Frequently Asked Questions | Sentry Window Guards, New York

January 29, 2024 by

Hey there! Keeping your family safe is our top priority at Sentry Window Guards!

We’ve got all kinds of childproof window locks and safety gadgets to make sure your home is secure. And guess what? Window guards are a must if you’ve got kiddos 10 years or younger – it’s the law!

Balcony window? Yep, you need a window guard there too. It’s a legal thing.

Curious about the height requirement for window guards? It’s 8 feet, but hey, they’re not just for meeting legal standards. They’re also awesome for keeping your place secure from break-ins.

Wondering about screws? Tamper-proof screws are the way to go – they’re homeowner and management company friendly. And guess what? We’ve got 20 cool colors for our window guards, matching any building or window frame.

Oh, and good news – we’re not just about selling guards. We’ll install them for you too! We’re your one-stop shop for all things windows and guards. Our team will troubleshoot, measure, fabricate, supply, and install – all within 24 hours!

Remember, at Sentry Window Guards, we’re all about preventing accidents and keeping kids safe. Check out the National Safety Council for more tips on emergency plans and window fall prevention. And if you’re in NYC with kiddos 10 or under, window guards are a must by law. Hit us up for more info on our products and our expertise in NYC safety requirements!

And remember, Window Safety Week this year will be held April 7-13.

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Safeguard Your Home: 5 Essential Fall Maintenance Tasks

October 13, 2023 by

Fall is a season of transition, marked by cooling temperatures and the colorful transformation of leaves. It is also an important time to protect your property and ensure your family’s safety. Let’s delve into five fundamental fall maintenance tasks that will secure your home and bring you peace of mind. From ensuring your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors are in top condition to preparing your heating systems for the upcoming winter, we’ll guide you through the steps needed to maintain a secure and comfortable home. We will also delve into the importance of addressing leaks promptly to prevent water damage and the significance of staying vigilant against pest invasions. Of course, we will highlight the often-overlooked significance of window safety, emphasizing the need for proper window guards and stops to safeguard against accidents. Stay safe and secure with these simple home maintenance tasks!

  • Check your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors. Your family’s safety starts with functional smoke detectors and fire alarms. They alert your family to fire and smoke, giving you crucial time to evacuate. Carbon monoxide detectors take on the all important task of notifying you of dangerous levels of this odorless gas. Ensure all of these devices work properly by conducting monthly tests and changing the batteries twice a year. A handy reminder is to replace batteries during the spring and fall daylight saving time transitions.
  • Inspect and maintain all sources of heat before winter. As winter approaches and temperatures drop, it’s essential to ensure your heating systems are in optimal condition to keep your family warm. HVAC systems with cracks, dirty air filters, and poor ventilation can cause poor air quality, higher energy bills, and carbon monoxide buildup. In addition, annual safety inspections and cleanings for both your chimney and fireplace are highly recommended by the National Fire Protection Association. Creosote, an oily wood-tar residue, can cling to chimney walls and pose a significant risk, potentially causing fires to escalate out of control. Stay safe by scheduling regular maintenance for these items.
  • Repair any leaks and address water damage. Unnoticed leaks can cause costly water damage in your home. Inspect potential areas like basements, crawl spaces, under sinks, around faucets, toilets, showers, and beneath appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators. After fixing leaks, promptly deal with any discovered water damage to prevent further issues. Excess moisture can rapidly lead to mold growth if left unattended.
  • Keep pest control up to date. As temperatures drop and leaves change, unwanted pests will be seeking warm shelter and food, posing risks to your home. Pest infestations, whether insects, rodents, or snakes, can cause substantial, uninsured damage. Regular inspections and swift action are key to keeping your property pest-free.
  • Protect your family with window guards. Ensure your windows are safe and secure to prevent accidents. Window guards, when correctly installed, are crucial in preventing falls, as screens alone can’t support a child’s weight. Use window stops to enjoy the fresh, fall air without the risk of windows opening too wide and posing a fall hazard. By taking these simple precautions, you can make your home a safer place for everyone!

At Sentry Window Guards we make it our mission to help keep families safe. By following these essential fall maintenance tasks, you’re not just protecting your property; you’re safeguarding your loved ones. 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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4 Safety Concerns to Look for in Older New York Homes

July 23, 2023 by

New York City is known for its diverse architectural landscape, and there are many older homes scattered throughout the city that may have hidden safety concerns. Older homes add character and historical charm to different neighborhoods. Brooklyn is known for its historic neighborhoods with rows of brownstones and older homes. In areas of Queens and the Bronx, you can find older single-family homes, as well as multifamily houses, some of which were built in the early 20th century. The character, charm, and unique personalities of older homes is undeniable. If you live in an older home in New York City or are considering purchasing one, we have some safety concerns to keep on your radar.

Electrical and Plumbing

In many cases, the electrical and plumbing systems in older homes may need updating. Building codes and safety standards have evolved over time. Updating the electrical and plumbing systems in older homes can bring them in line with current code requirements, making the home safer and easier to insure. Older electrical and plumbing systems might also be less energy-efficient, resulting in higher utility bills. Upgrading to more efficient systems can lead to cost savings in the long run.

Foundation

It’s important not to overlook foundation or structural concerns in an older home, as they can significantly impact the structural integrity of the house and lead to costly repairs. Look for visible signs such as cracks in the walls, especially around windows and doors, uneven floors or floors that slope, doors and windows that stick or do not close properly, gaps between walls and the ceiling or floors and cracks in the exterior brickwork or foundation. A professional home inspector will have the expertise to identify potential foundation issues, while a structural engineer can give a more in-depth analysis if problems are found.

Window Guards

While strong doors are the first line of defense for your security, windows are the second. Windows should have sturdy, easy to use locks. Also, 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. 

Hazardous Materials

There are several hazardous materials that can be found in older homes, especially those constructed before the mid-1970s when building regulations were not as strict. These materials may pose health risks if they are disturbed, damaged, or deteriorating. Asbestos, lead-based paint, mold, radon, formaldehyde, and lead pipes can all lead to contamination in the home. It is important to be aware of the potential presence of these hazardous materials in older homes, particularly before undertaking any renovation or remodeling projects. It is always best to consult with professionals trained in the safe removal and remediation of these materials.

Sentry Window Guards can provide various types of childproof window locking mechanisms and safety devices for a home of any age. 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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12 of the Most Important Home Safety Tips for Aging Relatives

October 17, 2022 by

New York City families consistently struggle with home safety and the best way to adapt housing to help aging relatives. Whether this means keeping them in their own home or modifying a family member’s home, there are many items to take under consideration. Falls, burns, and poisonings are among the most common accidents involving older people. If an older adult is in overall good health, there are many things that can be done to help them continue to live independently. In addition to  checking in on them frequently, here are some important home tips to keep everyone safe.

  1. Create an open environment in the home by making sure all hallways, stairs, and paths are well lit and clear of objects such as books or shoes. Decluttering helps clear out rooms and walkways giving older adults more room to move, hopefully reducing the possibility of trips and falls. 
  2. Rugs can be a tripping hazard, especially for older adults using walkers, canes, or shoes with inserts. If you do not want to remove rugs, tape or tack all edges to the floor and add anti-slip pads.
  3. Replace all standard door knobs with lever handles which are easier for older adults to grasp.
  4. Thoroughly inspect the stairs looking for uneven steps or wobbly floorboards. Apply non-skid treads on the steps if necessary. You can also paint stair tops a contrasting color making them easier to see.
  5. Tighten inside and outside handrails by checking the hardware that supports the handrail to make sure it’s firmly attached and in good condition.
  6. Water, rugs, slippery surfaces, and small spaces can all make it difficult to maneuver around in bathrooms, leading to slips and falls. Install grab bars around the tub, shower, and toilet. You can also get a special shower chair or bench and a raised toilet seat. Installing a hand-held showerhead makes the shower easier to use, especially when cleaning hard-to-reach places. Use non-slip mats and rugs to eliminate falls on slippery surfaces.
  7. Moving frequently used kitchen items to lower shelves can prevent older adults from reaching and losing balance or trying to use stools or stepladders.
  8. Setting the thermostat on the water heater no higher than 120° F will help prevent accidental burns.
  9. Help them remain safe in the home by installing a peephole and reminding them not to answer the door to strangers when they are home alone.
  10. Alert your loved one to ongoing scams targeting seniors. Remind them to talk over offers made by telephone salespeople with a friend or family member and not to share personal information, such as social security number, credit card, bank information, or account passwords with people they do not know.
  11. Prevent window falls by using properly installed window guards.
  12. Install a mail slot in the front door to help prevent mail theft and make it easier to receive mail.

If you need to make modifications in the home for an older adult, hire professionals with accessibility improvement experience who can complete the work successfully. Sentry Window Guards is your one-stop solution for window guards. From start to finish, our professionally trained staff can assist you in your window guard project. We can troubleshoot, measure, fabricate, supply, and install all within a 24 hour period. All Sentry powder coated window guard products are warranted for life against rust. Sentry is also capable of matching any color that isn’t part of our standard color selection. For more information regarding our products and how they keep New York City residents of all ages safe at home, contact us today!

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6 Tips for Staying Safe on the Road this Summer

July 17, 2022 by

Summer is a popular time to hit the open road for a little relaxation, adventure, or family bonding time and staying safe is key. We have beautiful sites to visit and explore in our area of the country so you don’t have to travel too far to find a great destination. Whether you are traveling for a quick overnight trip or for a longer period of time, it’s important to do some prep work to help make your trip as safe as possible. 

 

  • Get a tune up. The last thing you want during your summer road trip is to have problems with your car! While it is important to stay on top of regular car maintenance throughout the year, we strongly recommend a tune-up before a road trip. Be sure the oil, fluids, tire pressure, tire tread, wiper blades, and lights are checked at a minimum. Check that the registration and insurance of the vehicle are up to date and that you have the correct documents. Make sure you know how to file a claim if necessary.
  • Check the air conditioning.  A lack of air conditioning in a car on a hot summer day affects everyone, but is particularly dangerous for people who are in poor health or who are sensitive to heat, such as children and older adults. So check and optimize the performance of the air conditioning in your car before taking off on the road.
  • Pack smart. Overloading your vehicle can put you and others in danger. Make sure your view isn’t obstructed out the back or side windows. Secure any items that may cause harm in an accident.
  • Practice safe driving. Buckle everyone up, don’t speed, and be aware of things that might distract you while driving. Did you know driving drowsy is a contributing factor in many accidents every year? Switch off with another adult driver when necessary and get a good night’s sleep prior to your trip.
  • Eat healthy and stay hydrated. The temptation to grab a snack or a bag of candy at every gas station, as well as to eat out at restaurants or pick up fast food, can really add to the cost of your trip. It can also add to your waistline! So load up on healthy snacks, water, and even pre-made portable meals before you leave. Find a rest stop or scenic pulloff to stop at and eat along the way. The Roadtrippers app can help you find the perfect spot. Planning a safe place to stop can prevent you from eating behind the wheel which takes your attention off the road.
  • Keep an emergency kit in your car. Prepare for the unexpected on your road trip by packing an emergency kit with items like a portable cell phone charger, first aid kit, flashlight, flares, jumper cables, candle and matches, basic repair tools, duct tape, blankets, a few non-perishable food items, and extra water.

 

Allow plenty of time to get to your final destination and enjoy the ride. Remember that summer road trips can be unpredictable, so don’t forget to laugh at even the messy moments along the way! Use these safety tips to take a break from “real life” and enjoy each moment on your summer trip to the fullest with those you love.

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