Boost your home security with these smart-tech items

(ARA) - When it comes to the safety and security of your home, it's more important than ever to stay on top of the latest technology. Criminals are getting smarter and millions of Americans are falling victim to home burglaries. Some of the most high-tech home security products are not only easy to use, they're easy to install. Here's an overview of the top five high-tech home security products on the market today:

Monitored home security system - Installing a home security system is a no-brainer. Not only will it help protect your home, research shows your house is three times less likely to be burglarized when you have a monitored alarm. Unlike basic alarm systems, monitored home security systems connect your home to monitoring centers where security experts use the latest technology to watch over your house 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Leading home alarm providers have multiple monitoring centers strategically located across the United States. This helps guarantee your home is protected in the case of a power outage.

Smart lighting - One of the best ways to deter burglars is by making your home look occupied when you're not around. And the easiest way to do this is through the use of smart lighting. It allows you to put timers on lights throughout your home so they turn on and off at different times during the day. Leaving a light on in the living room and the bedroom just isn't enough - especially if you're going out of town. Smart timers are also available for TVs, stereos and other home electronics.

iPhone apps - Some leading home security providers have developed iPhone apps that let you manage your home security system no matter where you are. Not only can you arm and disarm your system using your iPhone, you can also check to see if you remembered to close doors and windows throughout your house. Some apps let you monitor home security cameras, lights and even your thermostat.

Keypad entry code - Schlage launched the first wirelessly controlled door lock last year, providing a convenient home security solution for homeowners everywhere. With the wireless keypad, you can use a cell phone or computer to lock and unlock your door. No keys necessary. If a family member gets locked out, you can grant him or her access remotely from your cell. The pad uses a four-digit code to unlock the door. The code can be deleted and updated whenever you need to.

Television simulator - Similar to smart lighting, television simulators are used to make your home look "lived in." Television simulators use about 2 percent of the power that your television does, so you can increase your home security and keep energy bills low. You simply flip on the small box and it simulates the flickering light of a television. It's an ideal way to make it appear that someone is home, and it is available from Hammacher Schlemmer for around $40. The company also sells smart lighting products for around the same price.

Courtesy of ARAcontent