Getting Smart With Home Security
By Lisa Smith
A rising tide of crime including burglary, criminal damage and anti-social behaviour is driving homeowners to “get smart” and invest in security products including video doorbells and CCTV, a survey from Neighbourhood Watch has revealed this week.
More than 18,000 residents – all members of local Neighbourhood Watch groups - responded to the study saying they realised the need for additional security in the wake of incidents of crime on their doorstep.
Of these, 39% said they had now installed external security cameras and 30% had a video doorbell fitted in a bid to provide a visible deterrent to would-be vandals and burglars.
These latest figures follow a Neighbourhood Watch Crime and Community survey which found that 64% of UK residents are worried about the threat of a break-in with over half of those questioned saying they believe crime has increased in their area.
The results of the survey come as no surprise to us here at Secure Home Systems where we have seen an increase too in the demand for internet-supported or so-called Smart security from alarms to cameras and video doorbells.
CEO of On Call Group Lee Hosking said: “The cost of living has unfortunately forced more people to look at breaking the law to make ends meet and sadly our homes may not be the fortress we once thought they were.
“With the help of a good, monitored alarm system, CCTV and video doorbell or a combination of all three you significantly limit the chance of your home being targeted.”
Burglaries take place across the UK approximately every 106 seconds and break-ins are still one of the most common crimes affecting residents.
John Hayward-Cripps, CEO of Neighbourhood Watch said: “Our National Crime and Community Survey showsburglary remains a key concern for people in the UK.
“It is interesting to see that homeowners are now also looking at smart home security solutions to support them in protecting their properties and we expect interest in this area to grow, as homeowners become more accustomed to using smart home technology and familiar with its’ many benefits.”