When protecting your family and your home, nothing gives you peace of mind like knowing you’ve taken the proper steps to keep your home safe. We talk about home security systems all the time, but with all the security options, smart locks, cameras, and alarms, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Where do you start? How do you know what’s necessary? What technology works?

That’s what we’re here to figure out. In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential parts of a home security system and explore some extra layers of protection that can make a big difference. Whether starting from scratch or looking to upgrade your home security system, you’ll walk away with a clear idea of what the best security setup looks like for your home.

Why Home Security Matters

Home security can mean different things depending on your specific scenario. We can all agree on one thing: “Your home should be a safe spot.” If there’s anywhere in the world where you should feel safe, it’s your home. Unfortunately, there are bad actors out there and if you think it can’t happen to you, it can. Anybody can be a victim of a home crime.

Ensuring your home is secure is crucial for protecting your loved ones and belongings. While national trends indicate a decline in certain crimes, property crimes, including burglaries, remain a significant concern.​ (Source)

National Crime Statistics

  • Decline in Violent Crime: In 2023, the United States experienced a 3% decrease in violent crime compared to the previous year. Notably, murder and non-negligent manslaughter cases declined by 11.6%. ​(Source)
  • Property Crime Trends: Property crimes saw a slight reduction of 2.4% in 2023. Specifically, burglaries decreased by 7.6%, while motor vehicle thefts increased by 12.6%. ​(Source)

Regional Crime Statistics

Understanding local crime trends can help tailor your home security measures effectively. Here’s an overview for Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut:

Massachusetts

The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security provides annual crime data, including detailed property crime statistics. Residents can access this information to stay informed about local crime trends. ​Mass.gov

Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program compiles data on crimes reported by local and state enforcement agencies. This includes statistics on property crimes, offering insights into burglary trends within the state. ​https://risp.ri.gov

In Providence, the state’s capital, there was a notable decrease in burglaries. From 2022 to 2023, burglary incidents dropped by 12%, reflecting effective law enforcement efforts and community vigilance. ​https://ucr.fbi.gov

Connecticut

Connecticut’s Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection publishes annual reports on crime statistics. The 2023 report indicated an 11% increase in property crimes compared to the previous year. Specifically, motor vehicle thefts rose by 48%, underscoring the need for enhanced security measures. ​https://portal.ct.gov

What Makes Up a Home Security System?

A modern home security system is more than just an alarm. It’s a network of connected devices that work together to monitor, detect, and respond to threats. Here are the core components:

1. Control Panel

The brain of your system. It communicates with all connected devices, sounds the alarm when threats are detected, and allows you to arm/disarm the system.

2. Door and Window Sensors

These sensors alert the system when doors or windows are opened unexpectedly. They are essential for perimeter protection.

3. Motion Detectors

Often placed in main hallways or common areas, motion detectors catch intruders moving around inside your home.

4. Security Cameras

Both indoor and outdoor cameras provide real-time video surveillance, help you monitor your property, and can capture evidence if an incident occurs.

5. Alarm Sirens

Loud sirens act as a deterrent, scaring off intruders and alerting occupants or neighbors of a breach.

6. 24/7 Monitoring Service (Optional but Valuable)

A monitoring center receives alerts from your system and can dispatch emergency services. This adds professional support, especially when you’re not home.

 

Other Home Security Elements to Consider

Beyond the basics, you can enhance your system with smart technology and additional safety tools:

  • Smart Door Locks – Control access to your home remotely and monitor who enters or leaves.
  • Video Doorbells – See and talk to visitors at your door from your smartphone.
  • Glass Break Sensors – Detect the sound of breaking glass to alert you of forced entry attempts.
  • Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Integrated alerts can notify you immediately if there’s a fire or gas leak.
  • Smart Lighting – Use motion-triggered lights or set schedules to give the appearance that someone is home.
  • Panic Buttons – Ideal for elderly individuals or emergencies, these trigger immediate alerts to your monitoring company.

 

Choosing the Best System for Your Home

The best home security system depends on your specific needs. Consider the following:

  • Size of Your Home: Larger homes may need more sensors and cameras.
  • Neighborhood Crime Rates: High-crime areas may require more advanced systems.
  • Smart Home Integration: Do you want your security to work with Alexa, Google Assistant, or other smart devices?
  • Budget: Systems range from basic DIY setups to professionally installed and monitored solutions.

 

Top Local Home Security Companies

Choosing a local home security provider can offer personalized service and a deeper understanding of regional security needs. Here are some top-rated home security companies in the New England area:

1. Alarm New England

Overview:
Founded in 1972, Alarm New England is a family-owned business serving over 27,000 customers across New England. They offer modern security solutions, including the Qolsys IQ Panel 2, a 7” HD touchscreen control panel with advanced features like Bluetooth disarming and a built-in glass break detector.

Pros:

  • Highly-rated customer service
  • Professional installation
  • Month-to-month options available
  • Plans starting from $26.99
  • Ability to reuse existing equipment

Cons:

  • Only available in New England
  • Professional installation only

Overall Score: 9.1/10

 

2. Vivint

Overview:
Vivint is known for its extensive smart home options and up-to-date equipment. They offer customizable systems with features like “Crash and Smash” protection and a 30-day trial period.

Pros:

  • Extensive smart home options
  • Up-to-date equipment
  • “Crash and Smash” protection
  • 30-day trial period
  • Customizable systems

Cons:

  • Above-average monthly cost
  • Proprietary equipment
  • Professional installation required

Overall Score: 8.2/10

 

3. Wayne Alarm

Overview:
Based in Lynn, MA, Wayne Alarm has been designing and installing alarm systems since 1968. They provide services for both residential and commercial properties, offering burglar alarms, fire protection, and video surveillance solutions.

Pros:

  • Services for residential & commercial buildings
  • Quick response time
  • Good customer service
  • In-house professionals
  • Customizable systems

Cons:

  • Lack of pricing information and other details online
  • Older equipment
  • Only available locally

Overall Score: 7.8/10

 

4. Cape Cod Alarm

Overview:
Serving Cape Cod and Southeastern Massachusetts for over 35 years, Cape Cod Alarm is a family-run business specializing in designing, installing, maintaining, and monitoring security and fire alarm systems.

Pros:

  • Provides 24/7 service to existing customers
  • Monitoring on all installations
  • Knowledgeable and well-trained staff

Cons:

  • Some reports of false alarms and police dispatches
  • Limited pricing transparency
  • App issues causing systems to malfunction
  • Slow support response

Overall Score: 7.7/10

 

5. ADT

Overview:
ADT is a well-known national security company offering a range of security solutions with a 6-month money-back guarantee. They provide the ADT Pulse App for remote management and offer professional installation services.

Pros:

  • 6-month money-back guarantee
  • ADT Pulse App
  • Affordable installation
  • Large company with extensive resources

Cons:

  • Slow customer service response times
  • Free installation is only available for certain plans
  • No month-to-month contracts
  • Many unhappy customers on review sites

Overall Score: 7.6/10

 

If you are not in the New England area, here’s a list of 10 national home security providers:

  • ADT
  • Vivint
  • SimpliSafe
  • Frontpoint
  • Ring Alarm (by Amazon)
  • Cove
  • Brinks Home Security
  • Abode
  • Xfinity Home (by Comcast)
  • Wyze Home Monitoring

Final Thoughts On Home Security

The best security for your home is a layered approach that includes prevention and quick response. A home security system with innovative features, surveillance, and professional monitoring offers comprehensive protection. Combined with other elements like smart locks and lighting, you can create a secure environment for your family and belongings.

Take the time to assess your home’s vulnerabilities, explore your options, and choose a system that fits your lifestyle and budget. Peace of mind is priceless; your home deserves the best protection.