Home Security System

A couple of questions here... What kind of system do you recommend? How much is it?

Also, I've been hearing a lot lately about people breaking into homes by taking out the air conditioners from outside, and then coming in the window. Does this happen because people don't screw the air condition in? Or is there another way to safeguard against this happening?

Any other home security tips would be appreciated...FH and I are moving very soon...and a couple of sketchy things have happened in the area we are going to recently...so I want to be as secure as possible!

Our home system was I think 1200 for installation (we had a top of the line system installed) and every door and window was connected to it. We also had glass break detectors in so incase windows get shattered, it would set the alarm off as well. Carbon Monoxide and Fire was also included. The fee for it (every 3 months) was around $80??

I have heard of people pushing out AC units on main level floors. Even when they are screwed in, it still may be easy to get them out. We don't have them so I can't comment first hand (we have central AC) but my cousins use a piece of wood from the top part of the window against the AC so prevent this from happening.

Don't leave main level windows open, always leave atleast one or two lights on when you are not home and when you are home, if you have a sliding door, put a piece of wood against it when you lock it, etc. Best advice is to get an alarm. I know its alot but its definetly a piece of mind. Doesn't mean someone won't try to break it because you have an alarm, but you feel more safe when you aren't home knowing you will get a call if your house is broken into.

GL!

We have ADT. I think it's $40/month. We only have sensors on the first floor - our second story is so high up someone would need a HUGE ladder to get up there. I don't remember what the installation was though...

As for other security tips when you're not home make sure you leave the lights on. Motion sensor lights for the exterior (front and back) are always a good idea... when you travel leave the interior lights ons with a timer so they go on and off and get a dog!!! Unless it has a really yippy bark no one knows how big it is and I'm pretty sure most criminals don't want to risk being attacked by a dog. Also at night make sure your curtains are pulled, it prevents people from seeing inside and knowing what you have where etc etc....