HARDWARE & SECURITY
Industry associations come together to highlight benefits of compliant security systems
» SECURITY SYSTEMS ARE ONE OF the many essential tools in the fight against crime , and in particular burglary , theft and robbery . Academic research shows professionally installed alarm systems provide a greater deterrent and properties fitted out with them are less likely to be targeted by criminals , who know they may well be monitored . Burglars want easy pickings and avoid properties with effective security .
However , when investing in a security system , either for a home or business , what should you be looking for ? How do you know you are choosing the right system ?
Police Crime Prevention Initiatives , have put together advice to assist with choosing a suitable system , stressing the importance of using a reputable alarm company which has been approved by an Independent Inspectorate Body .
The two main types of security systems are audible alarm systems and monitored alarm systems . They operate differently and are treated differently by the police .
Audible alarm systems sound a loud siren or bell , designed to scare a burglar and alert neighbours and passers-by at the scene to call the police to report a crime in progress and seek a police response .
In contrast monitored alarm systems are just that – monitored 24 / 7 by an approved commercial ‘ Alarm Receiving Centre ’ or ARC . When an alarm is triggered the ARC immediately checks the signal to verify it is a genuine alarm , alerts a keyholder and , if necessary , the police .
A key point to note is the police will only attend an alarm signal from a monitored alarm as long as the system complies with the National Police Chiefs ’ Council ( NPCC ) Security Systems Policy , which details how the system is installed , monitored and maintained . It also requires security companies providing this service to be approved by an Independent Inspectorate Body and registered with the local police force .
The two Inspectorate Bodies are the NSI ( National Security Inspectorate - www . nsi . org . uk ) and the SSAIB ( Security Systems & Alarm Inspection Board - www . ssaib . org ). Both Inspectorates have search functions on their websites to assist in checking out if a security company installing alarms is genuinely approved .
Ken Meanwell , Compliance Manager , Police Crime Prevention Initiatives , advises : “ Compliant security systems and reputable installation companies and ARCs are essential to ensure that you will get the appropriate response to an alarm activation . If the security system is not compliant there will not be an immediate police response , something which could be vital if someone is in immediate danger or property is being stolen .
“ It is never advisable to deal with cold callers or telesales enquiries , and you should always avoid doing doorstep or telephone business . Whilst traders who call at your door can be honest and genuine , some are not and can be extremely persuasive . Examples of bad practices associated with cold-calling and door-step selling include pressure selling , waiving your rights to a cooling
off period , unclear contracts , over-priced security systems and unduly raising the fear of crime .
“ The BSIA ( British Security Industry Association - https :// www . bsia . co . uk /) have some top tips on their website around things you should know and ask an alarm provider when updating your security system .
“ Having a security system , certified by one of the accredited independent Inspectorate Bodies will ensure you have a reliable and well maintained system that meets relevant British and European standards and which could result in lower insurance premiums ”.
BSIA ’ s Director of Technical Services , Dave Wilkinson , said : “ As the voice of the professional security industry , we recognise the added value our member companies bring to compliant security systems . In such challenging times , it has never been more important for consumers to rely on professional companies to deliver high quality security systems and services . Working in partnership with the National Police Chiefs ’ Council and other representative industry bodies provides peace of mind and quality assurance to the public and provides a true differentiator between compliant and non-compliant security systems .”
NSI Chief Executive Richard Jenkins commented : “ In responding to alarms , speed is of the essence – it can be a matter of life and death . The police recognise approved alarms and hold details on file , so that when an approved monitored alarm is triggered they are able to react and attend the scene significantly more quickly .
44
MAR / APR 2021
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