You should have security alarm systems fitted on your house and business. An alarm deters thieves and gets them to leave without exploring the rest of the property.
There are two types of alarm systems:
Remote signalling alarms (Type A alarms):The alarm automatically informs a monitoring station who notify the police.
- You can give a password to stop a false alarm.
- Always enquire about any additional annual charge for the monitoring service.
- We will only attend alarms installed by companies approved by the two main regulatory bodies: National Security Inspectorate (NSI) and the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB)
Audible only alarms (Type B alarms): If a thief sets off the alarm – or you press a personal attack button – the alarm instantly rings.
- This system then relies on someone hearing the noise and calling the police.
- Due to the number of false alarms, there needs to be additional information that a burglary is taking place to get police attendance. This could be the sound of breaking glass, seeing a suspicious person or an unusual light. We do not rely just on the alarm system itself.
Which alarm company?
Most people choose an alarm company recognised by their insurance company. You should also check the NSI and SSAIB websites before making a decision. Make sure you ask the following questions:
- Is alarm installation a requirement of my insurance company? Is the company acceptable to my insurer?
- Before disclosing personal security details: have I checked the address and credentials of the company? Have I seen proof of identity from their representative?
- Is the company approved by an independent inspector? By which organisation?
- Have I got written quotes from at least three alarm installers?
- Do the quotes include the terms of maintenance and monitoring contracts?
- Can the company provide me with a list of police rules for occupiers of premises with alarms?
- Remote signalling alarms: can the company provide written confirmation that the alarm and the company are acceptable to the local police for the transmission of alarm messages from new installations?
- Does the quote specify that the installation will be to British Standards BS 4737 or BS 7042 (high security systems) standard?
- Do they operate a 24-hour call-out service and emergency attendance within four hours?
Personal attack buttons
Personal attack buttons in the home shouldn’t be used as an easy way to summon police unless you are unable to get to the phone without putting yourself in danger.
Check your contract
Check whether you own or rent the system. Also see how much the system costs to maintain.
False alarms
False calls will result in the alarm response being withdrawn by the police. This may affect your insurance cover. False calls can cause a loss of credibility with neighbours who may stop taking any notice of your alarm.
Useful links
The National Security Inspectorate is an approvals and certification body that inspects companies providing home security, business security and fire safety services. They publish a list or approved alarm fitters.
SAAIB make sure that the interests of the consumer are protected. They publish a list or approved alarm fitters. You can also register complaints if you’re not happy about SSAIB registered alarm fitters.
http://www.nsi.org.uk/?q=approved_company_finder – if you type your postcode in you will be given a list of approved alarm companies within a 25 mile radius.
TVP RECOMMENDATIONS – BANBURY AREA LOCAL BURGLAR ALARM COMPANIES (APPROVED)
Services Offered: Design, Installation and Maintenance of Electronic Security Systems including Access Control, CCTV Systems and Intruder Alarms:
Bee Tee Alarms – Address: 50 The Green, South Bar, Banbury, OX16 9AB Telephone: 01295 265809 Email: mark.collins@beeteealarmsltd.co.uk Website: www.beeteealarmsltd.co.uk
Security Systems – Address: 34 Wards Crescent, Bodicote, Banbury, OX15 4DY Telephone: 01295 263825 Email: security-systems@kjbss.co.uk
Broadsword Security Services – Address: 10B Astley House, Cromwell Business Park, Banbury Road, Chipping Norton, OX7 5SR Telephone: 01608 641670 Email: enquiries@broadswordsecurity.com Website: www.broadswordsecurity.com
