Home security ideas

["sjl" <sjl_abc@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Over the last year, my dad has been victimized several times by burglars. 
He has had several toolboxes, chain saws, and a power washer stolen.

I have suggested that we build a secure area with alarms on the doors and/or 
motion-sensitive alarms inside and lock all of the valuable items down to 
prevent theft.

My brother (who he thinks that he knows /who/ the burglars are) has this 
notion that we can install wireless camera(s) and attach them to my dad's 
home computer, then plant some bait items to allow monitoring of his 
driveway area to help catch them.  He is pressing me for assistance in this 
effort.

I have told him that this is not a simple task, and that his suggested 
solution is seriously flawed.  The thefts are likely occurring at night.  If 
you don't have proper lighting, then no camera will capture the images 
properly - else you need night-vision cameras.

To boot, it needs to all be recorded, and I believe that any solution would 
require having motion-activated cameras in order to maximize recording time.

Do any of you have experience with DIY home security?  Any ideas about how 
to proceed?

Regards,
Steve