Home invasion is described as the crime of entering a private and occupied property with the intention of theft or violence. It can also be applied to a situation where a homeowner invites someone into his or her house but the guest overstays a welcome, leading to an argument that may involve the authorities escorting the guest out. This is a different crime than theft, though it is similarly motivated and comparable in statistics. Home invasion is particularly dangerous because it may involve several criminals, one or more of which may be capable of great violence. After all, a burglar can plan his or her strategy around not being seen by others. However, home invaders are usually seen by the occupants, which can lead to deadly results.

There have been many cases of home invasion, and contrary to popular belief, not all of these crimes are committed because of soured relationships between known acquaintances and friends. There have been reports of criminals randomly choosing shoppers in malls and following them all the way home. This may be a very different set of circumstances than a typical robbery, because any loud siren noise would only provoke the invader, prompting him to order the homeowner to turn it off. This defeats the purpose of an alarm system. An older model alarm system may be equipped to handle theft but not address the possibility of a home invasion.

However, many modern alarm systems of today have proven to be effective at preventing burglaries, as well as crimes of home invasion. How so? The key is in live monitoring from a national brand like Brinks or ADT Security. For a small monthly fee the homeowner's property is monitored by an international network of live operators located throughout the United States. These personnel are trained to respond to emergency situations as they happen. Consider how the process works.

First, an alarm is set off by unusual movement, by a panic button or by another party breaking and entering the premises. The homeowner is first contacted by personnel to make sure that the alarm was not accidental. When the owner fails to quickly respond (and cite the proper code) then the operator contacts local police to investigate the matter. This means that within minutes of entry, police are told to go over and visit the home in question. If they catch the home invader in the act then prosecution will be easy and the invader will be jailed for a considerably long time. Having a home security system gives that added point of protection not just when you are away, but also while you are inside your residence.

However, it's very possible that just the idea of such sophisticated security systems will discourage criminals from even attempting to invade a guarded home. They may be deterred from a warning sign or from other evidence that the premises is being monitored 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Instead, the criminal will turn his attention to a nearby house-one not equipped with an alarm system. Safeguard your home and family with ADT security.