Improving Upon Security Through Smart Home Automation

In recent years, whole home automation has shifted away from a science-fiction concept to something that is more than feasible. Though home automation is often touted as being convenient and comfortable, it's also an excellent way to improve upon security. Here are a few of the best security features of whole home automation.

Making Sure Doors Are Locked and Security Systems Are On

The simplest method of improving smart home automation is also one of the most important ones. Security systems and door locks can be integrated into a smart device, thereby making it easier for a homeowner to quickly check to make sure that they locked their doors and turned on their security system. If they did not, they can then trigger it remotely.

Remotely Viewing Camera Feeds and Home Status

Smart home automation can be integrated into web cameras quite easily. From a smartphone, mobile device, or laptop, homeowners can log in and view their home. This is a great way to differentiate between real security risks and false alarms, in addition to having the freedom to check in on kids or house sitters. In addition to viewing camera feeds, individuals can also view the status of their home security technology -- such as checking to see whether doors and windows have been opened.

Triggering a "Panic Button"

As with vehicles, home systems also commonly come with a panic button. This enables a homeowner to quickly set off their alarms and call emergency services. Prompt emergency access could mean the difference between a successful and unsuccessful robbery. These alarms can also be set off quickly in the event of other emergencies, such as medical ones, though 911 should still be called.

Detecting and Reacting to Non-Human Threats

Criminals aren't the only security threat to a home or a family. Modern smart home automation systems are also able to detect an even more common type of threat: fire. Smart home systems can detect and react to a fire, both notifying the homeowner and notifying emergency services as well. These systems are additionally able to identify carbon monoxide, which can be extraordinarily dangerous if left undetected. Once the smart alarm goes off and messages are sent to mobile devices, the device will also keep a log of what has occurred. 

There are still some challenges facing home automation. Most significantly, many different technologies have been developed by different companies -- and that makes integration very difficult, especially for those not technically inclined. Smart home companies specialize in integrating these technologies and may be able to create the best all-in-one system.