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Smart Home Security

News and updates from Alarm Systems about home security, smart home automation, and alarm monitoring and safety.

Santa Security AS

Capture Holiday Magic Santa Security

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The holidays are all about creating special moments, especially for families. With Alarm.com’s Santa Security feature, your home security cameras can do more than protect your home, they can help bring Christmas magic to life. This seasonal feature allows you to capture a festive snapshot showing Santa inside your home, creating a memorable surprise for Christmas morning.

Santa Security is a built-in feature within the Alarm.com app that works with compatible security cameras. Instead of simply viewing or recording video, users can add a realistic Santa image to a captured camera snapshot. The result is a fun, shareable image that looks like Santa made a late-night visit to your living room, fireplace, or Christmas tree.

Santa Security 2

How to Use Santa Security

  • Open the Alarm.com mobile app on your smartphone or tablet
  • Select a live video feed from a compatible Alarm.com camera
  • Tap the Santa icon within the video screen to capture a still image
  • Choose from available Santa images designed for daytime or nighttime scenes
  • Resize and reposition Santa in the image until it looks just right
  • Save the image to your device or share it with family and friends

These steps are quick and easy, making it simple to add a little holiday magic to your home throughout the month of December.

Connected Car from Alarm Systems help monitor your vehicle

How Alarm Systems Can Protect Your Vehicle

Your vehicle is one of your most valuable investments—and unfortunately, one of the most targeted. In Canada, vehicle theft remains a growing concern; a vehicle is stolen every five minutes, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC).

From rising theft rates to everyday worries like breakdowns or new drivers behind the wheel, it’s no wonder families are turning to connected vehicle protection that provides real-time awareness, insight, and control.

Know Where Your Car Is—and How It’s Driven

A discreet plug-in device connects to your car’s diagnostic port and communicates directly with your home security app. Once activated, you can:

  • Locate your car instantly from your smartphone
  • Receive alerts for speeding, harsh braking, or rapid acceleration
  • View driving history and set safe travel zones or curfews
  • Monitor vehicle health, including low battery or diagnostic warnings

For parents with teen drivers, it’s a reassuring way to stay informed and encourage safe habits without being overbearing.

10 most stolen vehicles in Ontario

Is Your Vehicle Secure?
Read the Full Article

Smart Notifications When It Counts

If your vehicle moves unexpectedly, you’ll be notified immediately—complete with live GPS tracking to help recover it faster. The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) reports that stolen vehicles are often linked to organized crime or shipped overseas. Connected tracking can play a crucial role in recovery and deterrence, helping authorities locate your car before it disappears.

Keeping Families Safe on the Road

According to the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), young and novice drivers face the highest collision risk due to inexperience and distraction. Real-time monitoring helps parents start constructive conversations about road safety—and offers peace of mind every time the car leaves the driveway.

Connected Car Speeding AS

Complete Protection—Home and Away

Smart security shouldn’t stop at your front door. With connected technology, you can safeguard your vehicle the same way you protect your home—through one simple, integrated system.

Vehicle tracking, driver insights, and instant alerts extend your security coverage from driveway to highway, giving you the awareness and confidence to handle whatever the road brings.

Smart Security Camera installed by Alarm Systems professionals

How Smart Video Analytics Protect Your Home

Intelligent Cameras for a Safer Home

Modern security cameras are more than lenses—they’re intelligent eyes that know what to look for. With smart video analytics, your system can now recognize the difference between a person, a vehicle, or an animal, helping you focus only on what really matters.

According to Statistics Canada, property-related offences remain among the most reported crimes nationwide. Smart cameras add a powerful layer of prevention—providing homeowners with faster notifications, clearer footage, and fewer false alarms that waste time or cause frustration.

What Makes Smart Analytics So Effective

Conventional motion sensors react to anything that moves: a gust of wind, a neighbourhood cat, or a passing car. Intelligent analytics take it further.

By analyzing movement patterns, size, and shape, the system can accurately determine what triggered the motion. It automatically classifies the event—whether it’s a person approaching, a car entering your driveway, or an animal wandering by—and sends alerts only when action may be needed.

Alarm Systems video camera sending alarm notification when someone is detectedSecurity That Adjusts to Your Lifestyle

Every property is different, which is why video analytics can be personalized for your space and routine. Homeowners can:

  • Define custom activity zones (such as a front walkway, side gate, or garage)
  • Adjust sensitivity settings to minimize unwanted alerts
  • Schedule notifications only during certain times—like overnight or while away on vacation

It’s proactive, intelligent protection that adapts to you, not the other way around.

Turning Cameras into Active Protection

Smart cameras don’t just capture video—they can also respond. If motion is detected where it shouldn’t be, your system can activate outdoor lights, start recording, or notify your monitoring team instantly.

Research from the International CPTED Association confirms that visible, responsive surveillance can significantly reduce property crime by increasing perceived risk for offenders. Intelligent monitoring makes your home not just observed, but truly defended.

Awareness and Peace of Mind, Day or Night

Whether you’re keeping an eye on a delivery, checking your driveway, or making sure everything’s quiet after dark, video analytics give you clear, reliable information—without false triggers.

Smart cameras are no longer about simply recording—they’re about awareness, prevention, and confidence in knowing your home is protected around the clock.

Water Damage AS

How Smart Leak Detection Protects Your Home

Why Water Damage Is So Costly

Water is one of the most common—and expensive—home insurance claims in Canada. The Insurance Bureau of Canada reports that the average claim for water damage exceeds $13,000. What often begins as a slow, hidden leak behind a laundry machine, under a sink, or near a hot water tank can quickly lead to soaked drywall, ruined flooring, and mould growth.

The worst part? Many leaks aren’t discovered until hours or even days later, especially if no one is home. By that time, the damage is done, and the repair costs can climb fast.

Early Detection Is Key

That’s why smart leak detection has become a must-have addition to home security systems. A compact water sensor can detect even a small amount of moisture and immediately send an alert through your monitored security system.

Once water is detected, you receive a notification through your security app and from your local monitoring team—allowing you to respond quickly, shut off the water supply, and prevent damage before it spreads.

This kind of early warning system is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to protect your biggest investment: your home.

Water sensor in the basement sending a leak notification to a phone

Where to Place Leak Sensors

Smart water sensors are small, wireless, and easy to install in high-risk areas around the home. For the best protection, place them:

  • Beneath sinks and vanities
  • Behind dishwashers or washing machines
  • Next to water heaters or sump pumps
  • In basements or bathrooms that are prone to flooding

Even a few well-placed sensors can help you detect leaks early and avoid thousands in potential repairs.

Part of a Complete Smart Home System

Unlike basic stand-alone leak detectors, a monitored leak sensor is part of your integrated smart security system. That means every alert is verified, recorded, and accessible alongside your cameras, motion sensors, and alarms—all within one app.

Whether you’re at work, away for the weekend, or asleep upstairs, you’ll always know if something’s wrong.

How Security Monitoring Saved Our Home—Twice!

When it comes to home security, many homeowners think, “It won’t happen to me.” But sometimes, things go differently than expected, and a reliable monitoring service can make all the difference. Ron and Julie Ricci learned this firsthand—not once, but twice. Their experience serves as a powerful reminder of why professional monitoring is essential.
Read The Full Article

Keep Your Home Safe, Dry, and Protected

Water damage is one of the most preventable household emergencies—and with smart leak detection, prevention is easier than ever.

Contact Alarm Systems today to learn how to add leak sensors to your monitored security system and protect your home from costly surprises.

porch

Why a Smart Video Doorbell Belongs on Every Home This Holiday Season

Holiday Deliveries Come with Hidden Risks

With holiday shopping moving almost entirely online, front porches are busier than ever. Unfortunately, that also makes them a favourite target for thieves. One survey found that one in four Canadians has experienced package theft.

Porch piracy typically peaks between November and January, when courier traffic is highest. Thieves often trail delivery vehicles or target homes where parcels are left visible from the street—snatching them within minutes.

Your Front Door, Protected

A smart video doorbell helps you stay one step ahead. Equipped with motion detection, live video, and instant alerts, it lets you see who’s approaching your door before they ever knock.

Two-way audio means you can speak directly to visitors—whether it’s a courier, neighbour, or someone you don’t recognize. You’ll know the moment a delivery arrives, even if you’re not home.

A Proven Deterrent Against Theft

Criminals are far less likely to strike when they know they’re being watched. In a Security.org survey, more than 80% of thieves said they’d avoid homes with visible cameras.

Even if a theft occurs, doorbell footage provides valuable evidence that can help police identify suspects. Many police services in Ontario now encourage residents to register their cameras through community camera programs, like the Belleville Police Service’s “CAMSAFE” program.

Smart Alerts for Smarter Deliveries

Modern video doorbells do more than just detect motion—they use intelligent video analytics to recognize people, vehicles, and real activity, cutting down on false alerts from passing shadows or moving branches.

When paired with your monitored home security system or smart lock, your video doorbell becomes a complete entryway solution. You can unlock the door remotely for trusted couriers, have them place parcels inside, and lock up again instantly.

For extra safety, Canada Post’s FlexDelivery also lets you redirect packages to a nearby post office for pickup.

Delivery Notification from you Alarm Systems Smart doorbell

Security That Lasts All Year

While porch piracy peaks during the holidays, a video doorbell provides value year-round. From greeting visitors to keeping tabs on unexpected activity, it’s a smart addition that blends convenience with peace of mind.

This season, give your home the gift of awareness—and make sure the only thing left on your doorstep is holiday cheer.

Contact Alarm Systems today to learn more about adding a smart video doorbell to your security system.

fire fighter fighting fire

Why Monitored Fire Detection Saves Lives

Every second counts in a fire. Traditional smoke alarms are designed to warn you when danger is near—but only if someone is home to hear them. A monitored fire detection system goes further, connecting your alarms directly to a professional monitoring centre that can alert emergency services the moment smoke or heat is detected. This small difference can mean the gap between minor damage and catastrophic loss.

How Monitored Fire Detection Works

When a smoke or heat detector activates, the system instantly transmits a signal to a 24/7 ULC-listed monitoring centre (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada). Trained operators verify the alarm and contact emergency services within seconds—often before anyone in the home even knows there’s a problem. Homeowners and emergency contacts are notified immediately by phone, text, or app notification.

This ensures that help is on the way even if you’re asleep, at work, or out of town. Fires spread fast—doubling in size every 30 to 60 seconds—so early response is everything.

What is the Difference Between Standard and Monitored Alarms?

A basic smoke alarm relies on sound to alert people nearby, but if the home is empty, that alarm can go unheard until it’s too late. In contrast, a monitored fire system maintains constant communication with a central station.

Many Canadian fire departments emphasize that the biggest factor in preventing fatalities is early detection combined with rapid response. A monitored system delivers both.

Protection That Doesn’t Sleep

Most house fires occur when people are asleep or away from home. With monitored detection, the alarm isn’t dependent on someone waking up or being within earshot—it’s heard instantly by trained professionals who can take action.

For example, if smoke is detected in the basement while you’re on vacation, the monitoring team immediately dispatches the fire department, potentially saving your home and valuables before neighbours even notice smoke. This peace of mind is especially valuable for snowbirds, frequent travellers, or rural homeowners where response times may be longer.

Monitored Life Safety Devices at Work

Monitored CO Detector Saces Family of 6

Earlier this year, one of our clients shared their story after a monitored carbon monoxide detector saved their family from a near tragedy. Their pool heater had been improperly vented, allowing CO to build up in a connected shed and travel back into their home. The monitoring team immediately contacted emergency responders—who arrived before anyone felt symptoms. The family later said, “If we didn’t have a monitored system, it could have been deadly.”

Monitored Smoke Detector Saves Puppies

Monitored Smoke Saves Family Pets

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Alarm Systems (@alarmsys)


Stories like these remind us that monitored systems don’t just protect property—they protect lives.

Every Second Counts

A fire can start in seconds—but it’s early detection and a fast, verified response that save lives. With monitored fire detection, your home or business is never unprotected.

This October, Alarm Systems is giving away a free monitored smoke detector with all new systems and upgrades in recognition of Fire Prevention Month. It’s the perfect time to add this life-saving layer of protection and experience peace of mind knowing someone’s always watching over your home.

Fire truck

Fire Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

(Updated for Fire Prevention Month – Canada 2025)

Protecting What Matters Most

October is Fire Prevention Month, a reminder for homeowners across Ontario to take a few simple—but vital—steps to safeguard their families. Fires can start suddenly and spread in minutes, but regular maintenance, awareness, and planning can save lives.

  1. Test smoke and CO alarms monthly on every floor.
  2. Create and practice a family fire escape plan twice a year.
  3. Keep fire extinguishers in key areas and know how to use them.
  4. Stay alert while cooking — most house fires start in the kitchen.
  5. Use space heaters, fireplaces, and candles safely.
  6. Review your home’s fire safety each October during Fire Prevention Month.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Your first line of defence is a properly working alarm system. Every level of your home, especially sleeping areas, should have a smoke alarm. Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors near bedrooms and fuel-burning appliances. Test all alarms monthly, change the batteries once a year, and replace entire units every ten years. Interconnected or monitored systems provide the best protection, ensuring that when one alarm sounds, all others do too.

Tip: The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) recommends checking alarm expiry dates every October and replacing any that are 10 years old or older.

Have a Family Escape Plan

A well-rehearsed plan makes all the difference in an emergency. Map two exits from every room and pick a meeting place outside, like a neighbour’s mailbox or streetlight. Conduct fire drills twice a year—once during daylight and once at night—to help everyone stay calm and confident if a real fire occurs.

Be Ready to Fight Small Fires

Fire extinguishers are your backup plan when prevention fails. Keep one in the kitchen, garage, and near heating equipment. Learn the PASS method — Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep — and have each unit inspected annually.

Remember: If a fire grows larger than a small wastebasket, get out immediately and call 911. Property can be replaced—people cannot.

Cooking Safety: The #1 Cause of Home Fires

Unattended cooking remains the leading cause of home fires in Canada. Never leave the stove while frying or broiling, keep flammable items (dish towels, curtains, paper) far from burners, and clean grease buildup frequently. If a pan catches fire, slide a lid over it and turn off the heat—never pour water on grease.

Seasonal Fire Hazards

As temperatures drop, space heaters and fireplaces become common sources of warmth—and potential danger. Keep a one-metre (three-foot) safety zone around heaters, turn them off before bed, and have chimneys cleaned annually. When using candles, opt for sturdy holders and blow them out before leaving a room or going to sleep. Consider switching to battery-operated flameless candles for décor.

Charging and Storing Lithium-Ion Batteries

From cordless tools to e-bikes, lithium-ion batteries are now part of everyday life—but they come with fire risks if mishandled. Overheating, damage, or poor-quality chargers can trigger dangerous thermal runaway fires that spread rapidly.

The Ontario Fire Marshal recommends these precautions:

  • Use only the charger that came with the device or one recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Avoid charging on soft surfaces (like beds or couches) that trap heat.
  • Charge during waking hours so you can act quickly if something goes wrong.
  • Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or flammable materials.
  • Inspect regularly for bulging, leaks, or damage, and recycle any defective batteries at a proper depot (never throw them in household trash).

Tip: This year’s Fire Prevention Week™ (October 5–11) introduces the theme “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The campaign focuses on raising awareness about the safe use of lithium-ion batteries—reminding everyone to buy smart, charge safely, and recycle properly to help prevent fires and keep homes safe. You can download the official NFPA home safety sheet here.

Electrical and Storage Safety

Avoid overloading outlets, daisy-chaining extension cords, or running wires under carpets. Replace frayed cords immediately and hire a licensed electrician for any major repairs. Store gasoline, propane, paint, or solvents outdoors or in ventilated sheds—never in basements or near furnaces.

Stay FireSmart Outdoors

Clear leaves and debris from around your home, especially near decks and vents. Keep firewood at least ten metres from the structure and trim low tree branches to prevent ground fires from spreading upward.

Are You Protected?

Fire prevention isn’t about luck—it’s about habit. Testing alarms, reviewing escape plans, and staying alert in the kitchen are simple actions that save lives. Take time this Fire Prevention Month to make safety part of your household routine—and consider upgrading to a monitored smoke detection system for 24/7 peace of mind, even when you’re not home.

porch

Stop Porch Pirates: Practical Ways to Protect Your Packages This Year

Online shopping is convenient, but leaving parcels unattended at your doorstep leaves them vulnerable. Porch pirates target easy, visible deliveries, and the result is lost time, money, and trust. This article explains who is affected, the real steps you can take right now, and how Alarm Systems helps homeowners stop package theft for good.

How big is the problem?

Package theft numbers vary by study, but most reports show porch piracy is widespread and costly—tens of millions of incidents and billions of dollars in losses across North America in recent years. Canadians are not immune: surveys show a meaningful share of residents have been victimized and many shoppers worry about packages left at their door.

Five practical ways to prevent package theft

Change delivery instructions at checkout

Ask carriers to leave parcels in a less visible spot, require a signature for high-value items, or use the “delivery window” feature so you’re home when the package arrives. These simple options often prevent theft before it happens.

Use secure pickup locations and parcel lockers

Where possible, choose Amazon Locker, Canada Post hold for pickup, or a parcel locker. This removes the package from the public doorstep and adds a layer of accountability for the courier. For apartment buildings, consider installing a shared smart locker solution for residents.

Invest in visible, monitored video at the door

A clearly visible video doorbell or camera increases the chance a thief will move on, and footage helps with police reports and courier claims. Note that cameras are not a guaranteed stop—some studies show cameras deter many but not all thieves—so pair cameras with other measures.

Install a lockable delivery box or smart parcel safe

Lockable parcel boxes let couriers deposit items securely inside, accessible only by you or a courier app. If you get deliveries often, a secure box is a strong one-time investment that removes temptation entirely.

Use neighbourhood and scheduling tactics

Ask a trusted neighbour to accept packages, schedule deliveries for times you’re home, or group orders to reduce the number of unattended drops. During busy seasons, combine these habits with tech and secure pickup options for the best results.

Smart combinations work best

There’s no single silver bullet. The most effective defence is layered: smart delivery choices + a visible camera + a secure drop option + good habits. For example, pairing a video doorbell with an instruction to “leave in the side porch box” dramatically reduces exposure compared with leaving a parcel in plain sight.

What to do if a package is stolen

  • Check your video footage and delivery confirmation timestamp immediately.
  • Contact the retailer and courier right away—many carriers have insurance or reimbursement policies.
  • File a police report for high-value items; footage improves the odds of recovery.
  • If you have monitoring or a Alarm Systems’ system, notify us so we can advise on evidence preservation and next steps.

Why professional installation and local monitoring helps

A professionally designed security setup blends visible deterrents (cameras) with practical solutions (smart lockboxes, lighting, and alerts) and ensures recordings are stored securely and accessible when you need them. As a local provider, Alarm Systems pairs technology with on-the-ground support to help you file claims, preserve evidence, and tune the system for your property and neighbourhood

Porch piracy spikes during busy shipping times like holidays and major sale days. In Canada, communities are increasingly using parcel lockers and neighbourhood programs to reduce theft. If you live in a storm-prone or high-delivery area, prioritize a lockable box plus camera monitoring. Protect your deliveries with a layered approach. Alarm Systems installs and supports video doorbells, secure parcel solutions, and whole-home setups that reduce package theft risk and keep your footage secure. Call 1-800-361-6052 to book a home security assessment today.

smart notifications

How AI Is Transforming Home Security in 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way Canadians protect their homes. What used to be a simple alarm system has evolved into a network of smart devices that see, think, and respond in real time. From preventing false alarms to recognizing unusual activity, AI home security is making our neighbourhoods safer and our homes more efficient.

At Alarm Systems, we’re already integrating this new technology into our systems. Our customers next-generation protection that’s both smart and secure.

Smarter Cameras, Fewer False Alarms

We’ve all experienced it: a notification in the middle of the night, only to find it was triggered by a passing car or a curious raccoon. AI-powered cameras now use intelligent analytics to detect what really matters.

Modern AI security cameras can tell the difference between a person, a vehicle, or a pet. That means fewer false alerts and more accurate detection. For busy homeowners, that’s peace of mind—without the noise.

Pro tip: Ask about our smart camera systems with built-in video analytics that automatically filter out non-threats while sending real-time clips of what’s important.

Alarm Systems video camera sending alarm notification when someone is detected

A Connected, Intelligent Home

Today’s smart home security systems don’t just react, they anticipate. AI brings your entire home together by linking security sensors, cameras, lights, locks, and even smoke detectors.

Imagine this: If someone approaches your driveway at night, your exterior lights turn on automatically, your cameras start recording, and you receive a real-time alert—all without lifting a finger. That’s the power of automation driven by artificial intelligence.

This kind of integration helps you save energy, improve safety, and enjoy total control, all from your smartphone.

Local AI Processing = More Privacy

A growing trend in 2025 is edge AI processing—which means your cameras process footage right on the device, not in the cloud. This improves speed, reduces internet bandwidth, and keeps your private moments truly private.

With more homeowners concerned about data privacy, this is a big step forward. Alarm Systems’ monitored systems use secure, encrypted communication channels to protect your information while ensuring a quick response in an emergency.

Predicting Problems Before They Happen

AI doesn’t just detect—it learns. Over time, your system can identify unusual behaviour patterns that might signal a risk. For example, if your camera spots someone repeatedly walking near your home late at night, it can flag that as suspicious and alert you before anything happens.

This predictive capability moves beyond traditional monitoring—it’s proactive protection that evolves with you.

Why Trust a Local Expert with AI Security

With so many “smart” devices on the market, it’s important to choose a provider that understands how they work together. At Alarm Systems, our team designs, installs, and monitors systems that use advanced AI analytics—while keeping everything backed by local, ULC-listed monitoring and friendly, in-person service.

Unlike big-box or DIY options, we know your neighbourhood and stand behind every installation. You get modern technology with the reliability of a trusted local expert.

Ready to Upgrade?

Bring your home security into the future with AI-powered protection from Alarm Systems. Smarter alerts, stronger privacy, and faster response backed by our professional monitoring team.

📞 Call 1-800-361-6052 to learn more about upgrading to a smart, AI-enhanced security system.

Alarm Systems van

Choosing the Right Security Partner After Bell’s Exit

With Bell leaving the security business in 2025, many Canadian families and business owners are asking the same question: What’s the best alternative to Bell Security? The good news is this transition creates an opportunity to find a provider who specializes in what matters most — protecting your property.

What to Look for in a Security Provider

When evaluating your options after Bell’s exit, keep these essentials in mind:

  • Professional monitoring: not just alerts to your phone, but trained operators ready 24/7.
  • Fast response times: when seconds matter, you need proven reliability.
  • Modern technology: smart locks, cameras, automation, and mobile access.
  • Local service: technicians nearby who can respond quickly and understand your community.

Questions Bell Customers Should Ask

Before accepting the automatic transition to API or another national provider, consider:

  • Will I get personalized service, or just be another account number?
  • Will I be locked into another long contract?
  • Can I upgrade my system easily as technology evolves?

Why a Local Security Company Is the Best Choice

Unlike national telecoms, a local security provider is focused entirely on your protection. Alarm Systems has been trusted by homeowners and businesses for decades, delivering customized solutions and responsive, in-person service across Ontario.

With Alarm Systems, you’ll benefit from:

  • 24/7 professional monitoring
  • Modern, easy-to-use smart security solutions
  • Experienced local technicians who know your community
  • A company dedicated solely to safety, not bundling security into telecom packages

The end of Bell Security services doesn’t mean losing protection, it means gaining the chance to choose a provider that’s actually invested in your safety.

Don’t settle for being transferred without choice. Explore your alternatives to Bell Security with Alarm Systems, your trusted local security expert.


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Belleville

260 Adam Street
Belleville, ON  K8N 5S4

613-969-5100
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Kingston

336 Barrie Street
Kingston, ON, K7K 3T1

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Brockville

15 Central Ave E.
Brockville, ON  K6V 1W5

613-342-5126
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