Melinda Kroll { Contributing Writer I t wasn't so long ago that home security was synonymous with locking your door at night and a Louisville Slugger strategically positioned near the bed. Not so anymore. Today, few locks can successfully prohibit burglars from entering your home, and a baseball bat is hardly sufficient protection against well-armed intruders. Last year, more than 2 million burglaries occurred in the United States, during which homeowners lost approximately $3.5 billion; 65 percent of these burglaries occurred at personal residences. Statistics like these have led more and more homeowners to rely on home security systems to deter criminals, protect their homes,and give their families peace of mind. Why Consider a Home Security System? Many affluent homeowners don't see the need for a home security system. They perceive crime as something that happens in other neighborhoods. However, affluent homes tend to be well-stocked with a variety of items that are attractive to burglars, including 8 I Floor Space Magazine • November 2012