That sudden, piercing sound of a burglar alarm can be startling. Whether you are at home, at work, or away from your property, knowing what happens next is important. Understanding how your alarm system responds helps you stay calm and take the right action when it matters most.
In this guide, we explain exactly what happens when your intruder alarm activates, how different systems respond, and what steps you should take.
How Your Burglar Alarm Responds to a Trigger
When a sensor detects movement, a door opening, or glass breaking, your alarm system springs into action. The exact response depends on the type of system you have installed.
Most modern alarm systems follow a set sequence when triggered. First, the control panel receives a signal from the activated sensor. Then, depending on your settings, a short entry delay may give you time to enter your code. If no code is entered, the alarm fully activates.
Types of Alarm System Responses
Not all burglar alarms work the same way. The type of system you have determines what happens when it goes off.
| Alarm Type | What Happens When Triggered | Who Gets Notified |
|---|---|---|
| Audible Only (Bells-Only) | Loud siren sounds inside and outside the property | Neighbours and passers-by |
| Auto-Dialler | Siren sounds and automatic calls or texts are sent | Pre-set contacts (family, keyholders) |
| Monitored Alarm | Siren sounds and signal sent to monitoring centre | Professional monitoring team and keyholders |
| Smart/App-Connected | Siren sounds and instant notification to your phone | Property owner via smartphone app |
Each type offers different levels of protection. A professionally monitored burglar alarm system provides the highest level of response, as trained operators can assess the situation and contact the police if needed.
Will the Police Respond to Your Alarm?
This is one of the most common questions homeowners and business owners ask. The answer depends on your alarm type and how it is set up.
According to the Ask the Police UK guidance, police will only attend alarms that comply with the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) Security Systems Policy. Most basic audible-only domestic alarms do not meet this requirement.
However, police will respond to any alarm if there is evidence of criminal activity. If you or a neighbour sees something suspicious alongside the alarm activation, you should call 999 immediately.
For guaranteed police response, you need a monitored alarm system installed by an NSI or SSAIB accredited company. These systems connect to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) that has a direct line to police control rooms.
What to Do If Your Alarm Goes Off
Knowing what to do when your alarm activates can make all the difference. Here is a simple guide:
If you are at home: Stay calm. Check your alarm panel to see which zone was triggered. If you feel safe, carefully check that area. If you suspect an intruder is present, leave the property and call 999.
If you are away: If you receive a notification from a monitored system or app, contact your monitoring centre or designated keyholder. Do not rush home alone if you believe someone has broken in.
If it is a false alarm: Enter your code to silence the alarm. Check what caused the trigger, such as a pet, an open window, or a low battery. Make a note of the cause to prevent future false activations.
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Common Causes of False Alarms
False alarms are frustrating, but understanding why they happen helps you avoid them. Common causes include pets moving through sensor zones, poorly positioned detectors, loose doors or windows, low batteries in sensors, and even spiders building webs over motion detectors.
Regular maintenance of your home alarm system reduces false activations. Having your system serviced annually ensures all components work correctly and sensors are properly calibrated.
Why Monitored Alarms Offer Better Protection
While any alarm provides some level of deterrent, monitored systems offer clear advantages. When your alarm triggers, trained professionals assess the situation in real time. They can contact you to verify whether it is a genuine emergency or a false alarm.
If they cannot reach you and the situation appears genuine, they can dispatch the police directly. This removes the guesswork and ensures a faster response when you need it most.
Monitored alarms also provide peace of mind when you are away on holiday or during the night. Knowing that someone is always watching over your property helps you sleep easier.
Keeping Your Alarm System in Top Condition
A well-maintained alarm system is a reliable alarm system. Here are some simple steps to keep your system working properly:
Replace batteries in wireless sensors before they run flat. Test your system regularly using the test mode. Keep sensors clean and free from dust or cobwebs. Update your keyholder details if contact information changes. Schedule annual servicing with a professional installer.
Taking these steps ensures your system responds correctly when you need it and reduces the chance of false alarms.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what happens when your burglar alarm goes off helps you respond quickly and appropriately. Whether you have a simple audible system or a fully monitored setup, knowing your system’s capabilities is essential.
If you are unsure whether your current alarm offers the protection you need, it may be time to consider an upgrade. A professionally installed and monitored system provides the best chance of deterring intruders and ensuring a rapid response if the worst happens.
Protecting your home or business starts with the right security measures. Take time to understand your system, maintain it properly, and you will have peace of mind knowing your property is protected.
