If you're concerned about home security, you are not alone. Out of the 2.5 million burglaries that occur each year, 67% of them are the result of home break-ins. The good news is, you can thwart burglary attempts.
How do you stop an intruder in his tracks? Invest in devices that secure your home. When questioned about motivations and deterrents, most robbers admit that the presence of a home security system made them think twice about targeting a home. For peace of mind, equip your home with the five gadgets below.
1. Smart Locks
According to the FBI Crime Clock, a burglary occurs every 20.5 seconds. Since nearly all home burglaries start with entry via a door or window, it makes sense to add smart locks to sound an alarm if someone tries to pick or pry their way through entrances. Smart locks work with a smartphone, allowing you to monitor entryways. One of the best features of the device is its notification feature that alerts you when a door or window is ajar. In some cases, the lock comes with a keypad so you can give people a temporary access code to gain entry into the home in case of an emergency.
2. Smart Lights
Most burglaries occur in the daytime when residents are not at home. That said, it only takes a robber about 10 minutes to get in and out with your valuables. To outsmart potential burglars, install smart bulbs and switches that make it appear as if someone is home. You can schedule specific times for lights to come on or set bulbs and switches to turn on and off while away on vacation or stuck in traffic.
3. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Over 38% of home fire deaths occur because there is no smoke alarm present. A combination smoke/carbon monoxide detector will sound an alarm if it senses CO2 and other chemicals that could cause immediate danger. Advanced systems not only identify the threat, but also let you know where the danger is located, turn on lights to help you evacuate safely, and flash outdoor lights to help rescue teams find your home. Furthermore, some devices will shut the furnace off if it detects high levels of carbon monoxide. If you are away from home, you will still get an alert on your smartphone.
4. Security Cameras
With property crime happening every few seconds, it is important to note that chances for a burglary decrease in homes equipped with security cameras. In addition to capturing the images of potential burglars, you can use security cameras to see who is on your doorstep before answering the door. On top of that, you can check for stray animals lurking in the yard before you go out to get the paper or send children out to play. Additionally, you can choose to monitor the premises from afar on a smartphone, laptop, or tablet; or pay a professional monitoring company to keep watch on your home.
5. Water Sensors
You'd be surprised at the damage water can cause. Some of the losses are weather related and others occur because of malfunctioning equipment. A water sensor detects high levels of moisture. This way you will know if you need to repair equipment, move valuables, or leave the home. Put water sensors in areas prone to leaks such as near a washing machine, under sinks, or by a sump pump. Opt for WiFi supported sensors that can transmit a message to your phone in case you are not home.
