Distribution company Gardiner Security and BT redcare report on the progress being made in tackling false alarms, and launch a campaign to convert ‘bells-only’ systems to monitored ones.
While in general there has been a good response from installers to the introduction of BS 5839-1:2002 and the Chief Fire Officers’ Association (CFOA) policy on false alarms, it seems there is still much work to be done, according to a leading fire equipment distributor.
Gardiner Security says many of its installer customers have responded to the call, converting from bell systems to monitored systems. But the cost of false alarms to industry, commerce and the fire & rescue service remains huge – in excess of GB pound 1.bn according to the latest estimate.
“There’s good cause to be pleased with some of the industry’s response, but there’s still a long way to go to address the issue,” says the company’s fire product manager, Peter Holmes. “As we keep stressing to everyone we deal with, including all our training delegates, a monitored system is a managed system. Anything less is potentially as much of a problem as it is supposed to be a solution.”
Following the launch of Gardiner’s joint venture with BT, companies are asked to name 50 customers from their database who have bells-only fire alarm and detection systems installed at their premises. BT will target these companies on behalf of installers, and aim to convert them to a monitored system by introducing them to firestu.com – a three-pin stu housed in a BT redcare-approved power supply.
According to the company, customers get a system which works for them, installers can receive recurring revenue from monitoring contracts, and the authorities know who is following their policy. For more information contact Gardiner Security’s fire division on 01706 510515, or email: [email protected]
