[GoinAllTheWay]

Only part I can chime in on really is the insurance side. You aren't really required to keep reciepts for purchases, even the big ticket ones, but it sure does simplify the process if you have them handy. Only exception to this rule is scheduled items like bikes, jewlery, art, etc. These items require appraisals or recent bills of sale. I think it should be common sense for receipts to be kept for big ticket items. And not just for insurance purposes.

As far as safes go, I tend think they are a bit of a waste of money. They just scream "SOMETHING VALUABLE INSIDE!!" and apparently even expensive safes aren't overly tough to get to defeat. Best to keep valuables hidden. Personally I think false walls are the best way to go.

Home alarm systems. Not sure I'd ever bother with the Alarm Force type companies. Places like that are really just in it for the monthly subscription. I've heard so many horror stories about the Police arriving well after the fact. In fairness I have heard a few stories of them being there in minutes as well.

I think a dog with a good, deep bark is your best bet. Don't buy entryway doors that have glass running down the side. If you have the finances, upgrade the framework in your entryways to something stonger than wood studs. You can also buy film that you apply to your ground level windows that prevents them from being shattered. Drawback here is getting out in a fire.