If you have decided to improve the security and safety of your home, you may also be overwhelmed with the choices that you have in alarm systems. The following will walk you through the most important questions that you need to answer before you begin to shop.

How many systems do you want to integrate?

A security system can do more than simply guard your home against burglars and vandals. It can also become a one-stop hub for most of your home safety concerns. Examples of other monitoring tasks a security system can perform include the following:

Fire and gas: A common integration for security systems is smoke and carbon monoxide monitoring. This means that even if you aren't home, you or the alarm company are contacted in the event either alarm is triggered.

Flood detection: There are also flood or leak detection monitors that can be integrated into your system. These utilize moisture sensors, such as in a basement, that can be triggered in the event of a flood.

Keyless entry: Systems that allow you to let in others, such as workers and service personnel, when you aren't there with the key are another system that can be well worth it to integrate with your alarm.

Do you want a monitored system?

There are two main types of alarms -- monitored systems and deterrent alarms. A deterrent alarm makes a loud noise, which is supposed to scare off the bad guys. Unfortunately, they can also annoy your neighbors -- particularly if accidentally triggered. A monitored system means you have a security service that can view security footage of your home if the alarm is triggered. This allows them to contact the correct emergency agency, such as the fire department or the police if the alarm is triggered. You must decide whether you want the monitoring service to access your home's security system via broadband, landline, or cellular signal.

Will you also need self-monitoring?

Self-monitoring is also available. These systems allow you to view your security footage via a computer or smartphone when you are away from the house. A passive system only allows you to view your home. An active system enables the ability to adjust alarm settings, turn off the system, or even control the cameras using your device.

What add-on services could you benefit from?

Your final decision will be add-on services. For example, do you want your home's lighting wired into the security system? The benefit of this is that you can turn the lights on and off even when you aren't home. A full home automation package is also an option. With these, you can control everything from security systems to opening and closing the drapes or adjusting the thermostat.

Talk to a security provider like Tele-Plus to see what options they provide with their alarm systems.