Security is a growing concern for many homeowners. The threat of vandalism, theft, encroachment and even accidental catastrophes, makes home security and surveillance a lucrative and innovative industry. There are numerous alarm and safety devices that can turn your humble home into a well guarded fortress. The options are limitless.

You can just hire a security firm to work out a comprehensive security plan or if you're a gadget lover, setting up your home security system can become a full-fledged hobby. Based on your budget and requirements, you can work out a combination of devices that work together to protect your property from all eventualities.

Planning - To begin, use a floor plan, mark every point of entry and exit on your property that needs to be secured. Check your property in daylight and at night time to study what needs to be protected and list areas of weakness.

Secure & Fortified - Start outside. Install protective fencing with wire tops or glass tops. Mid-way through the yard, you can place an alarm and watch lights triggered by motion sensors. Ensure that every window and door has iron bars, secure bolts and chains. Install barrier bars on glass and French windows. As an added measure you can install alarms rigged with glass-break detectors.

Surveillance Equipment - Don't get overwhelmed by the options this field offers. For a simple set up, the humble PC cam or Digicam can be timed to record indoors, or you can opt for a wireless CCTV setup that can be rigged up to respond to light, sound or even movement. Mark key locations that need surveillance to understand your requirement before you chose.

Alarm Systems - You can set up a light and sound show triggered by motion sensors, smoke detectors, light sensors, remote control or even rigged up to a good ole trip-wire. Try a fob system that works like the car alarm - where forced or wrong entry triggers off a siren and lights.

Warning Systems - Most warning systems alert home owners to threats. Some centralized systems will even report a break in or a fire to the rightful authorities. If your house is rigged up with sophisticated technology, the unfortunate burglar probably deserves fair warning. Stick up a lawn sign that mentions your security precautions.

Power Backup - No matter how spiffy your new system is, without power, it won't work. Don't forget to invest in a long lasting back up power supply.

Master Board - You can centralize all your security devices on a single control panel for easy access. Many of these universal remote controls are minicomputers capable of complex maneuvers such as assessing a threat and dialing for help.