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Everything we do at Brinton Fire & Security

This month on the Brinton blog, we’re excited to kick off the year by giving you a comprehensive overview of all the services we offer at Brinton Fire & Security. As a business that has grown and evolved over the years, we take pride in meeting the diverse needs of our security and fire clients in Branson, MO and the surrounding areas.

Residential and Commercial Burglar Alarms and Security Systems

At Brinton Fire & Security, safeguarding your property is our top priority. Our residential and commercial burglar alarms and security systems are tailored to meet your specific needs. With 24/7 monitoring, industry-leading technology, and professional installation, we ensure that your property is protected around the clock. Our flexible custom systems are designed to fit your property perfectly, providing you with peace of mind.

 

Commercial Fire Solutions

For businesses, fire safety is paramount. We offer a range of commercial fire solutions, including those mandatory fire extinguisher inspections and fire alarm inspections. We also install fire alarm systems. They come equipped with 24/7 monitoring and include essential components like pull stations, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency lights. We also provide thorough fire system testing, including fire alarm testing and fire extinguisher testing, to ensure your commercial space is prepared for any emergency.

 

Camera Systems

From small video doorbells to full-property CCTV systems, Brinton Fire & Security has your home or business covered by video surveillance. Our camera systems include video doorbells, indoor and outdoor cameras, and options for cloud and/or SD card video storage. With live video monitoring and HD recording day or night, you can keep a watchful eye on your property at all times.

 

Door Access Control Systems

Take control of who enters your building with our door access control systems. Whether it’s key card systems or code entry, manage access efficiently. Gain insights into building traffic with analytics that track who is coming and going, enhancing the overall security of your premises.

 

Business Automation and Analytics

For businesses, our automation solutions extend beyond security. With occupancy tracking, people counting, heat mapping, crowd gathering, and queue monitoring, we provide analytics that empower you to make informed decisions about your space. Receive alerts when occupancy is too high and optimize your business operations with our advanced automation features.

 

Smart Home Automation

Experience the convenience of smart home automation with Brinton Fire & Security. Control smart lights, thermostats, garage door access, smart deadbolt locks, and intelligent geo-fencing from the palm of your hand. Embrace a connected and secure living environment with our cutting-edge automation solutions.

 

Whole Home Audio

Elevate your home entertainment experience with our whole home audio solutions. From speaker system installations to home intercom systems and home theater setups, we enhance your audiovisual environment with quality and precision.

At Brinton Fire & Security, our commitment is to your safety and peace of mind. With a comprehensive range of services, cutting-edge technology, and professional expertise, we stand as your trusted, local partner in security and fire solutions. Contact us today to explore how we can tailor our offerings to meet your unique needs.

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Feeling Secure at Home: 5 Benefits of Working with a Professional Security Provider

With the rapid progression in security technology, many homeowners are left thinking to themselves, “Should I buy a DIY system or invest in professional installation?”

Deciding between purchasing a DIY system or investing in professional installation is a significant choice that demands careful consideration, as it can have a long-term impact and could prove to be a crucial factor in safeguarding your life.

Criminals and thieves are continually on the lookout for their next victim. This scouting period may take place over months, learning a homeowner’s schedule, their home layout from social media posts, and pinpointing areas for easy access. A simple 2-step DIY security system doesn’t have the functionality nor capability to monitor a home to the fullest extent. As a homeowner, you are hoping the system’s weak points won’t be sniffed out. 

Does hoping a security system works feel like a good way to live?

Investing in a professional security system for your home is a wise decision for several reasons. Here are the top 5:

1. Knowledge and Experience

Rather than reading through 100s of Amazon reviews before settling for a system, you can talk one-on-one with an experienced technician who has decades of experience. This simple step could save thousands of dollars in mistakes.

Integrating sensors, cameras, alarms, etc. into one cohesive and easy-to-use system is not so simple. A professional security company will have in-depth knowledge of what equipment will be needed, its operation, as well as the pros and cons of different configurations.

Moreover, relying on a professional installer guarantees that every angle and viewpoint is covered without any chance of omission, thereby ensuring maximum security and surveillance for you and your family.

2. All Inclusive Maintenance

Not only are DIY options prone to mistakes, they are also dependent on the homeowner to function properly. It’s not a matter of if there’s a technical issue, but when. When that time comes, whether it’s a software bug or a malfunctioning camera, you are responsible for fixing it. Hopefully, the fix is quick but if it’s not, that means your security system may be compromised for a prolonged period.

It’s worth noting that DIY security products are not manufactured to the same durability standards as those from a professional security company. Consequently, the required maintenance may prove to be frequent and extensive.

hardware management

A professional installer lives and breathes security. We know how vital it is to have a functioning system 24/7, and we’ll make it our priority to have it fixed ASAP. That’s just one of the benefits of working with a local provider.

3. Customized For Your Needs

Your home and lifestyle aren’t one-size-fits-all, so why should your security system fit that mold?

Proper placement is paramount when it comes to home security. However, most self-installs tend to prioritize monitoring the front and back doors, which only covers about half of the total home area. Unfortunately, this puts homeowners at a disadvantage with less protection and increased security risks.

With expert help, homeowners receive a complete home monitoring system. Along with 24/7 surveillance, you can add motion sensors, glass break detection, early detection technology, etc. All of it is tied to one system, rather than having a jumbled mess of applications and different remotes.

4. Avoid Stressful Hiccups

With new technology comes new hurdles… it’s going to take some time to get familiar with a security system if you’re trying to get it all done yourself. Sure, YouTube and online forums may provide some helpful tips and answers, but what do you do when you’re stuck in a rut?

With a DIY system, you have to depend on yourself. Common issues with do-it-yourself systems include false alarms, incompatibility issues with hardware, updates, and troubleshooting real-time notifications.

Installing and programming a security system can quickly become overwhelming, and lead to a compromised system. When it comes to securing you and your family, why leave gaps for intruders in your fortress?

5. Peace of Mind

viewing cameras on phone

For DIY setups, there’s always that thought, “Did I install everything correctly? Will it work when I need it to?” The installer takes full responsibility for its reliability.

That’s not a reassuring feeling.

Whether you’re headed out of town for an extended vacation, running daily errands, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, having an experienced and reliable home security company at your fingertips can provide invaluable peace of mind. From initial consultation and installation to ongoing monitoring and support, professional home security companies offer a comprehensive range of services to meet your unique needs. With a focus on personalized care and attention to detail, these providers can work closely with you to create a custom security plan that keeps your home and family safe and protected.

What to Look For in a Security Company

For many homeowners, finding someone they trust to protect their home can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s crucial to choose a security provider that’s experienced, reputable, and has a proven track record of providing excellent service. 

Reputation

If you’ve ever dealt with contractors, it can be a headache. They rarely show up on time, and “professional” is usually not how the interaction would be described. Sure, for a concrete job or a new roof, a contractor is fine, but not so much for securing your home.

A strong and dependable security business will last the test of time. Does their website reflect them as professionals? Are they providing up-to-date technologies? What do their reviews look like?

Brinton testimonial

Fortunately, these are all questions that can be easily answered with a quick search. Take the time to look through their social media channels, read their reviews, and if it fits the bill, schedule a time to talk.

If they are truly valuable, they will meet all the criteria.

Choosing Brinton Fire & Security

Founded in 2001, Brinton Security has been protecting homes and businesses throughout Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. If you are looking for the best security service near you, the search is over.

Whether it’s a complete security system controlled from the palm of your hand, burglar alarms, fire safety, home automation – you can rest easy with 24/7 monitoring. Working with our professional technicians makes installation and programming a breeze. Plus, we take the time to show you how the system works. You’ll never be left confused or uncertain about which function does what, as everything will be crystal clear.

For those wanting hassle-free and dependable security, choose Brinton.

Get your free consultation here.

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Save More with Alarm.com’s ENERGY STAR® Certified Smart Thermostat

Upgrade your home with an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat this fall, and you can save between 9 and 16 percent of the energy you’d normally use to heat your house this winter.

That’s according to the rigorous, independent tests required by the Environmental Protection Agency for its ENERGY STAR® certification, which the Alarm.com Smart Thermostat earned this month.

And, next summer, you can be even more energy-efficient, saving between 15 and 23 of the energy it normally takes to cool your house.

With the average home’s heating and cooling costing $900 per year, that’s a substantial opportunity to save energy and money without having to be uncomfortable.

How our Smart Thermostat makes savings easy

Connected to every device and activity sensor in your smart home security system, and powered by cloud intelligence, our smart thermostat proactively spots opportunities to save energy when you don’t need it. Here’s a quick video explainer.

How our Smart Thermostat keeps you more comfortable

With remote temperature sensors installed in different rooms, our smart thermostat can optimize your home’s temperature for any room of your choosing. You can easily correct a room that’s too hot, make sure that the nursery is just right at naptime, and create custom comfort schedules targeted to the rooms you use throughout the day.

Read more: Four Ways to Use an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat

How do I get an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat?

Getting an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat is easy. If you already have smart home security, just ask Brinton Security about upgrading your existing thermostat.

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Know These Five Facts for a Safer Summer at Home

It’s the season to get outside, take a break from the pressures of life, and enjoy your home and family.

As you make the most of the weather, however, be aware of a few seasonal safety issues that summer can bring. Look out for these five dangers and don’t let them cloud your summer.

1: Burglaries increase by up to 11 percent in summer

Between longer daylight hours, homeowners going on holiday and more people being outside, summer is a burglar’s favorite season. Research by the DoJ confirms that you’re most likely to be burgled or have something stolen from outside your home during the summer months.

Summer Safety Burglary.png

2: Home playground equipment is a factor in 200,000 injuries every year.

While kids are remarkable in their ability to dust off a bump or a bruise, home playground equipment can pose more serious dangers. Take these steps to ensure that things stay fun around your playhouse, swingset or trampoline.

  • Give your outdoor play equipment an annual inspection. Check for sharp edges, loose bolts, platforms or guardrails, and clear any tripping hazards.
  • Most injuries occur from falls to the ground. Consider installing mulch or rubber mats around your play equipment to lessen the impact of a fall.
  • Always keep an eye on small children using outdoor play equipment. If your kids like to slip outside without asking you, a contact sensor on your back door is a wise idea.

3: 48% of swimming pool injuries occur at residential locations

Your pool is a huge source of summer fun, but it comes with new opportunities for kids to slip, trip, or worse. To enjoy your pool safely, think like a lifeguard (a whistle is optional) and set some rules.

Summer Safety Pool

  • Learn pool safety together and enforce it. Make sure that kids have proper floating devices if they’re new to swimming. And always ensure that a supervising adult is present when children are in the pool.
  • To avoid slips and falls on wet surfaces, teach your kids not to run and chase each other around the pool.
  • Set ground rules that specify when your pool is off-limits. A fence and gate are essential to keep kids out when you’re not there. For extra awareness, attach a contact sensor to get an alert if the gate is opened. Alarm.com’s smarter video alerts can also help.

4: One-third of burglaries don’t require a break-in.

Not all burglaries are carefully targeted and planned. Many are crimes of opportunity. And there’s no opportunity like an open garage, door or window. As you enjoy your outdoor space, be careful what you leave open.

A good security system is your best friend in preventing unlawful entry. Here’s what to look for when you shop for one:

  • A connected garage door opener, controlled from your phone, makes it easy to lock up behind you.
  • Geo-services technology can send you an alert if you leave home with your front door or garage unsecured.

5: Grills cause more than 10,000 house fires every year

You can laugh off most cooking disasters, but not this one. Always grill at a safe distance from your home, its roof eaves, deck railings and any overhanging branches.

Summer Safety Grilling.png

  • If you grill with propane, check the gas tank hose for leaks once a year by applying soapy water. If you see bubbles, get your grill serviced.
  • If you use charcoal, invest in a chimney starter. Never apply charcoal fluid to a grill that’s already lit, and let your coals cool overnight before you dispose of them.
  • Don’t leave your grill unattended, and keep children and pets away from it. Last year, 19,000 people went to the hospital for injuries involving a grill.
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Choosing The Right Camera System for Your Home

One of the first things that you’ll need to do when shopping around for the best security system for your needs is to determine how many security cameras are necessary to protect your home. When choosing a home surveillance system, there are a few key factors that you should consider before making a commitment. Here is a guide to choosing the right surveillance system for your home.

Determine How Many Security Cameras are Necessary

Ideally, anyplace in your home that may tempt a criminal should be monitored by your security camera system. Four security cameras are typically sufficient to monitor a medium-sized home. You might need more cameras depending upon the layout of the interior or exterior of your home.

A high-quality security camera system can deter criminals from targeting your home, and it can also provide you with valuable evidence in the event of a crime.

Choose the Best Camera for Your Needs

There are a variety of security cameras on the market, and each offers different features. Box cameras are affordable and highly visible, which can serve to deter criminal activity. Dome cameras come in different sizes, are less intrusive, and are easy to install. Pan/tilt/zoom cameras offer a 360-degree field of view and are remote controllable. They also allow you more options for installation and security monitoring services.

Opt for Security Monitoring Services

Security monitoring services allow you or your home monitoring company to access your security camera system remotely. If you’re at work or out of town, your home automation system will let you access your home alarm system and security camera system via a smartphone or tablet. You can quickly and easily monitor and download videos, and adjust settings.

About Brinton Security

Founded in 2001, Brinton Security Services has been dedicated to providing protection for both residential and commercial settings. Although specializing in home security, we also install/service/monitor fire, gate, camera, and personal emergency response systems as well as whole house audio, home theater, home automation, and phone systems. We are proud to serve Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Our aim is to “Protect What Matters!”

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New Year, New Protected Home

The feasting and festivities of the New Year have now died down. Resolutions have been made and forgotten just as quickly. Some valiant folks are braving on still trying to make sure they keep their promise to themselves. Either way, whether or not you made a resolution or not this year, it’s always a good time to think about improving the safety of your home.

These safety upgrades will not only make your home safer, but could also reduce your homeowner’s insurance premiums. Stay safe, save money!

Deciding On A New Smart Home System

Choosing which upgrades to do is easier when you set priorities based on your home’s risk, budget, and needs. Then, choose between the following upgrades for your home:

Home Automation Systems

Do you leave your home without locking the doors? Perhaps you travel a lot for work? Home automation systems do not just make life easier, they actually protect your home. You can set timers to turn lights on and off while you are away, making burglars think you are home. If you forget to lock a door, you can secure your home using a computer or mobile device, even if you are miles away.

Fire & Burglar Alarms

Protect the perimeter and interior of your home from intruders or devastating fires. A burglar and fire alarm system can be integrated as one for dual protection or you can select based on your need.

Smart HD Camera Systems

From standard surveillance to keeping an eye on children who come home from school, home video security systems give you extra peace of mind and allow you to virtually check in on your residence no matter where you are.

Smart Door Locks

This is probably the most economical upgrade you can make, and definitely a good one if you are not the original owner of the home. Also, if you have lost your keys, change your locks. If you do not have state-of-the-art deadbolts, you may want to consider upgrading the locks in your home.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors

Carbon monoxide is odorless and extremely deadly. While you may have smoke detectors in your home, these do not detect carbon monoxide. Invest in a few detectors and place them in bedrooms. Again, this relatively inexpensive investment could potentially save the lives of your loved ones.

About Brinton Security

Regardless of what security upgrades you choose to make, consult a home security expert first. Because every home is unique and your lifestyle determines the type of protection you need, an expert can properly assess and make suggestions that are tailored to you. Brinton Security offers free estimates and can help you identify which upgrades are most beneficial to your home. Contact us today for a free consultation!

 

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Home Fire Safety Tips For The Holidays

The holidays are a time to enjoy family and take a relaxing break from work. They’re also a time to be vigilant about the increased chance of a household fire. Read through these fire safety tips and review them with your family so that everyone stays safe during the holiday season.

Be Aware of Candles

Candles are a hallmark of the winter holidays. As pretty as they are, however, candles are responsible for two out of every five home decoration fires. Never place a candle next to a flammable object such as holiday decorations, and always blow out lit candles when you are not in the room or when you go to bed.

Keep Decorations Away from Heat

Half of holiday decoration fires occur because the decorations are too close to a heat source. Shop for flame-resistant and flame-retardant decorations, and hang them far away from sources of heat such as the heating vent, fireplace, and lights.

Hang Lights Safely

To avoid a fire hazard, do not hang outdoor lights indoors, and vice versa. If you notice any loose bulb connections or a patch of cord that is worn or broken on your lights, replace them. Read the instructions provided with your lights to be sure that you aren’t stringing too many lights together. When hanging the lights, use clips rather than nails to avoid damaging the cords.

Test Smoke Alarms

You should test your smoke alarms several times throughout the holiday season by pressing the built-in test button. If the smoke alarm chirps, it means it is running on low batteries that need to be replaced immediately.

About Brinton Security

Sometimes, following all of the advised fire safety tips is not enough to protect you from a fire. We offer advanced fire alarms that detect both heat and smoke and that alert us to call the local fire department on your behalf as soon as a fire is detected.

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Practical Home Security Tips For The Holidays

Enjoying the season of giving is what the winter holidays are all about. However, because thieves know that homes during the holidays are filled with gifts, it should also be a time of vigilance. Take these precautions to ensure that your home is protected from a holiday break-in this winter.

Lock Up

Always close and lock the doors and windows of your home if you’re leaving, even if just for a short trip. The garage door is also a popular entrance point for thieves, so keep it closed even when you’re home. Don’t forget to lock the door to the garage in the event that thieves gain access to the garage. Be sure to never leave a spare key outside the house—thieves know where to find them.

Always Make it Look Like Someone is Home

Automate your lights in and around your home and put them on a schedule (using your mobile App) to come on at certain times, for example at sunset. This will serve as an excellent deterrent whether you are away from home for a brief period of time or out of town on vacation. If you leave town, have the mail and newspaper picked up by a neighbor or request to have it stopped. You may even want to hire a house sitter for extra protection.

Store Valuables in a Safe

Jewelry and other small objects of great value should be kept inside of a safe. If you don’t want to have a safe inside of the home, use your bank’s safety deposit box to keep items you don’t regularly need.

Invest in a Quality Home Security System

Nothing will deter a thief like a cutting-edge, professionally installed home security system. A high-quality system should include motion detection triggers, video surveillance, and central monitoring features.

 

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Fire Safety is Important During the Holidays

The holidays are a busy time and most people are scrambling to do too much, too fast. Unfortunately, all of that busy work and rushing from store-to-store trying to finish up last minute shopping means many homeowners may be neglecting basic safety at home. Whether you are cooking holiday meals or just putting up your Christmas lights, it is important to keep fire safety in mind.

Tips for Keeping Your Home Safe

From candles being lit to baking your Christmas ham, the holidays involve the risk of fire in your home. Keep your home safe by taking the time to prepare and implement a few additional safety tips this holiday season:

  • Kitchen Safety – If you are cooking (whether it is on the stove or in the oven), stay in the kitchen as much as possible. If for some reason you need to step away, return to the kitchen frequently to check on boiling pots, simmering sauces and anything baking in the oven.
  • Candle Safety – Keep flaming candles away from children and never leave children alone in a room with a lit candle. LED candles are a good choice. They flicker and look just like real candles, but without the flame. Do not use candles near flammable materials, such as curtains or a Christmas tree.
  • Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy – Every home should have a fire extinguisher. These are relatively inexpensive and can be stored in the laundry area or kitchen to stop any minor house fires from becoming devastating ones.
  • Test Smoke Alarms – Smoke alarms should be tested just before the holidays and every month after that. Replace batteries in all of your carbon monoxide detectors as well.
  • Be Safe with Christmas Lights – If you are setting up Christmas lights outside, keep plugs away from standing water, snow or any other type of moisture. Do not use extension cords that are frayed. Indoors, only use grounded outlets and keep your Christmas tree lights on a timer so that they do not remain on overnight.

About Brinton Security

To learn more about how you can protect your home from fires this holiday or to install a fire alarm with your home alarm system, contact your local home security specialists. Brinton Security offers free consultations and can help you install a system that protects your home during the busy holiday season and right through the year.

Give us a call today!

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What is CO Poisoning & How Do I Avoid It?

When you purchased those smoke detectors you so responsibly installed in your home, did you notice a similar-looking detector for carbon monoxide? If you have any products or equipment in or near your home that burn fuel, you might want to pick up a few carbon monoxide detectors too.

Unlike smoke or natural gas, carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, but it is just as poisonous. In the U.S., between 150 and 200 people die annually from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning produced by malfunctioning furnaces, ranges, water heaters, space heaters, fireplaces, charcoal- or gas-fired grills and engine-powered devices such as portable generators.

Even more lose their lives when CO accumulates after people leave their cars running in garages. And every year, thousands of people wind up in emergency rooms for treatment as a result of CO poisoning.

Prevention involves following these basic safety procedures.

  1. Install all appliances following the manufacturer’s instructions as well as local building codes – generally by qualified professionals.
  2. Unless you have the proper knowledge and skill as well as the appropriate tools, do not service fuel-burning appliances yourself.
  3. If your home has a fuel-burning heating system, have it serviced and inspected annually by professionals. Be sure to include chimneys and flues.
  4. Operating a portable generator or another gas-powered tool in or near an enclosed space can trap CO, leading to potentially lethal levels of the gas. Open doors and windows do not provide enough ventilation.
  5. Never use camping stoves designed for outdoor use only in an enclosed vehicle, tent or building. Some of these products may be designed to work in enclosed spaces, but they will specify that on the packaging and provide instructions for their safe use.
  6. Never burn charcoal in any kind of enclosed space such as a building, tent, or vehicle.
  7. Never leave a car running in a garage, even if you have the door open.
  8. Don’t use gas appliances such as ovens or clothes dryers as space heaters for your home.
  9. If you use a natural gas or propane oven, don’t cover the bottom with aluminum foil the way you can with an electric oven. You can block the oven’s combustion flow, producing CO.
  10. Re-check all gas appliance vents, heating vents or chimney flues after any home renovations. These can easily be blocked by forgotten tarps or debris.
  11. Install carbon monoxide alarms in hallways near every sleeping area and in living areas in the neighborhood of fuel-burning appliances. The recommendation is one alarm installed in the hallway outside every bedroom. Make sure the alarms aren’t blocked by furniture or window coverings. CO alarms should not be installed in kitchens or directly above any fuel-burning appliances. Test alarms regularly and replace following the schedule recommended by the manufacturer.

Signs and Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Initially, CO exposure has symptoms that resemble the flu without any fever. These include headaches, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Further exposure can lead to vomiting, mental confusion and loss of muscular coordination. The end result is loss of consciousness and finally, death. The exposure levels and duration can affect the severity of the symptoms.

If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms unexpectedly, don’t wait for the CO alarm to go off to confirm it. Leave your home immediately and call the fire department on your cell or at a neighbor’s home. If they find evidence of high levels of CO, be sure that you and any family members who were exposed see a doctor immediately, letting him or her know about the CO exposure.

The Best Way To Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Finally, have all of your appliances checked for problems before re-using them. If one or more CO alarms go off in your home, leave immediately with all family members and pets. Call 911 and do not re-enter your home until the emergency specialists have ensured you that it is safe. Even a few minutes can lead to loss of consciousness and death if the exposure is high enough. Do not use the problem equipment again until a qualified service technician checks and repairs it.

We Can Help – Contact Us Today.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is an easily avoidable risk, yet every year too many people succumb to it. Like wearing a seatbelt, you may never need a CO detector, but why take a chance? By following these few simple steps, AND installing a carbon monoxide detector by a qualified professional security company, you may become a lifesaver for the ones you care about most.

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