Keeping Tabs on the Construction

We wanted to keep an eye on the developments and since we installed CCTV a few years ago, we had it moved so we could see all the sides of the house. We also added some cams indoors. Through the cameras, we were able to see how the house was slowly chipped away. 

Since the house was being demolished, the team created a "server room" which reminded us of Dr. Who's telephone booth. The booth even had a door and was made from materials that came from the house. The team even found wallpaper and decorated it, haha. 

The CCTV has been very useful in making sure the site is secure. We also use it to ask architect questions especially when we need something adjusted. Some funny moments were also captured by the camera and sometimes we chance upon Manong Lito singing especially on weekends. 

Thanks to Netoy for making sure the CCTV we invested in a couple of years ago is still useful :)

#BeKind #StaySafe

Home on Mondays: Let's Talk About Home Security

There were a lot of security related incidents in our village when I was growing up. Our area back then was still considered as a suburban area. Because of these incidences, the homeowners voted to put gates in place, add security guards and closed off some roads. It didn't stop the incidents and it was later discovered that the thieves would enter through the creek. It was eventually closed off and that helped a lot.

We also fell victim to thieves in the 90s. They ripped the back windshield rubber (good thing they didn't break it) and took the car radio (it wasn't working hrhr). Then there was a time when I was still a child, I saw a stranger walking around the empty lot behind our house. He was chased off. I also remember my new red bicycle was stolen. After that, my yellow bicycle was parked inside the house (bought a year after).

After the 90s, things quieted down in our village. I think that was when the grills were installed to close off the creek. The thieves became more creative and worked with helpers. Well, our biggest lose was from our long-time helper. She's still on the run right now and haven't been caught. And that made me realize that you really need to be mindful of your premises and who you live with. The helper was with us for almost 20 years, but she succumbed to temptation. 

There are many ways to secure your home. Most basic one is to ensure that locks are working. We check our gates, doors and windows before turning in at night. I had all of Mom's locks and doorknobs changed after the thieves left. It is common for houses to have grills. Getting a security guard is useful, but expensive. What also helped us though was  CCTV. We're able to see everyone who goes to our house. 

Some of the available CCTV cams out there.

CCTVs used to be super clunky and expensive. Some require servers and monitors. There are solutions nowadays that makes it easy for homeowners to install by themselves (and it's more affordable now). We read a lot of reviews and so far we like Tapo and Xiaomi. You can easily access it live and see saved footage on your phone or computer. Yup, that easy! 

Protect your home, protect your family. Your home should be a safe space, physically and mentally. Next time maybe I'll talk about protecting your home from the non-living. Awoooo...

#BeKind #StaySafe