Alarm King
Response Alarms
Alarm systems are critical in ensuring the safety of properties and their inhabitants. They come with various response mechanisms like key-holder response, police response, and self-monitored responses through technologies such as SMS alerts, voice dialers, or app notifications. Here, we'll delve into key-holder response alarms and how they function to provide security.
Key-holder Response Alarms
What is it?
A key-holder response alarm is monitored around the clock by a third-party Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC). When the alarm is activated, the ARC contacts you and your nominated key-holders—who are individuals or a professional key-holding service that can access your property in case of an alarm.
Who's it for?
This system is suitable for anyone with a professionally installed grade 2 (minimum) alarm system. Those interested in setting up a new alarm system should consult with an accredited installer to explore their options tailored to their specific needs.
How does it work?
The alarm system communicates with the ARC using a variety of equipment determined during an initial site survey. Common types of communication equipment include Redcare, Digi Com, CSL DigiAir, and UDL Grade Shift. The choice of equipment is based on several factors like security risk, insurance requirements, and the quality of available signalling paths (GSM, PSTN, or IP).In the event of an alarm, the device triggers a signal to the ARC, where operators follow a strict protocol to handle the alert. They attempt to contact the property owner or other nominated key-holders in a priority order. The response continues until someone confirms the alert and verifies their identity using a pre-chosen password.
Key-holder Alarm Requirements
When setting up a key-holder response system, the installation company will require a list of up to four key-holders who should ideally be able to reach the property within 20 minutes. This list often includes the property owner as the primary contact, but can also involve neighbors, family members, or a professional key-holding service, particularly for commercial properties.
Costs
The typical annual cost for a key-holder response alarm ranges from £250 to £350. This may increase if the service includes an annual maintenance contract.
Police response alarms
What is a Police Response Alarm?
A police response alarm is a type of monitored intruder alarm system designed to notify the police in the event of an alarm activation. It uses an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) to facilitate this communication, much like key-holder response systems, but with the critical addition of involving law enforcement
Who Needs Police Response Alarms?
These systems are often mandated by contents insurance companies for properties that house high-value items. Suitable environments include banks, jeweler stores, museums, and residential properties with valuable contents. Installation and monitoring must be handled by a UKAS accredited electronic security systems company adhering to EN 50131 standards.
Operational Mechanics
Police response alarms function similarly to key-holder alarms in that both are connected to an ARC. The distinction lies in the protocol followed after an alarm is triggered:
The ARC receives the initial alarm signal and contacts the property's key-holders. A police response is initiated only after a second, confirming alarm signal indicates actual movement within the property, signifying a true intrusion (this is known as a "confirmed alarm activation").
The property must have a Unique Reference Number (URN) which the ARC uses to inform the local police, detailing the exact location and specifics of the property under threat.
Maintenance Requirements
Properties with police response systems must maintain an annual contract that includes at least two system inspections per year. One of these inspections can sometimes be performed remotely using advanced technology.
Police Response Levels
Understanding the levels of police response is crucial for managing expectations:
- Level 1 (Immediate Response):
The property will receive immediate police attention upon alarm activation. - Level 2 (Conditional Response):
Implemented only in Scotland, this level applies if a system causes more than two false alarms within a year. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, a system causing three false alarms is immediately downgraded to Level 3. - Level 3 (No Response Without Verification):
No police response will be provided unless a crime is visually confirmed. Systems can be reinstated to Level 1 after a three-month period without false alarms.
Costs Involved
Application for a URN: The fee is typically £45.66 plus VAT, processed over about ten working days.
Annual Costs: Generally, police response monitoring costs between £250 and £350 per year, potentially higher if an annual maintenance contract is included.
Applying for a URN
The alarm installation company usually handles the application for a URN on behalf of the property owner. This process is critical for enabling police response and must be done through an alarm company associated with governing bodies like NSI or SSAIB, both of which are UKAS accredited.
Personal Response Alarm (Self-monitoring)
What is it?
A personal response alarm, often referred to as a self-monitored alarm, directly notifies the system owner and optionally other designated contacts when it has been activated. This type of alarm system operates independently, without the need for a traditional Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC).
How It Works
Self-monitoring employs various technologies that allow the alarm system to communicate directly with the owner through different means:
Technology and Connectivity:
IP and Mobile Networks: Self-monitoring systems typically use your home broadband (IP) or 3G/4G mobile networks to send alerts. Some systems combine both for redundancy and enhanced reliability.
GSM Dialler: An older yet still effective technology, GSM diallers can send SMS alerts and are compatible with most grade 2 alarm panels.
App Notifications:
Modern alarm systems may include app-based notifications that alert you on your smartphone whenever your alarm is activated. These systems require compatible hardware and may necessitate upgrading older systems with a new panel or PCB to integrate app functionality.
Smart PIR Motion Sensors: Advanced smart alarm setups include PIR motion sensors equipped with cameras. These sensors capture a sequence of photos when triggered, sending these images along with an alert to your smartphone app. This feature allows you to visually verify what triggered the alarm.
A smart PIR motion sensor is similar to a standard PIR motion sensor but has an in-built camera in which takes a sequence of photographs ONLY when the alarm is set and has been triggered. These JPEG images are then sent to you, along with the push notification via the smart phone app, so you not only receive an alert that your alarm has activated but you also see exactly what's caused that activation.
Pros of Personal Response Alarms:
- Cost-Effective: Typically cheaper than systems monitored by an ARC.
- Faster Response: Direct notifications can sometimes be quicker than waiting for an ARC to respond.
- Enhanced Information: App notifications, especially from systems with visual verification capabilities, provide detailed insights into what caused the alarm activation.
Cons of Personal Response Alarms:
- Dependence on Connectivity: Both app notifications and SMS alerts rely on strong mobile or broadband connectivity. In areas with poor coverage, the reliability of receiving notifications may be compromised
- Potential to Miss Alerts: Unlike a phone call from an ARC, there's a higher chance of overlooking a notification or SMS, especially if your mobile device is set to silent, or you are in an area with poor signal reception.
Who Should Consider a Personal Response Alarm?
Self-monitored systems are ideal for:
Individuals who prefer direct control and monitoring of their security system without the ongoing costs associated with an ARC.
Properties in urban areas with reliable internet and mobile coverage, ensuring consistent performance of the alarm’s communication features.
Homeowners looking for a modern security solution that integrates with smart home technologies.