Home » Safety News: The SafeWise Blog

How Do Home Security Systems Protect Against Fire and Floods?

Staff Writer, Safety & Security

Published on November 15, 2021

One of the great things about today’s home security systems is their ability to detect more than just break-ins. Depending on the equipment you connect with your security control panel, you can also monitor environmental threats, including flooding, fire, carbon monoxide, and smoke.

Even though a security system can only alert you to an issue—and not prevent or solve it—detecting such problems early on can help you fix the problem before it causes extensive damage.

Protect your property

By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Carbon monoxide and fire security

Some smart home security systems, like Vivint, can integrate with other smart devices, like the Nest Protect smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector. If you’re away from home and your Nest Protect detects smoke or carbon monoxide, your alarm will sound and you’ll receive a push notification on your phone.

Many home security companies offer fire and smoke protection and carbon monoxide detectors in some of their home monitoring packages. If the system detects carbon monoxide or smoke from a fire, it will automatically contact the monitoring station to alert the authorities. This is a great feature so you can feel more at ease when you’re away knowing your home is being monitored 24/7, no matter what happens.

Water and flood security

Floods are the number-one natural disaster in the United States.¹ Water damage and flooding can devastate your home and your bank account. Whether you have flood insurance or not, adding water sensors to your home can help you prevent a small leak from turning into an expensive flood.

These sensors are usually placed near the floor in basements and drain areas. When the sensors detect water, they alert the central monitoring station, which then notifies the homeowner. If you self-monitor your home using a smart security system like Scout, you can also purchase flood sensors that integrate with your other equipment. Some sound an alarm when water is detected, while others also send you a notification through an app.

Other environmental securities

Depending on where you live, you may want to add sensors that monitor temperatures and other concerns. Temperature sensors can be especially helpful for homes in cold weather environments. The sensor will sound an alarm if the temperature drops too low, which can help you avoid frozen pipes.

When choosing a home security system, ask the company which sensors are available and how they work with your control panel. If you choose a self-monitored home security system, review the company’s list of integrations to make sure you can connect flood and fire alarms.

Connecting these additional sensors to your home security system can help minimize damage and prevent extensive losses. Whether you’re at home or out of town, you can feel more confident knowing your home is being thoroughly monitored at all times.

Compare the best home security systems

Brand	Best for	Lowest monitoring price	Starter equipment price	Contract required	Smart home compatibility	Learn more	Read review
Vivint	Best overall	$29.99/mo.	$599.00	No *	Amazon, Google, Z-Wave	View packages	Read review
SimpliSafe	Reader favorite	$14.99/mo.	$229.00	No	Amazon, Google	View packages	Read review
Frontpoint	Whole-property pick	$34.99/mo.	$99.00	No	Amazon, Google, Z-Wave	View packages	Read review
ADT	Pro monitoring pick	$27.99/mo.	$0.00	Yes	Amazon, Google, Z-Wave	View packages	Read review
Cove	Customer-focused pick	$14.99/mo.	Quote required	No *	Amazon, Google	View packages	Read review
Blue by ADT	No-contract DIY pick	$19.99/mo.	$199.15	No	Amazon, Google, Z-Wave	View Packages	Read review
Abode	Smart home pick	$20.00/mo.	$279.00	No	Amazon, Apple, Google, Z-Wave, Zigbee	View packages	Read review
Ring	Budget pick	$20.00/mo.	$199.99	No	Amazon, Google, Z-Wave	View on Amazon	Read review
Link Interactive	Sensor selection pick	$30.99/mo.	Quote required	No *	Amazon, Google, Z-Wave	View packages	Read review
Brinks	Simple package pick	$39.99/mo.	$199.00	Yes	Amazon, Google, Z-Wave	View packages	Read review

Info current as of 05/27/2021. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Full Amazon disclaimer
Full ADT disclaimer

Written by

Cathy Habas

With over seven years of experience as a content writer, Cathy has a knack for untangling complex information. Her natural curiosity and ability to empathize help Cathy offer insightful, friendly advice. She believes in empowering readers who may not feel confident about a purchase, project, or topic. Cathy earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Indiana University Southeast and began her professional writing career immediately after graduation. She has contributed to sites like Safety.com, Reviews.com, Hunker, and Thumbtack. Cathy’s pride and joy is her Appaloosa “Chacos.” She also likes to crochet while watching stand-up comedy specials on Netflix.