Last Updated on April 18, 2025
Basic security guard training Unit 4 Lesson (D)
A security alarm system is critical in detecting emergencies and notifying authorities or responsible personnel. From ancient methods like bells or barking dogs to modern digital systems, alarms have evolved to improve alarm response security in workplaces and residences.
Today’s systems monitor:
- Unauthorized entry
- Fire or smoke
- Equipment failure
- Hazardous conditions (toxic gas, temperature changes, etc.)
Types of Alarm Systems
- Intrusion Alarms – Triggered by unauthorized access.
- Fire Alarms – Detect fire, smoke, and heat levels.
- Distress Alarms – Alert emergencies such as personal threats or medical conditions.
Main Components of a Security Alarm System
A modern security alarm system includes:
- Sensor: Detects changes (motion, smoke, pressure).
- Transmitter: Sends the signal to the control panel.
- Annunciator (Control Panel): Processes the signal and triggers a suitable alarm response.
Types of Alarm Monitoring
- Local Alarm: Audible alarm alerts people nearby.
- Central Station Monitoring: Alerts go to a centralized control room.
- Remote Monitoring: Sends alerts directly to responsible individuals.
Alarm Response Procedures for Security Guards
Alarm response security is critical for any security guard because Proper alarm response procedures can prevent damage, reduce risk, and ensure safety.
Best Alarm Response Practices:
- Always treat all alarms as genuine.
- Have a response plan ready and know the site layout.
- If possible, observe the situation before approaching.
- Respond with at least one other security personnel.
- If a weapon is visible, do not engage directly—report from a safe distance.
- Use your communication device to update the control room or authorities.
Understanding False Alarms
Even though many alarms are false, guards must apply the same alarm response procedures as for a real incident.
Types of False Alarms:
- Technical Issues – Faulty installation or malfunction.
- Accidental Triggers – By wind, pets, or operator error.
- Power Surges – May reset the system and trigger an alert.
Alarm Activation Statistics:
- Genuine intrusion: ~0.01%
- Malfunction: ~19.69%
- Human error: ~45.80%
- Unknown causes: ~34.50%
Distress Alarms
A distress alarm signals trouble or an emergency for people or equipment.
Examples:
- Panic buttons in banks or offices
- Medical alarms in hospitals
- Equipment alarms in industrial settings
These systems improve alarm response security by allowing quicker action in critical situations.
Control Room and Its Functions
The control room is the command center for handling all alarms.
Control Room Tasks:
- Monitor CCTV systems
- Record and review surveillance footage
- Announce emergency instructions
- Receive alerts from fire and intrusion systems
- Coordinate with external emergency services
The control room ensures a coordinated and professional alarm response during emergencies.
Maintaining Professional Alarm Response Security
Security personnel must maintain a clean, organized control room and ensure only authorized access. The professionalism of the space reflects the organization’s alarm response procedures and readiness.
Communication Protocols During Alarm Response
Effective communication is essential for a timely and coordinated alarm response.
Essential Protocols:
- Always report to the control room first.
- Use two-way radios or an intercom to update status.
- Speak in clear, short, professional codes (e.g., “All Clear,” “Code Red Intrusion at Zone 3”).
- Use the phonetic alphabet if needed (e.g., “Zone B like Bravo”).
During False Alarms:
- Calmly inform the control room it’s a false alarm.
- Do not reset the system unless authorized.
Personal Safety of Security Guards
Security guards must prioritize their safety during alarm response.
Key Safety Measures:
- Never engage directly with armed suspects.
- Do not enter confined areas alone during an alarm investigation.
- Stay visible and communicate location at all times.
- Wear protective gear when available.
- Use flashlights, batons, or whistles for signaling.
- Retreat and report if danger is imminent.
Summary
- Use a security alarm system to detect threats early.
- Understand key components: sensor, transmitter, and control panel.
- Follow proper alarm response procedures to handle emergencies effectively.
- Distress and intrusion alarms require immediate attention and action.
- The control room plays a central role in coordinating alarm response security.
