Holy Smoke! Watch a new way to stop burglars

A new anti-burglary system releases thick fog in your home which disorientates thieves.

The Fog Bandit device fills an entire room in just two seconds and completely obscures the vision of wannabe intruders.

Murphy Jewellers of High Street in Kilkenny is already using the innovative security system to repel break-ins.

Check out the CCTV footage here for an idea of just how fast the device covers a room at the press of a button.

Homes snapping up security gear

Meanwhile it has emerged that rural homeowners are spending close to €10,000 on infra-red CCTV cameras, burglar alarms, motion sensor security lighting, and underfloor safes, amid growing concern over the scourge of violent gangs.

Among the most popular security options are panic buttons, intercom networks, motion sensor security lighting and underfloor home safes.

Big purchases include families who are spending up to €4,000 on CCTV and €3,000 on electronic gates, independent.ie reports

Niall Bishop, from Electro Automation in Dublin, said gangs were targeting the homes of people who commuted long distances to work.

"So many people commute for work from rural areas; it means their houses are left unattended for long periods. Burglars view these properties as easy prey." Security group Burglarybusters, said buying a door with a steel frame was the only way to ensure it would prevent a break-in.

Security consultant said the installation of automatic gates at entrances to houses were growing in popularity.

Anyone living in a rural property has been advised to consider getting CCTV with infrared capabilities installed, because of the lower level of lighting compared with urban areas.

People are also moving away from analogue cameras and were instead purchasing megapixel HD devices.