How do monitored alarm systems work?
As mentioned above, monitored alarm systems use what is called signalling to communicate via a pathway to the manned Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC). There are two main types of signalling that are used within alarm systems.
Single Path Signalling
Uses one path to dial out activation alerts to the ARC using one of the following paths:
Radio – using the 4G mobile network (WorldSIM – Vodafone, EE & O2 network coverage)
LAN – using your current broadband router.
The main drawback is that there is only one path, so no backup is available should the path fail or is tampered with.
Dual Path Signalling
Two lines of signalling are better than one! If there happens to be an issue with the primary line then this type of monitoring will automatically utilise the backup mobile network to alert the ARC of activation. The main benefit of this system is self-explanatory, when it comes to protecting your property, having a backup is always recommended.
For all of our monitoring solutions, we install CSL DualCom products exclusively. They are the original inventors of integrated Dual Path Signalling back in 1996 and have pioneered the move from wired systems to wireless radio technology in the electronic security industry.
Will the Fire & Police attend?
In order for the local Police or Fire Brigade to attend the premises in the event of a confirmed alarm, the site must be registered and have a current URN number registered to the monitoring account. There are additional costs involved with this type of monitoring as we have to apply for a Unique Reference Number (URN) from the police on your behalf. This is dependent on the System meeting the current regulations and it being professionally maintained.
Unmonitored Intruder Alarm Systems which are activated will not receive an automatic police response. If you’re at work or on holiday and a neighbour calls the police because your alarm is sounding, then there will need a be a secondary witness to confirm intrusion before police dispatch.
What are the Benefits of Monitoring?
Elecsec has a wide range of monitoring services which means that signals sent to the ARC from your system will be dealt with in the appropriate manner, whether it’s a Fire, Break-in, Activation of a Panic button or just reporting that your system has not been set.
Monitored customers can relax knowing that their alarms will not be ignored when you are not there, and if necessary, the emergency services will be contacted on your behalf.
Having live Monitoring also allows us to login remotely to the communicator to help diagnose problems or advise on what type of fault may have triggered the alarm.
In respect to fire alarms, having them monitored helps to lower the risk of a fire devastating and taking hold of the entire building, losing valuable stock and assets.
What happens when a Fire or Intruder Signal is sent to the A.R.C?
Intruder Alarms
If your Intruder Alarm activates whilst armed (set), the ARC will look at the type of activation before following the appropriate action on the protocol based on the site account. If the signal is reporting a single activation (Just one detector has been triggered), they will contact the nominated keyholders. However, if the signal is a ‘Confirmed activation’ (multiple detectors or zones have been triggered) the ARC knows that there is somebody on the site and if the site has a valid URN number, they will despatch the Police to site immediately and then notify the nominated keyholders.
Fire Alarms
If your Fire Alarm activates during your normal opening hours, the ARC will firstly contact the site. If no answer can be gained, they will then call the nominated keyholders for confirmation that the building is being evacuated and if the fire brigade is required for immediate despatch.
However, if the site is listed as a “Sleeping Risk”, premises where it is deemed a higher risk to loss of life, the Brigade will be despatched immediately upon receipt of the signal and nominated keyholders will also be notified.
We can provide a free site survey of your property, and advise you on the most suitable fire prevention and detection system that is right for you.
- Specialist Fire Alarm system designed to suit your precise needs complying with full British Standard certification and FIA accreditation;
- Conventional systems for residential premises through to large, networked multi-panel intelligent systems for large buildings and complexes;
- Installers of EMS Wireless Fire Alarm systems and VESDA Fire Detection systems;
- 24hr Alarm response, engineer support, and full system maintenance service;
- Full range of Fire Detection products, accessories, and equipment.
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