From Video Door Entry Systems To Smart Locks and More: How To Smarten Your Home Security
Home security is vital to keep you, your family and possessions protected from crime. Unfortunately, stats from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) have revealed that repeat burglary is on the rise. Cases of repeat burglary have increased by more than 16% in just one year. This rise is, in part, driven by a decline in police response to these crimes. That decline has left the door open for criminals to exploit homes with inadequate security. With that in mind, it’s more important than ever that home security is bolstered to deter and prevent criminals from committing acts of theft and vandalism.
However, some criminals have gotten wise to the more traditional home security measures. Hiding a spare key under your mat simply won’t cut it any longer. Some of the traditional security products can also be clunky and inefficient. In this modern age, security systems should be able to connect to provide comprehensive protection against threats. That’s where smart technology comes into play. Products like video door entry systems, smart locks and smart CCTV work together to create a comprehensive security ecosystem. Here, we provide an insight into some of the ways smart security technology can improve your home security.
Video Door Entry Systems or Smart Doorbells
Domestic video door entry systems – or smart doorbells – allow homeowners to see who is at their door. These systems use security cameras, a microphone and speaker, integrated into the doorbell, to provide a real-time video stream of the exterior of your home as well as the ability to communicate. Connected to a smartphone or centralised security hub, video door entry systems mean that, wherever you are in the world, you are alerted to anyone calling on you. This provides the flexibility of being able to speak to people calling at your home as well as enhanced security. If someone tried to break in through the front while you’re away, you will have valuable evidence which could lead to their capture.
Smart Security Cameras
CCTV is one of the most effective ways to secure any property. A visible camera provides a deterrent to would-be criminals as well as a means of recording any criminal activity. This combination provides the necessary preventative and evidentiary protections against a crime being committed at the home.
‘Smart’ CCTV goes a step further by providing instant access to live camera footage and connecting data from your home to your phone. As well as connection to a centralised security hub, smart CCTV can also connect to motion sensors on the outside of your house. If a motion sensor detects movement and shines a light, your smart CCTV can kick into action and begin recording footage. These features ensure that, whether you are at home or away, you’ll be notified if an intrusion attempt has been made at your home, allowing you to contact the authorities. Having live access and receiving notifications of disturbances gives the best protection as well as the necessary evidence required for the police to take action.
Smart Locks
Lock technology, although it has progressed through stages of innovation, has largely kept the same mechanical principles for decades. However, connected smart locks are beginning to see significant changes in the industry. Installing a smart lock to your home will ensure that lost keys are a thing of the past. By integrating remote access via fobs and your smartphone, you and the people who you trust will always have access to your home. You can give and deny access to several people at once and connect your locking system to the rest of the tech in your home.
For example, tell your Google Assistant or Alexa that you’re going to bed and the system will lock your doors, turn off your lights and ensure your smart appliances are switched off. The flexibility afforded by smart locks ensures your life is easier and more secure. Moreover, if you’re away, you can provide access to the person who is looking after your home seamlessly and securely. Even if that person is on the other side of the country, you won’t have to post your keys or leave them somewhere safe. Access can be granted and removed from wherever you are.
Smart Lighting As Security
One of the telltale signs that a house is unoccupied during a holiday is that the lights remain perpetually on or off. This inaction indicates to would-be criminals that a home is left unattended. However, by installing smart bulbs, you can set a timer for lights to switch on and off during the day. When leaving for a trip, you can ensure that lights turn on and off at roughly the same time they would be turned on if you were home.
As well as providing increased security, smart bulbs can also make your home more functional. Smart bulbs can act as a supplement to your alarm by dimming on when you want to wake up and then dimming down to save electricity.
Smart Alarms
Burglar alarms are one of the most tried and tested forms of home security. Although they can be effective when combined with CCTV and motion detectors, smart alarms help to further increase security. Again connected to your smartphone or centralised hub, these alarms let out a ringing noise to alert passers-by of a burglary as well as alerting you wherever you are. You can trigger a smart alarm from footage you have seen via your smart CCTV or have your alarm connected to your phone to let you know when it’s been triggered. This means that you can let the authorities know when a crime is being committed with greater accuracy. As well as this, some smart alarm systems can automatically connect with a security company who can call the police in your stead.
The Importance of The Internet of Things
The real benefit of making your home security ‘smart’ is the ability to connect security products via the ‘Internet of Things’. This term defines the connectivity between appliances in a property to create an entire ecosystem. By connecting your phone to security cameras, motion sensor lights, your bulbs and alarms, you can have a comprehensive system. With each part working in connection with each other, your security is bolstered and creates a much clearer picture.
Campbell & McGovern: Supplying Video Door Entry Systems, CCTV and More in Liverpool
Here at Campbell & McGovern, we’re experts in security. We provide all of our clients with expert advice for all of their security needs as well as the products and services that will keep them safe. Whether you have misplaced your keys and need a new set or want a CCTV system installed, we can help you.
The security systems we install for both homeowners and business owners are affordable and effective. Unfortunately, property crime is on the rise in the UK. To meet this growing threat, your home must have adequate security systems in place for protection. An adequate security system will provide an effective deterrent against opportunistic criminals. However, if a crime does take place, security systems will also ensure there is enough evidence for the perpetrator to be brought to justice.
To find out more about our services, please feel free to contact us today. You can find us at our head office at 457-461 Stanley Road, Bootle, Liverpool, L20 5DN. Alternatively, call us on 0151 922 4085 or email us at campbellmcgovern@btconnect.com.
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