Securing premises can be a complex and difficult operation, but achievable on any premises.

Why electronic security?
The first line of defence for all homes is of course walls, fences, Etc. and entry points like windows and doors must have physical security in the form of locks and bolts; perhaps even bars, grilles or shutters. ‘But this physical security can be breached and locks and bolts, while making intrusion more difficult, in reality just change the weakest point.

All premises must have a weakest point and that is why electronic security is so important and why electronic security has come about. The invention of the first burglar alarm is credited to Edwin Holmes more than 150 years ago. Since that time, the equipment has improved fantastically and professionally installed systems are now so advanced as to be almost impossibly to defeat without the intruder triggering the devices and alerting someone to his activities.

The survey.
Electronic security takes many forms, from intruder detection and access control to closed circuit television (CCTV). Deciding what equipment needs to be installed to any home is the first task, and it is important that a risk analysis and site survey is carried out by a suitably skilled surveyor. This will ensure that the correct level of security is achieved without unnecessary expense. Installing too little detection will leave serious gaps that can be exploited by a cunning intruder, while fitting more equipment than is needed is financially wasteful and will probably lead to an unacceptable risk of false activations.

Which type of equipment.
For most premises, the first line of electronic security will always be an intruder alarm. Even if other types of electronic security is decided to be more suitable for specific reasons, intruder detection is almost always needed to protect the other equipment from being stolen or attacked.

Intruder alarms.
Intruder alarms themselves fall into 2 categories; audible or monitored.
Audible alarms just sound at the premises and are only suitable for homes within a residential area.
Monitored alarms provide a considerably higher level of security because, if the monitoring and response arrangements have been organised correctly, the alarm activation will result in key holders and/or the Police being swiftly alerted.

Access control
Simple access control is becoming increasingly popular in domestic premises, either because the residents have mobility issues or they have specific needs for a higher level of security. Audible systems allow the resident to have a conversation with any caller before deciding to release the electronic door lock. Video systems enable the residents to see the caller and establish their identity before permitting access.

CCTV.
We are all familiar with CCTV. Unfortunately, we live in a time of high crime incidents and many people find that CCTV is vital to ensure the safety and security of residents, as well as protecting property and personal possessions. Modern equipment is extremely sophisticated. Digital video multiplex recorders can maintain images for several weeks and the range of cameras now available enables good quality images to be captured in almost any situation.

Fire detection.
For several years the majority of UK homes have relied on cheap, stand alone battery operated smoke alarms. Unfortunately they are very unreliable and not fail safe. For this reason, regulations do not permit them to be used in any new homes, and all home owners are strongly advised to have modern powered detectors fitted. Many alarm companies offer fire detectors as part of an intruder alarm installation.

Maintenance.
Whatever electronic security or fire systems you have fitted, maintenance is extremely important to ensure your continued safety and security, as well as ensuring that your system doesn’t cause a nuisance to your neighbours. Additionally, a current maintenance contract may be a requirement of your insurers, and current noise regulations must be adhered to.

Approved installers.
If you need to have electronic security installed, or if you already have equipment that needs attention, you are recommended to use a company approved by either SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board) or NSI (National Security Inspectorate). Approved companies are regularly inspected to ensure that they operate to exacting standards.

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