Does SimpliSafe Automatically Call the Police? Understanding How SimpliSafe’s Monitoring Works
When it comes to protecting your home, the question of whether SimpliSafe automatically calls the police is a critical one. Homeowners need to understand the specifics of how their security system operates, particularly in emergency situations. SimpliSafe, a leader in DIY home security, provides a comprehensive service that includes the capability to notify authorities when an alarm is triggered. However, this process involves several steps, ensuring that the response is both appropriate and effective.
How SimpliSafe’s Monitoring System Operates
SimpliSafe offers 24/7 professional monitoring services that are designed to respond immediately when an alarm is triggered. However, automatic police dispatch is not the first action taken. Instead, SimpliSafe’s monitoring center, staffed with trained professionals, follows a structured protocol to determine the best course of action.
When an alarm is triggered, whether due to a break-in, fire, or another emergency, the system sends an alert to SimpliSafe’s monitoring center. The professionals at the center will then attempt to contact the primary contacts listed on your account. This is a crucial step, as it allows the monitoring team to assess the situation directly with the homeowner or authorized contacts.
Contacting Primary Contacts: The First Line of Defense
SimpliSafe’s priority is to first contact the individuals associated with the account. These contacts are typically reached via phone calls, and the monitoring center will make several attempts to reach someone before taking further action. The purpose of this step is to verify whether the alarm was triggered by an actual emergency or if it was a false alarm.
If you or your designated contacts answer the call and can confirm the nature of the alarm, the monitoring center will proceed accordingly. For example, if you confirm that it was a false alarm, no further action will be taken. Conversely, if you indicate that there is an emergency, the monitoring center will immediately notify the police.
When SimpliSafe Automatically Dispatches the Police
In cases where the monitoring center is unable to reach any of the primary contacts, or if the contacts confirm that there is an emergency, SimpliSafe will take the next step by contacting local authorities. The automatic dispatch of the police happens under the following conditions:
- Failure to Contact Primary Contacts: If the monitoring center cannot reach the primary contacts after multiple attempts, they will assume that the alarm is serious and will notify the police. This automatic dispatch ensures that help is on the way, even if you cannot be reached.
- Confirmed Emergency: If you or your contacts confirm that there is an emergency, such as a break-in or fire, the monitoring center will immediately contact the police. This ensures a rapid response to the situation, potentially mitigating damage or harm.
- Duress Signals: SimpliSafe systems are equipped with features like a panic button and duress PINs. If these are triggered, the monitoring center will bypass the contact process and immediately dispatch the police. This feature is especially important in situations where the homeowner cannot communicate freely.
The Importance of Reliable Primary Contacts
Having reliable primary contacts is essential for the effective operation of your SimpliSafe system. These contacts should be individuals who are readily available and can respond quickly to a call from the monitoring center. This not only helps in verifying the nature of the alarm but also prevents unnecessary police dispatches, which can result in fines in some areas.
Updating Your Contacts Regularly
To ensure that your SimpliSafe system functions optimally, it’s important to regularly update the contact information on your account. If your primary contacts change or if their phone numbers are updated, these details should be reflected in your SimpliSafe account. This proactive approach can prevent delays in response times and ensure that the right individuals are contacted during an emergency.
SimpliSafe’s Monitoring Plans: What You Need to Know
SimpliSafe offers different monitoring plans, and the level of service you receive depends on the plan you choose. The Standard Monitoring Plan includes 24/7 monitoring and the ability to dispatch police, fire, and medical services. The Interactive Monitoring Plan offers additional features, such as smartphone control, secret alerts, and video verification.
Standard Monitoring Plan
With the Standard Monitoring Plan, SimpliSafe provides basic 24/7 monitoring services. If an alarm is triggered, the monitoring center will follow the protocol of contacting primary contacts first and then dispatching the police if necessary. This plan is ideal for homeowners who want a reliable and affordable monitoring service without additional bells and whistles.
Interactive Monitoring Plan
The Interactive Monitoring Plan, SimpliSafe’s most comprehensive offering, includes all the features of the Standard Plan, plus several advanced options. These include:
- Smartphone Control: You can arm or disarm your system remotely, check the status of your sensors, and receive alerts directly to your phone.
- Video Verification: With video cameras installed, the monitoring center can view a live feed when an alarm is triggered, allowing for quicker and more accurate responses.
- Secret Alerts: This feature allows you to monitor specific areas of your home without triggering an alarm. For example, you can set up an alert for a liquor cabinet or gun safe, which only notifies you and does not sound the main alarm.
These additional features can enhance the security of your home, providing more control and peace of mind.
Preventing False Alarms: Best Practices
False alarms can be a nuisance and, in some cases, lead to fines from local authorities. Therefore, it’s essential to take steps to minimize the chances of triggering a false alarm.
Proper Installation and Maintenance
Ensure that your SimpliSafe system is installed correctly and that all sensors are positioned properly. Regularly test your system to ensure that it is functioning as expected. Replace batteries as needed and keep sensors clean and unobstructed.
Educating Household Members
All members of your household should be familiar with how the SimpliSafe system operates. They should know how to arm and disarm the system, what to do in case of an alarm, and how to avoid accidentally triggering the alarm.
Utilizing the Mobile App
The SimpliSafe mobile app is a powerful tool that allows you to manage your system remotely. If you receive an alert that an alarm has been triggered, you can quickly check the status of your system and disarm it if it was a false alarm. This can prevent unnecessary dispatches and reduce the risk of fines.
The Role of Police in Home Security
The involvement of local law enforcement is a key component of a comprehensive home security strategy. When SimpliSafe dispatches the police, they are responding to what is presumed to be a serious situation. However, it’s important to note that response times can vary depending on your location and the current demands on local police resources.
Building a Relationship with Local Law Enforcement
It can be beneficial to inform your local police department that you have a SimpliSafe system installed. This can help them be more familiar with the nature of the alarms they may receive from your home and ensure a more coordinated response.
Conclusion: SimpliSafe’s Effective Response Protocol
SimpliSafe’s approach to monitoring and police dispatch is both thorough and effective. While the system does have the capability to automatically call the police, it follows a structured protocol designed to verify emergencies and minimize false alarms. By keeping your contact information up to date, understanding how the system works, and choosing the right monitoring plan, you can ensure that your home is protected and that the police are dispatched only when truly necessary.
In summary, SimpliSafe provides a robust security solution that not only alerts you to potential threats but also ensures that the appropriate authorities are involved when needed. Whether you’re considering SimpliSafe for the first time or are a long-time user, understanding how the system works can give you the confidence that your home is well-protected.