When an alarm is activated, the system records the incident and triggers the configured notifications. If the alarm is connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC), the signal is transmitted to the Centre, assessed by a trained operator, and the agreed communication and response protocol is followed.
The exact procedure depends on the type of system, the zone that was activated, the services included in the subscriber’s plan, and the agreed response procedure.
What is an Alarm Receiving Centre?
An Alarm Receiving Centre, also known as an ARC, is an organised facility that monitors connected alarm systems 24 hours a day.
When a system sends a signal, operators can identify the type of event and follow the appropriate procedures. A signal may relate to, among other things:
- A breach of a protected zone.
- The opening of a door or window.
- Motion detection.
- Activation of a panic button.
- Power failure.
- Communication failure.
- Low battery level.
- A fire detection signal, where such a system is installed.
Connection to an Alarm Receiving Centre does not replace proper installation and maintenance. It provides an additional layer of organised monitoring and incident management.
What happens step by step?
1. A sensor detects an event
The process begins when a sensor detects a condition that meets the system’s activation criteria. This may involve motion, the opening of a door, glass breakage, or another event, depending on the installed equipment.
2. The alarm control panel identifies the zone
The central control panel receives the information from the sensor and identifies which zone has been activated. For example, it may record activation at the main entrance, in an internal area, or at a perimeter point.
Correct naming and organisation of the zones helps ensure faster understanding of the incident.
3. Local alerts are activated
Depending on the system configuration, an external or internal siren may be activated and a notification may be sent to the user’s mobile phone.
The siren mainly acts as a deterrent and indicates that the system has detected a possible incident.
4. The signal is transmitted to the Alarm Receiving Centre
If the alarm is connected to an ARC, the control panel transmits the relevant signal through the available communication channel.
Transmission may take place via IP, a mobile network, or another compatible technology. The appropriate method is selected according to the needs of the premises and the capabilities of the system.
5. The operator assesses the signal
The operator can view the details of the connected system, the type of signal, and the zone from which it originated.
Not all signals are handled in the same way. A different procedure may apply to an intrusion signal, a panic button activation, a power failure, or a technical fault.
6. The agreed protocol is followed
The Centre applies the instructions agreed with the subscriber. Depending on the incident and the service provided, the following actions may be taken:
- Contacting the customer.
- Informing the persons designated by the customer.
- Carrying out an additional check of the available information.
- Informing the relevant authorities, where required.
- Activating a rapid response service, where this is included in the agreement.
The exact actions are determined by the nature of the signal and the agreed response plan.
7. The incident is recorded
Signals and related actions are recorded in the Centre’s management system. This record helps with incident review, accurate communication, and the evaluation of any repeated activations.
What happens if the alarm is not connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre?
A standalone alarm system can activate a siren and, if properly configured, send a notification to the owner.
However, without a connection to an ARC, there is no professional operator receiving the signal 24/7 and applying a predefined response protocol.
This is particularly important when:
- The owner is unable to answer.
- Their mobile phone is switched off or out of coverage.
- They are travelling or at work.
- The incident occurs during the night.
- Coordination of several actions is required.
What happens in the event of a false alarm?
A false alarm may be caused by incorrect operation, a pet, an open window, a technical fault, or an unsuitable sensor setting.
In such a case, the operator follows the agreed communication procedure. The user can confirm that there is no real danger by using the identification procedures that have been established.
Repeated false alarms should not be ignored. A technical inspection is required in order to identify the cause and maintain the reliability of the system.
Can the Alarm Receiving Centre see inside the premises?
Receiving an alarm signal does not automatically mean that the operator has access to images from the premises.
Visual verification requires a separate, properly configured video system, the relevant services, and compliance with personal data protection requirements.
It is therefore important to distinguish clearly between:
- Alarm signal monitoring.
- Remote management through an application.
- Image reception or visual verification.
- Continuous video surveillance.
Does the alarm work if there is a power cut or Internet outage?
Most modern systems include a backup battery so that they can continue operating temporarily in the event of a power failure.
Continued communication with the Centre depends on the equipment and the available backup transmission paths. For example, a system may use an IP connection together with backup communication through a mobile network.
Battery autonomy and the actual availability of backup communication should be checked by a qualified technician.
Why is regular maintenance important?
A security system requires periodic inspection, just like any other technical installation. Maintenance may include:
- Checking sensors.
- Testing sirens.
- Checking batteries.
- Confirming communication with the ARC.
- Verifying the subscriber’s contact details.
- Updating the programming when the needs of the premises have changed.
A system that has not been checked for a long period may develop problems at the exact moment it is needed.
How does the Tsekouras Security Alarm Receiving Centre operate?
Tsekouras Security, active in the private security sector since 1989, operates its own Alarm Receiving Centre for the 24/7 monitoring of connected systems.
Operators receive and assess signals, following the procedures that correspond to the incident and the service agreed with the subscriber.
The company also undertakes the design and installation of alarm systems for homes, businesses, and professional premises, with the option to connect to monitoring services depending on the needs of each installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly does the signal reach the Alarm Receiving Centre?
Transmission takes place electronically and is usually completed within a very short period of time. The actual speed depends on the system, the communication channel, and network availability.
Is the Police always notified?
Not necessarily. The agreed protocol is followed depending on the type of signal, the available information, and the nature of the incident.
What happens if the owner does not answer?
The operator continues with the next steps defined in the agreed plan, such as contacting the alternative persons designated by the customer.
Can an existing alarm system be connected?
In many cases, yes, but a technical inspection is required to check compatibility, the condition of the equipment, and the method of communication.
Can I control the alarm from my mobile phone?
Many modern systems support remote management applications. Availability depends on the model, the equipment, and the security settings.
Is installing an alarm system alone enough?
Effective protection requires proper planning, suitable equipment, professional installation, regular maintenance, and a clear incident response plan.
Would you like to connect your alarm system to an Alarm Receiving Centre?
Every home and business has different security requirements. The right solution begins with an assessment of the premises, the potential risks, and the existing equipment.
Contact Tsekouras Security to arrange an on-site assessment and learn more about the available alarm and 24/7 monitoring solutions.
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Procedures may vary depending on the equipment, contract, and services included for each subscriber.
