A monitored alarm is the foundation of a secure home, but it's not the only layer worth having. The five ideas below are quick to add, work alongside your existing alarm, and each has its own full guide if you want to dig into the detail.
1) Monitored smoke detectors
If you already have smoke detectors fitted, connecting them into your alarm's monitoring is a low-cost way to add round-the-clock fire protection on top of your intruder cover. An activation is verified and responded to the same way a break-in would be, day or night.
Read the full guide to monitored smoke detectors →
2) Security cameras
Cameras range from simple, self-install WiFi systems - starting from around £69 - through to a proper CCTV installation starting from around £750. Which is right for you depends on the size of your property and how much coverage and recording quality you need.
Read the full guide to security cameras →
3) Door entry systems & smart doorbells
Options here run from a simple, self-install smart doorbell right through to a professionally installed intercom system - letting you see and speak to whoever's at the door before you ever open it.
Read the full guide to door entry systems →
4) Emergency / panic buttons
A panic button, whether fixed or carried as a fob, gives you a direct line to monitoring staff who can respond immediately if something goes wrong - real peace of mind for anyone who's vulnerable, elderly, or simply wants an extra layer of personal safety at home.
Read the full guide to panic buttons →
5) Safes & locks
A decent safe or upgraded lock is a simple, low-cost way to protect valuables even if someone does manage to get into your property. A local locksmith or security retailer is a good starting point if you want advice on what suits your home.
None of these replace a monitored alarm as your first line of defence, but each one closes a gap a standard alarm doesn't cover on its own.