What Is a Central Station Alarm?
A central station alarm system is one that feeds directly into a central monitoring station. If a sensor on the central station alarm system is triggered, such as fire, smoke, C02, or burglar, the system does much more than just set off a loud siren or send an email alert telling you to log into an app. Rather, a central station alarm system sends an immediate notification to a central monitoring station where around-the-clock, specially trained staff make decisions on how to respond to the situation.
Why Consider a Central Station Alarm System?
A central station alarm is extremely beneficial for alarms that are triggered when you are not in your home or office or may have become incapacitated and can’t respond to the emergency yourself. You have peace of mind knowing that a specially trained representative will notify the proper authorities. A central station alarm system also allows you to use panic signals, ambush codes, and duress codes to help keep you and others safe.
How Does a Central Station Alarm System Work?
A central station alarm system transmits signals to the central monitoring station in several ways. Plain old telephone service (POTS) lines are quickly fading out of fashion as the method for transmission and cellular, internet, and radio network technologies are taking over in popularity.
When the central monitoring station receives the alarm signal, there usually is a verification process that occurs. The verification process may include the monitoring company calling a specified individual to verify the alarm wasn’t triggered accidentally or, if the company has CCTV cameras, the station usually has permission to access them to expedite its response time.
The central monitoring station will then alert the proper authorities to respond or reset the system if a false alarm occurred.
When is a Central Station Alarm Required?
Building codes require central station alarm systems for fire alarm and sprinkler systems in most commercial buildings. There are some exceptions if your building has 24-hour on-site security staff. However, this is extremely costly for most businesses. While they may choose to have on-site security during business hours, it is more cost-effective to have a central station alarm system for off-hours.
The central monitoring station itself must comply with the governing Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards, as well as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and standards. These standards include items such as 24/7 operations, trained staff, regulations for backup power, record keeping, reporting, and testing and maintenance.
FSS Technologies can provide central station alarm solutions like fire alarms, burglar alarms, and security cameras at an affordable price. Contact us today for your free estimate.
Explore Our Other Blogs
What are BDA Systems?
As technology continues to evolve and building codes grow more stringent, bi-directional amplifier (BDA) systems are no longer just a luxury—they’re a critical component in ensuring your building’s safety and compliance. Whether you’re a property owner, facilities manager, or contractor, understanding BDA systems is essential, and choosing the right partner for installation makes all the difference….
Theft Prevention Tips for Businesses
Theft, unfortunately, can take a wide variety of forms. Theft in a retail business might include the loss of physical property from shoplifting or can come in the form of embezzlement. In the retail sector, a 2019 National Retail Security Survey reported the average cost per shoplifting incident is $546.67. According to the 2018 Hiscox…
Can You Get in Trouble for Breaking into Your Own House?
Is it legal for you to break into your own house? Yes, you can get in trouble for breaking into your own house—at least temporarily. If the police are notified that there is a break-in at a residence, either by a neighbor or a security alarm, they can detain or arrest you until you can…
Code Requirements for Commercial Fire Alarms
The International Code Council The purpose of commercial property is for business or retail use, and the International Code Council (ICC) is a nonprofit association that develops model codes and standards used worldwide to construct safe, sustainable, affordable, and resilient structures. The fire codes vary depending on the type of business you run. For example,…
The Ins and Outs of Installing a Security System as a Landlord
Buying a home is one of the most significant investments a person can make. You upgrade your home in many ways—a fresh coat of paint, a landscaping project, or possibly adding a security system. If you go a step further and invest in rental properties, you have to do all those things and more to…
Cost of Home Security Systems
Getting a security system for your home is a wise investment. While the obvious benefit is protection for your family, home, and belongings, it’s hard to put a price on the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you and your family will have professional help in case of an emergency. Still, you must…
5 Reasons Why You Need a Home Security System
A home security system protects your home and the ones you love. While there are many reasons you may need to invest in a home security system, we have highlighted some key ones: 1. Peace of Mind Have you heard a noise in the night and ever wondered what made the noise? A home security…
Motion Detector Installation Basics
Motion detection devices are a crucial component of any security system, commercial or residential. They allow owners to cover a relatively large amount of space with a small number of devices. Motion detectors also are known to detect activity that window sensors might miss. When it comes time to install motion detection devices, remember these…
How to Make Your First-Floor Apartment Safe
In business, getting in on the ground floor is great. You are part of a plan early on to gain an advantage. When it comes to apartment-dwelling, however, getting in on the ground floor is only an advantage in some respects. It’s easier for you and your pets to get in an out, it’s easier…
How is a Fire Sprinkler System Designed?
While fire sprinkler systems seem the same at first glance, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for all commercial properties. Depending on a structure’s needs and circumstances, fire sprinkler systems use different combinations of various components. The ideal design should accommodate the unique features of each industry, layout, and operation. Whether you’re looking to install a fire…