Alarm Response Procedures

This information is intended to be used as a general guide for alarm related emergency planning. The procedures described are not intended to be considered as complete or applicable in all emergency situations. Consult with your local police and fire departments for additional information.

General guidelines

• When able, in an emergency situation, immediately call the police or fire department, and stay on the telephone with the operator.

• Do not enter into the area where an intruder or a fire may be present.

• Do not disarm the alarm system unless you are sure that it was an accidental activation.

• Attempt to understand the nature of the alarm by viewing any displays, or by pressing the status button on a touchpad. Some systems are equipped with voice siren/speakers that will give audible voice information as to the type of alarm condition (intrusion, fire, or help) and the sensor number(s) involved. This information may help you to determine your best course of action in an emergency situation.

• Try to avoid disturbing a crime scene or any evidence that may used by the police.

• If you suspect that an intruder is attempting to enter your home you may choose to activate the police panic feature of your alarm system. Check your owner's manual or with a A-1 Alarms™ representative for specific instructions.

• This will sound the alarm--and if your system is equipped accordingly, flash lights, and even enunciate help over the siren speaker.

• A-1 alarms will not call the home to verify the nature of a police panic signal, and the operator will dispatch the police with the information that the alarm is a panic type. These are usually given a higher priority of response than general alarm signals.

• If your alarm sounds while you are in the home, do not disarm the system unless you are sure that the situation is not life threatening.

• Attempt to verify the nature of the alarm by looking at the display on the Central Processing Unit, or a display touchpad. Some systems are equipped with voice siren/speakers that will give audible voice information as to the type of alarm condition (intrusion, fire, or help) and the sensor number(s) involved.

• A-1 Alarms operator will attempt to call the home to verify the nature of the alarm before dispatching the authorities. (However, A-1 Alarms will not attempt to call to verify a Police Emergency (panic) Button signal before dispatching the Police Department.) Answer the telephone when the operator calls, and explain what you know about the situation. If there is any doubt as to the nature of the alarm, the operator will dispatch the authorities immediately. Then the operator will be able to assist you in determining the nature of the alarm.

• If you are certain that the event is a false-alarm, disarm your system. By properly disarming your system in a timely manner, you will help to prevent the dispatch of the Police or Fire Departments.

• For additional information about alarm dispatch procedures or other questions, please call the A-1 Alarms Customer Service Department toll-free at 1-888-347-5043.