Alarm System Limitations; Emergency Planning - GE Simon XT User Manual

42 Simon XT
User Manual

Alarm system limitations

Not even the most advanced alarm system can guarantee protection against burglary, fire, or environmental
problems. All alarm systems are subject to possible compromise or failure-to-warn for a variety of reasons.
• If sirens are not placed within hearing range of persons sleeping, in remote parts of the premises, or if
they are placed behind doors or other obstacles.
• If intruders gain access through unprotected points of entry or areas where sensors have been
bypassed.
• If intruders have the technical means of bypassing, jamming, or disconnecting all or part of the system.
• If power to sensors is inadequate or disconnected.
• If freeze or any environmental sensors are not located in areas where the appropriate condition can be
detected.
• If smoke does not reach a smoke sensor. For example, smoke sensors cannot detect smoke in
chimneys, walls, roofs, or areas blocked by a closed door. Sensors may not detect smoke in other levels
of the building. Sensors may not warn in time when fires are caused by smoking in bed, explosions,
improper storage of flammables, overloaded electrical circuits, or other hazardous conditions.
• If telephone lines are out of service.
Inadequate maintenance is the most common cause of alarm failure. Therefore, test your system at least once
per week to be sure sensors, sirens, and phone communication are all working correctly.
Although having an alarm system may make you eligible for reduced insurance premiums, the system is no
substitute for insurance.
WARNING: Security system devices cannot compensate you for the loss of life or property.

Emergency planning

Since an emergency is always unexpected, you should develop plans to help prepare for a variety of emergency
situations. Periodically discuss and rehearse emergency plans to include the following:
• Understand how to use your security system.
• Know the normal state of doors and windows: open, closed, or locked.
• Escape fast! (Do not stop to pack.)
• Use a different escape route if closed doors feel hot to the touch.
• Crawl and hold your breath as much as possible to help reduce smoke inhalation during your escape.
• Meet at a designated outdoor location.
• Emphasize that no one should return to the premises if there is a fire.
• Notify the fire department from a neighbor's phone.
• Emphasize that no one should enter the premises if they hear sirens in the house.
• If you arrive at the premises and hear sirens, do not enter. Call for emergency assistance from a
neighbor's phone.