Innovations in Home Security

Home security has long been a hot topic with homeowners. Door and window locks were the original means of protecting your home, short of hiring armed guards.  However, modern technology has resulted in several innovations that offer great protection from numerous threats.  No longer are security systems relegated to protecting only against intruders – today, they are much more advanced and can offer much more comprehensive protection.  What are the newest innovations in home security?

Security Cameras – While security cameras are nothing new, they have long been too expensive for the average homeowner to use.  However, today that is no longer the case.  Modern technology and manufacturing methods have allowed surveillance cameras to shrink in size, while increasing in capabilities.  One of the most popular types of surveillance system allows users to monitor their homes from any PC with an Internet connection, or even from their web-enabled cell phone.  Does this help protect against intruders?  To an extent; however, it seems more beneficial for those seeking to keep an eye on the goings-on within their home.

Cellular Backup – One of the best innovations in recent years is the advent of cellular systems and their benefits to home security. Most security systems connect to the national monitoring center through the phone line.  However, if a burglar cuts your phone line, or it is disabled by an accident or by weather, you can find yourself without the protection that you need.  Cellular backup technology allows your security system to connect with the national monitoring center via cell towers, increasing your protection and ensuring your safety even if your phone is out.  This technology can also enable homeowners without a phone line to enjoy the benefits of a home security system.

Automated Lights – If you are heading out for vacation, chances are that you're going to leave a couple of lights burning to give the appearance of occupancy.  However, thieves are onto this trick.  With an automated light controller, you can actually set the system to mimic the light usage patterns of your family throughout the day.  Then, the system will turn lights on and off, turn on and off the TV and generally make it look as though your family is still in the home.  This is a tremendous advantage and can prevent burglaries simply through appearance.

Advanced Sensors – Once upon a time, security systems only protected against intruders.  However, modern technology has enabled the creation of additional peripheral sensors.  These can detect the presence of smoke and fire, the potential for water lines to freeze, the threat of impending flooding and even the presence of carbon monoxide in your home.  Adding these elements to your security system will give you much greater protection and much better peace of mind.

However, the single most important element of home protection remains a professionally monitored home security system.  According to recent FBI studies, no other single system is capable of preventing burglaries, alerting authorities to a break in and providing the protection that your family deserves.