Four Home Security Tips for Lancashire Residents

This two-minute read looks at some of the best ways to protect your home and outsmart burglars.

With a raft of high-tech home security gadgets on the market, it’s easier than ever to keep your family, pets, home tech and precious belongings safe.

Whether tightening up existing security measures or installing a completely new system, Lancashire homeowners have plenty of different options to choose from.

Smart system

There’s an app for everything these days – including home security. A smart system wirelessly links alarms, sensors, and cameras to a hub that you can manage remotely from your phone. Some systems can also connect to other household devices such as lighting and heating.  Internal cameras are also a good way to see what your pet gets up to when you leave your home. How long does it take for the dog to jump on the sofa, that they are not allowed on, after you leave!

Top tip

Not all systems will keep working if your Wi-Fi goes down. Look for one that can switch to cellular backup if the Wi-Fi fails, especially if you live in an area with patchy broadband.

Burglar alarm

It might not be as cutting edge as a smart system, but an old-school burglar alarm can still let off an ear-splitting siren to frighten off crooks. Many alarm systems also give you the option to pay for security staff to turn up on-site if the alarm is triggered – handy if are lucky enough to get away on holiday regularly or you frequently work away from home.

Top tip

If you own a pet that you allow to roam freely around the home, consider getting a system that relies on shock sensors instead of motion sensors. Shock sensors detect forced entry – not movement in the house – meaning your beloved fur baby can be left home alone without setting off the alarm and disturbing the neighbours unnecessarily.

Cameras

Doorbell cams allow you to see who is knocking on your door and talk to them – even when you’re not at home.

The camera footage is usually stored, so if there’s a quibble about a delivery, you can check back to see exactly what happened. It also means that you can forward footage of suspicious activity to the police.

Another option is to install a floodlight camera at the front or back of your property. Movement activates the light and camera facility – which comes with night vision.

Top tip

Do your research before purchasing a camera, as the quality of footage, especially when captured at night, can vary.  Which? has a subscription service which can be a useful tool for researching any kind of products.  Also asking around friends and family can provide some good recommendations.

Be nice to the neighbours

Technology is great, but it always pays to foster good relations with your neighbours. Not only will a good neighbour keep an eye out for dodgy dealings, but they may also feed the cat and water the plants when you’re away.

For more advice about keeping your rented property safe in Preston, Leyland and Chorley, get in touch with us here at PR Lettings & Management.