A monitored, correctly installed home security system will set off an alarm and notify police in the event of a break-in. This is a necessary part of home safety and security whether you are home or not. Plus, a security system will act as a deterrent against any attempted burglary. If thieves see a security system, chances are they'll choose another house.

Studies have shown that most burglars will leave if they have to spend more than 60 seconds trying to enter your home. Normal locks are good, but deadbolts are indispensable. Also, it's not enough to merely have deadbolts, you need to use them. There have been numerous stories of thieves watching to see if someone uses their deadbolts or not. If they don't, the thieves assume it will be easy to enter the home.

Neighbors can help in two major ways. First, they can keep an eye on your house and call the police if they see something suspicious. Secondly, they can collect your mail and newspapers for you. Nothing tells a thief that no one is home more than five or six days' worth of newspapers in your driveway.

In the event of a fire, immediate notification is your best chance of escape. They only take a few minutes to install and they cost so little that there is no excuse for not having properly functioning smoke detectors in every room in the house. Even better, attach them to your home security system. That way, in the event of a fire, you can focus on evacuating your family without trying to remember to call the fire department.

Carbon monoxide detectors really should be an integral part of every home safety plan. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause nausea, fainting, brain damage, or even death. In fact, each year thousands of people are treated for carbon monoxide poisoning. And since carbon monoxide is odorless, tasteless and invisible, you may be at risk without knowing it.

This is not a comprehensive home safety and security list. I intentionally omitted home safety tips on child safety (cabinet locks, knives out of reach, etc), first aid, etc. as those are readily available elsewhere. My intention was to focus on the five main things that you can do immediately, as a homeowner, to protect yourself, your family, and your belongings from attack, either by burglars or major accidents. Please list any other home safety or security tips in the comments section.