According to the latest crime in England and Wales release from the ONS Centre for Crime and Justice, there were 236,795 burglaries across England and Wales.
New data from the property platform Emoov reveals a huge 152% surge in online searches for home security cameras in Oxford over the past year. With darker nights drawing in and headlines about daring thefts, including the recent heist at the Louvre, homeowners are clearly taking no chances.
Poole came in second with a 114% rise in searches, while Royal Tunbridge Wells ranked third with just over 103%.
Tech Takes the Front Door
Experts say the jump reflects a growing trend among British homeowners to rely on smart technology to protect what matters most.
Nick Neale, property expert at Emoov, explains, “Homeowners are becoming far more security-conscious, especially as the darker months draw in and opportunistic thieves tend to take their chances. Installing a visible camera is a powerful deterrent , and smart systems now make it easier than ever to keep an eye on your property from anywhere.”
Once considered a luxury, home security tech is now seen as essential. From smart doorbells to motion-activated lighting, safety has become the latest must-have in modern home design.
Neale adds, “We’re seeing more buyers asking about existing security features when viewing homes with things like CCTV, smart doorbells and motion lighting. It’s becoming part of what defines a ‘well-equipped’ modern home.”
- Lock every external door and window — deadlocks on doors and keyed locks on ground-floor windows. Develop the habit: lock first, ask questions later.
- Install visible external lighting — motion-activated lights above doors, driveways, and side paths deter intruders and improve camera footage.
- Fit at least one visible security camera or smart doorbell — visible tech is a strong deterrent; make sure it covers the front door and approach path.
- Use timers for lights and a radio/TV when you’re out — make the house look occupied (smart plugs make this easy).
- Secure gates and sheds — padlocks, hasp plates and good hinges prevent easy access to tools burglars could use.
- Don’t advertise valuables — keep jewellery, passports and high-end gadgets out of view from windows. Avoid showing new purchases on social media until later.
- Keep keys and spare keys out of obvious places — never under mats, plant pots or letterboxes. Use a coded key safe or leave spares with a trusted person.
- Join or start a Neighbourhood Watch/WhatsApp group — eyes on the street reduce opportunity and increase quick reporting.
- Register and photograph valuables — serial numbers, photos and receipts make police recovery and insurance claims much easier.
- Get professional locks and a door-sensing alarm — cheap alarms help, but certified locks and alarms that notify you (or a monitoring service) are more reliable.
Nick Neale of Emoov concludes, “By following these practical tips, homeowners can significantly enhance the safety and security of their property. Careful positioning of cameras, the use of motion-activated lighting, and securing valuables in robust safes are small but impactful steps. As the darker months approach, acting now not only protects your home but also provides peace of mind, ensuring that both you and your possessions stay safe throughout the season.”
