EMERGENCY SERVICES

3 applets

IFTTT isn’t all about showing off and convenience – it can actually be of genuine assistance in emergencies, too. A common mini-crisis can be averted by the applet that automatically sends a text message to your significant other if your phone battery is running low, for example, potentially avoiding a panic when they keep getting your voicemail. Thankfully, the applet ( pcpro.link/273low) lets you edit the message sent, so you don’t have to use the decidedly cheesy: “Hi babe, this is an automated text letting you know my phone battery is almost dead.”

If you have a Nest Protect smoke detector in your home, you’re probably already set up to receive phone messages if the device detects a fire while you’re out. But what if you’re away on holiday? With IFTTT, a Nest smoke alert can be used to send a text message to a friendly neighbour, who can perhaps enter the house and check if it’s a false alarm. The applet is here: pcpro.link/273smoke.

How about deterring burglars? Owners of the Ring doorbell can already answer their door remotely, but it won’t be long before thieves get wise to smart doorbells and chance their arm anyway. But what if pressing the Ring doorbell also switched on a light in the hallway? That might be enough to convince a potential thief you’re home after all. There’s a recipe for Ring doorbells and WeMo light switches at

pcpro.link/273lights, with options for other smart home solutions such as Philips Hue.