Home security companies will usually allow one or more "accidental" tripping of the alarms without penalty to the home owner, but continuous alarms will lead to additional monthly costs and penalties. Be sure to check your alarm regularly and teach each member of the household how to properly work the equipment to prevent these issues.
The goal of any home security system is to provide both a sense of security as well as an actual deterrent for would-be burglar or other undesirable individuals. Home security can be very elaborate and detailed or it can be relatively simple and easy to install yourself.