The reality is that police forces the world over have to make tough decisions when it comes to responding to call-outs. The UK is no different – with limited resources, officers have to use discretion when they receive a call-out from an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC).
False call-outs are an incredible strain on their limited resources; so how can you ensure that your call-outs are prioritised when an alarm is raised at your site? With a Unique Reference Number (URN).
What is a URN?
A Unique Reference Number is a number which identifies that a site has a professionally installed and monitored alarm system, which may also include CCTV. When police receive a call from an ARC, a URN is shared, and the police can have confidence that it is a verified alarm, and respond accordingly.
URN’s are only obtained if certain criteria are met, resulting in a reduction of false call-outs.
Why should I have a URN?
In a nutshell, it will invite a prioritised response from the police. Demonstrating to the police that you have a professionally installed system and that it is remotely monitored by a professional monitoring centre invites a prioritised response. This increases the chance of criminals being caught in the act and minimises any losses or damage your property may incur. Obtaining a URN will usually lower your insurance premiums too.
Who issues a URN?
The URN application form is completed by the installer and Alarm Receiving Centre and is issued by the local police Constabulary.
How do I get a URN?
To obtain a URN you must meet the following criteria:
The ARC will then submit the application and inform you of your URN on approval.
The importance of system performance
If your security system is producing false triggers for the ARC, they will likely ask you to repair or replace a sensor or camera. False triggers waste time and create ambiguity as to whether the police are genuinely required or not.
The ARC may wish to ‘play it safe’ and ask the police to respond to alarms they believe are genuine. However, if police presence is requested when it is not needed on just two occasions in a 12 month period, they will issue a formal notification to the ARC, stating that they must rectify the faults and prevent further false call-outs.
If three false alarms are received by the police, the ARC will be notified that the URN will no longer receive a police response at all. The URN may actually be withdrawn altogether. If this happens, your insurance company must be notified and your premiums will likely increase as a result.
How to reduce risk and improve protection
Approved ARCs can also provide an onsite response from AURA who dispatch resources immediately for onsite verification of an alarm activation. The additional layer of verification through rapid response will scare away wrong-doers, reduce the risk of losing your URN, and improve police prioritisation.