Summer is a time for sunshine, trips to the beach, family vacations, and, unfortunately, burglaries. When the weather is nicer, people leave their homes for periods of time – leaving the home vacant, and more inviting to burglars. According to ADT.com, a Bureau of Justice Statistics study showed a spike in burglary during summer months. The report states that “On average, household burglary rates were approximately 11% lower in winter, 9% lower in spring and about 6% lower in fall than in summer.”
There are many ways for homeowners to prepare for the season when home break-ins heat up, with a good security system covering all the home’s entry points being near the top. This security system can be augmented with everything from excellent outdoor lighting and automated shades, to video cameras (and/or a video doorbell) and of course, a smart connected lock or two.
Why a smart lock, as opposed to a traditional lock? According to Erik Glassen, Senior Manager, Brand Marketing at Kwikset, “There are a number of convincing reasons why a smart lock is the best security option for homes during the summertime, or really anytime. The remote capabilities of smart locks give homeowners the ability to use their smartphone or tablet to control their lock and track who’s coming or going from anywhere in the world. Plus, a smart lock can serve as the centerpiece of a complete home security system, connecting all the devices and giving the homeowner greater control, and peace of mind.”
Some of the specific summertime advantages of smart locks include:
- Remote control. When homeowners have a smart lock that can be controlled through a Web-enabled device, they can check to make sure all the doors are locked and, if they aren’t, lock them as needed – even when they are far from home.
- Setting the scene. Users can also pre-set scenarios that can include actions like doors locking or unlocking, outside lights and inside lights turning on, and shades opening and closing. In fact, users can make any potential uninvited guests think that the home is occupied.
- Invited guests are welcome. The homeowner can assign a time-sensitive user code to whoever might need one, and delete it when they see fit. In this way, they are not passing out keys to friends, relatives, and contractors – keys that can be lost or stolen. But they can give access to trusted people who can check in on property and pets.
- Key-free is stress-free. Speaking of key-free, there is no easier way for criminals to gain access to a home than if they find the key that’s been “hidden” under a mat or inside a fake rock. With key-free smart locks, hiding keys can be a thing of the past.
- Information is power. Smart locks connected to a home automation system can be empowered to maintain important information about their use and deliver it to a controlling device. In this way, they can provide homeowners with an audit trail of who has been granted access to their homes, and when.
“If dealers make themselves aware of the seasonal benefits of smart locks,” concluded Kwikset’s Glassen, “they can not only grow their business, but also potentially make the vacation season a lot more enjoyable, stress-free, and safer for their customers.”
Visit www.kwikset.com for more information.
About Kwikset
Kwikset is a leading residential lock manufacturer, making homeowners feel safe since 1946. The company’s unwavering commitment to meeting homeowners’ needs has inspired its innovative lock portfolio that includes patented SmartKey Security™ deadbolts, patented SecureScreen™ touchscreen locks, keyless entry combination locks, connected home technology, Bluetooth-enabled Aura™, Wi-Fi enabled Halo™, door hardware with Microban® antimicrobial product protection and a wide variety of styles and finishes. Kwikset products are sold online and through retailers and distributors throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Australia.
See also: Acquisitions Drive Growth, Brand Equity For Smart Home Companies, says Parks Associates
