While most people know that the best way to keep your family and home safe is to install an alarm system, new innovations in home security have made older alarm packages nearly obsolete. Because of this, it is important to know about all the must-have features for today’s home security systems before you start looking to upgrade your home’s security features. This includes easy, do-it-yourself additions, as well as more complex systems that may require the assistance of a professional.
Security Feature #1: Door Chimes
Many security systems will allow you to set a door chime to go off every time a door is opened or closed. This is useful because it is active at all times — not just when the alarm system is armed. Having a door chime will let you know anytime an exterior door is opened in your home. This chime can alert you to any number of things — from unwelcome intruders to wayward children wandering out of the house.
Security Feature #2: Video Surveillance Systems
While video surveillance systems have been in use for years, new advances have made them far more reliable and useful. You will be able to tap into your home’s video system from your laptop, phone or tablet, making it easy to monitor the interior and exterior of your home on the go.
Security Feature #3: Doorbell Cameras
Many newer doorbells are equipped with cameras or video surveillance. For example, one popular model will send a photo to your phone every time someone steps onto your front porch. This will let you know who is there before you even open the door. This can be useful for security purposes, but also for more mundane purposes. For example, if you know that your visitor is just the delivery man dropping off a package, you will not need to rush to open the door.
Security Feature #4: Bluetooth Deadbolts
Many newer door locks are Bluetooth-enabled. This makes getting in a snap — if you have your phone on you, simply tap the deadbolt and it will unlock due to the close proximity of your phone. This is more secure than a traditional lock that can easily be picked. You will also be able to remotely monitor your door using your smartphone. This way, you can double-check that the door is locked when you are at work or out running errands.
Security Feature #5: Floodlights
Having a motion-activated floodlight in your yard can help alert you to any nighttime activity outside your home. The threat of being detected can frequently scare away would-be intruders, so the floodlights alone are often enough to protect your home from a break-in.
Consider adding one or all of these features. They can provide you with both convenience and peace of mind.
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