The evolution of home security is quite fascinating. Did you know that the first door alarm (the 1700s) was a set of chimes mechanically linked to a door lock? A century later, in 1853, the first electromagnetic alarm system was invented by Augustus Rusell Pope. Home security devices have evolved tremendously after that, with constant innovation making these systems sophisticated and more reliable.
Fast forward to the past 30 years, where the Internet of Things and automation technology has enabled homeowners to link to every access point in their homes. Modern security systems use infrared control and motion detection to make your home safer.
Currently, up to 50% of the millions of yearly break-ins in the United States are home break-ins. For this reason, security systems have become a necessity. As technology improves, home security devices become more affordable. This technology is helpful to corporations and accessible for consumer use.
Must-Have Home Security Devices
That said, if you are in the market for a security system, there are a few basic amenities that you must have. You don’t need hundreds of thousands of dollars to get an operational system-just a few critical components.
Digital Door Lock
Let’s start at the top, shall we? While previous burglars purely relied on a smash and grab technique to break into your house, modern criminals are more intelligent. This fact alone means that they have the patience and expertise to pick any physical lock they come across. A digital door lock can not only alert you when someone tampers with it, but it will also automatically release it when there is a fire threat.
Digital door locks are easier to link to modern security systems.
Outdoor Security Camera
In most home security devices reviews, the outdoor camera is one of the most critical components of in-home safety. The reason for this is that up to 70% of burglars get anxious and make mistakes. Even a camera that isn’t operational will spook a criminal. Outdoor security cameras also operate in real-time, alerting you when unusual activity happens in your home. Furthermore, in the unlikely event that a burglar escapes, the recorded surveillance footage will make it easier for law enforcement to find and apprehend the perpetrator.
Motion Detectors
Modern criminals are as sophisticated as the security systems put in place. With enough time and expertise-a burglar can easily slip past any security system. This troubling fact is why motion detectors are crucial in home security.
New security systems come equipped with motion and heat sensors that detect even the slightest movement. These systems may be pricey if you are on a budget. Fortunately, various after-market motion detectors are purchasable at an affordable price.
Wireless Security Cameras
In 2023, the words home security are synonymous with cameras. Cameras are the only way to distinguish between a family member and a burglar. Wireless cameras come highly recommended because they are easier to install, flexible, and concealable.
These web-enabled cameras also allow you to have real-time access to your home security system from any location with an internet connection. Home security device reviews and experts rank wireless cameras as a critical component in law enforcement.
Video Wireless Doorbell
While this may be pricey, it is still a valuable addition to your security system. Video wireless doorbells also help you identify everyone who comes to your doorstep. With an IoT system, this home security device also enables you to monitor porch activity and alerts you to any movement. Many modern video doorbells have a 120-degree viewing angle, infrared night vision, and motion detection capabilities.
Essentially, it records and relays every activity on your front door, making it difficult for criminals to slip past your security system unnoticed.
Smart Lock Kit
The principle behind a smart-security system is remote access and monitoring. Think of a scenario where you can remotely lock and unlock your home. If you are on vacation and the kids come home from college, you can open the door from the comfort of the beach. A smart-lock kit will allow you to grant or deny access to your home from any location.
Smart-security systems have a simple DIY installation system operable with very little fuss. Some modern varieties integrate into a police hotline that alerts law enforcement in the area when there is a break-in.
Verdict
With up to 2.5 million break-ins a year in the U.S. alone, an effective home security system is the first line of defence. While it may not deter that enthusiastic burglar, it will go a long way in slowing them down.
