What exactly is a security system? Is there any specific number of elements that something must have in order for it to be defined as such? Does a security system have to be professionally installed by a team of employees who show up in a company van and include state of the art electronics to encompass every entrance into your home?
My loose definition of a security system is extremely basic. In my opinion a security system is any systematic approach to the security and preservation of that which you value. At first this definition does not seem to do much of anything to further a discussion as to what is or is not a security system. But what it does is set up a framework of what can be included or excluded when defining a security system.
Under my definition anything by which you personally attempt to ensure the continued safety of your valuables can be considered a security system. This would include such things as setting up a family evacuation plan in case of a fire or making sure all doors and windows are locked before going to sleep at night. Of course the goal here is not to discredit a professionally installed security system.
A professional security system can streamline and simplify all of these elements for the consumer automatically. They can definitely provide an extra sense of security for the consumer by guaranteeing an outside agency will assist in the event of an emergency. Given their professional nature they can also most often do a better job than the untrained individual. If one cannot possibly institute their own system of security for themselves then it would be highly advisable that they contact a professional to secure the benefits of having such a system in place.