How I Use My System: Todd Homitz

Todd Homitz, Guardian Protection Services' marketing project manager, has been with the company for 11 years. “Two years ago, I transitioned to my current role as the marketing project manager and really enjoy getting to interact with all teams, staying on top of the latest projects and trends, and even helping ideate new programs and projects,” he said. In late February, he told Security Systems News about his home alarm system.

What kind of system do you have?

I have the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 with one outdoor camera, two indoor cameras, one HD video doorbell, smart thermostat, garage door controls, lights, locks, CO and smoke detectors.

Why this particular set up?

I am obsessive about technology, especially technology that can help keep my family safe. I use my indoor cameras to spy on my dog during the day (he mostly sleeps) and my HD video doorbell came in handy catching a porch pirate stealing Christmas gifts for my daughter. When I'm not using my security system to fight crime, my house is set up to make life easier for everyone. We have it set up so lights automatically turn on when we arrive at home, garage doors open, locks unlock and even the system disarms via Bluetooth without having to reach for my phone or key fob. If we're rushing to get out the house and forget to lock or close the garage, the system will do that. It really does help to have one less thing to worry about—especially knowing we can check in on the house when we aren't at home.

What is the one aspect of your security system that you wouldn't want to live without?

Even with all the technology we have access to, it wouldn't be as powerful without being monitored 24/7 by a team of experts. Whether my mother-in-law accidentally trips the alarm when she stops over to let the dog out or they call to let us know a battery is running low and needs to be replaced, we know we're being monitored by Guardian's Protection Specialists.

Where do you see security going next? What are some big trends?

Great question. It's evolved so much over the past five years and it's limitless as to where it can go. I think more integration will continue to happen in the voice activated digital assistant space and I see the possibility of incorporating drones, for more holistic perimeter monitoring options