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102 PARADE of HOMES FALL 2023 "Lighting control can also be a form of security protection," she says, "and you can have systems that allow you to manage your lighting remotely so your home always has that 'lived in' appearance." Some systems can be controlled remotely via an app on your phone, which can enable you to see camer- as, control temperature and arm or disarm systems. "There are multiple options available in many price ranges," she says. "Above all else, individuals choosing systems for their homes should en- sure the quality of the equipment." Security systems aren't "out of the box," and things like extensive travel or small children in the family are going to need consideration. "Our design consultants meet with the clients to determine specific needs for the individual," Rosenberg says. "It is really dependent upon the individuals living in the home to have a system tailored to their needs." Sean Banks, president at K&S Electron- ics & Security (www.kandselectronics. com), says he finds clients are leaning into surveillance more than ever. Banks says surveillance with AI technology features active deterrent, which allows the cameras to distin- guish between humans and vehicles, making for fewer false alarms and notifications. "With the active deterrent, if a vehicle or person crosses onto your proper- ty, at a specific time of your choice, we can have an LED light flash and stay on as well as a siren or a voice recording saying 'Private property' or 'You are under video surveillance,' " he says. "It's very effective because it's making noise and attracting attention. With the LED lights, when they go off, it's giving the end user full colour images or video of the individuals at night." Banks says security systems can automate lighting, smart deadbolts, garage overhead doors and smart thermostats. "Some of the latest tech includes motion viewers with a built-in camera that will show clients a short clip of intruders when triggered so they can confirm there is, in fact, someone in their home," he says. "With digital verification in your system, the monitoring station and the homeowners will know for certain there is someone in their house so police are more likely to dispatch and make it a high priority. The biggest thing we try to do is avoid false alarms." There are solutions for clients who don't have a smart home or just want a standard alarm system. Banks says security systems are able to add smart home features that all tie into the same app. "Systems are capable of commu- nicating to the station through a phone line, the internet or cellular, giving everyone the option to have a monitored system. Having audible alarms — that will trigger if something happens while you're sleeping — is more peace of mind," he says. "Having the app on the phone is really handy. You have the ability to arm or disarm remotely. You can receive notifications pushed right to your phone in the event of trouble. It will notify you, letting you know the alarm is experiencing trouble so you can call your provider." PHOTO COURTESY OF K&S ELECTRONICS Security systems can automate lighting, smart deadbolts, garage overhead doors and smart thermostats. Home Security 102 PARADE of HOMES FALL 2023

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