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Your Echo device can provide a number of home security features while you're away.

Do you have home security concerns but don’t want to pay for a full-service system? Your Amazon Echo device and Alexa Guard have free and subscription-based options which can help.

How to Set Up Alexa Guard

Setting up Alexa Guard is easy. First, you’ll need to install the Amazon Alexa app on your Android or iOS device.

Free Alexa Guard Options

Tap to enter the settings section under any of the following free options. We'll list subscription-based Guard Plus options later in this article.

When you’re away, Alexa can send a notification to your phone when detecting breaking glass or alarms.

Before you leave, just say “Alexa, I’m leaving.” Alexa will give you 60 seconds to exit before arming the alert. When you’re back, say “Alexa, I’m home.”

When you’re away after dark, Alexa will turn your smart lights on and off to make it seem like somebody is home. Alexa will start the service after sunset, and will know when sunset begins in your area based on your zip code.

Checkboxes enable your available smart lights listed under the LIGHTS section, including plugs and switches. There's a link under this section that helps you designate devices under Alexa as lights. For example, you can plug a regular lamp into a smart plug and designate that smart plug as a light.

Do you already have a security system? Guard can enable it for you when you’re away, and send alerts to that provider. It must be a system that Guard supports.

Subscription-Based Alexa Guard Plus Options

Guard Plus options are $4.99 per month, or $49 for an annual subscription (an 18% savings). You can try it for free for 30 days.

Under each Guard Plus section, tap LEARN MORE to activate. The app will take you to a site to subscribe.

In an emergency, say “Alexa, call for help.” You’ll speak with a trained agent who can help, or can call 911 for you if necessary. Make sure you enter your home address under this setting so dispatchers know where to send help.

Concerned about security but don't have a dog? Enable Dog Barking Sounds, and select an exterior device with motion-sensing capabilities (such as a smart doorbell). When Alexa detects motion, a dog barking sound will play to deter anyone lurking

outside.

When you enable this alert, you’ll set up a voice code. Anyone who knows this code can disable the alarm.

Related: Amazon Echo Security Features for When You Leave Home

Alexa will request the code when detecting footsteps, closing door sounds, or talking while in away mode. If you’re still home you can speak the code, or if you have an Echo Show you can enter the code on a keypad. Otherwise, your Echo will sound an alarm and send an alert to your smartphone. There’s a slider bar to adjust the detection sensitivity.

During an alert, your smartphone app will provide the opportunity to drop-in on an Echo Show. That's a video call to see who is in your house.

Stay Safe With Peace of Mind and Alexa Guard

Guard may not make your home as secure as a professional home security system, but It can be an inexpensive, effective deterrent against home intrusion. At the very least it can provide valuable peace of mind while you’re away.

Josh Dollaghan is passionate about home improvement, especially when it comes to learning about and setting up next-gen, smart home products. He's often found spending time with his family and exploring the great outdoors. He's also an avid reader, movie-enthusiast, and musician.

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