9 WAYS TO UPGRADE YOUR HOME SECURITY

With holiday season in full swing, protect your home and garden from unwanted attention with our comprehensive guide

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When was the last time you thought about how secure your home is? If the answer is never, or a long while ago, now's the time to update and upgrade everything, from window and door locks to outdoor lighting and security cameras. You don't have to go all-in, just pick and choose what works for you. For instance, if you have expensive bikes in the garage, make sure they are securely locked away. It's especially important if you're going away - investing in smart lighting, window dressings and cameras could give you real peace of mind while your home is empty.

1. Updated locks

It's easy to move into a place and never even think about door locks, but the front door is one of the most common forms of entry for opportunists looking for an easy target.

Burglars can easily spot an inferior lock, so check if your cylinder needs replacing by seeing if the lock protrudes from the door more than the depth of a £1 coin.

If it does, then it's time to upgrade. 'It's important to choose a product that offers protection against a range of methods, including anti-bump, anti-snap, anti-pick, anti-screw and anti-drill,' says Deb Beckett, smart home product manager for Yale.

For added security and convenience, it's worth considering a smart lock that allows you to monitor who's coming and going via your smartphone, as well as checking that your door is secure, wherever you are.

2. Video doorbells

Upgrading your home security is all about being proactive, so if you haven't already got one, think about investing in a smart video doorbell as a visual deterrent, if nothing else. Depending on how much you want to spend, your doorbell can give you high-definition imagery, live viewing, zoom function and colour night vision, so you can check in on your home remotely.