In addition to the easier installation and faster communication times, wireless systems have a number of additional features that can be incorporated using the technology.  ADT, one of the nation’s leading security companies, offers a wireless keychain remote that allows you to turn your alarm on or off with one simple button.  Wireless systems are also now permitting activation and deactivation from remote sites, particularly with the use of smart phones.  The Apple App store recently introduced the ADT Pulse Interactive Control which can be downloaded onto the iphone for free and used to arm or disarm your system no matter where you are.

Another big name in the home security industry, GE, is also offering wireless devices for their home security packages.  The GE Security Pro 1000 is a sophisticated yet easy to use system that can be installed using wireless technology.  The system also provides a wireless key chain for easy control.  Your system can also be set to control appliances, lights and the garage door, allowing for consolidated management of your home.

Infrared motion detectors are gaining popularity in the security market and are now being used in driveway alarms as well.  The 600 ft. Range Deluxe Driveway Alarm from Gadget Shack is a two-device system that uses infrared technology.  The motion detector is used to pick up human or vehicle motion, which will then trigger a sound on the receiver.  You can also program the device to use different beeps which will sound according to which area the motion was detected from.  Additional receivers can be added to this device so that you can be alerted of motion wherever you are in your house.

The wireless age is also moving into the home security market and many driveway alarms use wireless technology for easier installation and larger monitoring ranges.  The Murs Alert device combines infrared and wireless technology for added protection.  The monitor can send signals to the receiver from several miles away.  The two devices can also be used for voice communication.

Some home owners prefer a device that can’t be seen by visitors or burglars, in which case the MIER DA-500 Driveway Alarm is a great product to consider. A metal detecting probe is buried in the ground which detects vehicles and then sends a signal to a receiver in your home or business alerting you of visitors.

Security cameras are great ways to deter burglars as well as catch a thief in the unfortunate event of a break in.  These devices come in an array of styles and designs to meet your needs.  The Swann Digital Wireless Security Camera with Receiver provides adjustable surveillance with pan, tilt and zoom features.  IR night vision technology ensures that you can capture whatever image necessary, even at night.

Another device that is an easy way to increase security at your home is a door brace.  These bars are usually made of steel and are placed under the door knob to prevent entry.  They are especially useful when you plan on traveling.  Even if a burglar found a hidden key, they won’t be able to open the door.  The Master Lock Dual Function Door Security Bar is made of 20-gauge steel and is adjustable to fit different size doors.  This product can be bought at Kmart for $23.49, making it an inexpensive way to improve your home security.

Glass break sensors are another useful device to install in your home.  Some home security systems offer this as part of a package, but if you don’t have this feature and don’t want to change packages, separate glass break sensors can be purchased and installed.  Brick House Security‘s GlassBreak sensor can be purchased for $149.00 and can detect the sound of breaking glass from 2,000 feet away.  The lithium battery in this device can last for 2-3 years so you aren’t constantly changing a battery or worrying if the battery will die.

1. Never allow mail or newspapers to pile up.  One glance at an unchecked mailbox and a burglar will immediately assume you are away.  Have a neighbor or friend collect your mail or request the post office hold it for a period of time until you return.
2. Don’t leave notes on your door. A common mistake many people make is to leave notes for housekeepers or pet sitters taped to a door.  It is just as easy to call prior to your departure to give the necessary instructions, and a note left on a door might as well be a welcome sign for an ill-intended visitor.
3. Create an illusion that there is activity at home.  No one wants to waste electricity but leaving on a few strategic lights or perhaps a radio can give the impression that people are home, which will deter burglars, thus saving you much more than the few extra dollars on your electricity bill.
4. Make sure the yard is kept up.  If you are going to be gone for more than a week, be sure to mow the grass and trim any unruly bushes before leaving.  If your vacation is going to be particularly long, consider hiring a lawn care service or gardener to keep up the yard.  A yard left untamed is another easy clue to burglars that you aren’t around.
5. Avoid hiding keys around your house.  As much as you may think you’ve found the perfect, secure hiding place for your key, it could probably be easily found by a burglar.  If you’re planning on leaving a key for someone, try to arrange a meeting to give them a key instead of leaving it outside.  If it absolutely cannot be avoided, be sure to choose a very unusual location; not a typical hiding spot such as under a doormat or in a flower pot.

1. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight. It may be habit to put your purse or keys in a certain place every day, but it that location is in view of a window or glass door it could be easily seen by anyone outside.  When you’re home or away always put valuables out of view, so as not to tempt a potential burglar.
2. Trim shrubs and trees that grow around your house.  Never let outdoor plants grow so that they block windows or provide significant cover around the perimeter of your house. A burglar loves a well-hidden home.  If he would be well concealed from the street when inside your home, the chances of your house being broken into greatly increase.
3. Always keep your garage door shut when you aren’t around.  Most people store some amount of valuable items in their garage, and if the door isn’t even shut all a burglar has to do is walk in and walk out.  Also keep any cars outside or in a garage locked at all times.
4. Advertise your home security system.  Obviously, setting your alarm is key, but putting the company sign in your yard or a sticker on your window immediately alerts a burglar that the home is protected and they will probably keep on walking.
5. Install motion detector lights.  These are particularly useful at night.  A burglar is strongly deterred from a home where he is easily visible.  These lights are relatively inexpensive and can go a long way to protecting your home and valuables.