Advances in Home Security Accommodate Busy Lifestyles

In days gone by, leaving your home unattended meant leaving it completely susceptible to property crime, while being home alone could be a personal risk. Home security monitoring systems greatly reduced those risks and, in the event a crime was attempted, provided a greater measure of safety by automatically summoning authorities if needed.

Times change, however, and families are leading more active lifestyles, which means more activity within the household as well as away from it. Not surprisingly, home security systems have had to change to keep up with the times and with the flexibility demanded by today’s busy families.

The latest home security systems  provide interactive systems that go beyond traditional home security to provide a new level of control, accessibility and connection with the home. Users of these “smart” systems are able to utilize features remotely, at any time and from any location, through the use of smart phones or their personal computer, including the ability to:

• Arm and disarm the alarm system;
• Receive notification of alarms and selected events via email or text message, as well as video clips;
• View their home through cameras and watch secure real-time video or stored video clips of events from monitored areas of the home;
• Access lights and appliances, as well as set schedules to automate them;
• Adjust the thermostat to save on utility bills and have a comfortable environment to greet them when they return;

Previously, an automated home security system with these features would have only been found in the most expensive luxury homes, and the few do-it-yourself packages were significantly less sophisticated. Now, these systems are attainable for the average homeowner, thanks to the advance of cellular phones and technology protocols such as the Z-wave open standard for interoperable home control products. Various packages are available, which suit the exact level of home automation the user currently had and the number of features they desire.

Connectivity and interactivity are driving the way people live and manage their homes. So while we are expected to be in more places due to business travel, children’s school schedules and social activities, these new smart systems provide cutting edge connectivity to your household when you’re far away. And when the house is occupied, the high level of automation enables more convenience, control and safety from any part of your property. It all adds up to fewer worries and increased enjoyment of life, which is something we would all welcome.

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