Packed and ready to go for your long-awaited getaway? Finally, some much-needed downtime, but the thought of leaving your home unattended may play on your mind. John Lewis Home Insurance brought together a panel of former burglars to gain advice on what signs or clues entice them into a property. Below are some simple tips holidaymakers can follow to keep these tell-tale signs at bay.

Keep your letterbox clutter-free

Letters and leaflets overflowing through the letterbox could go unnoticed to the innocent eye but for a thief, this could be an indication that the occupants of the house are away. Former offenders advised that homeowners should ask a trusted friend or neighbour to regularly empty the letterbox whilst they’re away. In addition, people should avoid ordering any packages to be delivered to the home during this time as any packages unattended could also be a sign that the homeowners are absent.

Create an illusion

Closed curtains and lights off for a prolonged time show thieves that there’s no activity in the home and therefore seize the opportunity. Former offenders recommended using timer switches to give the impression that people are active and living in the house.

Install smart home security

The offenders also suggested installing home security cameras with motion detection to deter criminals. If someone does manage to break-in, you'll know straight away so you can act before it's too late. Even better, if you install outdoor cameras too, you'll be able to see potential burglars before they even manage to get in. Putting signs or stickers on your windows visible outside your property letting people know that you've got a camera system set up will also act as a deterrent to opportunist criminals.

Explore how our range of Blink cameras, including the new outdoor Blink XT2, can help to deter criminals and protect your home at blinkforhome.co.uk

The days of heading out to your local high street for your shopping are becoming a thing of the past with the growth of online shopping. Consumers are opting for the ease of a click of a button in the comfort of their home to satisfy their spending habits.

While the convenience of online shopping is obvious there will be occasions where there’s a breakdown in communication or delivery logistics. Perhaps your last-minute package hasn’t turned up? The delivery company says your parcel has arrived, but it’s nowhere to be seen and your neighbours haven’t taken it in. How do you go about getting your package as quickly as possible?

Ideally you want to see what happens to your deliveries when you’re not there. Technology may not have yet advanced to the level to make cloning possible yet, but impressive devices can now help you to monitor a place where you can’t physically be. Video security software can keep track of what's going on at your home 24-7.

With the right home monitoring technology and these useful tips below, you'll have all the proof you need to show your package hasn’t disappeared into thin air!

Know when someone is on your property

Be aware if someone else comes to your door after the delivery person leaves. Advanced technology, such as Blink's HD video cameras, will send motion-activated alerts to your smartphone. You'll receive these notifications, with a link to the video attached, so you can decide how to respond. Just like that, you've got all the information you need.

Keep a record of the delivery date and time

It's important to request tracking information for your packages and receipts or order numbers. Knowing when and how your package was delivered helps you piece together the beginnings of where your package may have taken the wrong turn. Did someone sign for it? Or was it dropped off with a neighbour? Your records will help to speed up the process of getting your parcel returned. 

Have all the evidence you need

Blink's home monitoring and security cameras provide a watchful eye and one-click connection to your home. Become your own detective without the hassle. A Blink system is wireless, portable and easy to set up.

Learn more about our affordable, contract-free video home security systems at blinkforhome.co.uk.

Renting in cities is an increasingly popular choice for UK residents, especially for the younger generation who are attracted by job opportunities and the exciting lifestyle that the bright lights can offer.

Once you’ve moved into your new home it’s important to make sure you and your loved ones feel safe. Here are our top three practical tips for home security in the city.

Change the locks

When you’ve got your keys to your new place how sure are you that no one else has a spare key? This is surprisingly overlooked by lots of new homeowners, especially in blocks of flats where friendly neighbours might have been given a spare key by the previous owner.  Make sure the first thing you do is change the door and window locks. You don’t have to install new locks, just new barrels and lever sets so that you are the sole owner of the keys to the property.

Put lights on timers

Installing timers for your lights and scheduling them to activate when you are out is a good way to deter a burglar. These can be purchased at DIY stores and only take a moment to fit. Of course, if your using smart tech in your home, then invest in a lightning system that you can schedule and control remotely via a smartphone app.

Install a video security system

Video home security is no longer limited to wired CCTV systems. The advent of smart home technology has seen several new and exciting products come to the market. One such product is Blink, a truly wireless home alert and monitoring system that detects, records and sends HD video clips from home straight to your smartphone.

A Blink system provides you with all the equipment you need to create a virtual perimeter in and around your apartment. With Blink there are no fees, no wires and as the cameras can go anywhere, there’s no installation costs. The batteries in each camera even last two years! Click here to find out more.