The end user can also provide a secret duress code. If everything is not alright, the end user can request dispatch immediately. The end user can then stop the automatic dispatch by providing a verbal false alarm passcode that was set up beforehand. If the operator does manage to get a hold of the end user, they will ask them if everything is alright. If they fail to reach anyone, they will contact the local authorities immediately. The operator will try to contact the end user on any phone numbers they have made available. This is usually done to prevent false alarms. Depending on their monitoring plan, they may try and contact the end user before just requesting dispatch from the local authorities. Once a central station operator receives an alert from the user's system they will immediately get to action. We do not recommend using a POTS connection with any modern alarm system. However, this takes longer than other methods, as phone line transmissions are relatively slow. If the panel is using an older POTS (plain old telephone service) connection, it will dial directly to the central station. Each signal transition is lightning fast, and the central station is usually contacted in a matter of seconds. If the panel is using a cellular or IP connection, the signal will pass through the servers of an interactive service platform. When an alarm occurs on a central station monitored security system, the control panel will immediately send out an alert to the station. Just remember though that not every monitored alarm system is necessarily connected with a central station.

For the purpose of this guide, we will only be focusing on central station monitored plans. We usually recommend central station monitoring plans, as they represent the only way for a user to receive automatic dispatch in the event of a burglary, fire or medical emergency. These are central station monitoring plans and self plans. There are typically two main types of monitoring plans offered from alarm monitoring companies.

The top-priority at a central monitoring station is to make sure that the people they monitor are safe and to send out any emergency dispatch if needed.

A central monitoring station is a 24/7 center with highly trained operators who immediately respond to any incoming alarm events.

Central station monitoring