A home surveillance system that doesn't offend residents' privacy can be a smart safety solution for elderly persons living independently. It's a biologically inspired stereo sensor that relies on artificial intelligence. If a person has a fall in the surveilled area, the device detects the event visually, interprets it as a cause for alarm and sends a detailed text message to the relatives or the nurse maid, who can rapidly intervene. The system doesn't require wearable sensors and doesn't transmit any visual images outside, making it reliable and safe for privacy.