Alarm systems range from extremely complex and expensive for those that provide offsite monitoring and mobile access, to relatively cheap for door and window alarms you can install yourself. While more features might make your home marginally safer, know that merely having any sort of alarm system is usually enough to deter burglars.  A monitored system will notify an offsite center if a break-in is detected. They will notify the police if they cannot contact you, or if they do contact you and you ask them to do so.  A simple security system will set off a shrill alarm if a break-in is detected. This might scare off the burglar, or lead neighbors to call the police. However, know that police often charge a fee for a false alarm.  Individual alarms for doors or windows or wireless cameras are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. There are a variety of choices to make when choosing a monitored service.  Landline, Cellular, or Broadband Monitoring – Each option for how your system communicates with the monitoring center has advantages and disadvantages.  Landline – A landline phone connection is used to communicate with the monitoring center. It is the slowest option, and if you choose it, you should get cell uplink backup, or cutting the telephone lines will disable your system. Cellular – A cellular uplink is used to communicate with the monitoring center. Cellular monitoring is faster and more reliable, but also more expensive. Broadband – Your broadband internet is used to communicate with the monitoring center. It is much faster than a landline, and while not as reliable as cellular, it is cheaper.   Professional or DIY Installation – DIY is usually quite simple, and it means you own the equipment. It is good for renters or people who move a lot. Professional installation allows for more complex systems, but if you will be moving soon, be sure you go with a company that will move your system for free. Home Automation – This provides the ability to remotely control not only your security settings, but also things like turning the lights on and off, and thermostat settings. It can also give you real time updates and let you know when your kids come home. It is convenient, but more expensive. These are the basics, whether using a monitoring service or not. There are many other features you can get – pressure mats under rugs to detect footsteps, closed circuit TV systems, broken glass sensors, or pressure sensors that detect when someone is trying to kick in a door – but motion detectors and magnetic door and window contacts are usually sufficient to detect a break in. Your security system won’t help if you forget to turn it on. It will be less effective if you don’t let burglars know it is there. Always follow these best practices:  Always use your system, even when you take a quick trip to the store, visit neighbors, or walk the dog around the block.  Never post your pass code near the home security alarm keypad.  Make sure the yard signs and window decals that say your home is protected by a security system are clearly visible.  Use generic security signs. Knowing the security company can help thieves to disable the system. If you don’t want to invest in a full home security system, there are a number of simple, inexpensive alarms you can install yourself.  Doors – Doorknob alarms sound off loudly when they are moved. If someone tries to break in, they will emit a piercing sound just like an alarm system. Windows – Similar movement-triggered alarms are available for windows. In addition, you can purchase inexpensive alarms that trigger when a window is broken. If you want to leave windows cracked for ventilation, window swags will sound if the window is opened too wide.  Webcams – Motion-sensitive webcams start at $100 and can be remotely monitored on a Smartphone or computer. Twenty-four hour surveillance can help dissuade criminals from entering your home, and catch them if they do. Studies show that most criminals move on as soon as they see an alarm sign. So even if you don’t want to pay for an alarm system, be sure to invest in alarm signs.  Put signs in the front and rear of your house, as well as stickers in any windows you are worried about. Adding fake motion sensors on your windows will make it even less likely that a burglar chooses your house.

Summary:
Choose the system that is right for you. Consider your options if choosing a monitoring service. Choose a home security system that uses motion detectors and arms all doors and windows. Get the most out of your system. Install your own simple security devices. Fake it even if you don’t have an alarm.