How safe is your home? How safe is your city? If you live in Detroit, Las Vegas, St. Louis, Memphis or Miami, you have worries you may never have known about. Forbes analyzed FBI crime statistics along with data from the US Office of Management and Budget to develop its Ten Most Dangerous Cities list in 2009 and Detroit was at the very top of the list based on both violent and property crimes. Amazingly, the much smaller, rural town of Stockton, California wasn’t far behind.

According to Forbes a common link among the high crime cities were places of operation for Mexican drug cartels. Where illicit trade occurs, crime most certainly follows.

Cities big, small and medium face overwhelming crime problems. Places as middle America as Memphis or seemingly sunny and safe as Miami leave families at risk.

If you are in these, or similar cities – what can you do short of pack up and leave? One of the best ways to sleep soundly is to know your doors and windows are guarded, even when you and your family are soundly asleep.

Luckily, there is no shortage of security system options in today’s world. From complex systems that monitor points of entry, interior motion and which feature surveillance cameras around and on your property – to simple systems for just the primary doors, security systems come in a huge variety of price points.

Crime experts say what matters most is deterrence. Anything that makes a crime more difficult, risky or draws attention to a perpetrator makes the crime less likely to happen. Securing your home with even the simplest home security system can create an effective deterrent – especially in a rough neighborhood or a dangerous city.

National companies like Broadview Security (http://www.broadviewsecurity-home.com/) offer security systems and monitoring systems that range the gamut based on your home, needs and budget.

Most importantly, choose a respected, professional company you know you can trust. Broadview is a spin-off of Brinks – a very well known and respected company. Other national and even regional providers have good response teams, top level technology and reputations you can trust. Be smart when you shop around.

You can be part of making your city a safer place.

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The police department of Dublin, Ohio (http://www.dublin.oh.us/police/crime/easytarget.php) calls at least 1,000 residents a year to inform them they left their garage doors open. This is particularly common during summer months when people do yard work and the kids are playing outside. Residents simply forget to make sure the garage is secure. And often, they forget to lock the doors leading from garages to their houses.

Problem? You bet. Garages are already vulnerable targets to thieves even when closed. They aren’t dead bolted like front doors usually are and many homes have doors connecting the garage to the house – which people often leave unlocked.

In fact, homes have many places that make a burglar’s job easy. Side gates are rarely locked and provide quick access to the backyard. From there, a burglar has time and privacy to find a vulnerable door or window to enter the house.

Similarly, fences aren’t always so high. If a cat can scale them – a limber and determined human probably can as well. And again, this gives thieves the time and privacy they need to do their work.

That brings us to back doors. Does your home have a glass sliding door In back? Not only do they allow in lots of light, but they are great to leave open with a screen in the summer to allow in a breeze. The only problem is that unless you install special bolting, the simple switch locks on sliding glass doors are very easy for a thief to get past.

What about French doors? Glass is easy to break. And if you’re a pet lover – unless your dog is a great guard dog, the doggie door is a crook’s best friend.

How strong are your window latches? Do they have bolts? Anything more than simple clasp lock to secure them? And what about upper windows? Never assume that the second story window isn’t accessible to a smart thief – especially if left unlocked.

What makes a burglar good at his job is thinking about the vulnerabilities you probably overlook. That’s where a home security system comes in. The professionals at a security system company are trained to look for the vulnerabilities thieves do.

A well planned security system can monitor all of your high risk entry points. Basic systems do what they say and cover the basics. But if you go for a more comprehensive security system, you can get rid of worries even in those second story windows.

Talk to reputable national companies like Guardian Protection Services (www.guardianprotection.com) about options for your home. Many of them, including Guardian, offer installation for only $99 – a small price to rid yourself of dangerous vulnerabilities.

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Putting your home in someone else’s hands can be a daunting experience. All your valuables, the safety of your home, information on your comings and goings and perhaps even the physical safety of your pets and family. When we worry about “Big Brother”‘ a security system definitely shares a lot of information with people you don’t know.

That’s why choosing a good home security system is serious business. You need the security of believing in your security system.

First, look at large, well-known companies with good reputations. A company like GE Home Security (www.gesecurity.com) screens their employees and has numerous protocols in place to ensure the security of not just your home, but your information and privacy.

But that doesn’t tell you about other important features like response time and follow-up. Unfortunately, the only time you’ll ever really know how well your security service works is when you need it most.

That’s why the best way to find out which security system company does the best job is to ask a few good references. First, a sales representative from a good and reputable company should be able to provide a few references in your area – usually homeowners who offer testimonials because of the good results of their security systems.

Perhaps just as importantly, ask your local police or sheriff’s department. Law enforcement deals with security companies all the time and can tell you about the experiences they’ve had with your prospective choices. They can also tell you about any fraudulent providers, shady incidences or incidents that may be caused by faulty security systems.

Ask prospective security providers about their their rates of false alarms. Learn how their products work. One may have better technology than another. If you live in an area with earthquakes, will small tremor set the house off because of rattling windows, or are the triggers more sophisticated than that? After all, you don’t want to get calls about false alarms or earn a bad reputation with your local police.

Lastly, don’t forget the basics. Ask your friends and family who have security systems who they use and how the results have been. Is the service responsive? Is the customer service good? Are they getting their money’s worth? And of course, check for credibility with organizations like the Better Business Bureau and publications like Consumer Reports.

However, in the end when you select that right security system with the right provider, your choice may just be what saves your home or your family.

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When you start shopping for a home security system, it’s easy to get caught up in the costs of the system itself and the monitoring. After all, that’s most of what you’ll deal with. But security systems are similar to cars – the sticker price isn’t the only cost to driving them off the lot. You have to consider the installation costs.

Depending on which route you take with your home security, you may experience some very different prices.

Wired home security systems involve wiring and often dropping those wires from your attic down into the walls of the house (if your home is conducive to wiring, and often some drilling and affixing. If you’re handy and understand wiring and house design, then this may be your cheapest option.

But if not, you’ll have to consider the cost of an electrician or handy man if you go the do-it-yourself route.

Wireless security systems, however, are much easier do-it-yourself installs. Systems range from $189 – $1000 depending on the number of windows and doors as well any how many motion sensors you may want. Because the sensor and triggers communicate with the security system server via wireless radio transmission, installations are fairly simple and involve little mess and hassle. A free install using your own elbow grease is very possible.

When it comes to monitored systems via security system companies, costs can range. Companies like Protect America (http://www.protectamerica.com/pa/advantage/adt-security) offer free installation for their packages which include three doors, one motion sensor and up to twelve windows if you sign a 36 month contract. Their monthly monitoring rates range from $29.95 to $41.95 for these systems. Your monthly monitoring essentially pays for the system and installation.

Other companies, like national leader ADT (www.adt.com) offer installations for as little as $99 when you sign up for one of their standard home security system packages.

Of course, the more intricate and complex you go with a system, the less these specials will cover your costs. Video monitoring and addition motion sensor installation will usually cost extra and sometimes significantly more. Of course, there are deals to be had. If you purchase video surveillance cameras through dealer – many will work out low-cost or even free installation costs.

Otherwise, expect installations from anywhere from $100 to $1500 depending on the equipment, quantity of it and the layout and features of your home. A good security systems dealer will come up with a customized quote.

Most importantly, make sure you explore all your options. Get competing quotes and bids. Check out online specials. And make sure you know what you want before your proceed. Basic systems with monitoring might cost you nothing to install – but might also be completely inadequate to your needs. And at the same time, why pay for an installation you could have had for free through a reputable home security system company?

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Who isn’t trying to get the most for his or her money? When it comes to home security systems, there’s that terrible conundrum of trying to make sure you get good enough quality to protect your home and family properly, but also making sure you protect your pocketbook just as well. We all need to have good and prudent investments.

But before you can determine what a good deal is, you have to figure out what deal you want. Home security systems come in many varieties with numerous levels of protection.

Do you want to install your own security system? And if so, how many windows and doors do you want protected? Which ones need protecting? And are you going to use a wired or wireless system?

Starting with something very basic shouldn’t cost you very much. If you’re willing to do your own installation, you can purchase a GE Security Simon 3 Wireless Security System which, as the name suggests, monitors three entry points. GE is a major name in the home security industry and the product can be found online at stores such as SafeMart (http://www.safemart.com/Wireless-Home-Security/GE-Simon-3-Build-Your-Own-Kit-80-307-3X-10.htm) for only $189.99.

Increase the number of entry point triggers to up to ten for no more than an additional $196. In fact, adding one costs $30, but for each additional trigger you order, the per unit price lessens. Be sure to buy from a security system dealer that offers this kind of quantity discount pricing.

If you want to take it up a level and add in pet immune motion sensors for an additional $119. Video surveillance, however, can get a little more costly with four camera kits ranging between $550 and $1200 and nine camera kits ranging between $600 and $2100. Still, if you do it yourself, you own it and you keep the equipment without any ongoing costs.

However, you’re looking for a monitored system, you may find that the ongoing monitoring costs save you money on equipment. For example, Protect America (http://www.protectamerica.com/pa/advantage/adt-security) offers wireless home security systems protecting three doors, one motion detector and up to twelve window triggers for free with a 36 month contract.

Monitoring costs range between $29.95 for the most basic package and $41.95 for the largest. These are very competitive rates. If you are planning to pay for monitoring anyway, then why also pay for equipment?

Of course surveillance monitoring costs extra and camera equipment isn’t free with the package.

The best deal for you will depend largely on your home and your needs. One way to know what makes sense for you is to get a few assessments and quotes. Both security system dealers and alarm system companies provide free quotes and consultations. Get a few opinions and have the experts help you sort out what works best for you.

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When the choices between security systems sound scarily like the choices between telephones, making a decision can get confusing. Hard-wired versus wireless may seem like a lot to consider, but really, you’re unlikely to go wrong either way.

However, they each have their pros and cons which you’ll want to consider for your home and lifestyle.

Hard wired systems, like landlines phones, are very reliable although a little more limiting. From an aesthetic point of view, they are much nicer when the “pre-wiring” is built right into the house. This makes it quick and easy to install and activate a system with minimal invasive work.

That’s not to say that you or a professional company can’t install a hard-wired security system to look nice. But it may not be a quick project and if the situation is really difficult, it may require some aesthetic cover-ups of the wiring.

Why all the hassle? Hard wired systems are highly reliable. Few things can accidentally turn them off – including power outages – and they can easily last for decades. Sure, every now and then you may want to upgrade the control panel or the sensors as technologies change – but once the main installation is complete, those are fairly easy.

Costs don’t have to be extensive on a hard-wired system. If you play your cards right and shop smartly, you may be able to find a good deal with a security system provider who will do the installation at a low price – or even free.  For example, Walker Home Security in Texas (http://www.walkerhomesecurity.com/new_alarm_systems.php) offers free equipment and installation for hardwired security systems provided the home is conducive.

Wireless security systems have the major advantage of being quick and easy to install – no matter what your home is like. In a wireless system, a central server connects with sensors and the control panel via radio waves. Therefore, walls, attics, basements, or any other helpful or unhelpful spaces don’t impede a successful installation.

So, why doesn’t everyone do this? A lot of people do. But there are a lot of parts that are subject to malfunction. All the radios have to be working to be truly effective. Each part needs a battery which eventually needs replacing. The server has to connect into a hardwired phone jack.

Is it a problem? Most of the time, wireless security systems work great. They have added advantages in that you can easily install them yourself and if and when you move, you can take them with you.

If you get your wireless security system through a professional security system company such as Protect America (http://www.protectamerica.com/), you can ask for technological upgrades as systems evolve – often at no additional cost.

In the end, the best thing is to consult a home security system company or dealer. Assess your home’s capabilities as well as your life plans and needs. Either way, you’re still getting peace of mind.

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Wouldn’t you love to see what’s happening when you’re not around? Better yet, don’t you wish someone was keeping an eye on your home and family when you can’t? Cameras, discreetly placed and sized, can be those eyes.

The advantages are numerous. Surveillance cameras enhance your home security system, because suddenly, you’re able to see so much more. Not only are you and your home security system provider able to see what’s happening when you’re gone but you can find yourself steps ahead of a crime. Why not know who’s at the door or even who is approaching your property?

There are some surprising and very helpful ways to use surveillance technology. Sometimes the perpetrators in our lives aren’t human. Is a raccoon turning your garbage barrels upside down? Or are you trying to catch the dog when he digs up your yard? Now you can can begin to turn the tables thanks to your security system.

Of course for animal lovers, surveillance is a great way to protect your pets. When you’re out of the house or even out of town, you can still check in on your furry friends remotely. With the right additions to your security system, you can know if they hop the fence and take strolls around the neighborhood. And when going through the painful process of training a puppy, you’re better able to figure out what trouble he or she gets into while you’re gone.

But as much as we love our pets, our children are always first priority. The right surveillance package can enhance baby monitoring, keeping an eye around the house, watching kids playing in the yard and even knowing who’s coming and going. It can be easy to know if your teenager is sneaking in late from a date or if your ten year old didn’t make it home from school.

Many security systems, such as ADT’s (http://www.adt.com/for_your_home/products_services/video_surveillance) include remote access from Internet enabled computers and even PDAs.

If you want the advantages of surveillance, but without the monthly monitoring costs of a security system provider, you can always take matters into your own hands and install your own system. Places like Sun Security (http://www.sunsecurity.com/) sell many high quality products at affordable prices.

You can choose as many or as few cameras and viewing locations as you like. Of course, consider the fine balance between feeling secure and feeling watched….

Properly done, you and your family will be able to enjoy new levels of security and safety.

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Choosing the right security system company is a lot like choosing a doctor. You have to trust your provider’s knowledge and ability to take care of you and your family.

A truly good security company needs to be successful in two major categories: installing a security system that meets your needs and good response during emergencies. One without the other is rather pointless.

When looking at the first part you have to ask a lot of questions about a prospective provider’s choice of security system equipment. Is it up to date? Is it made by a good manufacturer such as General Electric ( http://www.gesecurity.com/portal/site/GESecurity/menuitem.f76d98ccce4cabed5efa421766030730).

When you discuss the options with security system company representatives, look at both hardwired as well as wireless options and ask what they recommend and why. Every home is different so make sure their reasoning matches with your needs for your home.

Pay attention to how many entry points would or would not be covered, how sensitive or not triggers are and how well motion sensors work should you opt for them.

More importantly, when a prospective company’s sales consultant visits your home, does he or she seem knowledgeable and credible? And no matter what, get multiple estimates – compare notes between companies to see who is giving you the best advice and deal.

But then there’s the part they can all tell you they do well, but you can’t really know for sure – the service. When you need it, you need it to work well. How can you find out?

Ask for references of satisfied customers. Any credible security system company should be able to provide you a list of other customers willing to discuss their experience and satisfaction.

Along with that, you can ask around. Who do your friends and the people you know use? What have their experiences been like? Find out if their alarms have ever gone off and what happened when they did.

But even better, check with your local police or sheriff’s department. They deal with alarms, burglaries and security system companies all the time. Find out who to avoid and who gives timely response that works well with local law enforcement.

Often, the big national companies like Broadview Security, formerly Brinks (www.broadviewsecurity.com) offer reliable trustworthy service that gave them their names. But every region has some great local options such as American Alarm Systems in Southern California (http://800amalarm.com/).

The main thing is to ask a lot of questions and compare answers. Make an informed decision that will give you the peace of mind a security system should provide.

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Simply put, home security systems are as important as you and your family – because that’s who they safeguard.

Security systems’ most valuable contribution is to keep your family protected at night by monitoring the perimeter of the house as well as to provide emergency services. Many people don’t realize it, but security systems such as ADT’s Family Package (https://www.adthomesecurity.com/family-package.aspx) can include features which monitor carbon monoxide levels as well as watch for flood and fire. At the first sign of problem, the security system can get help – before you’re even aware.

Knowing that everyone is tucked in safe and sound, watched over while they sleep is a blessing.

Many security systems also offer medical security, allowing family members to call for help with the touch of a button in case of emergency. For family members at high risk because of known medical conditions or likelihood of falling, systems like Guardian Protection’s personal medical alarm ( http://www.guardianprotection.com/types/personal.aspx) offer pendants and keychains loved ones can carry with them to use as call devices when in trouble.

And then there’s your property. No one wants their home violated. No one wants their valuables stolen. Security systems at their most basic work as a deterrent. Anything that draws attention makes a thief’s life more difficult. Instead of run the risk of being notices, a smart thief would rather just continue on to a house that doesn’t have a security system.

Security systems with noticeable cameras are even stronger a deterrent since being seen and recorded is even more dangerous to a thief. This is one of the reasons people add conspicuous surveillance options to their security systems.

When monitoring companies are involved, security systems can go even further. Rather than just being a deterrent, the system can trigger help including private security, police and fire. You then have the comfort of knowing that if something goes wrong, it’s not all on you. Professionals are watching over your home and handling emergencies.

If you’re smart, you might be able to make a security system pay for itself. Many homeowners policies offer discounts of up to 20 percent when you add a security system to your home.

Of course the real issue is that unfortunately, in your area, someone’s home will be targeted for theft or vandalism. It happens even in the safest neighborhoods. Do you want it to be yours? For the investment of as little as $99, you can up your odds and protect your property and your family.

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If you don’t have a home security system because you imagine it to be more costly than you can handle, you might be pleasantly surprised. There’s nothing worse than knowing you could be doing more to protect your family, but you just couldn’t afford it.

Like so many technologies, wireless home security systems have gotten better and cheaper since they were first introduced. Wireless systems involve sensors and control panels which communicate wirelessly with a central hub or mini-server. The hub is in effect the “brain” of the security system, sounding the alarm. In many cases, the hub can call multiple phone numbers to let you or whoever you designate know that your alarm has been triggered.

Many of these systems use power from the house, but also have battery back-up in case a power failure leaves your home vulnerable.

If you want to take the do-it-yourself approach, a high-quality Mace wireless security system goes for as little as $139.95 from online stores such as Brickhouse Security (http://www.brickhousesecurity.com/alarmsystems.html). Systems with voice command abilities cost more at $200-$300.

The nice part is that whatever you choose, that’s all you have to pay. If you install it yourself and don’t elect monitoring services – you purchased years of home security for a singular price.

Of course, if you want monitoring services, that too can be very affordable. Companies like Protect America (http://www.protectamerica.com/pa/advantage/adt-security) offer GE Wireless systems for up to ten entry points installed for free with a 36 month contract. Monthly rates run only $42.95 per month no matter how many entry points you choose.

Protect America is national and like so many larger security companies offers an array of services which include fire and temperature monitoring and health emergency response.

The important things is that it doesn’t cost a fortune to have the latest and greatest. You can be protected by top technology in a budget. And what is more valuable that the safety of your home and loved ones?

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