Ever woken up thinking, "Did I lock the back door?" You’re not alone. A few quick checks before bedtime can give you solid peace of mind and let you drift off without a second‑guess. Below are easy, low‑cost actions that make your house safer while you’re under the covers.
Modern cameras with infrared (IR) LEDs can see in total darkness, so you don’t need a floodlight blasting the yard. Choose a model that shows a clear picture on a smartphone app—most of our readers love the 2025 top picks for their crisp night view and motion alerts. Mount the camera where it covers main entry points, but stay clear of places where privacy could be an issue (like neighbors’ windows). Enable push notifications so you get a quick ping if motion is detected, and set the camera to record only when it sees something. This way you avoid endless footage and still have proof if anything odd happens.
If you have a baby monitor, treat it like any other Wi‑Fi device. Use a unique password, turn off remote access when you’re not using it, and keep the firmware updated. Non‑Wi‑Fi monitors avoid internet hacks altogether, but they can still pick up interference, so place the receiver a short distance away from the crib. For older kids, a simple motion sensor nightlight can double as a safety alert—if the light flashes when the door opens, you’ll know someone’s coming into the room.
Don’t forget to check that plugs and cords are out of reach and that any night‑light bulbs are cool‑to‑touch. A small, battery‑powered LED strip under a bed frame gives enough glow to see without waking anyone up.
A video doorbell that works with your phone lets you see who’s at the front, even if you’re already in bed. Look for models that store video locally (SD card) so you’re not forced into a monthly subscription. Pair the doorbell with a basic door sensor—when the sensor trips, you get an instant alert. This combo is cheap, easy to install, and makes burglars think twice.
Power cuts happen, and a dead camera is no good. Small UPS units or battery‑backed cameras keep critical devices alive for a few hours. Some outdoor cameras have solar panels that trickle‑charge the battery, giving you almost unlimited runtime. If you already have a home alarm, ask your installer about a battery backup for the control panel.
1. Close and lock every door and window.
2. Verify that night‑vision cameras are on and notifications are enabled.
3. Make sure the baby monitor is on a secure channel.
4. Confirm the doorbell video feed is live.
5. Test that backup power is connected to at least one camera.
Doing these five steps takes less than two minutes, but the payoff is huge—you’ll sleep deeper knowing everything’s watching the night for you.
Wondering if you need a baby monitor when your little one sleeps in the same room? This article explores the practicality and potential benefits of using a baby monitor during room-sharing. We break down the pros and cons, shedding light on real-life experiences and what experts suggest. Get useful tips on how to ensure your baby’s safety and quality sleep without unnecessary gadgets. Perfect for new parents seeking peace of mind.