Alarm systems monitor various conditions and provide an alert when potential problems occur. Today’s modern alarm systems can address any conceivable situation or concern to protect people and property.
When people think of alarms, their first thought often goes to security, such as a burglar alarm or panic attack alarm. These allow monitoring stations to quickly dispatch police should people face a personal security or safety issue. However, security alarms are just the beginning.
The second most common type of alarm is a fire alarm. Fire alarms can detect both heat and smoke, automatically sending an alert in the event of their presence. Early detection and a fast response from fire department crews and emergency personnel can mean the difference between minor damage and total devastation. Added to the threat that a fire can cause to property, is the risk it poses to human health and even life.
In addition to security and fire alarms, other considerations include:
Other related types of alarms include video surveillance and voice monitoring. Two-way voice solutions allow a remote monitoring facility to talk with staff on site. In addition, a listen-only mode allows a remote monitoring facility to gain valuable information if they receive a holdup alarm or panic signal. This allows them to pass on essential insight to police that will better inform their response to the situation.
Some of the more unusual alarm functions include elevator, security guard check-in, and open/close supervision. Security guard check-in tracks the status of security personnel to ensure their safety and verify compliance, as they make their rounds.
Open/close supervision records when people enter the building and turn off the security system, as well as when they leave the building and activate it. This helps assure the safety of employees, as well as verifying when they open and close a business.