Smart Devices to Protect Your Home

During vacation time and the rest of the year, Smart Devices to Protect Your Home may be your greatest asset.

Whether you’re gearing up for the beach, heading to the lake, or travelling to the other side of the world, there are amazing smart home devices that can give you the advantage against burglary this summer.

1. Smart security cameras. From the convenience of your mobile device you can watch a live feed from every corner of your home—as well as receive notifications when the camera’s motion sensor detects any activity. Because you can place these cameras anywhere, it’s a great way to keep tabs on vulnerable areas such as driveways or carports that aren’t typically monitored by home security systems. Plus, you will no longer need to invest in hiring a security company to install a system: Today, there are many DIY options that are simple to install, extremely effective, and can be controlled through stress-free mobile apps.
2. Smart Outlets.  Remote control electrical outlets and smart plugs are the way to go when you need to control household electronics from the road. Smart outlets transform practically any appliance or electronic into a smart device. All you  need to do is plug a device you want to control into the smart outlets around your home. Then, use a corresponding app on your smart device to set timers, turn lights on or off, and more.
3. Doorbell cameras. You can virtually answer your front door with a doorbell camera. It lets you monitor activity with built-in motion sensors that send alerts when company arrives or when packages are delivered. And with HD cameras that can record suspicious activity, you will always have a close watch on your home day or night. Ring Video Doorbell Camera allows you to answer the door and check-in on home at anytime from anywhere.
4. Smart shades and light bulbs. You can also install smart shades and smart bulbs that won’t break the budget. Smart shades can be controlled through mobile apps or even your voice, which can be convenient when you are not home or simply have your hands full. You can schedule times for the shades to open and close, which comes in handy if you’re traveling and want to block prying eyes from your home or periodically open and close them throughout the day as if someone were home. Wireless window treatments and smart LED bulbs, can be both convenient and an essential home security feature. If a thief observes lights going on and off and window shades rising and lowering, they may rethink targeting your home.
5. Smart padlocks. If you have a tool shed or storage unit to secure, Smart padlocks might be the key. Some come complete with fingerprint scanners or use Bluetooth technology rather than traditional keys. Some of these locks sound audible alarms if they’re tampered with or if someone without authorization tries to open it. Whether you’re looking for a technological solution to locking up that spare case of valuables in the home or garage or simply want a smart alternative to locking a gate or outside door, smart padlocks will help keep your belongings safe.
6. Smart virtual assistant. This list wouldn’t be complete without the almighty Alexa by Amazon Echo. Besides asking Alexa to rap (yes, she raps!) or inquiring about the current weather or sports updates, it can now help you guard your home as well. You can set up Guard in the Alexa app and get alerts via phone notifications if your Echo device detects the sound of smoke alarm, carbon monoxide alarms, or glass breaking. Additionally, you can pair your device with Away Lighting, and Alexa will automatically turn smart lights on and off to make it look like someone is home. To protect your home even further, Amazon is also offering Ring Alarm or ADT bundles that allow your Echo device to integrate with either security system. For both of the options, Alexa can arm your Ring or ADT security system and send you Smart Alerts.

In addition to these useful smart devices, you should remember the importance of protecting your Wi-Fi too. It is, after all, another portal into your private life. Personalize your passwords, but make them even more unique by scrambling upper and lowercase letters or using numbers for letters. Set up a generic email account, rather than using a personal one, for notifications regarding your connected Wi-Fi device. Finally, make sure to stay on top of software and firmware updates, as this keeps systems operating at maximum proficiency.

With all the available technological enhancements, you have the tools to secure your home, perhaps avoid a Homeowners Insurance claim and save money in the long run.

For information only. Not applicable to all situations.