Alarm Systems

There are a variety of alarm systems on the market and the best advice is to discuss with your Crime Prevention Officer which is the most appropriate one for your needs.

A highly visible dummy burglar alarm box is often a sufficient deterrent to a burglar, as long as it looks professionally installed.

There are a number of DIY Burglar Alarms on the market, which can be fitted by a competent DIY enthusiast. The disadvantage of these is that the Police will not respond to them if activated as they are 'Bells Only' and rely on the alertness of neighbours.

A professionally hard-wired installed system for the home can vary in price for a 'Bells Only' system from £400 - £900 depending on the size of the house and complexity of its layout. Most companies will inspect the property at no cost to the householder and advise on the most appropriate alarm. Ensure that the system meets British Standard 4737.

An alarm with a continuous monitoring system is the most effective. The alarm will be connected to a central 'Alarm Receiving' monitoring control office that will call the key holders and police, if necessary, if the alarm is activated.

For an alarm to be monitored, it has to be installed by a company approved by NACOSS (The National Approval Council for Security Systems) or another of the approval authorities, to receive a URN (Unique Registered Number from the Police) for the Police to respond to the call.

Class VI - Wire Free (monitored) and installed by an approved installer, alarm systems are now available from as little as £299 - Hard wired (monitored) systems normally start from about £600. Monitoring, service and call out charges can run from as little as 99p/day.

You will be required to have three key-holders that live within 20 minutes drive of your property. Make sure you keep the three names and addresses of the key-holders up to date.

Some insurance companies will offer discounts if installations have been carried out by registered installers. However, a word of warning, if a burglary is committed and the burglar alarm has not been switched on, then the Insurance Company may refuse to pay out on the goods stolen.