Red Flags to Watch Out for When Searching for a NYC Home

May 13, 2022 by

NYC home hunting is never an easy task, but it can be especially difficult in the current climate. Sometimes emotions can get in the way of being able to objectively view a property. Use the list of red flags below to stay vigilant throughout the search process.

  • Safety Concerns – Whether renting or buying, always check for security items like peepholes, quality door locks, good lighting, and cameras in common areas. While doors are the first line of defense for your security, windows are the second. Windows should have sturdy, easy to use locks. Look for secure window guards. NYC building owners are required to provide and properly install approved window guards on all windows, including first floor bathrooms, windows leading onto a balcony or terrace in an apartment where a child 10 years of age or younger resides, and windows in each common area, on any floor. Additionally, if tenants or occupants want window guards for any reason, even if there are no resident children 10 years of age or younger, the tenant can request the window guards in writing. 
  • Foundation Issues – Most foundation issues are serious and can’t be ignored, no matter how minor they may look and how much you love the property. Any cracks wider than a half an inch or large cracks that appear to have been recently covered up are a red flag. If a seller is aware of foundation problems, they should disclose that fact when you first view a home. However, owners are often unaware of foundation problems. A home inspector can look for foundation issues and help ensure you’re making a good investment.
  • Too Good to Be True Price – As the saying goes, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. A house may be priced to sell because the owner needs to move on in a short timeline, but it could also mean there are problems with the property. Before you fall in love with a home that is priced to sell, be sure to find out why!
  • Multiple Listings – Are there multiple properties for sale in the general vicinity? This could indicate a problem with the location and location means everything in real estate. A property that has been sold multiple times should also raise a red flag. Do your research on the property and the surrounding area before deciding on a home.
  • Unusual Odors –  Unpleasant odors in a home could indicate a mold infestation, water damage, sewage issues, poor ventilation, leaking pipes, or HVAC issues. If you notice an unusual odor in a home you are interested in, hire an inspector who will pay special attention to unmasking the foul odor.
  • Random Fresh Paint – Repainting is a common practice when vacating a home, but random patches of fresh paint are a red flag. Painting only one side of a room or only a portion of the ceiling could indicate that someone is trying to cover up a defect or water stains from leaking. 

When you do find your dream home, Sentry Window Guards can provide various types of childproof window locking mechanisms and safety devices. For more information regarding our window guard products and our experience and leadership in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!

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The First Week of April is National Window Safety Week

March 30, 2022 by

Window Safety Week was established in 1997 to spread awareness about the role of windows in escaping a fire or in other emergencies and to safeguard against accidental window falls. It is no coincidence that this week is held at the beginning of spring when many choose to open their windows to let in fresh spring air. Spend some time going through these tips to learn how to observe window safety year round.

Preventing Falls From Windows

Every year, over thousands of children younger than 18 years of age are treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments for injuries related to falls from windows. With the right habits and preventative measures put in place, almost all of these accidents and injuries are avoidable.

  • Never leave small children unattended around open windows. 
  • Windows should be closed and locked when they are not in use.
  • Whenever possible, open windows from the top instead of the bottom.
  • Use window stops to prevent windows from opening more than four inches. Window stops can allow you to enjoy a fresh breeze while ensuring windows won’t open wide enough to invite a fall. 
  • Keep children’s play areas away from windows.
  • To help prevent children from climbing up to an open window, don’t place furniture near windows.
  • Don’t rely on insect screens to prevent a window fall. Screens alone cannot support the weight of a child.
  • Create soft landing surfaces such as bushes or plant beds under windows to help prevent serious injuries in case of a fall.  
  • Discuss with older children and teenagers the dangers of climbing out of or jumping from windows for any reason other than an emergency.
  • Properly installed window guards are your best defense in preventing window falls.

Establishing an Emergency Escape Route

If a disaster such as a fire breaks out in your home, you may have only a few minutes to get out safely. This is why having and practicing an escape plan is so important. According to an NFPA survey, while 71% of Americans have an escape plan in case of a fire, only 45% of those have practiced it. Both planning and practicing are important, especially if there are young children or anyone with mobility issues in the home.

  • Draw a map of your home, indicating all windows and doors. As a family, visit each room of your home and find two ways out, labeling them on your map. Make sure windows and doors required for an escape are all accessible and at least one window in each bedroom meets escape and rescue requirements. 
  • Teach children who are old enough how to properly and safely open windows during an emergency situation. Provide emergency escape ladders in upper story windows where needed and teach everyone in the family how to use them.
  • Decide upon and draw up a meeting place outside of your home for everyone to gather after an evacuation. This can be a tree, light pole, or mailbox that is a safe distance away from the front of your home. Teach everyone to NEVER go back inside a burning building. Once they are out, stay out.
  • Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year. Practice once at night and once during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out. During the drill, test the smoke alarms so that everyone knows the sound. 

At Sentry Window Guards, our business is to keep your family safe by preventing window fall accidents from occurring. To help spread the word about National Window Safety Week, make sure to share these tips with everyone you know. For more information regarding our window guard products and our expertise in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today! 

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Keep Unwanted Pests From Entering Your NYC Home This Winter

January 13, 2022 by

Unwanted pests like rodents and insects like to move indoors during fall and winter to find warmth and escape the New York City cold. Not only are they a nuisance, but many rodents and insects like cockroaches can spread germs and diseases in your home through their saliva and feces – yuck! Plus, cockroach sheddings are a huge trigger for allergy and asthma symptoms for those who are allergic. Use the following tips to keep these unwanted pests from enjoying the comforts of your warm New York home.

  • Pests can sneak into your home through the smallest of crevices so inspect your home for entry points. Seal all gaps and cracks you find in your exterior using a silicone-based caulk. Seal openings at joints of siding and overhanging eaves and where utility cables or pipes enter your home. Make sure you have a cap or wire mesh around any chimney openings.
  • Check the weather stripping on doors and windows. Make sure it is snug and you are not able to lift it away from the surface. If necessary, replace any worn weather-stripping. Next, make sure your window and door frames are not warped and everything sits properly without leaving gaps. Not only will this project keep out the pests, but it will also lower your heating bill this winter!
  • Trimming bushes and branches away from the home will also prevent easy access for pests to move indoors.
  • Unwanted pests are in search of water just as much as they are searching for warmth and food so fix any leaks that could give them access to water. Check very closely under sinks and in the basement or crawl space. Keeping your home dry is one of the easiest, best ways to keep pests out.
  • Avoid having piles of clutter in and around your home. Pests can hide in boxes, clothing, piles of paper, inside furniture, really inside anything you haven’t put to good use lately. By denying them the shelter of clutter, pests will have a much harder time surviving in your home. Keep in mind clutter around the perimeter of a house or building such as piles of wood, bricks, or stone can also provide shelter for unwanted pests.
  • Wipe kitchen surfaces daily, including counters, stove tops, microwave ovens, toasters, and sinks. Don’t leave dishes to pile up in the sink and make sure to clean crumbs and spills right away. Store all food in airtight containers, especially in the pantry. Keep the pantry tidy so that you can spot unwelcomed visitors right away.
  • Wash all pet food dishes daily and never leave out pet food overnight. A full bowl of food is an easy target for unwanted pests. Store pet food in a tightly sealed container.
  • Dispose of garbage regularly. Cover all trash cans tightly, indoors and outdoors, to prevent a feeding frenzy for pests.

At Sentry Window Guards we make it our mission to help keep families safe in New York. For more information regarding our window guard products and our experience and leadership in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!

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The Ultimate Security Guide for Apartment Renters

December 27, 2021 by

Deciding to relocate to a new apartment is a big decision. There are so many things to think about such as location, convenience, schools, amenities, and your budget. Use this guide to be sure you are selecting your new apartment with security in the forefront of your mind.

Selecting the Most Secure Apartment:

  • It is unrealistic to expect to find a completely crime-free neighborhood, but you can look online for crime trends in an area to see how they compare to national crime statistics. Another thing to look for is a good amount of street lighting at night as this can deter crime. Go for a walk around the neighborhood and as you are walking, make conversation with any friendly faces you find. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and ask for thoughts about the neighborhood. Many will be happy to talk to a potential new neighbor. Seeing people out walking and playing in a neighborhood lets you know that they feel safe.
  • As mentioned, good lighting can deter crime. Check that there is good lighting especially at night in all parking areas, stairwells, hallways, mailrooms, laundry rooms, and the waste disposal area.
  • Check for security items like a peephole, quality door locks, and cameras in public areas. While doors are the first line of defense for your security, windows are the second. Windows should have sturdy, easy to use locks. Look for secure window guards. NYC building owners are required to provide and properly install approved window guards on all windows, including first floor bathrooms, windows leading onto a balcony or terrace in an apartment where a child 10 years of age or younger resides, and windows in each common area, on any floor. Additionally, if tenants or occupants want window guards for any reason, even if there are no resident children 10 years of age or younger, the tenant can request the window guards in writing and the landlord must install them. 
  • Look for posted fire escape plans and severe weather shelter information.

Adding Extra Security Measures:

  • Even if renter’s insurance is not required, it is something you should strongly consider. Your landlord’s insurance only covers the building you live in, your renters insurance policy will cover your personal property. For a relatively low cost per month, it will cover the cost of your possessions that are lost or damaged due to burglary, a natural disaster, or vandalism.
  • At the very least you should change the cylinder of the locks and get a new key. Who knows how many people have a copy of the key or if it is hidden somewhere nearby. In many rental scenarios you will be required to provide your landlord with a duplicate of the key. An easy way to improve upon an existing lock setup would be to add an additional lock to your door that works like a door jammer. Beef up your door lock installation by using 3-inch screws on your strike plate. Door hinges should also be secured with 3-inch screws. The longer screws will make it more difficult for an intruder to kick the door open.
  • Store cash, jewelry, firearms, heirlooms, important documents, and other valuables inside a fireproof safe.
  • Investing in a security camera can provide some peace of mind. Many security cameras and smart video doorbells provide motion detection, night vision, and two-way talk. 

At Sentry Window Guards, we provide various types of childproof window locking mechanisms and safety devices for your home or business. For more information regarding our window guard products and our experience and leadership in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!

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How to Make a Home Disaster Escape Plan

September 20, 2021 by

If a disaster such as a fire breaks out in your home, you may have only a few minutes to get out safely. This is why having and practicing an escape plan is so important. According to an NFPA survey, while 71% of Americans have an escape plan in case of a fire, only 45% of those have practiced it. Both planning and practicing are important, especially if there are young children or anyone with mobility issues in the home. So, follow the steps below to create an effective disaster escape plan.

  • Draw a map of your home, indicating all windows and doors. As a family, visit each room of your home and find two ways out, labeling them on your map. Make sure windows and doors required for an escape are all accessible.
  • Discuss a plan to have one adult assigned to help get babies, young children, or family members who need extra help out safely. Teach able-bodied children techniques to escape on their own in case they can’t be reached.
  • Decide upon and draw up a meeting place outside of your home for everyone to gather after an evacuation. This can be a tree, light pole, or mailbox that is a safe distance away from the front of your home. Teach everyone to NEVER go back inside a burning building. Once they are out, stay out.
  • Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year. Practice once at night and once during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out. During the drill, test the smoke alarms so that everyone knows the sound. 
  • When you hold your fire drill, everyone in the family should practice getting low and going under the smoke to the exit. During the drill is also a good time to teach children how to use the back of their hand to check doors for heat before opening and to use a different way out if the door is hot.
  • If escape ladders are part of your disaster escape plan, show everyone where they are kept and spend time practicing using them during your drill.
  • If you live in a multi-residence building, always plan to use the stairs to get out, never the elevator. Make sure to practice using the stairs as part of your escape plan. 
  • If you can’t exit a multi-residence building due to smoke or fire in the hallway or stairway, call the fire department to report your exact location and gather in a room with a window to await their arrival. Close all doors between you and the fire. Use duct tape or towels to create a seal around the door and over air vents in order to keep smoke from coming in. Wave a flashlight or light colored cloth at the window to let the fire department know where you are located.
  • Children can become scared and confused during emergencies, so teach them not to hide from firefighters and other emergency personnel. 

A fire or other disaster can easily occur in your home, regardless of your home’s age, location, or condition. Take the time to make and practice an escape plan for the safety of everyone in your home. For more information regarding Sentry Window Guard products and our experience and leadership in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!

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