Wi-Fi Security Cameras

Wi-fi security cameras are the newest way to protect your home and your possessions.

Install them in prominent places around the house and you'll be alerted by email and phone when any movement is detected.

They also enable home owners to watch a live feed of what's happening in their home,via a smartphone or tablet app, so you can check your children have made it back safely from school.

The app lets you control how much footage is saved and allows you to download it directly to your phone to send it to the police if the worst should happen.

Good Housekeeping recommended the Netgear Arlo Home Security (in 2015 from £179.99 at maplin.co.uk), available in one, two, three or four camera kits. The cameras are battery powered and weatherproof, so can be mounted inside or out. Footage is recorded in high definition and works in the dark, thanks to night vision.

Good Housekeeping, November 2015

Burglar Proof Your Home

Burglaries are never pleasant experiences and you may lose valuables and items of senitmental value. Here are some tips.

• Install an alarm approved by your insurer.
• Have the right locks on your doors (mortice type).
• Lock your windows.
• Look after your keys and valuables. Put away things like laptops and tablets.
• Be clever with lighting and fit outdoor security lights or motion sensitive lights but don't be a nuisance to your neighbours.
• Join your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
• Insure your possessions.
• Avoid sharing on social media the news that you'll be away. But do let your neighbours know so they can keep an eye out for unexpected visitors.
• Put away electric power tools and lawnmowers.
• Some plants (the prickly ones) are good burglar deterrents.
• Trellis panels on top of fences are too flimsy to support a person's weight.