One thing to take from the Home Alone films is that we will do remarkable things to protect our homes from burglars. Criminals preying on empty homes over the Christmas period may seem outrageous, but the festivities really do bring with it, ‘Burglary Season’. Nest’s report on Burglary in Britain reported that the highest number of home invasions are committed between November and January. This is facilitated by shorter hours of daylight and homes filled to the brim with presents. Colin Port, Ex-Chief of Police Bristol, said:
“As winter takes hold of Britain, the days get shorter and the nights get longer, thus providing additional cover for criminals. But this is just one factor in the rise of burglaries. The cold weather also plays a role. People are much more likely to close their curtains and avoid going out for an evening stroll, meaning less chance of a neighbour spotting someone up to no good. It’s also present buying season — making these months a relative gold mine for thieves.”
It seems that we need to up our security measures over Christmas. The question is: how? In the Burglary in Britain report, questionnaire respondents shared their makeshift security schemes that sound straight out of the imagination of Home Alone’s Kevin. One person admitted to placing a mannequin in front of the window in the pretence that someone is in, while another announced that they set out booby traps in the form of their children’s toys.
Although these ideas are certainly creative, reformed thief Michael Fraser gives five top security tips on security systems, lights, and cameras. Luckily, you don’t have to take extreme measures and create elaborate booby traps: home security technology such as mobile application development has you covered!
And if you’re a business owner then you might want to think about security for your commercial property too. Companies like Shield who offer professional video surveillance in Kansas City are a great example of the sort of support out there to really put your mind at rest that your business is being looked after when you’re not there.
So, let’s get into the Michael’s top tips to keep your home safe over Christmas:
Top tips:
DIY Home Security
If you’re strapped for cash over the festive period, DIY home security systems are ideal for you. With DIY homes security kits, you have to assemble and install the cameras, lights, etc. yourself. But it will save you lots of money on installation fees. These systems are normally self-monitored, so you will have to connect your kit up with your security app of choice. You’ll get notifications directly to your phone, but the emergency services won’t be contacted automatically — that part is up to you!
Professional Installation
A home alarm security system is a great way to keep your home protected and give you peace of mind, whether you opt for professional installation or go down the ‘do it yourself’ route. But professionals don’t just fit alarms, if you’re willing to splash some cash on home security accessories, professional installation will certainly provide peace of mind. A professional security setup will guarantee you 24-hour surveillance and the most high-tech equipment such as touch-screen hubs that contain RF, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Z-Wave radios. Definitely a level up from carefully constructed Lego booby traps!
Home Automation
Having your systems integrated is perfect for giving the illusion that your home isn’t empty (and no, we’re not talking about cut-out cardboard figures dancing at the pull of a string!) Home automation allows you to time lights to go on and off at certain times, or when motion is detected. You could set it to make doors unlock when a smoke alarm goes off or set a camera to begin recording as soon as a sensor is triggered. Home automation allows you to personalise your home security to suit your exact needs.
AI Assistants
Alexa and Google Assistants have proved to be useful in securing your home! SimpliSafe is a recent addition to Google Assistant which allows you to control your security system remotely — even from your smart watch. Easily integrated with your other devices, AI assistants are a great method of home automation. You can also set them to begin recording when triggered by voices, allowing you to gather crucial evidence on the off-chance that a burglar does succeed in breaking in.
It’s important that you feel secure in your own home over the holidays — they’re about relaxing and spending time with family. So don’t worry about burglars and make your house thief-proof. Install effective systems such as SimpliSafe to allow you to check your home from your smartphone. Luckily, there are plenty of options for cyber security on your phone, such as The Blackphone 2, developed by Silent Circle, which carefully encrypts all your security information. Layers of security might sound complicated, but once you’ve got everything set up, you’ll be able to enjoy your Christmas knowing your home is in good hands!
Disclosure: this is a collaborative post