Crime Deterrents: Smart Tech and Simple Tricks to Stop Burglars

Smart Doorbells & Video Surveillance

Smart doorbells have become the front‑line defender for many UK homes. Whether you go for a wired model or a battery‑run one, the key is visibility. A flashing camera tells a thief that every move is being recorded. If you choose a wired doorbell, you’ll need a 16‑24V transformer – it’s cheap and gives steady power. Battery units save on wiring but need regular charging; most last 6‑12 months depending on usage.

Brands like Ring and Nest let you see who’s at the door from your phone, even when the internet drops. The real trick is to enable motion alerts and set your recordings to store locally (SD card) or in the cloud if you’re OK with a subscription. Without a subscription, you still get live view and basic alerts – enough to scare off most intruders.

Installation is easier than you think. For a wired doorbell, run a two‑core cable from the transformer to the doorbell, connect the terminals, and mount the unit. Battery models just snap onto the existing doorframe. Test the chime compatibility before you finish – a mismatch can leave you with silence when the doorbell rings.

Motion Sensors, Alarms & Other Low‑Cost Tricks

Motion sensors come in three flavours: PIR (infrared), microwave and dual‑tech. PIR spots body heat, microwave senses movement through radio waves, and dual‑tech combines both to cut false alarms. For most homes, a PIR sensor on each floor costs under £30 and works well with a standard alarm kit.

If you already have an alarm, add a door‑and‑window sensor. The simple click‑on module triggers the siren and can also send a push notification to your phone. Even a cheap doorbell camera can act as a sensor – set it to record when motion is detected and you’ll have footage before the police arrive.

Don’t forget the power backup. A small UPS (uninterruptible power supply) keeps your alarm and cameras running during an outage, which is when burglars often strike. Keep the UPS charged and test it every few months.

Lighting matters too. Motion‑activated floodlights on the front and back yards turn a dark hideout into a spotlight. Thieves hate the glare, and the sudden flash often sends them running. Pair the lights with a sensor that also triggers a recorded video clip – you get both deterrence and evidence.

Neighbourhood watch still works. Let your neighbours know you’ve installed visible cameras and alarms. The community effect adds another layer of risk for a would‑be thief. A simple sign saying “CCTV in operation” can be enough to make a burglar think twice.

Finally, keep your doors and windows reinforced. A deadbolt, a security film on glass, or even a simple metal strip can slow down an intruder long enough for an alarm to sound or a neighbour to call the police.

Putting these tools together creates a layered defence that’s cheap, effective, and easy to maintain. Start with a smart doorbell, add motion sensors where you need them, boost lighting, and make sure everything stays powered.

Ready to upgrade? Pick one piece of tech, install it this weekend, and watch how quickly you feel safer. When the basics are in place, you can add more gadgets without breaking the bank. Stay alert, stay protected, and let the deterrents do the work for you.