5 Smart Gadgets to Boost Security in Your Kenyan Airbnb

Minimalist bedroom with a view

Kenya has recently been shaken by a series of tragic events particularly involving Airbnb accommodations where two young lives were tragically cut short in separate incidents. The first incident involved a man named John Matara, who is suspected of being a serial killer.He manipulated a young woman into a meeting with him at the papino South B estate in Nairobi, from there they went into an Airbnb where he committed the heinous act of stabbing her and leaving her to die after forcibly taking her money.

In another unfortunate incident, a young woman of 20 years was found in a distressing state at an Airbnb along TRM Drive. Her remains were discovered in a waste disposal unit. In a turn of events, the perpetrator of the horrific act has been identified. The breakthrough came as a result of CCTV footage which recorded the individual moments before the crime was committed raising concerns about the safety of Airbnb accommodations.

There need to be proactive measures to reduce these incidents or even better prevent them from happening. The good news is that the Kenyan government on its side has formed new rules for security personnel who work in Airbnb to make sure that they take all the information of the guests including National Identity Cards (IDs), number plates, and the check-in and check-out time.

There are smart gadgets that can help prevent these cases which include 

1. Smart locks 
2. Portable door 
3. Motion-activated security cameras  
4. Noise monitoring devices 
5. Emergency alert services

Gadget 1. Smart Locks

Benefits 

Key wireless entry has numerous benefits whether you are staying in an Airbnb or hotel room, if these facilities have key wireless entries the more enhanced the security will be.

First of all, they are very convenient since there are no physical keys. This is a good thing because the user should not be worried about losing the keys or keeping track of the keys. It also helps users unlock the door just by entering a unique code, or push of a button which scans the fingerprint of the user or cars providing quick and hassle-free access.

Smartocks have enhanced security which reduces the risk of unauthorized access which is better than traditional keys which can be duplicated or the use of a master key which can open any door. Permission on these smart locks can be controlled and customized for different users and periods

Smart locks can also be integrated with a broader access control system which is a 360-degree view of a person's movement 

They are also user-friendly with a simple interface for programming access, so the user won’t need to learn a lot of things and go through numerous steps to get in

Lastly, smart locks have increased accountability by maintaining detailed access logs, and recording when and by whom doors are unlocked essential for tracking employee and guest movement. They are also crucial for compliance and security audits in case something ever happens.

Smart lock features for security purposes

Smart locks have features that make it an ideal security gadget.

Keyless entry

Smart locks allow users to unlock without needing a physical which can easily get lost, instead, they use more secure methods such as PIN codes, biometrics, RFID cards, or smartphone apps 

Remote access

Many smart locks offer access to capabilities that enable users to lock or unlock from a distance using mobile apps, this is very useful when you are away from your room.

Automatic locking and tamper alerts

You should never worry about forgetting to lock your door again, as this smart lock can be set to automatically lock after a certain amount of time or when you leave your room and they can also send alerts if the door is tampered with or forced in.

Multiple locking mechanisms 

Most of them offer a combination of keypad entry, smartphone app control, and even a physical key backup for added security and peace of mind.

Gadget 2:Portable Door alarms 

Portable doors can be used to enhance the security of Airbnb's and other temporary accommodations. They are also very easy to install, but they depend on the type of alarm that you choose since there are multiple door alarms.

They have numerous functions such as detecting unauthorized entries through alarm triggering, and alert options such as a silent chime for initial notification then followed by a louder alarm if the door remains open for a certain period. If it is connected to a smart system app, the alarm can provide the host with notifications when doors are opened and closed allowing them to monitor who is accessing the Airbnb during the stay

Some smart door alarms can also be linked to fire door alarms which can help you gain valuable insights into the activity around your stay a good example is the Google Nest Secure System. Unfortunately, Google will not be supporting the Nest App as of April 8 2024 and it will not be available in the Nest app and will no longer connect to the internet.

Finally, portable alarms can be used for communication where some alarms can end notifications directly to the host's phone when triggered, allowing them to respond quickly to any potential issues. They can also inform the guest of security measures and provide instructions on how to use the alarm during their stay.

Choosing the right sensitive level

It's very important to choose the most sensitive place where the door alarm should be placed. Such as entry point. The alarm should be placed on all primary doors which is the most obvious crucial location, you can place the alarms on the front and back doors especially if they are offered separately to Airbnb

The alarms should also be placed in high-traffic areas such as the bedrooms, offices, and where guests might store their valuables like laptops and jewelry.

While choosing the right sensitive levels you should consider balancing security and guest experiences by avoiding overly sensitive alarms that trigger minor movements or wind gusts which will create unnecessary disturbance to guests

Sliding doors or doors with pets may rewire adjustments to avoid false alarms and also set the sensitivity level initially low and gradually increase it if needed. You should also observe guest behavior and false alarm occurrences to find the optimal balance.

You can also provide instructions by informing your guests about the alarm system its location and sensitivity level by including instructions on how to arm and disarm the alarm to avoid accidental triggers

Also by using a combination of door alarms with different triggers such as magnetic and motion sensors for comprehensive protection. It's also important to regularly test your alarms to ensure they are functioning properly by replacing the batteries.

If you are unsure about the placement it's essential to seek professional consultations from a company that specializes in door alarms for installation guidance.

Gadget 3: Motion-activated security Cameras

Motion-activated security cameras are designed to only record where there is movement in the area being monitored and they can be wired or wireless. However, the key lies in balancing the visibility of your cameras, weighing the advantages of visible deterrence against the evidence of discrete evidence gathering.

Visible camera

When a camera is displayed openly it acts as a clear warning to intruders who are likely to commit a crime which helps significantly reduce the risk of break-ins. The open presence encourages watchfulness and even helps identify witnesses who saw suspicious activity. Unfortunately, visible cameras are also vulnerable to tampering and may alert experienced criminals to adjust their behavior and look for ways on how they can commit their crimes without getting caught.

Discreet cameras

Hidden cameras offer a different advantage as compared to visible cameras this is because they capture unrestrained footage of criminal activity without altering the perpetrators. Their broader coverage can tamper resistance further enhancing their effectiveness. However, discreet cameras lack a psychological deterrent effect and raise privacy concerns especially if placed in areas where people expect privacy

Finding the sweet spot

The ideal solution often lies in a combination of both approaches, where strategic places of visible cameras at key entry points can deter intrusions, while discreetly placing cameras in vulnerable areas and potential; hiding spots can capture crucial evidence, hence this maximizes both crime and evidence collection.

Some motion-activated cameras come equipped with night vision, and cloud recording for remote monitoring and enhanced motion detection which can be advantageous for most Airbnbs.

Enhanced motion detection

Enhanced motion detection can reduce false alarms as compared to traditional cameras which record constantly and can trigger alerts for even minor movements like pets and swaying curtains, however, motion detection cameras, trigger the motion detector when there is movement significantly reducing false alarms and minimizing storage space and they are also faster in response which will allow for swifter intervention in case of unauthorized activity.

These cameras can also be focused in specific areas like entryways or backyards which helps to maximize battery life and storage efficiency.

Improved night vision

Many motion cameras have improved low light vision which helps in capturing crisp images even in darkness and it is very helpful in monitoring nighttime activities like unauthorised entries.

Guests will also have peace of mind knowing very well that the property is monitored around the clock making the place even more attractive

Cloud recording for remote monitoring

According to Videoloft cloud recording simplifies the process of managing footage from various cameras and locations.With this technology you can easily access and control all your video feeds through a single platform , typically via ,mobile app or a website provided by the cloud service.This feature is particularly beneficial for Airbnb hosts , as it enhances security and allows for efficient remote monitoring

It can give real-time footage and record events that allow you to check on your room from anywhere and anytime. The recorded image can also serve as evidence in case of property damage, theft, or other incidents which can be very crucial for insurance claims or legal proceedings.

Other considerations 

With all these features included in the motion cameras there, some users might be concerned about privacy or technical issues as we are going to discuss below.

Guests have a right to privacy concerns so cameras should be placed in public areas like the entrance. You should also ensure that the cameras in the Airbnb have reliable internet connectivity for cloud recording and live streaming also battery life and power outlets need to be factored in in case of an outage.

Gadget 4:Noise Monitoring Devices 

If you have ever been in an Airbnb, most of the time noise is a common problem especially if you are still working which can lead to the user leaving a negative review.

To navigate this challenge some noise monitoring devices are emerging as helpful tools for preventing disruptive situations which prevents peaceful guest experience.

These noise monitoring devices such as Noiseaware can help differentiate loud music, voices, and parties helping pinpoint the source of the disturbance. Other noise monitoring devices can offer data insights where noise level logs over time can help identify patterns and potential problem guests, enabling proactive measures a good example is the room monitor. 

How does a noise monitoring device work?

These devices are often taken in the form of sound speakers or dedicated sensors that continuously monitor the sound level within the property whereby they can detect decibel levels where exceeding a preset threshold triggers an alert to the host or guest which then allows for real-time intervention before the noise escalated leading to destructions. 

Benefits of Noise Monitoring for Airbnbs

These devices have numerous advantages for Airbnbs such as a preventative approach where they give early warning about noise disturbance which allows hosts to address the issue promptly, potentially diffusing tense situations.

They also improve guest communication whereby open communication regarding noise expectations and real-time feedback can foster and more respectful and considerate guest experience.

Loud gathering and parties can create potentially dangerous situations , these devices can alert hosts to intervene before safety concerns arises

Gadget 5:Emergency Alert Devices

In case of an emergency Emergeny Alert Devices (EADs) can be a life saver in Airbnbs , offering immediate assistance in urgent situations which can prevent serious harm.

Fire emergencies which trigger loud alarms upon detecting these dangers which the  alerts guest and gives them few seconds to evacuate.

Some EAD are even connected to directly to emergencies which automatically send alerts and provides vital location information.

EADs with panic buttons or voice activation allows for guest to instantly call for help connecting them to medical dispatch which are pre-programmed into the device.

Motion sensors or door/window can also detect unauthorised entries which when someone tries to enter and is unauthorised it swill trigger an alarm.

Most Airbnb users always want peace of mind and therefore the presence of EAD can provide guests with sense of security and confdence knowing immediate assistance is at their fingertips in case of emmergencies and gusts who will always feel safe will end up giving positive reviews boosting the Airbnb’s reputation and attractin future bookings.

Emergency alert servces for Airbnb:Keeping guests safe with panic buttons , SOS wearables and Direct Emergency links

Guest safety is paramount for any Airbnb host and Emergency Alert services play a huge role in achieveing this by providing immediate assistance in urgent situations , lets dive into it.

Panic buttton

A panic button is a digital tool that can be swiftly triggered to summon assistance in situations where individuals safety is at risk.It is a crucial lifeline during emergencies

Strategically placed panic buttons offer a one-touch way for guests to call for emergencies in case of any incidence.

Also most of these panic buttons trigger loud sirens to alert others on the property and scare away intruders

A good example is a simplesafe panic button which connects to the simplesafe system which then triggers alarms and sending alerts to emergency services and designated contacts.

Wearable SOS Services 

As per Mdh-uk , a wearble SOS system operates by employing radio waves to broadcast it's signals during an emergency situation in a fixed workplace environment , hence this assures immediate response and assistance when needed.

Mdh-uk highlights that a wearble SOS services utilizes radio waves to transit signals during emergencies , especially in fixed-locations work space settings.

It can be inform of a wristband , necklace or smart watches and they provide guests with the on-the-go protection for situations like medical emergencies or personal safety threats.

Some can even detect fall and automatically send SOS alerts which are ideal for elderly guests or those who have medical conditions.A good example is the apple watch , when the watch detects a hard fall it can prompt the user to initiate an emergency call and if the user doesn’t respond within a specified time the watch can automatically call emergency service and share users location.

Direct Connections to Emergency Services

These are quick and direct ways to access emergency services in case oof urgent situations.Some of these systems integrate with local emergency automatically sending alerts and location data upon activation trigger.They can also by pass manual calls ,saving crucial seconds in critical situations and a good example is adt command and control which is connected directly to emergency services sending alerts and location data.

Call to action

Everyone should secure their Airbnb and learn how smart gadgets like smart locks , portable door alarms , noise monitoring devices and emergency alert services can enhance safety.Guests need peace of mind when they visit the Airbnb therefore the Airbnb owner needs invest in this technologies to prevent incidences from happening.