of environments from schools, to offices or warehouses, the versatile, low cost Adaptabar system is equally suitable for home use, where it can be installed by anyone with basic handyman skills.

For full details of the Adaptabar product and prices, visit
 
   http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/DotNetShop/listsubgroup.aspx?Group=22&SubGroup=1

Retail security is a major problem, with theft of goods and equipment from shops reaching record proportions. Most major retailers have been using electronic track type and loop alarm security systems to protect items on display, for many years, but over recent years many smaller retailers have also found these systems to be a cost effective aid in helping to reduce losses through theft.
 
The retail security loop alarm systems from Insight Security, are used in a wide range of environments, from the small family business, to major national retail outlets. And with a choice of mains or battery powered systems, there are models to suit virtually all needs, whether you are looking to protect items within a building with mains power availability, or at a show or exhibition in a field with no easy access to mains power.
 
With system prices starting from around £50, it's easy to see why they are so cost effective, and of course another great plus point is that they are so simple to set up and use - components simply plug together - then you arm the system at the control box with the security key! The mains powered units feature an internal backup battery, which instantly switches in to maintain the integrity of the alarm system in the event of a mains power failure or power cut, while the battery powered units operate from an easily available PP3 type battery which will offer around 6 months operation under normal use.
 
As well as protecting items in retail outlets, these versatile loop and track alarm systems are also popular for protecting items on display (or in use), at galleries, exhibitions, in training and demonstration rooms ...and lots more.
 
To buy at great on line prices, visit;
  
     http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/DotNetShop/listsubgroup.aspx?Group=17&SubGroup=3


for more information about the retail loop alarm and track alarm security systems available from Insight Security,
 
     call:  01273 475500,   ...or visit:
 
     http://www.insight-security.com/ala-loop.htm

the key benefits of using a knife search arch type walk through metal detector are Speed & Efficiency...

...when considering what type of metal detector you need, obviously the first thing to establish is what you want to use it for.

A good quality treasure hunter or beach comber type metal detector may be the ideal device for locating buried coins, or treasure, etc, but will be totally unsuitable for searching persons for concealed weapons, foil wrapped drugs, mobile phones, etc. ...and visa versa.

When you need to search persons to ensure that they are not carrying concealed weapons or foil wrapped drugs around the streets or into clubs, or carrying mobile phones into exam rooms, etc. then the right choice will be a security metal detector.

Security metal detectors are available in two forms; Hand-held metal detectors or walk through search arches.

The arch type walk-thru security metal detector is a familiar feature of the airport security check point (airport metal detector arches), which we have all passed through when flying away on holiday. These units are designed to rapidly screen people from head to toe for metal objects and offer the only practical solution when the requirement is to screen volumes of people quickly and efficiently. Over recent months, in view of the focus on knife crime and youth stabbings, these units have increasingly been referred to by the UK government as search arches or knife arches.

Hand held security metal detectors (often referred to as metal detector wands or simply hand held detectors), offer a cheaper alternative to the metal detector arch, and whilst an equally reliable device for detecting concealed weapons, etc. the process of scanning an individual will as a minimum take several second (compared with the 1-2 second throughput of a search arch type unit).  

To find out more about the metal detector product range, visit; 

     http://www.insight-security.com/metaldec.htm

To find out more about search arch type metal detectors, visit; 

     http://www.insight-security.com/met-g6500i.htm

To find out more about hand held metal detectors, visit; 

     http://www.insight-security.com/met-rugged.htm

6 Fatal stabbing in 48 hours is just too much for anyone to ignore! and at last even the government has acknowledged the real size of the problem of knife culture among the UKs' youngsters ...and it finally looks as though they are taking the problem seriously.

The reasons why so many youths carry knives are many and varied, and whilst not every youth carries a weapon, enough do to represent a threat to anyone, of any age, anywhere in the country. There is not an instant fix that will solve the problem overnight, in reality it will probably take a generation to eliminate the culture and restore sense to the world. In the meanwhile there are many things that the government, police, parents, teachers, and other role models in our society need to be doing to make a positive difference.

The use of security metal detectors in schools, at special events and nightclubs, and by the police in their everyday activities is now recognised as a necessary deterrent, even by those initially resistant to the idea, so inevitably the market place is showing signs of being flooded by dubious suppliers with a plethora of inferior copies of professional metal detectors, but "Buyer Beware".

When choosing a metal detector, the best advice is go to a professional supplier with a good reputation. They will be able to offer practical advice on which models are reliable and most suited to your needs, and will also be able to advise you how to use / get the best out of your purchase.

Insight Security sell walkthrough knife search arches and hand held detectors to the police and the military as well as to commercial users throughout the country. They are currently offering top quality Professional Hand held metal detectors (metal detector wand type units) for under £150.00 and a reliable budget priced unit for under £80.00!  

Checkout their website for product details (and also for advice on using your metal detector effectively);

     http://www.insight-security.com/metaldec.htm

  To take advantage of current special offer prices on metal detectors, buy on-line at;

     http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/DotNetShop/listsubgroup.aspx?Group=12&SubGroup=2

  but hurry ...the special offer price is only available for a very limited period - so make sure you don't miss out!

Plants, plant containers, water features, ornamental garden statues, etc, are all high on the hit list of garden thieves, and as reported on BBC news, 2008 looks as though it's going to be another bad year for theft.

One couple recently had over £18,000 worth of plants delivered for their new garden late one afternoon, by the following morning, over half of the items were gone! ...they would have lost more but it appears that the thieves were interrupted!

Even planted and well established plants are often stolen, whilst naturally statues, ornamental rocks, water features and other interesting items are favourite targets for the garden thief.

One way to protect your garden against thieves is to secure the perimeter. A good quality gate (and padlock) and fence or wall will help, while to deter would be intruders, low cost anti climb spikes or anti climb paint offer a practical deterrent which is easy to install and won't make your home look like a prison.

Insight-Security offer the most comprehensive range of realistically priced anti climb products in the UK, including products for every type of user and location. From anti climb products designed primarily for protecting the domestic garden, to decorative, high security options for protecting Embassies and other government buildings, you are sure to find what you need in the range - and as well as offering good products, they are also pleased to offer practical advice.

Insights' Non Aggressive "Roller Barrier" anti climb system has been specially designed to provide a practical anti climb solution for public areas where children gather and naturally, is very popular with schools, local authorities, etc.

For details of Insights anti intruder - perimeter security product range visit;

     http://www.insight-security.com/perimeter.htm

To take advantage of special offer prices on garden security products, buy on-line at;

     http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/shop/listsubgroup.asp?Group=9&SubGroup=2

but hurry ...the special offer prices are only available for a limited period - so make sure you don't miss out!

Anti Climb spikes are an effective means of deterring intruders to your garden or commercial premises, but as would be climbers risk impalement should they try to negotiate a spike anti climb barrier and fail, they could result in injury, so are not the panacea for all locations.

Schools and local authorities are often reluctant to use anti climb wall spikes or fence spikes in areas where children are present, which is why many are now specifying Insights non aggressive Roller Barrier anti climb system as the preferred solution for use in sensitive areas.

As Roller Barrier is manufactured from recycled polycarbonate, its use also helps local authorities toward meeting recycling targets, etc.

                          ...so it's a  WIN,  WIN,  WIN  choice

The new "Projects and Image Gallery" on the Insight Website show how schools, local authorities, secure facilities, and others are using Roller Barrier effectively ...and without making your premises like a prison

click here to visit the project gallery;

     http://www.insight-security.com/roller-barrier-applications.htm

For full details of the Roller Barrier Anti Climb product visit;

     http://www.insight-security.com/per-rollerb.htm

The new Prikla SupaStrip anti climb spikes product, is bigger and chunkier than the original anti climb protector strip and as each strip is 100mm wide (brick width), is ideal for use on brick wall tops, fences, gates, flat roofs, etc.

The clever triple hinge design allows the SupaStrip to be used easily on angled surfaces such as coping stones, rounded surfaces such as pipework, installed to provide 2 or 3 way protection on fence tops, or of course it is ideal for use on flat surfaces such as wall tops, flat roofs, etc.

Quick and easy installation makes the product a favourite with users and installers, although anyone with even basic DIY skills can install the product without the need for professional help.

Manufactured from UV stabilised, weather resistant polypropylene, the product is reusable, and recycleable.

Recommended by the police, this is a practical and easily affordable way to deter intruders from your property.

For details of the product visit;

     http://www.insight-security.com/per-prickler.htm

To take advantage of special on-line prices, buy on-line at;

     http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/shop/listsubgroup.asp?Group=9&SubGroup=2

but hurry ...you don't want to miss out on these great prices!

Preventing intruders from climbing over your walls, gates and fences, or climbing onto your flat roofs, is often a necessary measure to reduce the risk of vandalism, graffiti and burglary at your premises.

Anti Climb spikes have long been a favoured method of tackling this problem, but as would be climbers risk impalement should they try to negotiate a spike anti climb barrier and fail, they are not the panacea for all locations.

Schools and local authorities for instance are often reluctant to use anti climb wall spikes or fence spikes in areas where children are present, which is why many are now specifying the non aggressive Roller Barrier anti climb system as the preferred solution for use in sensitive areas.

As Roller Barrier is manufactured from recycled polycarbonate, its use also helps local authorities toward meeting recycling targets, etc.

                          ...so it's a  WIN,  WIN,  WIN  choice

For details of the product visit;

     http://www.insight-security.com/per-rollerb.htm

Anti Climb Paint (also often referred to as anti intruder paint or security paint) is a valuable and proven tool in the fight against unwelcome intruders and a practical and inexpensive way to help prevent intruders gaining unauthorised entry to your premises or property.

The Insight Security range of anti climb paint has been a stock item for many years and is in use in a wide and diverse range of environments, from Schools to Government Embassies, as well as in a wide range of commercial environments and on and around domestic properties.

Over recent months and in the wake of a massive increase in theft of lead from church roofs, etc. many churches have started to use anti climb paint on their roof lead as a practical and affordable anti theft measure. As standard Anti Climb Paint is Black in colour, to help with the aesthetics when used on lead roofs, Insight have introduced a mid grey colour anti climb paint to their stock range

for more information about Anti Climb Paint and its applications, visit;

            http://www.insight-security.com/per-paint.htm

to buy anti climb paint at lowest on-line prices, visit;

            http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/shop/listsubgroup.asp?Group=9&SubGroup=1

According to Jacqui Smith (Home Secretary) the government are about to announce a zero tolerance regime for knife and gun crime!

Just a little background

Between 2003 and 2006 the UK experienced a 37% rise in convictions or cautions related to Violent Crimes (rising from 17,590 incidents in 2003 to 24,102 in 2006 - British Crime Survey).

There are currently around 200 Gun Crimes recorded in the UK every week and countless knife crimes. Whilst obviously not all incidents result in fatalities, in London alone, there were 27 knife or gun crime related deaths during 2007 ...and many more around the country.

Worryingly, there seems to be a dramatic and disturbing increase in "Gang Culture" (where carrying a weapon is viewed almost as a necessity), particularly in the more deprived areas of our major cities (for more information on gun & knife crime, visit: http://www.insight-security.com/facts-knife-crime-stats.htm ).

Faced with the many fatal shootings and stabbings already reported since the new year (and we are still only in January!), the Home Secretary recently announced that during February, the government "will be announcing proposals" for the introduction and use of metal detector search arches to screen pupils for knives, guns or other weapons as they enter school ...but is this really a practical proposal, or just another sound bite?

Is it practical and are we ready for it ?

- There is absolutely no doubt that a "good quality" metal detector arch, when correctly setup and properly calibrated is capable of detecting and pinpointing the location of weapons carried by anyone passing through the unit, however there are several issues to be addressed before their widespread use in schools will be feasible.  Here are just a few considerations;

Guidelines and Authority for using search arches - and what to do when an illegal item is detected?

- At present there are no firm guidelines as to how the units should be used, how pupils with special needs, physical or learning disabilities should be dealt with, what authority school employees have to use such equipment (and what limitations apply), or what action should be taken (and by whom) in the event that some type of weapon, drugs or other illegal item is detected.

- It must surely be for the government to take a lead in this area and produce a set of national guidelines, which take into account the legal issues, human rights issues and simple practical issues that schools will have to address on introducing metal detectors into school life. After all, however dedicated or progressive, our teachers cannot also be expected to be legal or security experts   ...and it surely cannot be a serious suggestion that each school will have to re-invent the wheel by developing a new set of security standards and procedures from scratch!.

- As Teachers do not have the powers of arrest or detention that the police do, it seems likely that a police presence will be mandatory during any screening / search process.

Who will be searched ?

- Even the most advanced walkthrough search arches have a 1 second reset time between walkthroughs, so even assuming that on average, each pupil could be screened and the unit reset in just 2 seconds (which is many, many times faster than can be achieved by professional security staff, with a well rehearsed procedure at an airport terminal for example!), for a school with 1200 pupils, even with full pupil cooperation, it would take at least 40 minutes to funnel all pupils through a single metal detector arch  ...and that's without any delays arising from having to deal with pupils who trigger an alarm indicating that a target object has been located.

- It is highly likely therefore that some form of "unbiased" random selector mechanism, such as insight's "Random Search Selector unit", (see: http://www.insight-security.com/random-search-selector.htm ) would need to be employed to reduce the number of pupils actually scanned, without opening the school to claims of prejudice or unfair selection.

Where will the resources come from ?

- Funding - search arches are not cheap, as a rough guide, units cost from around £2,000-£4,500 depending on the level of sophistication, reliability and ease of use - who will be funding the equipment, its maintenance and operator costs?.

- Who will operate the units? - teachers?, special security staff employed the schools?, police?

- How will the search time be scheduled into the school day / and at the cost of what?

The Consequences ?

- Any weapons detected will presumably be instantly confiscated, however under the governments zero tolerance regime, the carrier will be immediately excluded from school, and will presumably instantly achieve a criminal record (and may even need to be arrested and imprisoned - subject of course to the availability of cell spaces).

- Who will be responsible for notifying the perpetrators family, offering them advice or support, etc. - and how will excluded pupils subsequently be educated or dealt with?

So should we travel this road ?

- In principle, it's hard to argue against the case for using metal detectors as "one of the tools" in the armoury to help crack down on the growing weapons culture in the UK. It seems however, that the government has a great deal to do, apart from announcing "the intent" to use search arches in schools, if their widespread use is to become a meaningful and viable option.

It should also be remembered that in gang culture terms, the "Olders" are now the 18-20 year olds, and the "Youngers" can be as young as 9 years old! ...so at what age would we need to start screening our school children?

For details of hand held metal detectors and search arches, visit;

     http://www.insight-security.com/metaldec.htm

To take advantage of metal detector special pricing, ...buy on-line at;

     http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/shop/listgroup.asp?Group=12

It is probably the last thing you would expect in a small village in rural sussex, but Ram Raiders using a stolen 4x4 vehicle, all but destroyed the Village Post Office by driving staight through the side wall of the building at 1.30am last Tuesday.

An eyewitness saw a number of men running around the damaged area, and leaving the scene in another vehicle before the police arrived. 

Whilst the 4x4 used in the raid was seriously damaged and the building virtually destroyed, it is not yet clear whether anything was actually stolen, as when the building collapsed, the safe and counter area were covered with rubble.

It will take weeks or even months to fully repair the building, sort out insurance issues, etc. ...in the meanwhile, the owner of the post office will probably miss out on the busy christmas trading period as it is unlikely that he will be able to open again until the new year.

Hindsight is a wonderful thing, but there are a number of practical measures that could have been employed to prevent the attack from happening at all. For some practical suggestions on security options, visit: http://www.insight-security.com/solfind-005.htm

Who can you trust to provide helpful advice that won't land land you in jail or liable to a serious fine?

It should probably not come as a great surprise to learn that some of the advice available on the internet is less than 100% reliable.

...but when you visit a site that offers advice that if followed, could land you with a significant fine, a criminal record and / or a jail sentence, it's obviously time to worry!

We have just stumbled across a handyman type site that suggests it's a good idea to attach carpet gripper to the top of your garden fence as a way to stop intruders climbing over your garden fence or deter cats from walking along it. Whilst we have no doubt that the use of carpet gripper would injure any intruder or animal trying to negotiate your fence, we would point out that the use of such a product is totally illegal and could lead to a criminal prosecution of anyone installing such a deterrent.

There are a number of commercially available low cost anti climb product alternatives which are much more acceptable as a fence top type anti climb deterrent, ...however this simple example is a clear indication of the need to rely on security advice from a knowledgeable and responsible supplier.

For practical, sensible advice on a wide range of security solutions, visit;

        http://www.insight-security.com/solutionfinder.htm

To buy proven, cost effective security products on-line, visit;

       http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/

Don't risk it, when you need advice, get it from the experts!!!

If your church has had its lead roof stolen you will be well aware of the financial cost of replacement, as well as the supplementary damage that can be caused such as severe water penetration of the building, which itsellf can lead to costly and significant repair works.

Unfortunately, theft of metal from church buildings is not a new problem. Over recent years, there has been a significant growth in the incidence of such thefts, due to the rising value of these materials on the world market. The material most frequently stolen is lead, although other metals, such as copper, are also often at risk. Church roofs, guttering and lightning conductors are all parts of the building most commonly affected. With the significant rise in claims on insurance companies, the insurance industry is naturally worried, and unless something can be done to reverse the trend, insurance premiums may have to rise.

In a paper produced in September 2007, the London Diocesan Advisory Committee offers some practical advice on tackling the issue, such as;

•  locking away ladders, wheelbarrows, etc, (when not in use), that may aid thieves.
•  trimming back foliage that may obscure the activity of thieves
•  restricting vehicle access to premises when not occupied, to make it more difficult for thieves to remove stolen items
•  painting roof sections, guttering, downpipes, etc. with anti climb paint
•  installing intruder alarms (with roof mounted sensor beams)
•  installing a CCTV monitoring system

All of these are practical and sensible measures, some of which will cost little or nothing to implement, whilst others such as installing Intruder Alarms or CCTV systems will obviously have a financial cost.

One low cost measure that offers practical protection to vulnerable metalwork, is the use of anti climb paint. Here is an extract from the advisory paper produced by the London Diocesan Advisory Committee;

   “Consider applying anti-climb paint to drainpipes and roof guttering.  Anti-climb paint should only be used over a height of 2 metres and a warning notice should be put up indicating that anti-climb paint has been applied…”

The use of anti climb paint (also known as anti intruder paint or security paint), is also endorsed by the police and insurers and is a well established protective measure which is used extensively by schools and local authorities as well as commercial organisations and even domestic users.

What is it?

Anti climb paint is a non drying, non toxic, petroleum jell based paint which contaminates the hands and clothing of anyone coming into contact with it. As it remains slippery, it prevents intruders getting a handhold, and as the hands become contaminated on contact, makes it very difficult to pick up anything subsequently.

Lowest UK Prices!

Cost savings achieved through volume production have allowed Insight Security to significantly reduce the price of their anti climb paints which are now probably the cheapest available in the UK and which are available off the shelf.

For full details of the range of anti climb paint and warning signs visit:

    http://www.insight-security.com/per-paint.htm

To take advantage of our lowest ever prices, buy on-line at;

     http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/shop/listsubgroup.asp?Group=9&SubGroup=1

but hurry …these special reduced prices are currently available for a trial period - make sure you don’t miss out!

Consideration!!! - it's amazing how inconsiderate some drivers are - they simply stop and leave their car where it's convenient for them. Inconsiderate parking however can and does cost lives! especially where such obstructions prevent access for emergency vehicles such as fire tenders, ambulances, etc.

The GoJak Mobile Vehicle Skate system offers a simple, quick and safe means of moving inconsiderately or dangerously parked vehicles.

Gojak Vehicle skates are applied to each of the offending vehicles wheels which are raised clear of the ground. The vehicle may then be pushed to a new location courtesy of the heavy duty castors which form an integral part of each of the special Gojak skates.

There are two great models to choose from; the GOJAK 5000 vehicle skates or the heavier duty GOJAK 6000 vehicle skate system...

For full details of the systems, visit;

                 http://www.insight-security.com/tra-gojak.htm

To buy on-line visit;

                 http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/shop/listsubgroup.asp?Group=21&SubGroup=4

There are many different safes on the market, but when choosing your safe, the most important thing is not the colour, the size, or even the manufacturer, ...but making a clear decision as to what you need to store inside, and what you need to protect against.

Most fire safes for instance have a low security rating, so would normally be a poor choice if the main requirement was to protect cash or valuables against theft.

    ...and a standard fire safe would also be useless for protecting items such as computer data storage media, film, etc, against a fire risk!

For a simple aid to choosing the right safe, click the following link for your free guide:

http://www.insight-security.com/pdfs/zzbb1109.pdf

Winter seems to strike as soon as the clocks go back and the nights draw in. Leaving work in the dark to travel home is not only depressing, but a cause for worry to many.

   A good personal security alarm can be a great source of comfort for those of a nervous disposition, or to anyone who has to travel through poorly lit streets or to unfamiliar premises.

There are two basic types of personal security alarm (sometimes referred to as rape alarms or personal attack alarms), those that are "gas operated", and those that are "battery operated".

Gas operated alarms tend to be marginally cheaper, although the cost difference has become minimal now that volume production has forced prices of all types of personal alarm down, so any buying decision is likely to be based on performance reports and/or personal preference.

Our personal experience indicates that gas operated alarms can prove unreliable when operated in very cold weather, and as it is unlikely that anyone would want one alarm for use when its good weather and one for bad, we no longer recommend or sell gas operated units.

The new generation of battery operated personal alarms are not only lightweight and compact, but operate reliably in all weather conditions.

Our new keyring model electronic personal security alarm features; an amazing 130db siren, operates from an easily available alkaline battery (so there won't be any problems finding a replacement battery when you eventually need to change it), has an integral test button so it's easy to test that your alarm is working before you venture out, and has a built-in torch.

When considering buying an electronic personal alarm, you should choose a unit from a reliable manufacturer (and supplier). There are many cheap imports flooding into the UK market, but although these often look similar to quality units externally, inside it is a different story.

Our own Personal Security Alarm units feature quality internal components and electronic circuits, which not only guarantees reliability, but also minimises the power drawn from the battery in standby or operating mode, ...which is why you can expect long operational service between the need to replace the battery. 

For details of the range of high quality, low cost, personal alarms available from Insight, visit;

             http://www.insight-security.com/alarms.htm

or you can buy on-line at;

            http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/shop/listsubgroup.asp?Group=17&SubGroup=1

Bonfire night is a time of fun and celebration for many, but the easy availability of fireworks poses a particular threat to businesses and homes.

A large organised firework display or even a shared family firework party can be great fun for kids and grown ups, but whilst most people use fireworks responsibly, there are inevitably an element who are prone to misuse them.

In the UK alone, there are over 250,000 arson attacks every year and the period around November 5th is of course a busy time for fire brigades across the country.

A firework through the letterbox, whether a childish prank, or a malicious attack, can cause devastating damage to the property and in the case of a business, could even cause the business to fail (according to statistics, around 66% of business that suffer a serious fire, fail within 18 months).

An anti arson mailbox such as the MailPro, simply fits over the letterbox on the inside of the street door of the premises and collects anything posted through the letterbox.

Any burning material posted through the letterbox will instantly trigger one of the internal fire extinguishers, which will instantly extinguish it, whilst a secondary extinguisher (where fitted) will protect against a secondary attack (in around 70% of arson attack incidents, statistics show that where the initial attack fails, a second attempt is made almost immediately).

The Anti-Arson Mailbox offers a simple low cost solution to protecting against arson attack through the letterbox - can you afford not to protect your building or home? - for an instant solution  to the problem visit;

http://www.insight-direct.co.uk/shop/listsubgroup.asp?Group=23&SubGroup=4

The value of retail theft in the UK for the last 12 months was estimated at £205 million, but that figure only relates to those cases where perpetrators were prosecuted.

The Retail Association estimate the actual figure to be very much higher ...and at least £600 million for the period.

Given the intense competition on the high street, the last thing that any retailer needs is significant losses from theft, but there are several security products available which can help, here are just a few;

Retail alarm systems for goods on display include loop alarms and track alarms;

   http://www.insight-security.com/ala-loop.htm

Security mirrors are a low cost product that will help staff to monitor customer actions;

   http://www.insight-security.com/mirror-retail-security.htm

Digital CCTV systems are now more affordable than ever and an essential tool for the retailer;

   http://www.insight-security.com/cctvgen.htm

These are just a few of the options, for further advice on security for businesses, visit;

   http://www.insight-security.com/solutionfinder.htm

Newsflash - 28th October 2007 - (source: Channel 5 news)

Figures obtained under the "Freedom of Information Act" show that there is a knife crime committed in the UK every 24 minutes!

- in fact the figures show that there have been 5,500 serious knife crimes in the UK in just 3 months.

if you would like more information on UK knife crime statistics, visit: 

                                              http://www.insight-security.com/facts-knife-crime-stats.htm

Worldwide demand for metal, fuelled at least in part by the major growth in manufacturing in India and China has sent the price of scrap metal soaring.

Theft of metal is now recognised by police forces throughout the UK as a major issue and a national police taskforce is being formed to tackle the problem.

Over the last 12 months, West Midlands police have registered a doubling in metal theft, and whilst there have been 300 arrests this is just the tip of the iceburg.

Popular targets include lead cladding from lead roofs, metal statues and garden ornaments, aluminium bus shelters and scrap metal from engineering company waste bins, to name just a few.

Copper is also a favourite target (price of copper has doubled to £4,000 per ton over the last two years) which has even led to thieves cutting and stealing live electricity cables!

Many schools, churches and public buildings feature lead roofs and with typical insurance claims hovering around the £30,000 mark for repairs following a theft, many insurers are now looking for improved security for sites at risk. Other consequences of such thefts include the loss of facilities (i.e. classroom use) and general disruption during the repair work as well as other issues such as potential water damage from rain falling on an unprotected roof.

Some schools which have suffered lead theft have already installed additional external alarms and CCTV monitoring systems as an aid to protecting against theft, whilst others are considering use of manned guarding services.

As the problem is nationwide from Cornwall to Scotland, there are no geographic "safe spots" - are you at risk? - if so what action should you be taking?

   Knife Crime in the UK

Confusing and often contradictory crime statistics produced by the two major UK crime surveys may not give a clear picture of the scale of knife crime in the UK, but with almost daily news reports of another murder or serious knife attack, it’s hardly surprising that the public are concerned.   Recent initiatives by UK police forces, transport police and ports and airports involving among other things, the use of metal detectors for screening people to detect hidden weapons, etc. are to be applauded, but you could be forgiven if you believe that the problem is yet to be solved.   The link below is a carefully compiled summary of related information from a variety of sources. Whilst the authors have consciously chosen to desist from recording each fatal incident as it hits the news, we believe that

·         if you have any interest in the issue of knife crime or gun crime,

·         or would like guidance on what’s legal and what’s not,

·         or to how you can protect yourself against the risk   

you will find it a mine of valuable information…

    http://www.insight-security.com/facts-knife-crime-stats.htm

         Beating the Car Number Plate Thieves!      

Car number plate / Registration Plate theft is a growing and worrying problem, with vans and other commercial vehicles also targets.

Latest statistics show that there are currently over 40,000 sets of registration plates being stolen every year.
...it takes just a few seconds to unscrew the plates held on with conventional screws, and thieves often carry out this simple crime in places like supermarket car parks, while you are buying a lunchtime sandwich or doing your weekly shop.

If your number plates were stolen, you can be sure that they will be put onto another vehicle
..and as many victims have discovered, life can then become a nightmare, when they suddenly find themselves faced with unwelcome and unearned fines and prosecutions for a whole raft of vehicle related crimes, ranging from speeding fines and parking tickets to congestion charges.

Here are just a few of the things that thieves use stolen number plates for;

   - 90% of "drive offs" from petrol stations involve vehicles using false or stolen plates 
   - avoiding congestion charges and parking tickets / fines
   - avoiding speed camera fines (which could now cost you up to 6 points plus £1,000)
   - drug dealing, bank robbery, etc

...and remember, as far as the law is concerned, your car registration number "is You"

...if there are any incidents involving your vehicle (identified by your number plate), you have to prove that it was not you - in other words, you are guilty until you can prove you are innocent!

One of the factors fuelling the rise in car number plate theft, is the tighter control of the issue of new or replacement number plates via authorised dealers, however, as well as the physical theft of number plates, Number Plate Cloning has become another worrying trend, which can result in the same problems for the victim.

The Police have recently spoken out strongly about the inadequacy of the current vehicle licensing system and are calling for urgent change, in the meanwhile it is up to vehicle owners to do what they can to protect themselves. Many Police forces are currently offering free number plate security screws to the public - your local crime prevention officer, crime reduction officer or community support officer should be able to help if your local police force are operating such a service.
Alternatively a number plate security screw pack is available from Insight Security (tel: 01273 475500) for a modest fee.  http://www.insight-security.com/

Number plate protection options;
Using Security Screws - the simplest way to protect your car number plates against unauthorised removal, is to replace the existing screws holding the plates in position, with one way security screws. These screws are a straight replacement for the existing conventional number plate screws, and can be inserted using a normal flat blade screwdriver, so you won't need to invest in special tools. The security screw is cleverly designed with a drive face only, so its simple to do up, but if you try to undo it, the screwdriver simply slips off the screw head.
If your number plates are stuck on rather than screwed on, this may not be a practical solution - however your local vehicle dealer should be able to advise you whether it is feasible to use screw fixing in addition to the existing adhesive fixing.
Using specialist security number plates

For those prepared to invest a little more in number plate security (£100 or so upwards), specially designed fragmenting number plates, or the new e-plates offer a good alternative
  see:   www.e-plate.com