But a growing rate of burglaries, which now account for nearly 35 percent of all the crimes recorded in the United States, along with fires, has changed the minds of owners of homes both lavish and modest, career-minded families who spend long hours away from home and even senior citizens who worry about being unprotected.

Home security has come a long way in recent years, both in options and prices. Microchip technology has made the newest home security systems even more reliable than that most lovable and popular of home alarms – the big, barking canine and accompanying “Beware of Dog” sign.

Most home security systems are built upon combinations of two-key devices: perimeter and interior alarm systems. The burglar who triggers an alarm by breaking a window or opening a door becomes a victim of a home’s perimeter security system, made up of small sensors attached by wire to a central control panel. When he disturbs one of these sensors on a door or window, a signal is sent to a central control panel, which in turn signals action.

The prowler who makes it inside a house can signal an alarm with movement, sound or merely his presence. These interior systems, which include infrared, microwave and ultrasound space protection units, also alert a central control panel once they detect change in their realm. Once signaled with either type of system, the control console can transmit a signal to sound an alarm or alert authorities at a professional monitoring station who will check out the situation.

There also are automatic telephone dialing devices that will dial a preprogrammed telephone number and deliver a prerecorded emergency message when an alarm is tripped.

A home security system combining both perimeter and interior devices could include sensors for front and back doors and bedroom windows, an interior unit strategically placed around an area that needs extra protection and central control panel and alarm.

“Smart home” systems take home security into the future with alarms that interact with one another and actually “decide” what to do when an intruder is detected. One system, for instance, will identify an entry from a door or window by location when no one should be home and automatically call police. Another lets the home owner decide who can enter his house in his absence and dictates when a guest can come in and where they can go.

Smoke detectors and alarms could be considered another type of security system – since they warn home owners of potential fire, which have, the potential of being even more devastating than a burglary. Smoke detectors rely on sensors similar to those used in security systems; many can be incorporated into these systems for all inclusive protection.

The most sophisticated systems boast improved features such as extra-loud horns that can alert hearing-impaired individuals and the heaviest sleepers and high-intensity safety lights that can mark exits and hallways in heavy smoke.

There are also false alarm control models that prevent harmless steam or kitchen stove smoke from setting off the alarm. The most security-savvy home owner, who would hire his own guard if he could afford it, may also choose to reinforce home security with TV cameras that offer him a bird’s-eye view of areas around his house via a surveillance screen.

A less costly alternative would be an intercom system – that allows him to speak to questionable parties at the front and back doors before letting them in.

Other high-tech precautionary home security devices devices center around the control of a home’s lights – one of the simplest and most effective deterrents around. One illuminating idea is found in security timers – designed to fool potential prowlers into thinking someone is home when a house actually is empty. These timers automatically turn indoor and outdoor lights on and off at designated times of the day.

Another version is an outdoor lighting system that’s equipped with infrared sensors. The lights automatically turn on when someone approaches a house, and hopefully send potential prowlers scurrying.

Basic home improvements aren’t quite as glamorous as high-tech additions, but are invaluable in terms of protection. Home owners can improve their fortresses by making simple, inexpensive changes. A few ideas include:

• Replacing flimsy, hollow doors with solid-core construction models on exterior exists.

• Securing doors leading outside with single or double cylinder dead-bolt locks.

• Installing peep holes that offer a wide-angle view of the area outside the door.

• Adding thumb-keyed slide bolt locks on windows.

• Planting “security shrubbery.” Thorny plants that will make hiding or entering a window more difficult.

Home owners can hide valuables such as jewelry, coins and documents in a home safe for extra protection. Even the best-armed homes should be backed up with adequate home owners insurance. The best policies command an adequate combination of liability – which protects the home owner if an accident occurs on his property, or he causes damage to someone else’s house – and property – which covers the house itself.

Until recently, the high costs of equipment and installation have prevented most people from enjoying the benefits of a well-protected home or apartment. But things have changed. New state-of-the-art electronic systems are now available that provide the protection of expensive, professional systems and can be installed easily by almost anyone. The savings in labor alone reduces the cost by at least half – with no compromise in home or personal protection.

In addition to watching over your house (or apartment) for fire, burglars, medical emergencies or other threats, some home security systems have a voice which guides you in setting up and operating the entire system, step by step. It also identifies the specific detector which triggered an alarm, and voices many other commands, requests and messages.

While the system’s voice is its most remarkable feature, it’s electronic brain is its most important part. The computerized central console, about the size of a telephone answering machine, has a built-in telephone dialer that, in the event of an alarm, will call up to eight local or long distance numbers and relay an emergency message in your own voice. It also automatically dials different numbers in response to different emergencies, and delivers an appropriate message for each situation. When there’s a fire, it can call the fire department first. During a burglary, the police can be called first. Your office, a neighbor or a relative also could be called, all automatically.

Using a centrally-controlled electronic fire and security system which will call out automatically for assistance often qualifies a homeowner or renter for an annual discount on home insurance policy costs. The insurance company also may consider the type and number of sensors used, whether the alarm system operates during power failures, and other factors.

New home security systems system employ door and window switches, motion detectors, smoke and heat detectors, and other electronic home monitoring devices. They automatically switch to back-up power when the electricity fails, and also use their electronic voice to say when its back-up batteries need replacement.

Some require only an investment of a few dollars and can be put in place by a do-it-yourselfer while others cost thousands of dollars and require professional installation.

At the low-cost end of the spectrum, you’ll find heavy-duty locks for windows and doors to beef up security, peepholes for peering at unknown visitors, motion-sensitive floodlights that flash on when someone comes too close and battery- powered motion alarms that protect a single door or window.

More elaborate home security systems lie in the new generation of battery-powered central alarms. Homeowners begin with a starter kit that includes a control center and several doors and window sensors, then purchase additional sensors as needed.

Those willing to make a sizable investment can enter a world of high-tech protection that offers the ultimate in home security. These professionally installed home security devices are based on ultrasonic motion devices, closed-circuit video systems, infrared technology, microwaves and combination units, and usually are tied to telephone systems that will phone police or a private security monitoring company when trouble comes calling.

Many also can be programmed to alert homeowners to other problems, such as fire, furnace failure, freezing dangers and water leaks, or to phone for help in the case of a medical emergency.

Protecting your home is very important. It can be very alarming to see news and reports on burglaries. It won’t hurt your pocket if you invest in quality home security. There are many providers on the market and one of the most reputed is the ADT home security. If you want to have peace of mind, you should consider contacting the right company.

Protecting your family and home 24/7 is possible. ADT home security uses of the latest equipment and it offers a money-back service guarantee, theft protection, and mover’s security.

At present, you have several options – basic burglary and expanded. There are four packages under the basic burglary: Safewatch QuickConnect, The Safewatch Pro RF, the Essential Plus and Critical Conditions. The monitored services for the first three packages include burglary monitoring only but the fourth package has additional services – the fire safety monitoring and critical condition.

The expanded offering has only one package – the Family. The services include burglary monitoring, fire safety, cellular back-up, and critical condition. There is a personal emergency response system offered by ADT. Just in case you have medical emergencies or any unexpected events, you will be notified immediately. Whether you’re in or outside the house, you will be protected. You will bet a pendant or wristband. With one push of the button, you’re connected already. If you are not in the house, ADT will make the phone call for you.

The personal response system has a long-range. As long as you’re within 300 feet, you can use the buttons. The security system can also detect any change in temperature because of the temperature sensors. Every month, the test light will turn on. When this happens, you can have to check the system for efficacy. With more than 130 years of experience, you can be sure that you’re in the right hands.

Another ADT home security product that you can have is the Home Security Camera Systems and Video Surveillance. With this system, you can identify the person on the other side of the door. You can also confirm if your teens have already arrived home. If you have a baby, you can watch your little one even when you’re in the kitchen. When you need to go on a business trip or vacation, you can check on the house any time.

With the busy lifestyle of most people, you will have to trust only the right name. You can count on ADT home security because it offers the best packages that will suit your needs and requirements. Regardless of the budget that you have, you will be able to pick the best package. Hurry and shop now!

This live-voice home security technology has been developed because burglars are learning to ignore regular mechanical alarms.

This wireless, portable security system lets operators at a security monitoring centre speak directly to the homeowner, or burglar, through an automatically triggered intercom system.

If an alarm system isn’t two-way voice you’re throwing your money away. If there isn’t two-way voice how does that burglar know that police are on the way?

Well, if you were a burglar and you heard that (a security guard’s voice) are you going to stick around?

The incidence of false alarms is rising. Almost 90% of all alarms are false, and police in some cities refuse to answer an alarm after four false calls from a home or business.

The proliferation of false alarms makes it important to have a monitored system because operators first check to determine if an alarm’s genuine.

With this live-voice security system homeowners can make instant contact with monitoring operators via the intercom system. If forgetful homeowners trip an alarm, they simply call put and assure the security centre it’s false.

Once the alarm is triggered, operators at the central station can hear any noise in the house and speak to the occupants via a sensitive two-way speaker located in a specially built phone. The system’s control box clamps on under the phone and is simply picked up and carried along if a homeowner relocates.

If a burglar does get in a window, he cannot open the door to carry things out. Even if a budget allows for only two sensors, an emergency dialer is a plus. Push an emergency button to automatically call the police. If the smoke alarm goes off while you are away, the fire department is called.

If just one door needs protection, install a simple self-contained door sensor and alarm. For just one room, install a battery-operated motion sensor with alarm. It offers several levels of security.

There have been many recent improvements in the features of complete home  security systems. A complete system includes window/door and interior motion sensors, a control panel and hand-held and wallmounted remote controls.

If you have pets, select one with pet alley motion sensors. Sophisticated security multi-sensor systems can also control the heating and cooling system. When combined with temperature zoning throughout the entire house, the utility bill savings are great.

Instead of having to put sensors on each door or window, some systems use pressure sensors. When a door or window is opened, the unique pressure wave pattern sets off the alarm.

These are easy to install. The easiest-to-install security system in an existing home is a wireless remote design. You can install a complete system (window, door, motion sensors and automatic dialer) in a couple of hours. If you ever move, you can remove the sensors and take them to your new home.

When your family and prized possessions are at stake, planning ahead can give you greater peace of mind. Such actions include simple precautionary measures, from purchasing effective exterior home lighting or new home door/window locks to installing a home security system. As winter approaches and the days get shorter, now is the time to make your home a “tough target” for criminals. For starters, take heed of the following advice:

First and foremost, do the obvious. Keep points of entry locked, with deadbolt locks on front and back doors; a Charlie bar for pane glass patio doors; change locks if keys are lost or stolen. Post emergency numbers on refrigerator or by the phone. When you leave, draw the shades and leave some lights or a radio on. Use timers on indoor lighting fixtures when you are away or expect to return home after dark.

Exterior lighting is a must at night. Install motion sensor lights entryways, garage doors and accessible windows. Exterior lights can also be connected to timers that automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn.

Do not conceal windows and doors from public view with trees or shrubbery. Security shrubs made of prickly leaves or thorns act as a natural barrier to would-be burglars.
Never open the door to a stranger, and always use the peephole. A woman who lives alone should never give her name on an answering machine, and should list only her first initial on the mailbox and in the phone book.

Neighborhood Watch programs work. Get involved and team up with your neighbors. Report suspicious lurkers or activity to the police. Of course, a quality, affordable home security system – like a hard-wired, monitored system – is a good investment you can make in your home security. A home protected by a security system is at least three times less likely to be burglarized than one without.

The purpose of any security system is to alert you – or someone you choose – to possible danger. The system’s sensing device detects an intruder and sets off a signaling device to alert the occupant, the central security office or the police department. There are several types of intruder detector devices. These include:

- Magnetic contacts. These are magnetically operated switches on doors or windows that trigger the alarm device when opened. They send signals either by wire or radio frequency and protect entrance points only.

- Ultrasonic devices. These are triggered when an intruder’s motion disturbs high-pitched, inaudible sound waves. These are used only where air currents can’t set off the device.

- Infrared detectors. These sense an intruder’s body heat.

- Wireless alarms. These send signals by radio frequency. They are portable and need no wiring.

- Photoelectric eye. This device sends a beam across the protected area and is triggered when an intruder interrupts the beam.

- Microwave detectors. They transmit high-frequency radio waves. Intruders change the wave pattern and trigger the device. They cover a larger area than ultrasonic devices and are not affected by air currents.

- Proximity detectors. These create a field around metal objects. An intruder approaching the object affects the field and triggers the device. These are used for safes, vaults and metal cabinets.

- Closed-circuit TV cameras. They watch action in a large area and transmit the picture to a TV monitor. The protected area must be well lighted and the monitors must be watched by guards or a signaling device.

To choose a home security system it’s important to evaluate your home needs. Consider the following:

- Valuables. Decide which articles need special protection. Insurance costs are usually lower if you have a security system.

- Convenience. Choose a system you can understand and operate and one that suits your schedule. Consider all family members.

- Placement. The most attractive system is sometimes the most effective. Out-of-sight devices are hard to tamper with or damage.

- Where you live. How long will it take to get help? Are neighbors near enough to respond? Authorities should be informed of your alarm setup.

- Secured areas. Which areas of your house do you want to protect? Think of where an intruder is most likely to enter.

- Costs. The cost of a home security system will usually include initial installation and a monthly service charge. Terms of the contract should be clear.

No matter what kind of home security system you choose, it’s important that you shop carefully. A few “musts” of any good system are:

- Good installation. A suitable location for the devices helps prevent false alarms and ensures proper functioning.

- Warning of a malfunction in the system. If your system isn’t working properly, you should be alerted so that you can have it repaired immediately. Have your system checked regularly or check/test it yourself from time to time.

- Proper certification. Have local building officials examine installation.

- Protection against tampering. Some systems have built-in signals against tampering.

- Know your system. The person installing your system should be happy to go over its complete operation and all equipment with you and your family. Make sure you get written instructions for using and testing.

- Service warranty. Insist on a contract for continuing maintenance and service when buying or leasing a system.

The development of more sophisticated equipment is allowing the industry to offer consumers a wider range of fire and burglary protection at more affordable prices. The new technology is also allowing consumers to have better control over their home security systems, which cuts down on costly false alarms.

In fact, experts often use the word “smart” when describing the new technology because it is beginning to become integrated with other functioning parts of the house. Basically, a burglar/fire alarm system that is installed by a dealer will likely come complete with some sort of audible alarm, motion sensor, detectors on doors and windows, and a control unit and keypad. The alarm is activated, or deactivated, by the consumer punching in a special code on the keypad.

However, new home security technology makes it possible for homeowners to activate their systems from outside the house via the phone line or the Internet. Wherever you are in the world, the system talks to you. You can turn off your alarm, even if you are in Brazil.

Consumers can also turn up their heat or coordinate the lighting in their house – all from a phone or the Internet.  Special sensors can even detect water leaks and furnace failures. If you are on a business trip or vacation, you can call the house and check the system to see how it is going.

Connecting – or interfacing – the alarm system with the energy systems, as well as with other electronic systems in the house, is the latest trend in the industry. Some consumers also are opting to incorporate their security system into their home entertainment system with the use of closed-circuit cameras. This way the homeowner can identify the caller at the door without even looking through a peephole.

Another technology allows consumers to talk into their central control unit, via a voice prompter, and give directions to the alarm system. Some systems have the ability to “speak,” announcing, for example, that an intruder has entered the house.

Technological advances have also resulted in the creation of better and more sophisticated equipment, another benefit to the consumer. Homeowners can choose between a burglar/fire alarm system that is wired (which uses concealed or exposed wiring to connect the system’s components), or wireless (which connects the components by radio frequencies). In most cases, the signals are transmitted to a central monitoring station, where dispatchers monitor the signals and contact the appropriate emergency agency.

The wireless technology allows homeowners to deploy instant security in homes because the amount of work involved in installation is considerably less than that of a wired system. The technology for the wireless system is exceptional these days. The new technology has caused the equipment to be much simpler to use if an alarm is triggered in any of the security “zones” set up in a house. The monitoring dispatchers will know exactly where the problem is located.

The experts also say a lot of the new technology is going to help reduce the number of false alarms called in to police and fire departments. Police estimate that about 98 percent of all activated alarms are considered false.

In an effort to cut down on false alarms, some of the detectors used in home security systems are being improved.  For example, “dual technology” is being utilized in glass breakage detectors. Glass break detectors are small units that recognize breaking glass and activate the alarm when a door or window glass is broken. The new technology combines a shock sensor (for vibration) and an acoustical device (which detects only the high-pitched sound emitted from breaking glass).

While much of this type of new technology may still be cost-prohibitive for many consumers, efficient home security systems are getting cheaper every day.

Install a home security system. Then, even if the deadbolts do not scare him away, a screaming siren and approaching police probably will. Home security systems are fast becoming de rigueur in expensive new homes, but even the slimmest budget can afford some type of security.

To determine just what you need, ask your local police department to give you a “threat level” analysis. Your threat level depends on your neighborhood crime rate, how easy it is to enter and exit your home and how valuable your home and possessions are. Here are a few of the home security options available to you:

Electronic timers with variant setting capabilities are a good choice if you want to discourage would-be robbers from ever approaching your home. These timers can be attached to lights, televisions and radios to give the impression that someone is always home. Most burglars will not enter an occupied home.

Good outdoor lighting is also an inexpensive way to keep thieves away. Trim back large shrubs that can hide the burglar and install adequate driveway, side yard and backyard lighting.

Security experts also suggest planting thorny shrubs, like roses, near windows to discourage burglars and removing trellises which would allow them to climb to unprotected second story windows.

Ultrasonic detectors, placed in entrance halls, near windows and above doorways, sense movement in a room and sound either a silent or audible alarm. They are wired to a key pad combination lock so they can be turned on and off when leaving or entering the house or when retiring for the evening. Be careful that they are set correctly so that pets in the house cannot set them off accidentally.

Magnetic detectors, vibration sensors and foil tape sensors all work on basically the same principle; vibration, like a door being shaken or a window being opened, trips the alarm. Magnetic detectors form a magnetic field between the door and the door frame, for instance, so that when the door is opened, the field is broken.

Vibration sensors and tape sensors detect movement or the sound of breaking glass and trip the alarm system. Pressure-sensitive devices, which detect the weight of an intruder when stepped on, can be placed in front of entrance or bedroom doors or exterior windows and covered up with a rug or welcome mat. Problem is, it’s expensive to put one under every window and door, and thieves often enter through openings you’d never expect.

Panic buttons, either portable or fixed, provide good security if the house is entered while you are home. You simply press the button and an alarm sounds. They don’t work if you’re not home, though or if you’re asleep and don’t hear the intruder.

Closed-circuit, infrared video cameras, set up near an entrance door or along the exterior walls of your home and viewed through a central monitor and remote screens throughout the house, are an excellent choice if your threat level is high. They allow you to see what is happening inside and outside your home and can be rigged so that when an intruder is detected, a videotape is activated to take movies of the burglar to be used by the police.

Whatever system you choose, you will need to install a central control box, from which the system can be turned on and off. You’ll also want a backup power source in case the power fails or the burglar is able to cut the main power source to your home. A battery pack is typically installed with the system, and some systems even have a device which triggers an alarm whenever the main source of power is interrupted.