When it's time to install a home security system in your home, this isn't a decision that you want to take lightly. Instead, you want to focus on what is best for you and your family's safety. Keep the following tips and advice in mind as you navigate you

There are cheaper alternatives to installing a home security system that deters criminals from breaking into your home. Simply putting up a fence or a "large dog" sign can help immensely. Criminals want to make the process as simple as possible for themselves, so dealing with a large dog would deter them.

Good home security systems sound a loud alarm when breached, and that's not all. They often even alert you to any time a door is opened. This is a good way to keep track of where your young children are.

If you use a social media site such as Facebook it can be tempting to tell everyone that you are planning to go away or are already away. Try your best not to post about being away until you are back, especially if your site is not private. You never know who could be watching and see it as an opportunity to break in.

Having a dog can deter burglars. Even the little dogs that make a lot of noise a can be effective. Most burglars dislike drawing attention to their presence. That said, trained guard dogs aren't usually good pets. Attack training and obedience training are two different things. Any house pets should only have obedience training.

Did you know that many cable companies offer home security systems now? This is a great way to get a quality system installed and monitored in your home by someone you can trust. They usually offer very competitive rates with other home security companies as well. You may even get a discount if you have cable service with the same company.

Walk outside of your home at night and see what is visible through your windows. If you have a clear view of your valuables, especially easily stolen electronics, then so do potential thieves. If you don't want to rearrange the interior of your home, simply make sure that blinds or drapes block the view.

You never want to open up a door to a stranger without proper identification. People are coming up with all sorts of ways to convince people to open their door to them, with the intent of committing burglary or worse. Only open the door for people you are expecting.

End your shyness. Meet your neighbors. Keep an eye on their houses and yards and request that they return the favor. Do not ignore gossip either. You might find out valuable information related to security, like if there have been any strangers hanging around.

In spite of all the advantages of a home security system, and all the advertising, only 15 percent of American homes have one. Homeowners may be unsure of which system will work best for them, and worry about the additional cost. Some people also worry they will be unable to figure out how to use it.

Change your locks if someone you don't trust moves out of your home. Maybe you had a roommate move out or have a disgruntled ex-lover, changing the locks is the best way to keep yourself safe. This is something that you can do yourself and does not cost much money at all.

Broken windows can cause the cold to get into your house. Worse, it is an open invitation for a burglar to enter your home. So, if one of your windows is broken, be sure to have fixed right away. The same applies to broken front doors, back doors, and garage doors.

Once you have your home security system in place, do not be scared to place a sign in your front lawn announcing you have it. When intruders see this sign, they will know you have an alarm system, so they will avoid your home. You can also place a "beware of dog" sign in your window or on your door if you have one.

You now have what it takes to make sure you keep your family safe and secure. It's best that you know as much as you can about your options and the system itself that you purchase. Keep what  jarum77 've read in mind so that you are in control concerning your family's safety.