Are you concerned about the safety or security of your home and family? Alarms for homes can provide peace of mind and help you ensure that your loved ones are safe and your possessions are protected, even when you are away.

With so many options available, you can customize your alarm system, choosing the features and level of security needed for your particular situation. Alarm systems are important tools in providing early warning and protection from potential danger, and assessing your home to determine your monitoring needs is the first step in keeping your family and possessions safe.

• Door and window alarms. Also known as entry alert alarms, these systems can warn you when someone is entering your home unexpectedly or if security has been breached. Using either an invisible beam or motion detector, these systems include a sensor that will trigger an alarm when the door or window is opened, or if the glass has been broken or cracked. Typically, these alarms are loud, alerting neighbors and increasing the potential that help will come quickly. However, you may also choose to have your security system monitored by an outside monitoring company or select a quieter warning signal, audible only to those inside the home.

These systems are also great for detached garages and other structures on your property that you wish to protect from burglars or intruders. Sensors can be attached to the out-buildings with the receivers or alarms sounding in the main home.

Door and window alarms are also effective in monitoring young children or Alzheimer's patients so parents and caregivers are aware when someone is leaving the home.

• Driveway alarms. Protecting the entrances of your home is important, but a driveway alarm will let you know the minute a car pulls onto your property or someone approaches your house. These alarms can be used on driveways of any length and will give you advanced warning of a possible intruder, allowing you the extra time to call for help in a dangerous or threatening situation.

• Mailbox alarms. Identity theft is on the rise, and stealing your mail is one of the most common ways thieves use to acquire your personal information. If your mailbox is not locked, it is important to purchase an alarm system that will allow you to monitor its use. Inexpensive and easy to install, these units include a sensor that is placed inside your mailbox and a receiver for your home that will beep or ring every time your box is opened. A red indicator light will also show on the unit when you have mail, so you can retrieve it as soon as possible.

• Pool alarms. Thousands of children die each year from drowning, but you can eliminate this danger from your home by installing a pool alarm that will keep little ones out of the water when supervision is not available. From gate alarms, to perimeter alarms, wrist bands, and wave or displacement sensors, pool alarms are available in a variety of options that will allow you to choose the best protection for your area.

• Fire alarms and CO detectors. Statistics show that having a properly functioning fire alarm in your house reduces your risk of dying in a home fire by half. Fire alarms provide an early warning signal that gives you and your family enough time to reach safety. Early detection also allows fire departments to arrive at your home sooner, potentially reducing the amount of damage.

Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, tasteless, and very dangerous. It is a toxic gas that comes from cars and any fuel burning heat source. In the case of a malfunctioning furnace or an obstruction in ventilation, your home can fill quickly without you even being aware of its presence. A CO detector will protect your family by alerting you if high levels of carbon monoxide are sensed.

Installing alarms for homes and properties can provide security and protection, and you will have peace of mind knowing that your home and family is safe.