Alarms

Consider getting a burglar alarm. A good intruder alarm can be a valuable addition to the security of your home.

Good alarm companies will belong to a watchdog group, either the SSAIB or the NSI. This is essential if you want to ensure police are informed when your alarm goes off.

Normally these are the systems that your insurance provider will offer you a discount on your policy for.

There are two main types of intruder alarm:

Police response alarms (Type A)

These are remotely monitored security systems which the police will respond to. These are not recommended for the majority of domestic properties due to the cost and complexity. They are more appropriate for large or isolated properties containing high value items.

Non-police response alarms (Type B)

These are audible-only alarms and are more suitable for domestic properties. We recommend Type B alarms that meet the current BSEN 50131-1 standard.

Considerations:

• We do not recommend the use of "dummy alarms". Experienced burglars can spot "dummy" or unserviced alarms.
• An alarm will not be enough to deter burglars if you do not secure other areas of your property. See our advice on door and window security, garden security and shed and outbuilding security.
• If you have good neighbours or friends and relatives nearby, upgrade the alarm to include an auto-dialler. You can then have their numbers recorded to it. 
• If you have pets, be sure to install internal sensors correctly.
• We never recommend that you attempt to install an alarm system yourself. Simple DIY systems are not likely to meet the requirements of your house insurance. They may even cause more false activations.

Click here for information about what to do if an alarm is going off in your area.

If you have been a victim of a burglary, call 101 to report it.

If a burglary is in progress and you are in immediate danger, call 999.