Do alarms make a car more safe?

I don't think they really make a difference because there are a few easy ways around setting the alarm off when stealing a car. However, I think having a car alarm may earn you cheaper insurance premiums.

I think that unless you're near the car, it's worthless.
Say you park your car in a parking lot, go inside a store, and someone's stealing your car. Chances are, you won't hear it!
They should invent a machine that beeps and lights up when your car alarm goes off, that can be attached to your keyring.

Most high end security systems actually will send a text to your cell or there will be someone who calls your phone.

In this case, this is very helpful I think. Also, many parking lots are equipped with cameras which should help apprehend any thieves.

Although, I cannot imagine having your car beep loudly is really prevent anyone from stealing it. The alarm is only really meant to, obviously, alarm. If the only person to hear the alarm is the theif, then this alarm does absolutely nothing since they already know they are stealing the automobile.

Hiding a kill switch makes your car less stealable. Don't tell anybody about it though.

After a year, I disconnected the annoying alarm. They say that alarms in general are worthless, except for the peace of mind that they provide some.