Home security has become a serious issue in these complex and frequently dangerous times. So, what kind of home security systems are on the market, and how do you work out which is best for your home, lifestyle and suburb?

Home security options range from basic measures to more involved systems. "The first level of protection is the visual deterrents – the siren boxes, stickers outside, yard signs and things like that that will put some burglars off," says security systems consultant Gary Whelan.

While some home owners might be comfortable with having just these visual deterrents, Gary recommends a more "layered" approach. This means installing intruder detectors and alarms as well. These may include motion detectors, or glass-break sensors, which will activate if a window is broken or opened and set off a siren.

"There are hostage or duress alerts, that is, silent alarms that can be activated," says Gary. "What they basically do is allow you to summon help. You could have a button in your bedrooms that you could activate if there was an intruder. "Or you could have a keypad alert and then we would try to contact you and alert the authorities." Given that a high percentage of break-ins occur when individuals are still in the house, these more extreme-sounding measures might actually be a sensible way to go.

Gary also stresses the importance of having your systems monitored. "Research has been done that shows that 50 per cent of people ignore home alarms going off. The idea of a monitored system is that there is at least somebody responding," he says.

When it comes to working out the best security option for your home, Gary recommends getting a security systems consultant who will come and look at your property and your individual circumstances. Factors like the suburb you live in and how often one family member is left alone in the house will be taken into consideration.

Contact a security consultant in your area and find out how you can protect your family with modern security systems.