The Wala’au

Top Tips to Improve Safety for Seniors

2013-01-31T22:33:53+00:00

Today’s seniors are living longer and more robust than ever before. However, each year one in every three adults age 65 and older falls each year, and less than half talk to their healthcare providers about it (CDC). Falls can lead to moderate to severe injuries such as hip fractures and head traumas.

As adults grow older, their risk of being injured in a fall increases. Here are some ways seniors may prevent falls and improve their overall safety with a healthy lifestyle.

• Have eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year and update eyeglasses to maximize vision. Also be sure that the pharmacist or doctor reviews medicines whether it is over the counter or prescription medicine.
• Never drive if you know it will cause drowsiness.
• Keep home safe: Install grab bars inside shower, near toilet, and by outside of tub. Improve the lighting in the home, and remove all tripping hazards.
• Exercise regularly. Even if it is a short walk, it is very important to maintain leg strength and improve balance and coordination. Water activities is also important and a great way to exercise.
• Be sure you are receiving an adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D from supplements, food, or both.

Augie Alarm is devoted to keeping the Kapuna safe. Take a look at our medical pendant and senior shield advantage plan, and see how we can make you and your home safe.

New Fire Station in Ewa Beach

2013-01-31T07:55:47+00:00

On Tuesday, January 29th, the HFD recently opened the new 12,30 sqaure-foot fire station in Ocean Pointe on Kaileolea Drive. Fire Chief, Emmit A. Kane said, "It was built to provide an environmentally responsible, resource-efficient building which will result in energy-efficient savings and reduce our impact on the environment."

The building is the first to “achieve the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.” It was designed by Kodama/Okamoto Architects Inc. and was built by 57 Builders Ltd.

Firefighter, David Berting, said he is “proud to be a part of the station and is looking forward to the added features.” He also said, “It’s a bit more centrally located with the growing community so it will help serve the future homes and families that are living out here.”

Mayor Kirk Caldwell of Honoluou believes it is a “symbol of the growing Ewa Beach community.”

The one-story station will also be a great location for firefighting drills and training. It includes a three-story training tower, making it the tallest building in Ewa Beach.

The HFD also hopes to open other fire stations in East Kapolei and in Ewa Beach.

Top False Alarm Tips

2013-01-30T01:46:30+00:00

The best part of having a home security system from Augie Alarm, is that the 2GIG equipment we use is so intelligent that it helps prevent false alarms. How is this possible and what can we do to prevent false alarms?

When an alarm customer is not registered with the local police department, the false alarm fees can become costly. Due to limited resources, we also want to eliminate the police and fire patrol from spending unnecessary time investigating false alarm reports. False alarms are rare due to acts of nature or faulty equipment. The primary reason is usually due to human error.

Here are some quick and easy tips to prevent false alarm from occurring at your home or business.

• Secure all doors and windows before arming system.
• Replace batteries when needed and service equipment properly.
• Be sure all alarm users are properly trained on how to use the system.
• Inform the Augie Alarm office of all new emergency contacts, pass codes, arming codes, and when a user should be added or removed.
• Slowly press access code to disarm panel. Just like any touchscreen such as an iPad or iPhone, if you rush, you may make more than one selection and enter the incorrect code.

If you have any questions or concerned that your system is not working properly, immediately contact the Augie Alarm office so we may check the status of your system.

Crime at the Redbox

2013-01-28T18:53:26+00:00

With so many movie rental machines that have taken the place of Blockbuster, it’s easy for crime to sneak up on us. The movie box is usually located just outside or at the entrance of grocery stores, drug stores, etc.

There have already been several reported crimes in the last year. In St. Louis Missouri, police are searching for two suspects who “shot two men while they were renting a movie, then stole their car.” This occurred around 1 in the morning while they were at a Redbox just outside of Walgreens.

Another incident occurred in Knoxville, TN. A woman was robbed and held at gunpoint at a Redbox location outside of Kroger. A man “walked up to her, pulled a gun from under his shirt, and demanded her money.” She gave the robber $50 and he fled the scene.

A regular Redbox customer stated, “People are desperate these days. You kind of are a target especially if you go when there aren’t a lot of people around.” What does Redbox have to say about this? They replied in an email and said, “we receive an average of 59 million transactions a month and only a small percentage result in crime.”

What can we do to prevent crime from happening to us?

Easy. Try to rent during the day at a kiosk location that is inside a grocery or drug store. Keep your purse or wallet close, and always look behind you. It is also best to rent with a friend and not alone.

Does your business have security cameras?

With the rise in crime at various Redbox locations across the nation, it’s time to have a monitored security system with surveillance cameras. Keep an eye of what goes on at each location for the safety of your customers and store. Call Augie Alarm today and see what promotions we currently have available for business owners.

Top Tips for Safe & Healthy Kapuna

2013-01-25T22:06:49+00:00

Simple changes in your everyday lifestyle can make a huge difference for today’s busy and active kapuna. Here are some quick and easy tips for a safe and more healthier you.

Medial pendant. When you are home, be sure to carry your pendant with you at all times. This can be worn as a necklace, watch, or clipped to your belt buckle. The medical pendant is also water-resistant and can even be worn in the shower.

Exercise regularly. This will ultimately improve coordination, endurance, and balance. This can be as simple as a brisk walk around the neighborhood. By keeping a healthy and active lifestyle, you are able to closely monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well.

Plan ahead. If you plan on traveling, be sure you have your medications with you on the plane or car, at all times. If you have diabetes, be sure to never store insulin in cold temperatures or the glove compartment of your car. When you leave, be sure your home has an “at-home-look.” That means leave a lamp or two on, arrange for a family member or close friend, even a neighbor, keep an eye on your home by taking care of the mail, yard, etc.

Keep your system armed. Even while you’re home, keep your system armed at stay so your perimeters are protected, since 60% of all break-ins occur during the day (FBI). A home invasion recently occured in Waialu and left an elderly couple wounded, scarred, and burglarized. They were tied-up, beaten, and the burglars were able to get away. Don’t let this happen to you. Take proper precautions and arm your system at stay, even while your home, or away, when you leave.

Top Pet Safety Tips

2013-01-24T22:13:04+00:00

Having a pet can be quite a task for some. Especially if you have a dog like mine that constantly gets into mischief. Just this morning I found him eating a coconut and left a huge mess behind on the lanai. Even though he’s a little troublemaker, I still want to keep him safe.

Here are some quick and easy pet safety tips.

• To prevent kitchen fires and accidental falls, keep your pets out of the kitchen while cooking.

• Never leave a pet unattended in a parked car, even if you leave the window cracked open, the windows do not provide enough ventilation for your pet. It can easily reach up to 100 degrees in the vehicle and can be harmful to your pet.

• Keep all chocolates and lilies far away from your furry friend.

• While in the car, try using restraints on your pets to prevent harm to other animals in the car, passengers, and the driver. As recommended by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, if you have a puppy, this is especially important. I know my puppy would try to jump in the front seat with me while driving and that can be quite dangerous.

• Is your dog’s collar and tag up-to-date? If your dog wonders off and can’t find his way home, and his or her tag is updated with the correct contact info, the owners can be quickly notified.

• Always be sure your pet is up-to-date on shots, etc. If you plan on leaving or traveling with or even without your pet, visit your veterinarian and make sure your pet has medication refills and the appropriate shots.

Complete Security Systems for Small Businesses

2013-01-24T03:16:53+00:00

With the advancement of technology in home alarm systems that Augie Alarm provides for residential and small business owners, the standard old school alarm is no more. Today’s wireless cellular technology offers much more than ever before!

Not only is Augie Alarm’s wireless security system intelligent, it is easy to use. The system keeps you informed of what is going on at your business whether its employee or client files, inventory, etc, your business is protected.

What are the advantages of having an Augie Alarm security system?

Simple. Remote Control Settings:

Arm and disarm. Remotely arm and disarm your system from anywhere in the world. If you leave the office and an employee forgets to arm the business at the end of the day, just arm straight from your smart phone or web-enabled computer.

Video monitoring. This is extremely important to business owners. With secure video monitoring, you have control of your business from absolutely anywhere. Check-in on employees at any time, see what’s going on behind the counters, keep an eye on when employees and customers come and go, etc. The indoor alarm.com cameras will also record motion-triggered events and the business owner will receive a text or email alert with the saved video clip. Business owners are also able to record at certain times of the day and can change their settings any time.

Small appliance and lighting control. It’s inevitable; someone always leaves a light on or even a coffee maker. What about those times when the air conditioning is left on high? With Augie Alarm’s appliance and lighting control module, you can remotely turn on and off lights or small appliances such as an iron, coffee maker, curling iron, and save on energy, time, and money! You never have to worry with Augie Alarm; the system makes it easy on you!

The best part of having a monitored security system is that it is always monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, even on holidays. You will also be informed by text, email, or phone call on alarm events, video recordings, when someone arms or disarms the system, or even when a door has been opened or closed.

What Would a Burglar Do?

2013-01-22T20:25:18+00:00

It’s time to think like a burglar. I know that’s a strange thing to say, but try to imagine how they would first enter your home, and it may help and instigate decisions on keeping your home safe. According to the FBI, 60% of all home burglaries occur during the day, and most intruders access the home right through the front door!

What can we do to keep our home safe from intruders? Let’s start with the most important and often most looked over point – deadbolt locks. It’s time to update and evaluate your locks. As often as you test your smoke detector (which I hope you’re doing!), you need to check your locks even more. According to a study by the California Crime Technological Research Foundation, the most common techniques used by burglars to enter a home are through unlocked windows or doors.

There are many methods a burglar can use to access the home. The doors can easily be kicked in, door locks can be picked or hammered till they fall off, doors can be pried open and door frames can be spread apart with a spreader bar, door locks can be drilled out, possibly pried off with a pipe wrench or pliers, they can obtain copies of house keys, and door lights or side lights can be broken so the thief can reach in and unlock the door.

Security specialists and State Farm Insurance recommend that the typical home install Grade 1 (ASNI designation) deadbolt type locks on all exterior doors, such as the Kwikset locks that Augie Alarm has available for our customers.

When installing a door lock it is vital to keep these important tips in mind. As stated above, it’s encouraged to install a Grade 1 deadbolt type lock and locks that offer key control. With Augie Alarm’s automatic door locks, you don’t even need a key! Just set user codes and say goodbye to losing keys and making copies.

What kind of lock do you have on your doors? Do you lock your doors when you leave? Call Augie Alarm today and invest in an automatic door lock and have it installed in your home today!

Top Road Safety Tips

2013-01-22T01:59:47+00:00

Many of our keiki walk to and from school everyday. It is vital that each child and parent is properly educated on road safety when walking through town, and should never cross the road on their own until they understand and can follow these life-saving tips. Children mainly learn by example, so it’s also important for parents and guardians to follow these tips as well.

Walk on path. In the event you are walking on a road with no footpath, stay on the far right-hand side of the road.

Cross when there is a zebra crossing, footbridges, etc. If it is inaccessible to you, find a safe spot to cross the road. If you are crossing a road between traffic lights, always wait for the white crossing sign.

Never cross the road at bends or roundabouts. This means that you cannot see oncoming traffic.

Do not run when crossing the road. This may cause you to trip and fall, which leads to other dangers.

Notes to remember when your kids ride the school bus…

No distractions. There should never be any shouting on the bus or any noise that could distract the driver. Do not distract the driver by shouting and making noise. Do not board or alight from the bus while stuck in traffic. Wait for the bus to come to the designated bus stop.

No cutting. Enter the bus in a neat orderly fashion. This will prevent shoving and pushing and many injuries that could occur when rushing or jumping to get ahead of the line.

Leave house on time. My younger sister was notorious for running out to catch the bus at the last second. This can be quite dangerous, especially if the bus cannot see you when you are running past to either stop or catch-up with the big yellow bus. It is also important to wait for the bus to come to the designated bus stop. If you see it is stopped not to far from your stop, don’t try to make it easier for the driver by running on to where the bus is; wait until it comes to you.

Home Invasion in Waialua With Vivint Sign

2013-01-18T22:26:41+00:00

A terrifying home invasion occurred yesterday in Waialu. The most saddening part is that a 66-year-old man was “beat with the butt of a gun and him and his 60-year-old wife were tied up.” The home has a bright orange Vivint yard sign right in front of their home on the fenced wall.

The police are still investigating the robbery and hostage situation. According to Hawaii News Now and the HPD, three men wearing bandanas as masks with a handgun and rifle, and forced their way into the home around 9:30 am.

The HPD feels that there is no personal tie between the victims and robbers, but the neighbors feel it is someone nearby, which is why they covered their faces. The thieves were able to escape and are now wanted on “first degree robbery and kidnapping charges.” The victims are not severely injured nor hospitalized, but I’m sure they are forever scarred by this frightening event.

Why and how was this home accessed when they are supposed to be protected with a monitored home security system?

With a home security system that has 2GIG equipment, the homeowner can press hostage button on the panel, or the panic button on the key fob remote. If the customer has the medical pendant on them they can use that as well. This terrifying event most likely shook the neighborhood and the island of Oahu. Protect your home today with Augie Alarm. We’ll make sure your home is burglar-proof and you feel comfortable using your system that is life-saving!

Phone Lines Down but Augie Alarm Systems Working

2013-01-17T00:51:00+00:00

Yesterday’s fiber optic break that occurred under the airport viaduct affected “nearly 15,000 Oceanic Time Warner Cable and 10,000 Hawaiian Telcom customers” and left them without phone and Internet service. Service has been restored to most customers, but they are still working on the damages.

The fire also affected Kauai’s Police Department dispatch line and Pearlridge Satellite City Hall. The police stated that the “911 emergency line was not affected.” The Assistant Chief of the Patrol Services Bureau Ale Quibilan said, “it is critical that calls to 911 be limited to emergencies only and we truly appreciate the public’s patience and understanding during this time.”

They say that customers on the West Oahu side were greatly affected. Homeowners or business owners with wired alarm systems or security systems that is connected to a landline were without a home protection system yesterday. Since the phone lines were down, that meant their alarm system wasn’t working either.

With an Augie Alarm home security system that has a built-in GSM cell unit and a 24-hour backup battery, you don’t have to worry about power failure or phone lines, even the Internet not working in the home. Our system does not connect to a landline since it has a cell card that is built-in and communicates with the cell towers in the area. You can be sure with Augie Alarm that if there is an alarm event, the proper authorities will be dispatched no matter what. Why have a system that connects to an unreliable landline that can easily be cut by intruders? Augie Alarm prevents that from happening and guarantees great service with top-of-the-line equipment and monitoring.

Augie’s Backup Battery

2013-01-15T02:56:33+00:00

Augie Alarm, formerly known as Hi Alarm, is one of the few alarm companies that provide an easy to use touchscreen keypad called the Go!Control panel that has a 24-hour backup battery in case of power failure, etc. A power outage recently occurred at military housing in Kapolei near Barber’s Point early this morning.

The Navy appears to be taking a look into the situation since “The Hawaiian Electric Company says that the area is not under their responsibility.” No one is exactly sure what had caused the power outage, but if there is an Augie Alarm system there, you better believe it will work.

About a month ago there was a fire at a local post office on Kauai in Lihue. The building completely burned to the ground and it caused a power outage in the neighborhood. One of the neighbors happened to be part of the Augie Alarm family. They called us to let us know that they are expected to be without power for a few days. Their system was operable even without power, which meant their home was protected no matter what.

How To Prevent Garage Break-Ins

2013-01-13T00:44:35+00:00

Garages are most likely to be burglarized since they are often overlooked and not protected. Especially if your garage is connected to your home, precautionary measures should be made.

When you install a wireless home security system with Hi Alarm, we make sure that a wireless door sensor contacts every perimeter door. We can even install a motion detector in the garage for added protection. Homeowners may even install a small appliance and lighting module for lighting control, video surveillance cameras, and more.

Here is a quick list of things you can do as a homeowner, to secure your garage and prevent property crime.

Outdoor lighting. Burglars often target homes that are dark and can be a hiding place. A great way to keep them away is to be sure the exterior of your home, including the garage, is well lit. That means, exterior floodlights that are connected to motion sensors, will provide the light when someone walks past, eliminating dark places for an intruder to hide.

Lock up. It’s common sense, but often overlooked. Always keep your doors and windows securely locked. A garage typically has several doors and windows that should be properly secure. A deadbolt can easily deter an intruder and is easy and affordable. Be sure your windows have a lock or sash lock that will prevent the window from opening on the outside.

Get some blinds. More often than not, garages are left exposed by not covering the windows. Burglars will first look to see what is inside and then if anyone is there, before they make their move. It’s simple, really. Cover the windows.

What have you done to secure your garage?

Top Home Security Myths

2013-01-12T03:26:14+00:00

A burglar enters a U.S. home every 14 seconds and the FBI say that one in six homes will be burglarized this year. Most of us think that it won’t happen to us, but with those staggering statistics, it could happen to any of us. When a homeowner is asked why they do not have a monitored home security system, many respond with the popular home security protection misconceptions.

My pet will set off the alarm. When you have a home security system with Hi Alarm, you can count on a pet-friendly system. The motion detector is actually 55 pound pet-immune. That means that you can arm your system and leave for the day, and still have pets roaming in the home, without triggering the alarm.

Too expensive. Home security doesn’t cost as much as you may think. When you factor in the discount that you will receive on your homeowner’s insurance with having a monitored security system, the system ultimately pays for itself. Hi Alarm provides complete home security at monthly monitoring fee of $52.99/month. That’s about the cost of one water bottle a day! Not to shabby when considering the protection and peace of mind that our system provides.

It won’t happen to me. With the rise in property crime due to the way the economy is, taking proper precautions is a must. Maybe you’re thinking, “I have a dog,” “my neighborhood is safe,” “someone is always home.” If you are thinking any one of these, you are probably the one that will most likely be broken into. First, burglars can easily get past even the most vicious dog. All they need is Easy Off or a doggie treat. They may even attempt to really hurt your pet to get past and into your home. Burglars are especially attracted to safe neighborhoods as they may believe that inside contains the jackpot. According to the FBI, 60% of all home burglaries occur when a home is occupied!

Intruders can easily disable the alarm. Since Hi Alarm’s home security system is completely wireless and has a built-in GSM cell module, the system has phone-line cut protection. How? Easy. It doesn’t connect to a landline! The Hi Alarm Go!Control panel is also tamper-proof and prevents false alarm, as well as detects intruders. When the alarm sounds, the monitoring station will talk to you over the panel to verify it is not an intruder. If the intruder does not know the verbal password, the authorities will be dispatched. Even if the burglar were to smash the panel, the police will still be dispatched immediately.

Kapa’a Elementary Burglarized

2013-01-09T18:10:35+00:00

Kapa’a Elementary School students are without computers as the school was burglarized during the winter break. Local officials stated that 12 white MacBook laptop computers, 20 black Kindles, an InFocus projector, and several video and digital cameras were taken from one of the classrooms.

Assistant Chief Roy Asher of the Investigative Services Bureau said, "We're alerting the public of the incident as the suspects are likely to try and sell the items on the street or on the Internet. If you feel you have information that could be helpful to this case, please contact us." The estimated loss of items that were stolen is about $20,000 in electronics.

There was no sign of the intruders forcing their way into the school, however, the “metal cabinets where the items were located appeared to have been pried open,” said police officials.

It only takes minutes for an intruder to enter your home or business and take what’s important to you and your family. Protect what matters to you most by installing a monitored wireless security system and prevent break-ins today! 395-3765

Top Reasons to Invest in Home Security

2013-01-07T20:12:46+00:00

Have you considered a home security system but never went through with it because you felt you really didn’t need it? These startling statistics may cause you to grab your phone and call a technician to install a protection system right away. In 2011 alone, there were an estimated 2,188,005 burglaries, which is an increase of 0.9 percent when compared to the previous year. (FBI) Burglary victims suffered an estimated $4.8 billion in lost property. An average dollar loss per burglary offense was $2,185. It is also said that a burglary occurs every 14 seconds and 60% of burglaries occur when the home.

Medical emergency response system. This is especially important for seniors and families with small children. Hi Alarm systems have a built-in intercom system with two-way voice communication where a live operator from the central monitoring station will assist and dispatch the medical officials in the event of an emergency.

Monitored smoke & heat protection. We all know that home security protects your home from burglary, but with a system from Hi Alarm, your home is protected from emergency, medical, and fire. With our photo-electric smoke and heat detector that uses beams of light and sensors to detect the presence of smoke particles that interrupt the light beams and trigger the alarm, you can rest assured that fire department will be on the scene, quick! According to the USFA, each year there are an estimated 405,000 fires in residential structures, which cause nearly 3,600 fatalities, 18,600 injuries, and $4.7 billion in property loss. Most of these fire deaths occurred in homes that didn’t have a working or monitored smoke alarm.

Keep burglars out. Making your home more difficult to access is more than likely going to keep a burglar away. Having a yappy - yap dog will announce when people walk or pass by the home, but investing in a wireless home security system is proven to keep burglars out. When they see the Hi Alarm yard sign and window decals, they will know that your home is protected by a monitored security system and will most likely walk away and look for a home that appears to not be protected.

In a recent study, researchers have gathered that it takes a burglar less than 60 seconds breaking into a home. Just watch Augie and Uncle Mel as they demonstrate how easy and quick it is to break into a garage with just a clothes hanger!

By making your home more difficult to access such as a fence, deadbolt locks, dog, and especially a monitored security system, it will deter burglars from attempting a break-in.

Convenient phone app. Have you ever left your home in a hurry and realized when you arrived at your destination that you forgot to lock your doors? This has happened to me on several occasions, until I had an automatic door lock installed at my home that I could easily control from my mobile app.

Hi Alarm home security can alert you via text, email, or phone call, when there is activity or an alarm event in the home. If you have our fixed or pan/tilt night-vision cameras you may watch live video feed straight from your smartphone anytime! You can literally have complete control of your system and home right from your fingertips.

Home insurance discount. A monitored security system from Hi Alarm means guaranteed savings for the customer on their homeowner’s insurance. Depending on the provider and policy, they can save anywhere between 5 and 20%. Most companies will increase the savings for having our monitored smoke/heat detector and some companies increase savings even more when the customer has the Surveillance package. Hi Alarm will provide the customer with the documentation that they need in order to obtain the discount.

The Insurance Information Institute states in an article entitled, “Twelve Ways to Lower Your Homeowners Insurance Costs” – improve your home security.

Tip of the week #2

2013-01-04T22:11:51+00:00

Tip of the Week:

Rushing out to get back into the swing of things after the Holidays? Use the Alarm.com mobile app to double-check if your doors are locked. If you forgot, you can lock them remotely, wherever you are!

Father and Son Saved From House Fire on Big Island

2013-01-03T23:24:01+00:00

A fire on Big Island destroyed a home early yesterday morning that nearly took the lives of a father and son. A Good Samaritan neighbor saved the young boy and his father from the burning flames, of which completely destroyed their single-family home on Puako Street on the Big Island.

The 10-year-old boy was sound asleep inside the home when their neighbor ran over to the rescue. The boy stated, “my uncle Ron said, ‘There’s a fire! There’s a fire!’ So I woke up and then Uncle Ron broke the door in the back and then I ran out and then Uncle Ron dragged Uncle Dukey out.”

By the time the Fire Department arrived to the scene, “the roof had collapsed.” The neighbors had to call 911 and helped keep the flames from spreading by spraying water. The neighbors were frightened and worried that the flames would spread to the other homes. One neighbor stated, “my wife woke me up and said, ‘fire!’ and we heard somebody yelling. So we went out and I took my flashlight cause was still dark and just went and tried to put out the fire, we at least keep the fire from getting to the other homes.” Reagan told Hawaii News Now, “I was scared, I never knew if my uncle would make it out.”

The estimated damage is $60,000. Reagan said, “my Xbox, my clothes, my toys, and all that.”

Fire is not something to be taken lightly. According to FEMA, “In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire.” That is why it is extremely vital to the safety of every family, home, or business, that you have a monitored smoke and heat detector, preferably on each level of the home and in each sleeping area. With every Hi Alarm home security system, a smoke and heat detector is included. Take advantage of this opportunity and make your home or business fireproof today.

How To Start Your New Year Right!

2013-01-02T17:53:19+00:00

“Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Write a good one.” - Brad Paisley. Why not begin the year 2013 with peace of mind knowing your home, family, or business is safe. Augie T and Hi Alarm’s top priority is protecting families and businesses throughout Hawaii.

Hi Alarm was started in 2010, and its founders brought in 20 years of experience in the industry, ensuring that Hi Alarm was at the forefront in technology and innovation.

Hi Alarm only uses the best technology and products available. With trusted product names like 2Gig and Alarm.com, along with local service to all of the islands, we make it easy and affordable for families in Hawaii to protect what matters most with the best security and home automation products in the world.

Hi Alarm has been recognized as one of the nation’s top quality security providers and has won numerous awards in Hawaii and nationwide. Our world-class monitoring station was named the Best Monitoring Company in North America for 2011 and multiple other years. Monitronics is Five Diamond Certified by the Central Station Alarm Association, the industry’s highest recognition for monitoring station excellence.

Call our friendly office staff and find out how we can protect your home or business today. 395-3765

How To Balance Work & Home

2012-12-29T21:07:18+00:00

Are you working late hours and want to be able to check in on what’s going on at home? Does your job require you to travel often? Balancing your family and job can be easier said then done, but thanks to Hi Alarm home automation, you can focus on your job, and have peace of mind at the same time, knowing your family is safe.

Hi Alarm home automation makes being a good parent a whole lot easier, all while being able to continue pursuing your career. By simply using your smartphone, you can watch real live footage of your home by seeing your kids arrive home from school and making sure your little ones are eating their vegetables and doing their homework before bed. Give your children a user code for your Kwikset automatic door lock and receive a text notification that your young ones arrived home safely.

While you’re away, adjust the temperature of the home or turn on a lamp in the hallway near your child’s bedroom. Complete control of your home is really at your fingertips. Balancing your career and your family gets easier with home automation, get yours today and see what promotions we have available!

Why Our Customers Love Hi Alarm

2012-12-29T00:15:19+00:00

Augie T and Hi Alarm’s top priority is protecting homes, families, and businesses in Hawaii. Our sales and installation team and customer service department, is highly skilled and trained with the knowledge to better serve communities in Hawaii, as well as displaying courtesy and genuine care with concern for the people of Hawaii.

Hear what our customers have to say about their Hi Alarm system. Feel free to comment below or share what you enjoy most about your security system from Hi Alarm. You may also comment on facebook, twitter, google+, or yelp.

Top Reasons For Having a Secondary Touch Screen Panel

2012-12-28T00:30:10+00:00

Hi Alarm customers are incorporating the secondary panel more often simply for the convenience. It is most common in larger homes or homes with a mother-in-law suite or separate, detached units that are close by. The secondary panel makes it so easy to control your entire system from anywhere in the home.

Similar to the main panel, it has a bright LCD touch screen and the same easy-to-use interface. You are able to arm and disarm your system, see and hear status chimes, and more.

Benefits. The panel has three panic buttons for your convenience so you never have to call 911 or have to deal with all the questions before dispatch. Simply just push the emergency panic button in the event of an emergency and help is on the way immediately.

Top Holiday Trash Tips-How To Dispose Your Christmas Tree

2012-12-26T21:54:24+00:00

I know it’s too early to toss the tree we have all been working so hard to make beautiful with sentimental and fine ornaments, but in case you choose to do so before the new year, the City’s Department of Environmental Services advises families to recycle their trees.

If you live in a home that offers city collection, place your bear tree by the curb as part of your normal green waste pickup. The City provides curbside green waste collection to “more than 160,000 homes on Oahu.” If you have a green cart, be sure to trim and cut your tree to fit inside the cart so the lid can be down.

For those with manual collection, be sure to cut the tree into lengths of up to three feet. Bundle and place the tree on the curb that day. Too much work or live in a condo? No problem, just drop it off at the nearest Refuse Convenience Center.

Mele Kalikimaka from everyone here at Hi Alarm! Hope your Christmas was merry and bright! We are proud to be able to protect your home or business throughout the Holiday season. If you need any assistance or have any questions, feel free to contact our friendly customer service anytime. 395-3765

18th Annual Waimea Christmas Parade

2012-12-22T23:55:05+00:00

There’s still time…don’t miss out on this years Christmas Parade in Kauai’s most historic town, Waimea. They have hosted Christmas events since 1786. Join in as they celebrate Christmas with carols sung in Hawaiian, light displays, and Norfolk Island pines.

Where: Waimea Town

When: Saturday, December 22nd

Time: 6pm

Holiday Travels Checklist

2012-12-21T21:46:46+00:00

The holidays are just a few days away and some of you are probably all packed and ready to travel somewhere by this weekend. To help alleviate the stresses of traveling, we created a quick and easy checklist so you can be sure everything is squared away before you leave.

If you have a Hi Alarm system, you can have peace of mind while you’re away since you can control your locks, lights (even Christmas lights), thermostat, and other small appliances as well. With Hi Alarm’s easy app, monitor the coming and goings and status of your system.

To avoid leaving something behind (or a kid like in Home Alone!), and so you are not racing to the airport, follow our holiday checklist below:

Hold all mail and deliveries. If you know you will be away for a while, you want to make sure your home has an “at home look.” Overflowing mail and boxes left by the front door is a red flag for intruders. Go to usps.com and place a hold on your mail so that it may be picked up from a local post office when you return.

Charge up. My husband is a pro when it comes to making sure that all phones, cameras, laptops, etc are charged up and ready to go. We experienced flying to the mainland with very little battery for both phones which became very difficult since our charger was in our checked luggage (that did not happen again!).

Unplug and lock up. Do a final check before you leave and unplug your microwave, TV, computers, remove chargers, irons, coffee makers, hair dryers, and DVR players. These items still consume energy when plugged in. Check all doors including the back, garage, front, side or sliding door, gates, and all windows. Be sure they are securely closed and locked.

How to Have a Stress Free Holiday!

2012-12-20T22:27:28+00:00

If you are like me, you have been waiting for months for the holidays to arrive. Christmas music has been playing at my home since late October as I enjoy drinking pumpkin spice lattes with cinnamon spice candles, right here on Kauai. If the Holidays snuck up on you, it’s time to get into the holiday spirit! The shopping, wrapping, Christmas cards, baking, and decorating can sometimes be a bit overwhelming for some. How can you have a stress-free holiday this year?

Family. Remember that family is far more important then gifts and the preparation that is involved in creating ones perfect holiday. Spend time with your family, as those moments can never be replaced. Pull out the board games, go to the beach, or look up local events happening in the community that the entire family can enjoy.

Shop online. The mall and stores can be overcrowded and overwhelming this time of year. Try amazon and other stores where you can purchase your gifts online and may even are eligible for free shipping.

Let them help. If you are offered the help, say, “yes please” and “thank you.” Don’t think you can do it all by yourself. As you prepare for your Christmas Eve dinner, let the family and friends pitch in.
Bake in advance. One of my favorite desserts is a no-bake recipe. I especially love it because it can sit in the freezer and be ready for my guests when I need it! Find a no-bake recipe that you love and bake even a week ahead so you are not stressing the nights before Christmas and New Years when you should be relaxed and enjoying time with the fam.

Use your app. If you plan to be away this season don’t forget to take advantage of your alarm.com application. Visit yesterday’s blog and prepare to be amazed by the many ways you can monitor and control you system from your smartphone, computer, or tablet.

This truly is the most wonderful time of the year, enjoy it!

Oh There’s No Place Like Home For The Holidays…

2012-12-19T23:28:40+00:00

…Even when you’re not really there. The greatest feature of all is the convenience of the Hi Alarm home security system. No matter where you go for the Holidays, you can take your home with you.

You may be asking yourself, how is this possible? It’s so easy.

Hi Alarm Home or Business Security allows you to monitor and control your home or business whether you are there or not.

A standard feature of the Hi Alarm security system is the alarm.com application that is a powerful and convenient remote control for your system. The app gives you instant property access by using your smart phone, web-enabled computer, or tablet.

The possibilities are numerous! You can arm or disarm your system remotely, watch live video and recorded clips from your surveillance cameras, see which doors and windows are open, check your system status and motion activity at your property, monitor and control your lights, thermostats, and door locks. You can also get on-demand views into your property and view captured images, as well as access to filterable history of events reported by your system.

If you are visiting family or friends this year for the Holidays, you can now leave with peace of mind knowing your home is protected and monitored not only by the central monitoring station for fire, medical, and emergency, but by you! Take advantage of the benefits and convenience of Hi Alarm’s monitored home security systems and protect your home before you leave for the Holidays!

Video Cameras Help Police in Home Burglary Investigation

2012-12-18T20:25:33+00:00

A home burglary occurs every 14 seconds in the United States and the majority of burglaries occur during the day while families are at work, school, and their homes are the most vulnerable. In more than a third of burglaries, the thieves enter through the front door!

In a recent Hawaii News article, a mother in Honolulu provided valuable footage for the police as they investigate a home burglary. Homeowner, Kelly Roussea, left for only few minutes during the day, and came close to being “face to face with a burglar.

Kelly told Hawaii News, “I actually had left the house, forgot something, and came back quickly.” She said that just “20 minutes later, a man showed up at her front door.”

The surveillance camera captured his every move. You can see him ringing the doorbell (burglars often do to see if anyone is home), he then tries to open the door with his elbow, and then walks on the side of the house.

The homeowner stated that her important and sentimental belongings are now missing. The entire event was stated to only last for a total of 5 minutes.

Protect your home today and install our Indoor Fixed or Pan/Tilt Night-Vision cameras at your home or business. Receive motion-triggered recordings as well as email and text alerts. Now is the time, especially with all the Holiday shopping and presents under the tree. 395-3765

Blazing Fire at Hanamaulu Trading Company of Kauai

2012-12-15T17:57:17+00:00

As I was driving towards the Lihue airport yesterday at about 3:30 pm, I saw the smoke in the distance. I couldn’t believe my eyes and I knew that it must have been a residential fire. When I arrived home, I turned on the news and found that the firefighters on Kauai were working to put out a blazing fire at the Hanamaulu Trading Company on Kuhio Highway and had to close the highway between Hanamaulu Road and Laukona Street.

Local firefighters say, “the building was fully engulfed by the time they got to the scene, and the blaze caused damage to at least three other adjacent buildings.”
Thankfully, no injuries were reported and the flames were under control by about 4:30 pm.

Many Christmas gifts, letters, boxes, and mail were destroyed yesterday. The cause of the fire is yet unknown and the US Postal customers that normally go to the post office on Kuhio Highway will be able to pick up their mail at the Lihue Post Office today.

Fire is causing damage to homes and businesses more and more each day. In 2011 alone, there were 1,389,500 fires reported in the United States (NFPA). These fires caused 3,005 civilian deaths, 17,500 civilian injuries, and $11.7 billion in property damage.

Take advantage of Hi Alarm’s smoke and heat detectors that are standard in every home security package that we offer. Fire most occurs when least expected. There’s peace of mind when you have a monitored smoke and heat detector with Hi Alarm. Our photoelectric smoke and heat detector will alert the monitoring station immediately when detected, whether you are home or not. Install one in every room or every level in your home. Call Hi Alarm today to hear about our special offers. 395-3765

Top Holiday Fire Safety Tips

2012-12-14T02:41:32+00:00

The days around Christmas are typically one of the top days for home fires. According to the NFPA, almost half of all home decoration fires are started by candles and one of every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems. Christmas is a time for friends and families to get together. Be fire smart and follow these fire safety tips as you enjoy celebrating this Holiday season with the ones you love.

Test your smoke detectors. For your safety, install a smoke detector on every floor in your home and if possible, in every bedroom. Be sure to practice fire safety drills and create an escape plan.

Cooking safety. Anything that is left on the stove for a few seconds can turn into a tragedy. Whenever you are cooking, stay in the kitchen. Those moments when you leave the food unattended are when a fire occurs. If you are using the friar outside, stay with the friar. Remember to keep a 3-foot zone around cooking appliances, which means no kids, pets, or toys.

Tree safety. When purchasing a live tree, always check for freshness. A fresh tree has green needles that are hard to pull from branches and do not break when bent. Always remember to water your tree.
Christmas lights safety. Be sure to check for counterfeited labels. Check for broken or frayed wires, and replace bulbs when necessary. Never used damaged light sets.

Candle safety. With all sorts of flammable Christmas decorations, using real candles can ruin your holiday cheer. Try using battery-operated candles such as LED tea lights instead of real candles. They still provide the ambience that everyone loves and aid in fire protection.

Hi Alarm’s #1 goal is to protecting our ohana and businesses in Hawaii. This is why we take fire protection very seriously, especially around the Holidays by including a smoke and heat detector with every security system.

House Fire On Big Island

2012-12-12T22:49:18+00:00

A home on Kahana Road on the Big Island caught on fire last night around 8:30 pm. The fire crews arrived on the scene to the “fully involved structure fire” that was “engulfing a single story family residence.”

The neighbors told the officials that the woman that was inside the home was missing. The crews were unable to do an immediate search due to the uncontrollable flames. However, they did stay to search the area through the night and The Red Cross also “responded.” They found the woman dead.

The fire damage to the home was estimated to be about $300,000, however the loss of a family member can never be replaced.

Is your home monitored by a central monitoring station that will alert the local fire department in a fire emergency? Hi Alarm Security is able to protect your home from not only fire, but also medical and emergency (burglary) as well. Our central station has the fastest response time in the nation and will alert the local officials when you need them. Don’t let another day go by without a home security system. Call Hi Alarm today. 395-3765

How To Prevent Holiday Burglaries

2012-12-12T03:06:52+00:00

Hawaii News Now stated that the Big Island police are strongly encouraging families to take proper precautions during this holiday season. They urge you to report any suspicious activity in your neighborhood to prevent burglaries from happening to you, your neighbors, and the ones you love.

Here are a few ways you can prevent holiday fear and turn it into a holiday cheer.

Install a complete home security system. If you already have one, be sure you arm your system at armed away when you leave the home. If you plan to stay in for the evening, arm your system at arm stay. Having a monitored alarm system is one of the best deterrents for home robberies. Just having a sign that states your home is protected by Hi Alarm, is sometimes enough for an intruder to walk away.

Always leave your home with an “at home look.” This can be done by keeping your home well lit (this is true when you are home as well) and keeping your trees and bushes well trimmed so they do not provide privacy for an intruder.

Remember to lock all doors and windows when you leave your home. Try an automatic door lock instead of leaving the key under the doormat. Everyone knows where to look for a spare key. Eliminate this issue by installing our Kwikset Automatic Door Lock and set user codes for each family member and close friend.

Familiarize yourself with the cars in your neighborhood. If you see anything unfamiliar, notate the description of the vehicle, license plate number, and a description of any occupants to be reported to the local police.

Keep your whereabouts private. A rising in burglaries has been occurring while homeowners are away on a trip due to exploiting their whereabouts on social media networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+, etc. Wait to post your exciting vacation pictures till you return home.

"If you suspect a burglary is in progress or if you encounter any suspicious person on your property, call 911."

USPS Release Holiday Mailing Dates for Hawaii

2012-12-11T05:41:41+00:00

According to Hawaii News, the U.S. Postal Service is “expecting to deliver more than 18 billion pieces of mail from Thanksgiving to Christmas this year.” Wow!

Just yesterday I was at the most beautiful orchid store and the owner had mentioned that he delivers orchids to the mainland. He advised me that if I plan on sending an orchid as a Christmas gift, that I better go ahead and do that before Friday, to guarantee shipping and to protect the orchids from not sitting in a warehouse somewhere in Texas.

The one thing to remember when you’re sending your Christmas gifts this year is, plan ahead. The suggested mailing dates are “today for First-Class and Priority Mail headed to international and overseas military destinations, and Dec. 18 for First-Class and Priority Mail headed to the Mainland.”

If you plan on sending “Holiday cheer” to the Mainland, it can be sent no later than December 20th via Express Mail service. The busiest day of the year for the postal service is expected to be December 17th. These dates however, are not deadlines, they are just dates to guarantee your package or card arrival before Christmas Day.

Preparing gifts can sometimes be pricey, but it’s comforting to know that if you plan to send it far away, there’s a flat rate for packages up to 70 pounds. The rate is only $11.35 for the Medium box and $15.45 for the Large Flat Rate Box that you can find at the post office. The large box even says, “Seasons Greetings from Hawai’i.”

Start the shopping and start the shipping to guarantee a proper arrival date and time! Call Hi Alarm today and see how you can save on the installation of your complete home security system and protect your home this Christmas.

Allow Hi Alarm to make your life safer, smarter, and easier. 395-3765

Join the Social Hi Alarm Community

2012-12-09T02:07:14+00:00

Hi Alarm takes pride in having the best sales, promotions, installation, and customer service departments in all of Hawaii. Hi Alarm has won awards for being one of the highest quality alarm systems providers in the entire nation. To make it quick, simple, and easy for you to reach us, we not only have a 24-hour, 7 days a week LOCAL customer service, but can be reached on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Youtube, and our very own blogs.

When you join the Hi Alarm community on Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and Youtube, you can join the fun facts, tips, special giveaways and contests, as well as the support from other customers and the Hi Alarm team. We encourage you to submit feedback and even ask questions about your monitored home security system.

Join us on Facebook today

Join us on Google+

Big Island Banks Strengthen Security

2012-12-07T18:37:07+00:00

The Hawaii County Police proclaimed that two inmates had escaped the Correctional Center just the other day with the intention of robbing a bank. The police have recommended, “Heightened security measures at all financial institutions.”

Early Wednesday morning, the police received a report from the correctional officers that the two escaped convicts assaulted an officer and threatened a civilian worker as well as stealing her vehicle. The 63-year-old correctional officer was taken to the medical center and his injuries appear to be non-life threatening.

The first suspect is Japanese and about 160 pounds with short black hair and tattoos on his chest. His name is Jarvis Naoki Higa and is 35 years old. The second suspect is 31-year old Ryan James Jeffries-Hamar. He is Caucasian and about 170 pounds with blue eyes and reddish-brown hair. If you see either suspects, the police urge you to call 911, as they are extremely dangerous.

Protect your home or business today, with the nation’s top quality security provider that can equip your property with home security, automation, and energy management. I’ve heard it said one too many times, “I just don’t need it.” Don’t wait until something happens to realize that you do need a monitored home security system. Call Hi Alarm today and let us help you protect your home from fire, medical, and emergency. 395-3765

Hi Alarm in the Garden Island Newspaper

2012-12-05T05:23:10+00:00

Hi Alarm was featured on the front cover of the Garden Island Newspaper in Kauai yesterday. Augie shares how the medical pendant saved his father’s life and he expresses the value of the system and how it affected his family. After all Augie has seen, he decided to install a system in his own home and help other families have peace of mind as well.

Augie also explains how Hi Alarm recently expanded to Kaua’i from O’ahu by merging with Electronic Surveillance Systems, owned by Dave Hamamura.

As Augie would say, “to give your family peace, put your trust in us for your security needs.”

Call today. 395-3765

How Criminals Use Facebook

2012-12-01T21:37:53+00:00

Facebook is an “irreplaceable part of the online experience." Mark Zuckerberg’s “social media empire” has more than 900 million users. Sadly millions of Americans have been exposed to online crime due to the exceeding number of cyber crime and social media that has made it easier to commit.

Online crime has been an ongoing issue, however, with the new social networks where you are able to make friends with people you don’t even know, you can imagine the potential cyber crime. According ZoneAlarm, a leading Internet security software provider, “roughly 4 million Facebook users experience spam on a daily basis, 20% of Facebook users have been exposed to malware, and Facebook receives 600,000 reports of hijacked log-ins every day.”

Here are several ways criminals use facebook.

Fake accounts & Cloning. Criminals have a way of making a somewhat identical account that is used to gain access of the original user. “When the victims enter their usernames and passwords, they are collected in a database, which the scammer often will sell.” They have a way of creating false advertisement by using the marketplace.
Hacking. Criminals use a “common password dictionary,” and try using common dates, names, addresses, phone numbers, and a wide variety of email identifications. Once the account has been accessed it is then often sold in exchange for money.
Commandeering accounts. Commandeering accounts is a personal direct form of identity theft when a criminal logs on to an account illegally using an obtained user ID and password.
Using personal information. Facebook users have the option to keep their information private, however, many reveal their personal phone numbers, addresses, city and state, emails, birthdates, etc. Criminals then use the provided information to steal identities.

Always take caution when using social networks such as Facebook. This is especially true when you leave town or are away from your home. If you plan on leaving for a trip, post pictures when you return instead of while you’re there or declaring that you’re leaving before you actually leave. This will prevent possible break-ins, etc. What are your thoughts? Feel free to reply in the comments below.

Remote Control Your Christmas Lights

2012-11-29T04:42:25+00:00

Everyone at Hi Alarm likes to make things easier for you, especially around Christmas time with all the holiday shopping. We understand the deadlines, final exams, Christmas planning, gift shopping and wrapping, traveling, just to name a few! The last thing you want to worry about is if you turned off your Christmas lights when you leave for work in the morning.

Christmas lights consume a lot of energy and I have noticed that less and less people are decorating their homes for Christmas. It also becomes a hassle to remember to turn off the lights in the morning or before you go to bed. Hi Alarm has a solution for you. We call it the lighting & small appliance module.

This small yet neat gadget allows you to control lights and small appliances such as your curling iron, toaster, lamps, coffee pot, and more. Even after the Christmas fun, you can still enjoy your neat gadget for the items in your home that you use everyday anyways. This module can be controlled from your smartphone, computer, or tablet from anywhere in the world!

What do you do to control your Christmas lights each year? Let us know in the comments below.

Tip of the week #1

2012-11-27T21:32:23+00:00

Tip of the week: Are you worried you might have left the coffee maker on, curling iron plugged in, or as you drive away you notice the lights are on in the house? Don't waste your money or burn the house down...log right into your Hi Alarm app and control your lights, thermostat and more! NO worries and NO wasted money!

Hi Alarm’s Cyber Monday!

2012-11-27T01:43:32+00:00

Today only, FREE installation and FREE activation on our home security package, or receive half-off your activation on energy management, surveillance, or home automation! That means that you’re only responsible for the monthly monitoring of $52.99 for the security package, which is about $2 a day!

Don’t delay; this special won’t last long. Take advantage of this exclusive offer that is only available ONLINE until midnight tonight HST.

Request a quote or call our friendly office staff at 395-3765 to schedule the installation of your brand new complete home security system today!