Motion detectors have well-known uses as security devices in homes and businesses, but there is also a wide range of other uses for these devices. Portable, wireless devices that detect motion when an object or person crosses their path, motion detectors aren't just useful to keep people out of your home.

For example, instead of placing these detectors near doors and windows, use it on the door of an elderly parent or young child's bedroom. This way, you'll know if they leave their room at night. For older kids, use a motion detector to figure out what time they come home at night. A loud, beeping motion alarm can be a great way to startle a teenager creeping in after curfew.

Motion detectors can also be an effective way to keep people out of certain areas of the home. For example, protect your pantry from family members who might try to break their diet or sneak a midnight snack.

A motion detector can also keep young children out of the basement, workshop, or other areas of the home that aren't kid-friendly. This tactic is particularly helpful during the childproofing stage. Some areas of the home are simply too dangerous to be childproofed with the typical devices. Instead, consider a motion alarm to keep young children completely out of the area. Sure, you can try to keep the door closed at all times, but what about the times you forget to close the door? What if the area isn't easily closed off simply by shutting a door?

Motion detectors can be just as useful outdoors as they are in the home. For example, a motion detector with a loud alarm can alert you to anyone near your swimming pool. In fact, there are specially-designed motion detecting alarms meant especially for your backyard pool. Another important backyard area to protect from intruders is the tool shed. Not only is there a lot of expensive equipment to be stolen, but there are also pesticides and sharp clippers that pose a serious danger for children. Why not set up a door alarm to scare away potential burglars or curious kids?

Motion alarms don't just detect the movement of people. In fact, one of the most popular uses is in tracking the movement of pets. While many motion detectors designed for home security use are calibrated to not be set off by the movements of your pets, others are designed specifically for pets. If, for example, your new puppy is not yet housebroken, keep hm from escaping his room and tearing up your house by placing motion detectors around the area where he's allowed to be. A motion detector will tell you he has escaped and give you time to keep the destruction to a minimum.

In addition to putting motion detectors around your home's entry points to alert you to intruders, consider these uses for motion detectors and door alarms that you might not have thought about. In fact, motion detectors can be used to stop people or animals from entering anywhere you don't want them.