How automated systems can help keep your home and family safe
When people consider automated home systems, convenience is one of the first aspects that comes to mind. Energy conservation and cost savings are also obvious advantages of automated home technologies. While all of these benefits have significant value, a lesser-known perk of home automation also deserves some attention: home security. Home automation systems can act as a security tool, fooling prospective burglars and giving you valuable control over your home when you're not around. Even if you have a strong home alarm system in place, the remote access and monitoring enabled by automated systems can help homeowners stay connected to their homes from any location. Let's take a look at a few of the ways you can use automation in your home to enhance your safety.
Deter Burglars With Lighting Control
You may not realize it, but your home's lights can be a valuable part of its security system. The most effective way to deter a burglar is to give the appearance that someone is home, even when the house is vacant. Automated home systems can enable you to have your lights turn on and off at certain times of the day; in fact, you can even program your lights to turn on at different times in various areas of the house to create the illusion that someone is walking around the home. Whether you're just out for the evening or on a longer vacation, home automation can give you instant control over your lights with just a tap on your mobile device.
Manage Your Door Locks From Any Location
Have you ever gotten to work and suddenly wondered if you actually locked your door on the way out? With automated door locks, you no longer have to spend the rest of the day worrying if your house is secure. A quick look at your phone can tell you the status of your locks: If a door was left unlocked, it's easy to fix with just a tap of your finger. In addition to giving you control over your locks when you're out, automated door locks also let you know when someone enters your home. Since each family member receives their own personal access code, you can be alerted when each of your children arrive home from school. A simple text message can tell you which person entered the home and even which door they used.
Keep an Eye on Your Home With Security Cameras
If you have security cameras included in your home automation system, you can check out what's going on in your home from virtually any location. Real-time video feeds don't just provide valuable evidence in the event of a break-in; they also allow you to check up on your children and pets while you're out. Even though your existing security system will likely deter prospective burglars, having camera footage at your fingertips can help you take the appropriate action if a home invasion occurs.
Maintain Control When You're Out of Town
When you need to go out of town, it's common to hand over your key to a trusted neighbor so that they can assist with feeding a pet, caring for plants, and other everyday tasks. While this arrangement is usually adequate, an automated home system provides you with more control over the situation, even when you're far away. Automated home technologies allow you to set up a specific time of day for a friend or neighbor to enter your home; you can also let a person in yourself using your smartphone or tablet. With this type of system in place, you never have to worry about giving someone unlimited access to your home and possibly having them lose your key.
As you can see, automation in your home can act as a great addition to your existing security system. If you work long hours, travel frequently, or have kids staying alone after school, automated systems can help keep you connected with your home and in control of its safety. With the ability to create the appearance that someone is home, it's easy to fool would-be burglars. Remote access to door locks and security cameras enable you to take charge of your home's safety even if you're at work or out of town. There are so many ways to take advantage of home automation's benefits. Use your creativity and discover the possibilities.
Published September 22nd, 2021