There’s no place like home. However, the lure of warmer climates, exotic foods and pink sand beaches can be much more appealing as research shows approximately 74% Brits up sticks to go abroad each year*.

But have you thought about how your home and belongings will be secured while you’re away?

You’re probably used to hearing the age-old home security methods, such as ensuring your locks are British Standard, cancelling the post so it doesn’t pile up at the door, and setting your lights on a timer to give the illusion that somebody is home. However, with the growth of the smart home, more and more individuals are turning to connected security devices for that added peace of mind.

As a result, the security experts at Yale have compiled a list their top tips for using connected security products for those of us who just can’t switch off.

Connected Smart Locks

Over 6,000 burglaries happened last year using poorly hidden spare keys. While you’re on your travels, why not invest in a smart lock and get rid of your keys for good, making remote control easier and more convenient. Smart locks allow secure access via PIN code, key card, key-tag, remote fob, or smartphone.

The temporary PIN code feature on the Yale Keyless is ideal if you pay for home services by the hour as you can keep track of who comes and goes through your front door when connected to a smart hub system. This is also great if you want to check in and make sure your neighbours have been popping over to water the plants or feed the pets.

Alarm Kits

In a recent survey from Yale, Brits were asked what features they wanted in a home security system. 67% of respondents said they’d like clever alarms that can be remotely controlled via a mobile app from anywhere in the world.

Yale’s Smart Home Alarm does just that, allowing you to arm and disarm your system remotely. It also has the capability to send notifications, emails and even images to your smartphone when triggered, to alert you instantly to a potential intruder. So you don’t have to wait until you’re home to find out if everything is okay.

With the latest Smart Living range of connected security devices from Yale, there is no need to damage your décor, lift carpets or run cables; all components are self-contained and no wired connections are required between units.

CCTV Systems

For added peace of mind, smart CCTV allows remote viewing of your home from any location using a smartphone app. Recorded footage can also be saved onto a computer and used as police evidence in the event of a break-in.

For the modern traveller who’d like to keep an eye on their home while away, connected devices can prove to be a real asset. Smart locks, lighting, CCTV, Alarms and even door viewers can all be controlled centrally from a smartphone giving you full control over your security.

For more home security advice and information on Yale’s Smart Living range, check out the Yale website here.

*YouGov