What type of alarm should I have installed?

Bell/siren

The type of alarm that sets off a bell or siren in the course of a break-in, is the most commonly used. They have a control unit which monitors zones. If a window or door is opened the unit activates the bell or siren.

This type of alarm could deter a thief into leaving before too much damage is done. But they are not the most effective as they rely mostly on noise to put the thief to flight, or the off-chance that someone might call the police.

*It is worth taking note that legislation states an alarm should not continue for more than 15 minutes. Non-compliance with this could see a fine for noise pollution from your local authority.

Monitored systems:

• Police response systems

Some systems are linked to the police through a monitoring station. The system is based on the monitoring station verifying if the alarm has been triggered accidentally. After the checks the police are contacted.

It is worth noting that police response times can vary depending on the availability of officers, and also the policy within the region where you live.  It can at times be at least an hour before there is a response.

• Keyholder response

Like police response this system works though a monitoring station. Once an alarm has been triggered the monitoring station calls your home.

If someone answers the ‘phone they are asked a security question. If the answer to this question is incorrect, the person holding the keys to your property is contacted.

If they feel a robbery is underway they can call 999 - in this instance the response is more likely to be in the region of eight minutes.

How easy is it to use the alarm?

Alarms can be set from a control panel. Just pushing a button activates the alarm. It is deactivated by punching in a pre-set code - usually four-numbers.

Alternatively most systems offer a key fob which will activate and deactivate the system at the press of a button.