The latest trend in home security, the “smart” or video doorbell, has revolutionized the way we interact with our front doors. With its seamless integration with iOS or Android devices, this innovative device enables you to see, hear, and communicate with visitors at your door. But its capabilities extend far beyond being a mere doorbell. It acts as a vigilant video camera and a convenient two-way communicator, enhancing your home security and lifestyle.

Let’s explore how having a video doorbell can empower you to live smarter:

• Remote Door Access: Whether you’re lounging on the couch or vacationing miles away, the video doorbell allows you to answer your door from anywhere in the world or within the comfort of your home. You can effortlessly see and converse with whoever rings your doorbell, ensuring you never miss an important visitor or package delivery.
• Enhanced Security Footage: Your video doorbell serves as a watchful guardian, capturing any suspicious activity at your front door. Whether it’s an attempted package theft or a suspicious caller, the recorded video provides valuable evidence for future viewing and necessary action.
• Peace of Mind for Child Safety: Ensure the safety of your children by having them ring the doorbell when they arrive home from school. This simple act gives you peace of mind, assuring you that your children have safely returned home. You can remotely verify their well-being and attend to any concerns promptly.
• Uninterrupted Rest with “Do Not Disturb” Mode: When you desire uninterrupted relaxation or a rejuvenating afternoon nap, switch your video doorbell into “Do Not Disturb” mode to disable the chime. Even in this mode, you will still receive text notifications on your device, allowing you to catch up on any missed visitors or events when you awaken.Package Delivery Convenience: With the rise in online shopping, package deliveries have become a regular occurrence. A video doorbell simplifies the process by allowing you to communicate with delivery personnel even when you’re not at home. You can provide specific instructions or request them to leave the package in a secure location, ensuring your deliveries are safe and secure.Visitor Screening and Control: The video doorbell gives you the ability to screen visitors before opening the door. Whether it’s a salesperson, a solicitor, or a stranger, you can assess their identity and intent without compromising your safety. This feature is particularly valuable for vulnerable individuals or those living alone, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind.
• Package Delivery Convenience: With the rise in online shopping, package deliveries have become a regular occurrence. A video doorbell simplifies the process by allowing you to communicate with delivery personnel even when you’re not at home. You can provide specific instructions or request them to leave the package in a secure location, ensuring your deliveries are safe and secure.
• Visitor Screening and Control: The video doorbell gives you the ability to screen visitors before opening the door. Whether it’s a salesperson, a solicitor, or a stranger, you can assess their identity and intent without compromising your safety. This feature is particularly valuable for vulnerable individuals or those living alone, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind.
• Deterrent Against Potential Intruders: The mere presence of a visible video doorbell can act as a powerful deterrent against potential intruders. Criminals are more likely to think twice before targeting a property equipped with surveillance technology. The knowledge that their actions are being recorded and their identities can be captured increases the overall security of your home.
• Integration with Smart Home Systems: Video doorbells often integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, enhancing the overall functionality of your home automation system. You can create customized routines that activate lights, unlock doors, or adjust thermostats when the doorbell detects motion or a visitor rings the bell. This integration adds convenience and allows for a more connected and cohesive smart home experience.

By embracing the latest advancements in home security technology, such as video doorbells, you can create a safer and more intelligent living environment. Experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have control over who enters your property and the ability to monitor your front door from anywhere. Invest in a video doorbell today and take a significant step towards enhancing your home security and living smarter

Protecting your kids using smart home technology. Many working parents are faced with an after-school childcare dilemma. Whether the decision is to hire a “sitter” or to allow them to stay home alone after school, as parents, we always worry about our children’s safety. Luckily, with advances in technology, today’s home automation systems offer many security features which can aid you in creating a safer environment for your kids when you are not around. Here are some of the safety features smart home technology has to offer:

Remote Smart Locks

No more lost keys…..These locks come with the capability of assigning personalized codes to multiple users. You can give your children their own code and be alerted through text when they enter the home. The same applies for a babysitter. The code can also be programmed to work only certain hours. Therefore, when your sitter leaves for the day, they no longer have access to your home. The locks can also be used to monitor and alert you if your child or sitter forgets to lock the door behind them. Once alerted you have the capability of locking the door remotely.

Video Doorbell

A video door phone will allow a child or sitter to see who is at the door before answering it. It also has capabilities to take a picture and/or video of the visitor.

Door Sensors

Adding door sensors to high risk areas, like a medicine cabinet, a closet containing cleaning products or a room the children/babysitter are not supposed to enter can be a beneficial safety measure. If any of the sensors are activated an alert will immediately be sent to your phone.

Security Cameras

A surveillance system can allow you to view what is going on at home with real time video. You can monitor who is in your house and what anyone is doing at that specific time. The viewing can all be done remotely.

Additional Safety Features To Consider: A panic button can be added and accessed through smart phone or smart remote. If the panic button is pressed, you will be alerted, as well as the appropriate authorities. You can also add your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to your system to alert you and the authorities if either is triggered.

Preventing false alarms can save you time, money and your sanity. False alarms are a nuisance for all involved, especially for the responding authorities. These alarms distract the authorities from real emergencies and tie up their resources. Some municipalities can even fine you for excessive false alarms.

Here are some tips for avoiding false alarms:

Preventing false alarms is crucial for saving time, money, and maintaining peace of mind. False alarms not only inconvenience everyone involved but also divert resources and attention away from genuine emergencies. To avoid these nuisances and potential fines, implementing a few preventive measures can go a long way.

First and foremost, ensure that anyone operating your alarm system, including visitors and house guests, is familiar with its proper usage. Consider utilizing wireless keyfobs, as they simplify the arm and disarm process, reducing the chances of human error.

Properly securing all doors and windows is essential. Unlocked or improperly closed openings can trigger false alarms, especially if they are prone to movement or shifting. Take care to design your system with your pets in mind, as their presence can often lead to false alarms. Consult with a security professional to ensure your system is pet-friendly and tailored to your specific needs.

Motion detectors can also be sensitive to certain conditions, such as the movement of large plants, balloons, or decorations. To minimize potential false alarms, strategically position these items away from the range of your motion detectors or from areas with moving air. Additionally, pests, spider webs, and dust near smoke and motion detectors can generate false alarms, so regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial.

During remodeling or construction projects, disorder and changes to your security and fire systems may inadvertently trigger false alarm conditions. It is essential to involve a trained alarm technician to handle any modifications or adjustments to your system during these periods. Contact your alarm company before initiating any remodeling or construction project to ensure a seamless integration with your security setup.

By following these tips and maintaining proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the occurrence of false alarms. Not only will this save you unnecessary hassle, but it will also ensure that emergency responders can focus their attention on real emergencies. Prioritize the reliability and effectiveness of your security system by preventing false alarms, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained and trustworthy alarm system.

Fire Safety Tips for Your Home:

1. Create a floor plan and escape route: Take the time to draw a floor plan for each level of your home, including escape routes. Identify at least two exits for every room to ensure multiple options for evacuation in case of a fire.
2. Establish a safe meeting place: Designate a safe meeting place outside of your home where all family members can gather after evacuating. This ensures that everyone is accounted for and helps firefighters determine if anyone is still inside.
3. Practice your fire escape plan: Regularly practice your fire escape plan with your family. Conduct drills to familiarize everyone with the designated routes and meeting place. Practice will help ensure a calm and efficient response during an actual emergency.
4. Teach “Stop, Drop, & Roll”: Educate your family members, especially children, about the “Stop, Drop, & Roll” technique. In case their clothing catches fire, they should know to stop immediately, drop to the ground, and roll to extinguish the flames.
5. Sleep with doors closed: Make it a habit to sleep with bedroom doors closed. Closed doors can help prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and heat, giving you and your family more time to escape and reducing the risk of injury.
6. Learn how to use a fire extinguisher: Familiarize yourself with the proper usage of fire extinguishers and keep one in an easily accessible location. Ensure that all household members know how to operate it effectively in case of a small fire.
7. Maintain chimneys and fireplaces: Schedule regular inspections and cleanings of your chimneys and fireplaces by a professional. This ensures that any potential hazards, such as creosote buildup, are addressed, reducing the risk of chimney fires.
8. Practice candle safety: Never leave candles unattended and keep them away from flammable materials. Consider using flame-retardant or noncombustible decorations to minimize the risk of accidental fires.
9. Stay attentive while cooking: Always stay in the kitchen when cooking and never leave the stove unattended. Most home fires start in the kitchen, so practicing caution and attentiveness is essential to prevent accidents.
10. Grill safety: If using an outdoor grill, ensure it is placed at a safe distance from your home and any combustible objects. Keep a close eye on the grill while it’s in use and follow proper safety guidelines.
11. Install and maintain smoke detectors: Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home and in every bedroom. Regularly test battery-operated detectors and replace batteries annually. If you have monitored security system smoke detectors, set up a maintenance program with your alarm company to ensure professional cleaning and testing.

By implementing these fire safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related accidents and protect your home and loved ones. Remember, fire prevention and preparedness are key to maintaining a safe living environment.