Whether you’re sunning it up on a sandy beach or exploring snowy peaks, you don’t want to be worrying about your home security. So, let’s get it sorted before you head off! Setting up a system of home security cameras and alarms gives you some serious peace of mind, but there are loads of things to consider to help secure your home.
These are our top tips on how to keep your house safe…
Home safety tips
Tell a few people (but not everyone)
Let your most trusted neighbour know you’re going away – that way, they can peep out of their curtains every now and then to check your home is safe.
You could also leave a set of keys with a friend or relative in case they need to gain access. But you should never announce you’re going away on social media. You never know who might see that post.
Make sure your insurance is ship-shape
If you have contents insurance, make sure you check the terms & conditions before you go away. You might need to let your insurer know if you’re going on holiday, and it’s worth checking that your most precious and expensive items are covered.
Postpone your post
Nothing says ‘no one’s home’ like a doorstep full of newspapers and leaflets. So, if you’re away for a couple of weeks, re-arrange deliveries from couriers and use the Royal Mail’s online Keepsafe service to stop mail building up.
Home security tips
With the right home security systems in place, you needn’t worry too much when you’re far away on holiday. So, if you’re anxious about leaving your property unoccupied, check out our top 5 picks of the latest home security technology…
Keep an eye on everything
Our suggestion: Google Nest Cam Indoor Security Camera
Where to put it: Hallways, entrances, or back doors
- The Nest Cam zooms in and follows people – perfect if it notices someone on your property
- Review footage on the Nest app – it’s automatically encrypted so no one else can access your recordings
- Having a security camera lets you check in whenever you like to view live footage, as well as recordings
Control all your tech from one place
Our suggestion: Google Home Mini
Where to put it: Living room, kitchen or bedroom
- Two-factor authentication prevents anyone taking your data
- Voice recognition is tuned to you and your family – unwanted guests can’t deactivate it
Check who’s at the door
Our suggestion: Google Nest Hello Video Doorbell
Where to put it: Where your doorbell normally goes
- See who’s at the door from anywhere in the world from your phone
- Two-way audio lets you tell a delivery person where to safely store your parcels
- Doorbell security cameras are perfect for keeping an eye on your car too
Prevent any prying eyes
Our suggestion: Philips Hue Smart Bulbs
Where to put it: Living room, hallways, bedrooms
- Use the app to stick your lights on while you’re away – a great way to deter thieves
- Make sure you’ve not left a light on the entire time you’re away – no matter where you are
Protect the outside and in
Our suggestion: Google Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera
Where to put it: Facing your front or back door
- Keep an eye on your home 24/7 whatever the weather
- Get a notification on your phone if the camera picks anything up
- Outdoor home security cameras are great for checking your gate, drive or porch too
Need a bit more help deciding? Our smart tech buying guide is the perfect place to start. But if you’d prefer to chat to someone – our colleagues are available in-store or online using ShopLive.
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