Part 2: Main features of the ACPO(S) SSP

Two main types of alarm system are described under the Security Systems Policy. These are:

Type A - Those which comply with the SSP rules and as such can apply for a Unique Reference Number (URN). Alarms with a URN are the only ones that qualify for a routine police response to activations.

Such systems must:

> Be designed, installed and maintained by a company subject to inspection by a police recognised alarm inspection body.

> Be installed in accordance with an appropriate British or European Standard.

> Have alarm signals monitored by an 'alarm receiving centre' (ARC) subject to inspection by a police recognised alarm inspection body.

> Have at least two keyholders appointed - these being persons having their own means of transport, being telephone subscribers and who reside within 20 minutes travelling time of the alarmed premises.

Type B - Those that do not comply with SSP rules and thus are not eligible for a URN.

Police response to type B systems is only provided after someone viewing the premises confirms that suspicious activity is underway, and then requests police attendance via the 999 emergency telephone system.

Police Response Levels

Up until now, the ACPO(S) SSP has set out three levels of police response:

> Level 1 - An immediate response.

> Level 2 - Police response is desirable, but attendance may be delayed.

> Level 3 - No police attendance, i.e. police response has been formally withdrawn.

This still applies is Scotland, but from the 1 April 2006 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, ACPO has agreed that the Level 2 response will be abolished.