Alarms

Thames Valley Police highly recommends using a burglar alarm to make your house more secure. Using a burglar alarm is common sense, and many burglars will avoid breaking into a property with a visible alarm.

If you are thinking about installing a burglar alarm, please:

• Get at least three quotes and specialist advice from reputable companies that supply alarms.
• Make sure that you use companies that are accredited by either: National Security Inspectorate (NSI), Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB), British Security Industry Association (BSIA), or Fire and Security Association (FSA).
• Talk to your home insurance company about the alarm companies that they recommend before you decide which best suits your needs.
• Get professional help to install the alarm. Ask the supplier to explain how to operate the alarm correctly.

We cannot make any specific recommendations about which alarm to use. Please contact your home insurance company for advice – they will have a list of approved companies that they recommend and, by using one of them, they may offer you a reduction on your insurance policy.

Points to remember

Don’t fit an alarm yourself unless you have the electrical knowledge and practical skills to do so. An alarm which is not fitted properly may leave the security of your house vulnerable.

Don’t rely on a dog or other animal to protect your house. Dogs tend to protect people, not property and are often raised as pets, not guard dogs. A burglar alarm offers much better protection.