Every security company has them -- those yard signs and window stickers you display to let trespassers know that your home is monitored by a security system. But starting Tuesday, ADT is offering a security device I've never seen before: a smart yard sign that lights up at night. 

Powered by AAA batteries, the Live Light connects to ADT's hub and can be controlled via the ADT Plus app. You can turn it on at night, which helps notify potential burglars who would otherwise miss a sign in the dark. And if the security system alarm is tripped, the sign will automatically turn on. 

"Live Light is intended for placement near the front of the home—along a walkway, driveway, or curb-facing yard—where it's easily visible from the street," an ADT spokesperson told me. "Homes with long driveways, limited street lighting, or hard-to-spot addresses can especially benefit. It serves as a clear, visible signal that the home is actively protected by a connected system and, in an emergency, that the home or homeowners inside need assistance."

The Live Light costs $50 when bundled with a professional installation, and right now, it looks like that's the only way to purchase the smart sign. I wonder if other security brands will follow suit with smart signs of their own -- it's an interesting idea that could also add a smart light to the shadowy corners of your porch or walkway. 

ADT's My Safety subscription is more familiar ground

ADT's other new offering, launching at the same time as the Live Light, is a professional monitoring option called My Safety that lets you contact ADT's professional monitoring centers right from the ADT Plus app, so you can access them from anywhere, even when you aren't at home. 

The app controls for My Safety also let you set a safety timer that contacts professionals if it isn't stopped by the end of the countdown. There's a silent text option, too, in case someone can't speak but wants to contact monitoring.

You can set preferences, including whether you want to get a call or a text back. The feature will use a verbal cue like ADT's other monitoring features, except this one is designed to trigger an emergency response, regardless of what else you say.

The good news is that My Safety is free for anyone who's already subscribing to ADT's professional monitoring. However, if you aren't currently a subscriber, I'm not sure it's worth jumping into a monthly fee situation just for this. Many of these features mimic the emergency settings on your phone, allowing you to contact 911 or emergency contacts when you're in trouble. The biggest bonus is being able to customize how you start the emergency conversation.