Security

One of the more difficult losses during divorce is the loss of security. On an emotional level, you are vulnerable and facing the realization that the stability you imagined only existed in your mind. On a physical level, you may have to move, you may be the sole adult in the home and your finances will be tighter than before.

Loss of security is scary. It leaves us raw and open. It takes time to rebuild your emotional strength; there are no quick fixes.

But I just stumbled across a quick fix for the physical security.

Brock just recently installed an alarm system in our home (I guess the 90 lb pit bull and his multiple black belts weren’t enough:) I suggest you don’t stop by uninvited!). Now, this just isn’t any old alarm system.

This is pure brilliance.

The product is called SimpliSafe. It’s a wireless, install-it-yourself fully customizable alarm system with available monitoring.

Now, this system is awesome in general, but after seeing it in action, I immediately thought of why it is perfect after divorce.

Portability

It’s common after divorce to be a bit of a nomad, moving from place to place until you’re settled again. A traditional alarm system is expensive to install and must be left behind, as it is hardwired into the home. SimpliSafe is different. Every component is wireless and comes with removable wall adhesive strips on the back. When you move, SimpliSafe can move with you.

Affordability

Typical alarm systems may hook you in with a low up-front cost, but then charge a high, monthly monitoring fee. Or, if you waive the contract, you’re paying thousands for the initial system. With SimpliSafe, you pay for each component separately, buying only what you need. We spent just over $400 to fully cover our decent-sized home with security and fire alarms. The monthly monitoring is also affordable, starting at $15/month. Pennies count after divorce and this system helps them stretch.

Ease of Use

Brock had the entire system up and running in under an hour. No waiting for an installation appointment. No drills. No problem. And a call to customer service was picked up and handled immediately. After divorce, it’s nice to have anything simple.

Fully Customizable 

You can buy and install exactly what you need and where you need it. You can buy keychain dongles that allow you to disarm and set the alarm from the garage. They even have a panic button on the keychain so that you can carry it on you around the house and yard. The add-ons are impressive, but you can always go basic. And, if you have any concerns about the volume produced by a wireless siren, rest easy. My ears were ringing for hours!

This is a completely unsolicited review. I just remember that raw fear of vulnerability post-divorce and I want to share anything that might relieve just a bit of that distress. So, if you’re in the market for an alarm, check out SimpliSafe. It won’t heal your heart, but it may help you sleep a little better at night.