2011 Home Security Trends

Some of the best technological innovations in home security in the last number of years have made monitoring your property and safeguarding your family much more affordable and convenient. We’ve thought of a few of our favorite home security trends, with one in particular that may surprise you.

Broadband video monitoring: Nowadays, it’s possible for your home security system to automatically call your cell phone or send video to your smart phone or laptop. You can make sure the house is safe or even check up on your teenagers to ensure your evening out doesn’t turn into party time at your residence.

System integration: It’s becoming more common to combine home security systems  with other monitoring, such as fire, carbon monoxide and personal emergency response systems. This enables families who subscribe to a monitoring service to get more mileage out of coverage they’re already paying for.



Interactive automation: As covered in other articles, the affordability of home automation is enabling homeowners to save energy with programmable lighting and climate control that scales back energy usage when they’re not home. Additionally, the sophistication of these systems enables you to come home to a comfortable, well-lighted house, while keeping the house from looking abandoned while you’re gone.

You: Surprised? Don’t be, because the first and last line of defense in your household comes down to you. Motion detectors only work if you activate them and doors won’t keep out an intruder unless you lock them with a good deadbolt. Looking through the house to ensure that drapes are drawn and expensive items don’t draw interest from prying eyes is another crucial preventative measure.

When walking to and from your car (whether at home or away), you should always be aware of your surroundings, have your keys ready and be in what’s known as “a relaxed state of readiness.” Make a habit of locking your door behind you as soon as you enter your residence, rather than waiting till bedtime, and know who is visiting before you swing open the door. Being mindful of security doesn’t mean paranoia, rather it is your avenue to peace of mind, knowing that you’ve done what you can to lower your risk.

Home security trends continue to evolve and progress, and we’ll continue to report on developments in technology. Our favorite trend, however, is the fact that more people are aware that bad things don’t just happen to “the other guy.” One of the best ways to safeguard your well being and that of your family is your own conscious decision to make security part of your everyday routine.

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