We asked that same question, and here’s what we came up with. For more info on how an alarm system helps homeowners, check out The Benefits of Getting a Home Security System. Some security system cameras even offer video calls—a potential alternative form of contact for kids too young for cells. However, security systems aren’t a replacement for adult supervision. You’ll still need a guardian or babysitter in the home with young kids at all times. With enough cameras and door and window sensors, you can make it impossible for them to leave in the middle of the night—at least not without your knowledge. Can’t remember if you got the mail today? Unsure if your lawn mowing service showed up this week? Curious which neighbor dropped off that plate of delicious cookies? You can check your camera feed for visual evidence. Your system can notify you anytime someone opens those doors. The idea isn’t necessarily to prevent theft—although that’s a benefit. Instead, you want to create accountability and awareness. If your kid or recently sober spouse is getting into the liquor, or if your in-laws are going into your bedroom when you aren’t home, you won’t have to rely on paranoid suspicions. You’ll know. A lot of home security systems come with (or can be attached to) smart locks. You can lock and unlock most of these devices from anywhere, even thousands of miles away. In short, you can let anyone you want into your house anytime. Just make sure to lock back up again once they leave. That includes:
Morning routines like turning on the lights and smart coffee maker and opening the garage Bedtime routines like turning off the lights, locking all the doors, and arming the alarm system Going-on-vacation routines like arming the system and turning the lights on and off periodically
But that’s just what we came up with. We bet you can come up with more, more personalized scenarios. The sky’s the limit!
