Monitored vs. unmonitored alarm systems

Monitored and unmonitored alarm systems are two different types of security systems used to protect homes and businesses from intruders, fires, and other emergencies.

 They differ in how they alert authorities or the property owner when an alarm is triggered and provide distinct levels of security and peace of mind. 

Monitored Alarm System:

A monitored alarm system is connected to a central monitoring station operated by a professional security company.

When the alarm is triggered (e.g., due to a break-in, fire, or a medical emergency), signals are sent to the monitoring station.

Trained personnel at the monitoring station receive and assess these signals, and they can quickly verify if an emergency is occurring.

If the alarm is verified as genuine, the monitoring station can contact the appropriate authorities (police, fire department, medical responders) and alert the property owner or designated contacts.

Monitored systems typically require a monthly service fee.

Advantages of Monitored Alarm Systems:

Professional response in the event of an emergency.

Increased peace of mind, knowing that someone is monitoring your property 24/7.

Timely emergency response, potentially reducing the risk of property damage or personal harm.

Unmonitored Alarm System (Local Alarm):

An unmonitored alarm system, also known as a local alarm, includes alarms that sound loudly on the property but do not connect to a central monitoring station.

When the alarm is triggered, it relies on the loud siren or other audible/visible alerts to deter intruders and potentially alert nearby neighbors.

In most cases, these systems do not automatically notify the authorities or emergency services.

Unmonitored alarm systems are generally self-monitored, meaning it is the responsibility of the property owner to respond to the alarm.

Advantages of Unmonitored Alarm Systems:

Lower cost, as they do not require monthly monitoring fees.

Immediate local audible alerts may deter potential intruders.

Property owners maintain control and responsibility for their security.

Choosing between monitored and unmonitored alarm systems depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. Monitored systems provide a higher level of security and peace of mind, especially when you are away from your property. Unmonitored systems may be more cost-effective and can serve as a deterrent, but they rely on the property owner or neighbors to respond to alarms. Some people also opt for self-monitored systems, where they receive alerts on their mobile devices and can decide whether to contact authorities.

A monitored alarm system is connected to a central monitoring station operated by a professional security company.

Yes, that's correct. A monitored alarm system is indeed connected to a central monitoring station operated by a professional security company. This monitoring station is staffed by trained personnel who are responsible for receiving and assessing signals from the alarm system. When the alarm is triggered, the monitoring station can quickly respond by verifying the alarm's authenticity and taking appropriate action, such as contacting the relevant authorities (e.g., police, fire department, medical responders) and alerting the property owner or designated contacts. This professional monitoring service enhances the security of the property and ensures a swift and coordinated response to emergencies.

Trained personnel at the monitoring station receive and assess these signals, and they can quickly verify if an emergency is occurring.

Yes, that's correct. Trained personnel at the monitoring station are responsible for receiving and assessing signals from the alarm system. They have the expertise to quickly verify if an emergency is occurring. When an alarm signal is received, these professionals will follow established protocols to determine whether the alarm is genuine or if it was triggered by a false alarm, technical malfunction, or user error.

Verification typically involves a series of steps, such as:

Contacting the property owner: The monitoring station may attempt to contact the property owner or designated contacts to verify the situation and confirm whether there is an emergency.

Remote monitoring: If the monitoring station has access to video surveillance or other sensors at the property, they can use this information to assess the situation.

Listening for sounds: In some cases, the monitoring station can listen for sounds at the property to determine if an emergency is occurring, such as breaking glass or unusual noises.

Communicating with the authorities: If the alarm is verified as genuine, the monitoring station can contact the appropriate authorities (police, fire department, medical responders) to dispatch them to the location.

The ability of monitoring station personnel to quickly verify alarms and respond accordingly is a key advantage of monitored alarm systems, as it helps ensure a swift and appropriate response to emergencies, potentially reducing the risk of property damage or personal harm.