The world is going through wild times, what with protestors flooding the streets, efforts to defund the police and rioting en masse. Is your home protected? According to the National Council for Home Safety and Security, only 17% of Americans were using a home security system in 2017. However, Market Research Future says the residential security services market is expected to reach $44.8 billion by 2023, making it a massive nationwide industry. A home security system can help stave off crime and improve your quality of life.

In considering a home security system and the potential for crime, many owners argue "It probably won't happen to us." Although much of the U.S. is clearly willing to roll the dice, FBI statistics paint a bleak picture. In 2015, there were more than 1.5 million burglaries, with a total property loss of $3.6 billion and an average loss of $2,316 per offense. Over 70% of these burglaries were residential as opposed to commercial. What's more, there's a robbery about every 13 seconds, according to Alarm System Report. This does not bode well as we enter the latter half of 2020.

These statistics alone are enough to warrant a security system for many. But how effective are the systems? Crime data from the Newark Police Department from 2001 to 2005 found that burglaries decreased in areas that increased the number of alarm systems. U.S. News & World Report contributor Jennifer Pattison Tuohy says security systems provide more returns than just stopping crimes in the act, specifically, the important, intangible peace of mind. The newer, more comprehensive smart security systems, for example, make 34% of people feel safe, as reported by PCMag.

With all that said, a monthly security system fee can be worth it during these turbulent times, and the fees can be lower than you think. Systems are even installed as smart home hubs these days, allowing you to control security, lighting, heat and air while you're home and away. With this tech upgrade alone, the security system pays for itself.

Once you have decided that a home security system is right for you and your family, compare companies and system features. The home security industry watchdogs at Safety.com recommend the following companies:

-- ADT Home Security has money-back and theft-protection guarantees, and a long history of high-quality service.

-- Vivint has a large array of flexible payment options and a high-end array of smart-home options.

-- Frontpoint is acclaimed as good for renters, with month-to-month payment options and great customer service.

-- SimpliSafe has cutting-edge mobile and professional monitoring services.

What matters is not the company or system you choose but that you make the right choice for you. Material goods can be replaced, though you can't put a price on peace of mind and the safety of your loved ones.