Response FTV10 Fake TV Simulator
One of the best ways to keep your home safe and secure is to make it look lived in. Don’t become a victim this winter – consider the Response FTV10 Fake TV Simulator. About the size of a small bag of sugar and very light, all you need to do is plug it into the mains and turn it on. The item will automatically activate at dusk and, using a clever pattern of bright and low flickering LED light, will create the false impression that your TV is on and you are in! Retail price is roughly £20-25. Place strategically for maximum effect – by curtains or windows, or facing inward as your TV would normally.

Belkin WeMo Home Automation Switch
Keeping to the theme of home security, why not take total control of your home while you’re out and install a Belkin WeMo Home Automation Switch. Again, simply plugged into a socket this product is ready to go almost straight away. For an average price of £35-39 and available online as well as most good home stores, this plug needs to be connected to your home WiFi and you will need to download the free WeMo app, available on both Android and iOS.

Once set up, you’ll have complete control of whatever you then plug into the WeMo and you’ll be able to turn it on, off, or even set up a schedule for it, all via your mobile device and from any location. You’ll be able to view energy consumption too and can connect several devices for entire remote home control. Cheaper products from less established producers can be found, but generally, Belkin are a safe bet for quality and purpose. A nicely designed product, this won’t look out of place in most home environments and blends well into the surroundings.

Nanodots
If you enjoy science and appreciate new gadgets, Nanodots could be just what you need. I’ve had mine a few days now and can’t put them down. Made from the world’s strongest magnetic material, a compound of iron, boron and neodymium, these small balls can be manipulated to form all sorts of shapes. Available in differing colours and pack sizes, the possibilities are endless. At roughly £15 for 64 these aren’t particularly cheap, but I think they’re worth it. Nanodots are available mostly online but can be found in one or two high street stores.