A watchman shouting “Fire!” used to be state-of-the-art in fire detection and warning. We can be thankful that 21st-century smoke detectors and fire alarm systems are more sophisticated. Even so, more than 4,000 people die each year in home fires, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Fire is the second-leading cause of accidental death in the home.

ARE SMOKE DETECTORS ENOUGH? You need to have at least one smoke detector on every floor of your home and near each bedroom. But at best, stand-alone smoke detectors warn only you and family members of the danger, and only if you’re home. What if you are unable to call for help, or you’re away? Either way you could lose life or home.

HOME SECURITY FUNCTION A control panel operates as a central computer connected to sensors throughout the home. The control panel will automatically dial the remote monitoring station if there’s a problem, and the proper authorities will be notified. Honeywell®, GE® and ADT® offer home security systems with built-in smoke and fire detection.

See what's available online: