HomeDepot and Lowes have replacement garage remotes, but you'll need to know the Manufacturer Name and the date of production of the opener, because the code method has changed. If you have an opener with the DIP switches to set the code, then you should plan to replace the opener because that old technology is easily defeated. Burglars have been found with radio scanners and frequency generators that will go through all the possible codes for the older openers in a matter of seconds. The newer model openers use a rolling code system that isn't so easily defeated.
But that doesn't prevent thieves from getting into a garage with weak physical protection, such as doors with windows near the lockset or doors without deadbolts and stronger prybar resistance. Steel entry and security doors, double-deadbolts, deep screws into the frames, and interior security latches all make it harder and slower for entry. Some burglars simply break through the walls/drywall, so there's only so much you can do, which is why it's better to think about have multiple levels of protection, including having a monitored security system so that you can slow the criminals down long enough for the police to arrive.
There's a good TV program called "It takes a thief" that is helpful to see how a professional can easily gain entry when the homeowner isn't vigilent and is too lax.
There are many new security systems that not only improve protection from crime but also better fire protection, elder care protection, home automation, energy control, flood alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and other benefits, without breaking the bank if you're willing to learn how to install them yourself. The HomeSecurityStore.com provides many different models with these features so that you can pick and choose which components are useful for your home. They are also a lot cheaper over time than the "package services" offered by Brinks and other vendors, because those companies have proprietary monitoring with high monthly fees that never go away. The DIY systems allow you more options to choose among different monitoring companies and also cell phone, text message, and internet notification in addition to the monitoring. There are other online sources for DIY security systems too, I just mention the website above because they are located in Riverside and stock a lot of products with reasonable prices and good telephone support.
A lot of the security systems by Brinks and others are often very poorly installed. Many of the systems can easily be disabled before the monitoring service is notified, when the alarm box is easily located and ripped off the wall with a crowbar and a knife to cut the wires. The installers often locate the box nearby the keypad because it's faster and easier for them to install that way. A better installer will hide the box in a location that's difficult to find and access, far away from the keypads. The new alarms systems can also report to the monitoring service using cell phone technology when the land telephone line is cut. Wireless sirens with flashers can also be hidden to continue to go off after the security system has been disabled. These are not expensive features, just newer technology that has become available.
