Hosting a Summer BBQ? Here’s How to Keep Your Home Safe While You Entertain

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill, invite friends over, and enjoy long evenings outdoors. But while you’re focused on burgers, playlists, and hosting duties, your home could be more vulnerable than usual during Summer.

Whether you’re entertaining in your backyard, on your deck, or by the pool, open doors, distracted hosts, and increased foot traffic can create security gaps that intruders or accidents may exploit. During Summer, here’s how to stay safe without missing the party thanks to smart home security solutions.

To further enhance security, consider implementing a neighborhood watch program. Engaging with your neighbors can create a community that looks out for each other, especially during busy seasons like Summer when homes are often unattended.

When considering entry points, think about not just your main doors, but also less obvious ones like basement windows or side gates. Keep these areas well-lit and monitored with cameras to deter any potential intruders.

1. Keep Entry Points Secure (Even When You’re Busy)

Additionally, using smart home technology can allow you to monitor your home remotely. For example, many smart security systems offer mobile apps that let you keep an eye on your home from anywhere, providing peace of mind while you entertain.

During summer get-togethers, it’s common to leave doors unlocked or propped open for guests. But that convenience can also invite uninvited guests. With a smart security system in place, you can stay one step ahead:

Encourage guests to keep doors closed behind them when entering or exiting your home to maintain security. This helps ensure that you don’t accidentally leave entry points vulnerable while you’re busy hosting.

Having a designated area for guests to leave their belongings can also minimize distractions and keep doors secure. Consider setting up a small table near the entrance for bags and jackets.

• Use smart locks to secure front and side doors while still allowing easy access for trusted guests.
• Set doors to auto-lock after a certain time to avoid accidentally leaving them open.
• Install contact sensors on gates, basement doors, or sliding patio doors to be alerted if someone tries to sneak in unnoticed.

Another effective method to enhance security is to use motion-activated lights around your property. This not only helps to illuminate dark areas but also serves as a deterrent to any unwanted visitors.

Regularly check your security cameras and systems to ensure they are functioning properly, especially before hosting events. This proactive approach can prevent potential issues during your gatherings.

In addition to cameras, consider using smart home sensors that can alert you to unusual activity or openings in your home. These sensors can provide extra reassurance while you focus on your guests.

You can still be a welcoming host without giving up control over your home’s safety.

2. Monitor Front Doors, Side Entrances, and Garages

While you’re in the backyard, the front of your house may be unattended. And that’s exactly when porch pirates or curious passersby might strike.

With outdoor security cameras and video doorbells, you can:

• Get instant alerts when someone approaches your door
• Monitor front steps or garage activity in real-time from your phone
• Even speak directly to delivery drivers or visitors using two-way audio

No more worrying about missing packages or wondering who just walked up your driveway, you’ll know instantly.

Furthermore, organize regular safety drills with your family to prepare for fire emergencies. This helps everyone know exactly what to do, reducing panic in case of an actual incident.

3. Manage Fire Safety the Smart Way

Summer BBQs involve open flames, propane tanks, and lots of movement, especially when kids or pets are involved. A well-placed smoke detector or smart heat sensor can alert you the moment something goes wrong. For even greater protection:

When it comes to fire safety, take extra precautions by ensuring that your BBQ grill is placed away from flammable materials. This simple step can help prevent accidents during your Summer cookouts.

• Use monitored smoke detectors, so if you miss an alarm while outside, help can still be dispatched
• Install sensors near the kitchen, BBQ station, or any area prone to fire risk
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and have a plan in case of emergencies

It only takes one distraction for a spark to turn dangerous. Early alerts save time and damage.

4. One App, Total Control

Using smart home technology to check your smoke detectors can also ensure they are functioning properly. Many modern systems allow you to check their status through your smartphone.

Juggling guests, food, and fun doesn’t leave much room to check locks or walk around the house. With Alarm Guard’s smart security app, you can manage it all from your phone:

• Arm or disarm the system without leaving the grill
• Unlock the door for a late guest
• Watch live camera feeds of front, side, or garage areas
• Get instant notifications for motion, entry, smoke, or water detection

Consider creating a shared family calendar to keep track of maintenance on your home’s safety systems. This collective approach can help ensure that nothing falls through the cracks.

During the event, encourage guests to take care when using outdoor lights and decorations. This will help to prevent accidental fires or other hazards from occurring.

Whether you’re hosting five friends or fifty, a smart home setup keeps everything running smoothly and securely.

Summer BBQs should be fun, not stressful. With the right tools, you can enjoy your backyard bash without leaving your home exposed. From monitoring entrances to managing fire risks, Alarm Guard helps you keep your property and your peace of mind safe.

Finally, always have a designated driver or safe transportation plan for guests leaving your gathering. This ensures that everyone gets home safely, adding to the overall success of your Summer events.

When planning your next Summer gathering, remember that a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring both enjoyment and safety. From smart security features to fire prevention measures, being proactive can make all the difference.

Call Alarm Guard today at 1-866-282-3331 to learn how our smart security systems can make your next summer gathering safe, seamless, and secure.