When choosing between security companies in Connecticut, it can sometimes be hard to decide on the best option to protect your property. Connecticut residents have several security options, but three prominent players stand out: Standard Security Systems, Security Solutions Inc., and Alarm New England. Let’s delve into each company’s unique offerings, strengths, and differences.
Standard Security Systems Overview
Standard Security Systems has been serving Connecticut for over two decades. They offer a comprehensive range of security solutions, including alarm systems, surveillance cameras, and access control. Their focus is on residential and small business security.
Strengths
Reliable Monitoring: Standard Security Systems provides 24/7 professional monitoring from their secure facilities.
Customization: They tailor security packages to individual needs, ensuring flexibility.
Local Presence: Being a local company, they understand the specific security challenges faced by Connecticut residents.
Challenges
Selling Older Technology: While they cover the basics, their offerings may lack advanced features of some of the newest home and business security products on the market.
Security Solutions Inc. Overview
Security Solutions Inc. is a family-owned business with deep roots in Connecticut. They specialize in both residential and commercial security. Their services include alarm systems, video surveillance, and fire detection.
Strengths
Personalized Service: As a smaller company, they prioritize personalized attention and quick response times.
Expertise: Their experienced technicians ensure proper installation and maintenance.
Local Commitment: Security Solutions Inc. is deeply invested in the safety of their community.
Challenges
Limited Product and Pricing Transparency: It is unclear what type of technology Standard Security Inc. is using, and how much they charge for monthly monitoring. They may not offer cutting-edge technology found with larger providers.
Alarm New England Overview
Alarm New England is a regional leader in home and business security. They serve Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Their services encompass alarm systems, home automation, and video surveillance. This security company has 50 years of experience serving the New England region.
Strengths
Advanced Technology: Alarm New England offers smart home integration, mobile app control, and voice assistants.
Transparent Pricing: Their straightforward pricing model appeals to budget-conscious consumers.
Professional Installation: All of their technicians are Alarm New England employees, not contractors. Expert technicians ensure a seamless setup.
Challenges
Contractual Commitment: Some users may prefer month-to-month options, which Alarm New England doesn’t always provide.
Comparison Summary
Standard Security Systems caters to those seeking reliable, no-frills security.
Security Solutions Inc. excels in reliable, personalized service.
Alarm New England stands out for its technological prowess and transparent pricing.
In the end, the choice depends on your priorities: whether you value local expertise, cutting-edge technology, or a balance of both. Evaluate your needs, consider the pros and cons, and make an informed decision to protect what matters most.
Massachusetts may be one of the smallest states in the United States, but it has plenty to offer. It was one of the first places that the English settled when they first traveled to America, and it remains one of the six states of New England to this day.
Is Massachusetts a good place to live?
Yes, Massachusetts is a good place to live. It is an important place in the history of the country’s founding, and has rich culture with many benefits for its residents. There is plenty to do in MA, and it is one of the best places in the country to work or go to school. Massachusetts residents are some of the wealthiest and happiest in the country. Plus, the state can satisfy either type of lifestyle: the bustling city life and the quiet idyllic peace of the countryside or seashore.
Massachusetts is known for being one of the wealthiest states in the U.S. It first began as an agricultural state but switched to manufacturing, trade, and fishing. Due to the state’s rich cultural heritage, Massachusetts also has a booming tourism economy.
Some of the most reputable educational institutions in the world are in Massachusetts— like Harvard University. The state is among the most innovative and educated states in the U.S. Aside from education, Massachusetts is home to the New England Patriots, who have won the Super Bowl six times.
Whether you love a serene country location or a busy urban hub full of activities, the great state of Massachusetts has something for everybody. Not matter what your ideal way of life is, there is a Massachusetts town that will suit your desire. Let’s start with the best places in MA to raise a family.
Best Neighborhoods in Massachusetts for Families
Newtonville – Newton
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Newtonville is a family-friendly and liberal neighborhood located in Newton, MA. Most of the residents in this area are homeowners, and the population is around 8,000. It is home to some of the best public schools and is surrounded by a variety of social places such as parks and restaurants.
Amherst
Amherst is in Hampshire County and has a population of 40,000 people. It was once rated as one of the best towns to raise children in. It is a college town and hosts three distinguished institutions, including the University of Massachusetts.
Because it is home to three major universities, Amherst is a safe place to raise a family. The town has great spots for outdoor activities, especially water sports for children. The schools in Amherst are also highly rated.
Bedford
Bedford is an American historical hub located in Middlesex County. The Bedford flag is still raised today in Bedford’s free public library. A lot of people in this town own their homes. The area has a suburban feel to it and is an excellent place for young couples to settle and begin raising their families.
Bedford has fantastic restaurants and places to visit, such as museums. The schools have greatly improved, so if you have left the old city for greener pastures, it might be time to consider coming back.
Springfield
Springfield is the third largest city in Massachusetts. It is located along the Connecticut River in Hampden County. Because of the many innovations that came out of Springfield, it is also known as Hoop City, City of Homes, or the City of Firsts.
Just like Amherst, the city hosts some of the best higher education facilities. Housing costs are very affordable in Springfield and social spots, such as restaurants and outdoor activities, are nearby. The neighborhood is safe, and the people are liberal.
Lexington
Lexington is one of the best suburbs in Boston to raise a family. It is located in Middlesex County and has a population of about 30,000. This small city is a treasured historical site because the battle of Lexington was fought here during the American Revolution.
Lexington is a diverse, prosperous town and has one of the best school districts in Massachusetts. Apart from historical sites, Lexington has a vibrant entertainment scene with a lot of restaurants and coffee shops to enjoy.
Brookline
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You’ll soon see that Brookline shows up multiple times on our list, and for good reason. It’s close enough to Boston to be convenient, but far enough outside the city to avoid the traffic and noise issues that come with living downtown. It’s another suburb near Boston located in Norfolk County. Most people in this town are homeowners. Brookline is a great place to start or raise a family because the area is safe and residents live in close proximity to the schools. Some great colleges are located in this town too.
Brookline has some great activities for kids, including the Puppet Showplace Theater and parks where children have plenty of room to play. President John F. Kennedy was born in Brookline. It is rich with art and culture, and it is not too far from Boston, where residents can go for the vibrant nightlife.
Best Towns Near Boston for Commuters
Maybe you’ve got a job in Boston but don’t want to pay the higher rent prices, or you want to be able to easily visit the city on the weekend. The rail and subway system in Massachusetts is a great way to avoid traffic and save on gas money— provided there are no delays. Below are some of the best Boston suburbs for commuters.
Woburn
Woburn is one of the most convenient Massachusetts towns to live in. It is located between routes 128 and 93, and the average commute time to Boston is about 24 minutes with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter rail. However, you don’t need to head into the city looking for fun or good food while living in Woburn. The town has the most social facilities per capita compared to other towns in the Boston area.
Cambridge
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Cambridge is home to the most distinguished institutions of learning in Massachusetts: Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. A lot of young professionals, graduate students, and academics live in this town. The MBTA red line is connected to Cambridge via Harvard Square, Central Square, and Kendall Square, so commuting to Boston takes takes half an hour or less.
Brookline
Tucked in between Allston and Roxbury, Brookline is just a few minutes drive away from most of the city. This attractive historical Boston suburb is packed with social activities for both the young and the old. It has a high percentage of young professionals living there, though rental costs are higher here. Lucky for them, the town is well connected to the MBTA via the Green Line, so commuters can easily get to a nearby train stop.
Wakefield
Wakefield is in Middlesex County and is a culturally diverse town with liberal people. The MBTA Commuter Rail passes through the center of the town, which is convenient for people who work in Boston or are just looking for a good time. The commute to downtown Boston takes about 22 minutes.
Waltham
This city is also in Middlesex County. Waltham is a multicultural town that a lot of young professionals opt to live in because it is well connected to the MBTA. The average commute time to Boston is about 23 minutes.
Melrose
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Melrose is another Boston suburb that is great for commuters. The MBTA Commuter Rail passes through town, so getting to Boston takes about 20 minutes. The Melrose area is where most young working-class citizens prefer to live. It is a great place to start a family: Melrose has excellent schools and tons of outdoor family activities.
Medford
This suburb in Middlesex County mere minutes outside of Boston is the home of Tufts University. Medford is ranked as one of the best places to live in New England. Young people who are just entering the workforce will love this town.
Medford will soon be connected to Boston directly via the Green Line Extension, but for now residents must take a bus or walk to Davis Square in Somerville to hop on the Red Line if they want to head downtown. If you love outdoor activities, several hiking trails will let you get out in nature. Medford is a multicultural community, so food options are plenty as well.
Milton
Milton is one of the most prosperous Boston suburbs. This small town located in Norfolk County is the birthplace of the former president George H. W. Bush. Residents of this area are connected by the MBTA red line and are only 20 minutes away from Boston. Milton is a vibrant hub of entertainment that attracts a lot of young professionals.
What Part of Massachusetts is Best to Live for Retirement?
Retirement is the time most of us plan to give back to our communities and make up for lost time with our friends and family. And some people decide to make a big move from one state to another to enjoy their golden years.
If Massachusetts is on your list of possible retirement locations, here are some of the best places to retire in Massachusetts.
Hull
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Hull is in Plymouth County on the south shore border of the state. It has some of the nicest beaches and enjoys cool weather even during the summer. Hull is a safe place to live in Massachusetts, and housing is affordable relative to Boston—the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,200.
The average age of people living in Hull is 52 years. Hull offers a lot of social activities that baby boomers can enjoy, such as walking or basking in the sun at the beaches.
North Adams
North Adams is one of the small cities in Massachusetts and is located in Berkshire County. Almost 17% of the people living in North Adams are retirees. The medical facilities are accessible, and the average housing costs are $750 per month. Another advantage of living here is that the property taxes are low.
You will enjoy shopping, museums, and excellent restaurants, among other activities, while living in North Adams.
Newburyport
Newburyport is a beautiful small town and suburb located in Essex County, about 2 hours drive from Boston. Most people here own their homes, and the average rent is $1,143. It is a charming historical town with beautiful scenery. Newburyport is a great place to meet new people and make new connections because of the buzzing tourism industry.
Activities to enjoy in North Shore include beautiful walks at the beach during sunsets, kayaking, and hiking, among others. The central town area has a lot of shops and spectacular restaurants as well.
Eastham
Eastham is a small suburban beach town located in Barnstable County. It’s very rural and has a few historical sites. It is a wonderful place if you want to be away from the city noises—its population is only 4,900. Average rent here is $1,000, and if you are looking to buy a home, $455,000 is the median price. Many people here are homeowners.
Top activities in Eastham are biking and hiking. If you are a seafood lover, you’re in for a treat because it is cooked fresh from the sea in Eastham.
North Falmouth
North Falmouth is a small suburban town in Barnstable County with a population of 2,850 people. A lot of people own their homes; average house prices start at $530,000. The average rent is $1,400.
This place has a lot of retirees. The town offers many activities, including shopping and walking at the beach, and has some superb restaurants to enjoy good food. Healthcare facilities are nearby as well. North Falmouth is a close-knit community.
West Yarmouth
West Yarmouth is another Barnstable County favorite for retirees. The Cape Cod beaches are wonderful here, and the weather is warmer than in other areas of the state. It is a great place if you are looking for a relaxing location. West Yarmouth has all sorts of entertainment available for people of all ages, and the community is very diverse.
Most people are homeowners, but the average rent is $1,350. The average home value is $280,000. The area is safe, and healthcare facilities are close.
Safest Cities and Towns in Massachusetts
Safety is paramount whether you are raising a family or you are on your own. You want to walk around the neighborhood at any time and not fear for your life or your kid’s life.
Massachusetts is known for having a lower crime rate than most states in the US, but taking precautions to keep your home safe — like installing a home security system — is always advisable no matter where you live. Here are some of the safest places to live in Massachusetts.
Norton
Norton is a small town in Bristol County with a population of about 20,000. It has one of the lowest crime rates according to FBI crime data. When it comes to violent crime and property crime, Norton is one of the top five safest cities in the state of Massachusetts.
The probability of being a victim of crime in Norton is 1 in 1046, making Norton one of the safest towns in Massachusetts to live in. It routinely ranks among the safest areas in the country according to FBI crime data.
Hopkinton
This small suburban town in Middlesex County has a population of about 17,000. It is one of the safest Massachusetts towns to live in. There has been no violent crime in the area within the last year, according to the available data.
Your chance of becoming a victim of crime in Hopkinton is 1 in 296. Its crime rate of 3 per 1,000 residents makes Hopkinton one of the safest communities in the United States.
Shrewsbury
Located in Worcester County, Shrewsbury is a safe town considering how big it is— it has a population of about 40,000. It has a violent crime rate of 0.08% for every 1,000 people and a property crime rate of 3.46% per 1,000 households. That’s not too bad for a relatively large town. It is definitely safe to buy a home and raise a family in Shrewsbury.
Franklin
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Franklin is a relatively large town located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, and it has a population of about 33,500 people. This town is home to the first library in America, the Franklin Public Library. Benjamin Franklin donated books to this library.
This lovely city ranks as the fourth safest in Massachusetts. It has a violent crime rate of 0.27% and a property crime rate of 2.22% per 1,000.
Needham
Needham is a suburban town in Norfolk County. The total crime rate of this town is 6.6%, and the chance of being a victim of crime is 1 in every 153. The town has a population of 30,500 people. It is one of the safest cities in the United States with a 76% lower crime rate than the national average, and it’s 92% lower than the average Massachusetts crime rate.
Reading
Reading is a suburb in Middlesex County not far from Boston with a population of 25,800 people. The total crime rate in Reading in 65% lower than the average Massachusetts crime rate. The violent crime rate in Reading is significantly lower: it’s 91% lower than the Massachusetts average crime rate and 92% lower than the national average.
Hanover
Hanover is in Plymouth County, Massachusetts. It has a population of 14,500 people. It is safer than 79% of cities in the United States, and its violent crime rate per 1,000 residents is 0.34%. The property crime rate is 6.99% per 1,000 residents. This is a pretty safe town!
Westford
Westford is in Middlesex County. A lot of families live in this Boston suburb, which has a population of 24,700. Westford is safer than 94% of cities in the United States. Violent crime per 1,000 people is 0.34%, and property crime per 100 households is 3.08%. The chances of becoming a victim of violent crime in Westford is 1 in every 2,701 people.
Where is the Most Affordable Place to Live in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is one of the most expensive places to live in the United States, even though it offers a lot in return.
A major factor that determines the cost of living in a particular area is the cost of housing. In Massachusetts, the closer you are to Boston, the more it will cost to rent or buy a house or apartment.
The average price of a home in Massachusetts is $390,000. The average monthly rent for a studio apartment and a four-bedroom house in Massachusetts are $1,139 to $2,167, respectively. The average annual pay for people living in Massachusetts is $67,432. This is higher than the average annual salary in the United States, which is $53,621. This indicates that salaries are generally higher in Massachusetts than in other cities in the US.
The consumer price index in Massachusetts is higher than the national average. In fact, it is 10.2% higher. In Massachusetts, the sales tax is 6.25%. This means that the daily costs of groceries and other foodstuffs is significantly higher than in other cities in the US.
Although the cost of living in Massachusetts is high, there are some affordable towns to live in.
You do not want to put down roots somewhere you will struggle to provide for your family. The advantage of Massachusetts is that the median household income in most cities is much higher than the national average. Regardless, it wouldn’t hurt to look for the cheapest place to live in Massachusetts.
Leominster
Leominster is a small town just one hour from Boston with a population of 40,000 people. It is one of the most affordable towns with the average house costs well below the national average at $251,000. The average income per household is $59,263.
Generally, the cost of living in Leominster is 13% lower than in Massachusetts as a whole. However, daily costs such as food, transport, and other expenses might be the same.
Franklin
What makes Franklin an affordable city to live in is the average household income of $101,980, which is higher than the national average. Housing costs are a bit high, but they’re not beyond reach. The town has a robust economy and offers a lot of job opportunities for people just moving to the community.
Methuen
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Methuen is in Essex County. The population of this town is 48,000, and the average income per household is $71,392. This is higher than the national average. The average housing costs are at $282,500. This alone is enough to make you and your family consider moving to this town.
This little town is packed with several recreational facilities such as shopping areas, restaurants, and outdoor activities. The art and history is an attractive and interesting aspect of the town.
North Adams
North Adams has a population of about 14,000 people. The cost of living in this small town is 3% less than the national average. The average income per household is $38,800, and the average home costs are $149,500.
This small town has become a frequent destination for tourists who love art and history because North Adams hosts the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, one of the largest museums in North America.
Palmer
Palmer is a small town of about 12,500 people located in Hampden County, Massachusetts. The cost of living in Palmer is 20% lower than in Massachusetts. The average income per household is the same as the national average at $55,343. Housing costs are at an average of $181,500. Palmer enjoys warm weather, and it is a very safe town to live in.
Gardner
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Located in Worcester County, this city has a population of about 20,000 people. The home price to income ratio is 3-to-7 in Gardner. The average income per household is $46,410, and the average house costs are $173,200. Generally, the cost of living in Gardner is higher than the national average, but it is well below the Massachusetts average cost of living by 18%.
Agawam
Agawam is a lovely little town in Hampden County that has a population of 28,500 people. Housing is very affordable in this town, so it is worth considering this location if you’re looking to move to Massachusetts. It’s also where Six Flags New England is located.
The housing costs to income ratio is 3-to-7. The average income per household in this town is $60,201, and the median home value is at $220,300. The cost of living in Agawam is higher than the national average but lower than the Massachusetts average by 11% and 15%, respectively.
Pittsfield
Pittsfield is located in Berkshire County just 7 miles from the New York border. The area has a housing cost to income ratio of 3-to-7, and the average cost of a home is $173,100. The average household income is $46,871.
This is a quiet community with low crime rates; it was once rated one of the United States’ greenest cities. There are plenty of nearby mountains and hiking opportunities in Pittsfield, making it not only a cost-effective place to live but a beautiful one.
The Top Places To Live In Massachusetts
Recap – The Top Places to Live in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is one of the most educated states in the US, and the quality of its healthcare is fantastic. Since the Massachusetts healthcare reform in 2006, almost all residents of Massachusetts have health insurance.
Couple this with many low-crime cities and towns, relatively short commutes, excellent retirement, and family suburbs, and it’s not hard to see why people love Massachusetts—though the higher cost of living can limit your options.
Either way, there is something for everyone in Massachusetts and every reason to become a resident of the Bay State. If you’d prefer to only visit New England during the summer and fall months, purchasing a vacation home in Massachusetts is not a bad idea, either. Many Massachusetts cities are atop the list of the best places to live in New England.
The history of home security systems is rich and varied, stretching back over many years. Today, we might be familiar with home security systems boasting advanced technology and automation. But what we might not know is how it all started. Among the key figures in this journey is the home security system inventor, Marie Van Brittan Brown, whose invention in the 1960s laid the groundwork for the sophisticated systems we rely on today. Brown’s story is not just one of innovation but also of necessity, insight, and the desire to create a safer living environment.
Marie Van Brittan Brown was born on October 30, 1922, in Jamaica, Queens, New York. Living in a neighborhood with a high crime rate and slow police response times, Brown sought a way to feel safer in her own home. Working as a nurse, with irregular hours that often left her home alone at night, she was acutely aware of the vulnerabilities that came with her situation. This personal need for safety and security led her to conceive an idea that was revolutionary for its time.
In 1966, Brown and her husband, Albert Brown, an electronics technician, devised a system that would allow her not only to see who was at her door but also to communicate with them without opening it, and to alert authorities if necessary. This system was comprised of four peepholes, a camera, monitors, and a two-way microphone. The camera could be moved to look out of any one of the peepholes, allowing Brown to see who was outside at varying heights, including children. The images captured by the camera were then transmitted to a monitor inside the home. Additionally, a panic button was included to immediately alert the police if the homeowner felt threatened.
Marie Van Brittan Brown filed a patent for her invention in 1966, and it was granted in 1969. The patent described a system that provided a front door with a camera, monitors, and a two-way microphone. The revolutionary aspect of Brown’s invention was not just in allowing homeowners to see who was at their door without opening it, but also in its incorporation of a communication system and an alert mechanism to notify the police, which significantly enhanced home security.
Brown’s invention laid the foundational technology for the modern home security systems we use today, which include motion detectors, automatic police notification, and video surveillance. While technology has clearly evolved and expanded upon her initial concept, the principles behind Brown’s system remain at the core of home security. Today, smart home security systems integrate cameras, motion sensors, and internet connectivity to provide real-time surveillance, remote access, and instant alerts to homeowners and law enforcement.
Marie Van Brittan Brown’s contribution to home security is a testament to the power of innovation driven by personal need. Her work exemplifies how thoughtful, inventive solutions can create lasting changes that benefit countless individuals. Brown’s legacy is not only in the device she created but also in the sense of safety and security that her invention has provided to homes around the world. As we continue to develop and refine home security technology, it is important to remember the pioneering work of Marie Van Brittan Brown, whose vision and ingenuity have made an indelible mark on the field.
It always pays to be vigilant when you or an elderly loved one are living alone. Senior citizens are often targeted in home security incidents. Keep reading if you would like to know more home security tips for seniors.
Important Things To Know
Criminals often target elderly people for burglary and at-home related crimes because they are more vulnerable. Seniors often have predictable routines, allowing criminals to know when they are present and not present at the home. Plus, senior citizens are assumed less likely to retaliate back if targeted during a crime.
According to data from the CDC, slips and falls are the most common form of injury for people aged 65 and older. Medical alert devices such as panic buttons can be a lifesaver in the event of a dangerous at-home fall. Other devices designed to use in the home, like automated alarm systems and video doorbells can also help the elderly stay safe at home.
Keeping windows locked, doors secured, and staying away from the bad habit of hiding a spare key somewhere outside the home can help to keep a senior’s home safe from potential burglars.
Why Seniors Are At Risk, And How To Keep Them Safe At Home: Our Best Tips
As we get older we become more and more vulnerable to potential criminal acts. Home security for seniors doesn’t just mean preventing a home invasion, it also means protection from a much more likely threat: medical emergencies.
Even a short fall can cause severe issues for seniors who are less physically able. By combining medical alert systems with home security systems, you can provide your parents with comprehensive protection, even when you’re not around to help.
The elderly can also benefit from cutting-edge features like home automation and doorbell cameras, allowing them to be better able to control their homes at the touch of a button.
Why do criminals target the elderly?
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Mental and Physical Health: The biggest reason why seniors are a likely target of crimes is that they are likely to be living alone and isolated from the outside world. Also, they may have mental or physical disabilities, making them easy targets for con artists and other scammers. Older people are more likely to fall for all sorts of email and phone scams that younger people would ignore. Also, since older adults tend to be less physically active, burglars can see their inability to fight back as an opportunity.
Predictability: Seniors tend stick to the same routines, making it easy for a criminal to guess when they won’t be at home.
Location: Many seniors live close to town so that they don’t have to walk or drive as far to get groceries and see the doctor. Cities are more likely to have higher crime rates than rural locations.
Crime Reporting: Seniors are assumed to be less likely to go to the police or be able to fill out a proper incident report after a crime is committed, making it easier for the criminal to escape justice.
How can we protect our aging parents?
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Medical Alert Systems
While the threat of a break-in is always scary, a health crisis is a far more likely occurrence. Falls are actually the most common cause of injury for adults over 65 (according to the CDC). If you’re looking for a security system, also consider getting a medical alert system with a panic button so that help can come as quickly as possible in the case of a fall or another emergency.
All someone has to do to summon emergency services is press and hold down a button that can be carried on their person. Some medical alert systems have advanced features like automatic fall detection. In addition to calling for help, the system can also alert family members and caregivers of a problem.
Home Automation
Another way to help out a senior is to have a home automation system that will automatically activate alarm systems at a certain time every day. This is a big help for seniors who suffer from memory issues and have difficulty remembering to regularly arm their system. An automated system can be also used for heat and lights at the home.
Smart thermostats make it easy to keep the home at the right temperature, and smart lighting can be put on randomized timers so criminals are less able to figure out when people are in the house and make break-ins far less likely.
Smart home security systems can be activated remotely via smartphone to provide seniors with greater freedom to leave the home without needing to worry. These simple and easy-to-use apps that control the system are designed intuitively so that even those who aren’t used to using smartphones or computers can figure out how to use them.
Doorbell Cameras
A doorbell camera is another great security device that helps give peace of mind to seniors and their families. Criminals are far less likely to attempt to break into a house that has a doorbell camera system, as the camera captures them the moment they set foot on the front porch. As a burglar, the last thing you want to do is risk getting your face caught on tape and ending up with the police.
Besides acting as a deterrent, video doorbells will also let seniors watch the outside of their house and grant entry to family members, friends, and trusted service workers without having to get up and walk over to the door.
Most doorbell systems integrate with smartphones and can be used remotely. This means seniors can see who’s coming up the front porch, even when they’re not at home.
Follow these home security tips for seniors to help keep your loved ones safe and secure.
Tip 1: Keep doors and downstairs windows locked at all times.
An unlocked window can allow somebody access to the home even when the senior is inside it. Doors and windows are the most vulnerable points of any home, and as such require the most attention. Read our guide on how to reinforce your doors to learn more.
Tip 2: Make sure the front door has a peephole (or a doorbell camera system).
Always make sure you are able to recognize the person on the other side. Do not open the door even slightly if you are uncertain about who the person is and what their intentions are. Additionally, have a mobile phone at the ready when people are at your door. If there is something suspicious going on, call the police right away.
Tip 3: Reinforce your home’s weak points.
Install solid wood or metal doors for added reinforcement to prevent someone from being able to break through the door. Install double glazed glass panels on your windows if you don’t already have them.
Tip 4: Avoid hiding your key outside your home.
When going on vacation, do not leave keys outside the house (for example, under doormats or inside a flower pot). If you must leave a key behind, give it to a trusted friend or family member.
The Bottom Line
As individuals age, it becomes more important to put safety measures into place proactively. No one wants to be caught up in a bad situation unprepared. The elderly can be the most at-risk when it comes to both accidents and targeted crimes inside of the home. By taking some simple steps and following the tips listed here, seniors can be safer and better prepared in the event of an at-home emergency. From medical devices like panic buttons, to easy-to-use doorbell cameras, to simple “common sense” habits like keeping doors and windows locked, older home owners who heed this advice will remain safer in the long run.
Today, with modern technology becoming commonplace in the home, the traditional reliance on landline-based home security systems is starting to become obsolete. Gone are the days when a physical connection to a telephone line was the primary means of safeguarding our homes. With wireless technology now widely adopted, homeowners have better and more convenient options to help ensure the safety and security without the need for a landline connection.
In the past, home security systems relied heavily on landline connections to communicate with monitoring centers in the event of an emergency. While these systems served their purpose for many years, they had inherent limitations. Landline-based systems are vulnerable to physical tampering, such as cutting the phone line, which could render them ineffective during a crisis. Also, they lack flexibility and often require professional installation, making them harder to set up, therefore less accessible to the average homeowner.Rapid advancements in wireless technology during the past several years have brought great changes to the landscape of home security. Modern wireless home security systems offer a host of advantages over their landline-based counterparts. Wireless systems make use of more modern technologies, such as cellular networks, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth to provide seamless connectivity and enhanced functionality.
5 Benefits of Wireless Home Security Systems
Enhanced Reliability
Unlike landline-based systems that can be easily compromised, wireless home security systems are reliable. By leveraging cellular networks, these systems remain operational even in the event of a power outage or tampering attempt. This is vital as it ensures continuous protection for your home and loved ones.
Easy Installation
A significant advantage of wireless home security systems is their ease of installation. Unlike traditional systems that need to be connected to the landline, wireless systems can be easily installed without the need for complex wiring or drilling. This not only saves time and money but also provides greater flexibility in choosing the placement of sensors and cameras.
Remote Access and Monitoring
Often, wireless home security systems offer the convenience of remote access and monitoring through smartphone applications. Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or simply away from home, you can easily monitor your property in real-time, receive instant alerts in case of suspicious activity, and even remotely arm or disarm the system as needed.
Integration with Smart Home Devices
Another compelling feature of wireless home security systems is their compatibility with smart home devices. From smart locks and doorbell cameras to voice-controlled assistants, many wireless systems can integrate with home automation technologies, leading to enhanced safety and convenience.
Scalability and Customization
Wireless home security systems offer better scalability and customization options than systems based off of a landline. Whether you live in a small apartment or a large property with many rooms, you can easily expand or customize your system with additional cameras and sensors.
Choosing the Right Wireless Home Security System
Now that you are convinced about the benefits of a residential security system without a landline, how do you make sure you are choosing the right one? When selecting a wireless security system, it’s essential to consider your specific requirements, budget, and preferences. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind.
Features and Functionality: Evaluate the features and functionality offered by different wireless security systems, such as motion detection, video surveillance, environmental monitoring, and home automation capabilities. Choose a system that aligns with your security needs and lifestyle.
Reliability and Connectivity: Ensure the system you’re using has a cellular backup and Wi-Fi connectivity to ensure uninterrupted protection for your home, even in the event of a Wi-Fi outage.
User-Friendly Interface: Look for a system with an intuitive user interface and mobile app that makes it easy to set up, monitor, and manage your security system from anywhere, anytime.
Customer Support: Choose a reputable security provider that offers responsive customer support, and reliable technical assistance to ensure long-term satisfaction and protection for your investment.
Find The Best Options For Home Security Without A Landline
The era of landline-based home security systems is fading into obscurity as wireless technology continues to provide robust protection for our homes. By embracing wireless home security systems, homeowners can enjoy enhanced reliability, convenience, and peace of mind without the constraints of traditional landline connections.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing system or invest in a new security solution, the experts at Alarm New England can help. If you’d like to get rid of your landline and upgrade to a wireless security system, give us a call at (857) 445-4010. We can answer any questions and help walk you through the process.Â
