Setting up a home security system is the first step to protecting your property from intruders. Security systems secure properties and give households peace of mind. However, with so many options on the market, finding the best systems for your home can be an overwhelming process. How do you choose the best security systems to burglar-proof your property? Here are a few factors to consider when getting started.

Assess Your Security Needs

Homes have varying security needs based on various factors. For example, a homeowner who lives in a high-crime area would need more robust systems than one who lives in a fairly safe neighborhood. A home with security walls and a front gate would require different security systems compared to one with a picket fence. 

You should also choose the best security level depending on the valuables in your home. If you keep valuables such as cash and expensive jewelry on the property, go for robust burglar-deterrent systems. Therefore, assess your individual needs and choose the best security options for your home.

Choose Between Security and Surveillance 

Security systems are designed to stop crime before it happens, while surveillance systems aim at monitoring, detecting, and deterring crime. When setting up a security system, it's essential to understand the difference between the two. The following are examples of security systems that prevent crime from happening:

• Door alarms
• Window sensors
• Motion-activated lighting
• Smoke and gas detectors

When someone breaks a window or breaches your front door, the alarms and sensors would go off or send an alert to your remote devices. However, there will be no video or audio. If you don't respond in time, the intruders may still rob you of your valuables and get away with the crime.

Conversely, surveillance systems monitor, record, and alert you of any unusual activity on your property. The most popular surveillance systems are CCTV cameras. When installed around your property, they can provide video footage that the authorities can use to pursue the criminals. Pairing security systems with surveillance cameras is the best way to deter burglars from your property.

Decide Whether You Need Monitoring

Whichever security systems you choose for your home, it's advisable to sign up for professional 24-hour monitoring. Monitoring is where an agent at your security company's response center keeps tabs on all the alerts in your residence. If an alarm is activated, the agent will contact you, your emergency contacts, or the authorities. Without monitoring, you can easily miss security alerts when at work or on holiday. 

When choosing a home security system, assess your needs and choose options that offer security and surveillance. As you install the systems, talk to your security company about 24/7 monitoring for prompt response to security breaches.

Contact a local home security company for more information.