Recently, our modem failed, leaving us without internet access for a day. Along with that, our SmartThings hub (V2) went offline. This was concerning because our security alarm system relies on the hub. Our young son has started sleepwalking, so I had to sleep on an uncomfortable mat at the top of the stairs to keep an eye on him.
This experience made me realize how crucial it is to have a backup plan for our security system. I started researching alternative solutions that don’t depend on internet or app access. Here’s what I found:
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Battery-Operated Alarms: These are a reliable backup option. They don’t need internet and can be easily installed around the house.
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Manual Override: I discovered that some systems allow manual activation of alarms using a keypad. This could be a quick solution if the app isn’t working.
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Offline Monitoring: Some newer systems offer offline monitoring modes. I’m looking into upgrading our system to include this feature.
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Physical Security Measures: Reinforcing doors and windows with additional locks can add an extra layer of security, regardless of the alarm system’s status.
I’ve reached out to the SmartThings community to see if others have faced similar issues and how they’ve handled it. If you have any suggestions or solutions, I’d love to hear them! Let’s keep our homes safe, even when the internet goes down. 