Part 1: The Security Systems Policy

UK police forces now provide a routine response to certain types of electronic security systems, such as intruder alarms, CCTV and vehicle tracking systems, only if the system and the alarm receiving centre (ARC) that monitors it complies with a formal set of police rules called the 'Security System Policy' (SSP).

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, forty-four separate forces follow the SSP set out by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO). In Scotland, a further eight forces follow a similar SSP issued by ACPO Scotland (ACPOS).

Collectively we refer to these as the ACPO(S) SSP.

The national versions of the ACPO(S) SSP are made freely available to their member police forces. Each adopting force then has the option of making minor changes to certain parts of the policy, these changes being set out in an important document known as Appendix A or C respectively.

A few police forces have introduced significant variations from the ACPO(S) SSP so it is important to check the exact position applying in your police area by contacting your alarm installer or local police headquarters.

To begin with we will look at the main features of the ACPO(S) SSP...