Smart technology will help to deter intruders

New crime-prevention technology that can help to deter potential intruders was unveiled last month.

Smartbel is an intelligent doorbell that once pressed calls a mobile or landline so that the homeowner can speak to the visitor remotely, giving the impression that someone is at home, even though the house may be empty.

Developed by telecoms company, Commtel Innovate, Smartbel was invented by 13-year-old schoolboy Laurence Rook after his mum voiced her frustration about having to continually go to the post office to pick up parcels which had been delivered when no one was at home.

Smartbel allows users to direct a parcel to an alternative delivery address, and with Consumer Direct and Citizens Advice receiving thousands of complaints about cold callers, Smartbel could prove invaluable to many residents, particularly those suffering from mobility difficulties.

Wesley Kent, sales and marketing director at distributor Fireco Ltd, said: “Having the ability to fool potential intruders into believing that someone is in the property makes Smartbel an excellent deterrent product for the home.”