Today's home security systems are a far cry from the simple burglar alarm of years past. These days, a modern home security system can incorporate motion sensors and cameras in addition to sensors on doors and windows.

Some systems are wireless, some are computer-controlled, and others even send alerts and images to your smart phone. Do you want a loud alarm to frighten off intruders? Do you want police notified in the event of a break-in? These are things you need to consider.

Professional Security System Installation, or DIY?

You can purchase all the elements and design to install your own system, but it will take some expertise in electronics and, possibly, computer programming. Keep in mind, only you will monitor a self-installed system.

On the other hand, a system installed by a professional security company can send an alert to the local police or a private security firm for response. In either case, you want to ensure your safety and security and minimize false alarms.

Here are a few tips:

• Putting sensors on only ground floor doors and windows is inadequate protection.
• Motion sensors in your yard may be a bad idea if you live in an area where wildlife is likely to set them off.
• If you have small children and a swimming pool, you may want to design a video and audio pickup to monitor the area.
• The system should be designed and installed to suit your particular situation.

Whichever system you choose, and whatever sophisticated devices it incorporates, the system's only useful when it's armed and active. So, know your system, and arm it whenever you're away.