At present, a U.S. citizen's right to posses firearms depends on the state in which he resides. Some states are more liberal when it comes to the number of firearms someone can own, as well as where he can take them. Other states are very restrictive with their laws. But no matter where you live, firearms are simply not the best way to handle issues of home security this day in age.

These days, people sue each other for the pettiest reasons, and if you are just trying to protect yourself by using a weapon against someone else, you may find yourself in even more trouble. Depending on the context of the occurrence, you could face any number of accusations. The courts will question whether your use of the firearm was purely out of self-defense, or if there was something more involved. Save your bullets for hunting wild turkeys, and start looking at better ways to keep your house and your family safe.

Now, you might think that living in a small town, rural area would significantly decrease the chances of a home invasion. Unfortunately, today's crime rates are increasing in both urban and rural areas. It's time to take the issue of home security seriously. With the latest technologies, as well as a few more traditional security methods, you will be able to defend your property and keep your family safe.

Just as you would build a cattle fence to keep your livestock under control and out of harms way, you should also consider putting a fence up around your home's property. A fence not only gives you a little bit of privacy, but also keeps intruders at bay. There are many options when it comes to fencing. Based on your personal needs, you'll need to choose the material and height of the fence, as well as any additional locks that you might want.

You'll also want to install motion sensor lights. Although keeping areas well lit seems like a very simple idea, it remains one of the best ways to deter crime. You can set up a combination of lights that automatically go on at dusk along with lights that detect movement. Installing both types allows you to simultaneously prevent, and be alerted of any suspicious activity.

Another alternative to firearms are home alarm systems. An alarm does most of the work for you. It monitors the opening and closing of doors and windows, even when you are home. Should the alarm sound, you are able to shut the alarm off. Of course, you'll want to make sure it isn't just a false alarm. If someone is intruding your home, the alarm will automatically notify police authorities so that they can come help you. This is good because in the case of a burglary, you do not have much time to react and notify the police.

Protecting your home can be quite simple. Although self-defense is something that you should always maintain, you must be careful this day in age, especially if you are using a firearm. Instead, you should work to prevent crimes from happening in the first place. Set up a fence and install exterior lighting. And most importantly, install a home alarm system. Because in the case of a break-in, it might be better to let the police come to your defense.