There's no worse feeling that coming home and finding an empty space where you Television or Hi-Fi used to be.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind, which won't break the bank.
Recent statistics have proven that approximately 60% of all burglaries on homes fitted with an alarm system with were unsuccessful for the thief. And 95% of robbery claims are from houses which don't contain monitored alarm systems. This study shows that installation of a alarm system is a useful deterrent for thieves, but before you rush out and purchase a security system, have a thorough read of our tips for security systems for your home.

Zoned and Monitored Alarms
If you have a lot of valuable possessions or if you live in a remote area, it is worth considering purchasing a "Monitored alarm". These alarms are connected to a "Central Monitoring Centre" in which in case the event of an intruder, the police are notified immediately.

Here are a few tips to help prevent burglaries at your home. Although these tips may appear to be obvious, many are over looked from time to time. A small simple thing such as accidentally leaving a window open or a back door unlocked, could create an opportunity for a thief.

• The Spare Key
  Always try to leave a spare key with a neighbour or a friend. Never leave a spare key under a large rock, pot plant or under a door mat. This is the first place a thief will look.
• The Inventory List
  The best to help recall items which have been stolen and to help insurance claims is to keep an inventory list of all your valuable possessions in the home. Always make sure that you add to your list when every time you purchase a new item.
• Open Windows
  Never leave windows open and unlocked for long period of time. This will attract a thief to your house over others. I you have locks installed, make sure you use them!
• Locks are there to be used
  Before leaving your home, make sure all windows and doors are locked. Never leave the lock in the key hole. A thief would rather reach into broken glass to open a door or window, than have to climb through it.
• Share the Responsibility
  Checking the security in the home is an equal responsibility for every house hold member. Be sure that everyone has the same routine to activate alarms and check all locks.
• Personal Information
  Ensure that all personal documents such as credit card receipts and bills are all destroyed instead of just thrown out. Try to hide documents in different places as well.
• Holiday Signals
  When going away on holidays, have your mail held at the post office and get some one to remove all junk mail from your letter box. This will give the illusion that some one is home, rather than having junk mail piling up..
• Valuables Out of Sight
  Hide all easy to carry valuables away from sight, so that way thieves wont be able to find them easily.
• Inform others
  If your house is broken into inform your neighbours. That way they can be on the look out for any suspicious people. If you see any activities which look suspicious, don't be afraid to inform the authorities.
• Mark or Secure Valuables
  Try to secure any large items which don't need to be moved all the time. This will make it hard for thieves to steel. Any small valuables should be marked with an Ultra Violet pen. This way items can easily be identified if found by the police.