By MATT MAURY

Seems like every time we turn on the radio there is an ad for a home security system. Brink's Home Security, Washington Natural Gas, ADT, et al, are flooding the airwaves with reminders of how much we have to lose to robbers ... and how their security systems will be able to protect us. Before anyone makes a decision about installing a home security system, there should be plenty of thought given to the individual's needs.

Really, there are two considerations - security needs and system ownership.

In looking at individual needs, there is both the consideration of what is being protected and who is protecting it. Let's assume that proper insurance has been secured and that priceless items are stored in a safe deposit box. The remaining items in the home can only be removed through doors and windows. So, it makes sense to place alarms on the logical points of entry and exit. There are also motion detectors that can be placed in areas of the home where silver, jewelry or electronic gear are located. Once the decisions have been made about WHERE the alarms are to be placed, it must be determined where the warning will sound. If it sounds on the premises, it will probably scare any intruder away. If it silently calls an alarm to a central security location, the hope may be to catch the intruder "in the act." A key consideration in this type of installation is in knowing how fast police will respond to your alarm. if there is not a high probability of quick response time, your decision may be for a very loud alarm on the outside of your house.

Besides determining the type of protection, a homeowner should consider the ownership of the security system. A number of companies sell systems that can be installed either by the homeowner or by a professional. Once the system is in, it is totally owned by the homeowner. Consumer Reports Magazine periodically rates these systems. On the other hand, many of the security firms that offer monthly services do so with the understanding that if the service is discontinued, the equipment is removed from the home. Obviously, while this type of arrangement offers virtually no initial investment and low monthly rates, the homeowner has no means of protection if the service is discontinued.

Most of the security systems also offer fire alarms. Again, the considerations are of who needs to be warned and how.

When making a decision about security systems, be sure to look at many options. And, be sure to mark your home well near all points of entry. Most intruders will choose to enter an unprotected home rather than one that is known to have an alarm system.