| Older people often feel
vulnerable in their own homes. Fear of an intruder
or how to deal with an unwanted caller at the door
can lead to anxiety and distress. PRIDE
evolved as a result of older people contacting
the Police and other agencies to express their
concern for their personal safety and at having
their homes broken into and valued possessions
stolen.
Historically, people have been amply
supplied with advice and leaflets addressing all aspects
of crime prevention. But PRIDE
is unique as it is the only project of it's kind which
attempts to allay the fears of the elderly by installing
a low cost, custom designed, crime prevention help
call unit with which assistance can easily be summoned.
The PRIDE
alarm is a device which consists of an alarm box
and strobe light which is fitted to the exterior
of the house. This is wired to a small simple
control panel inside the house. The householder
then carries with them a small radio key fob which
is used to activate the alarm system whenever
there is a perceived threat or problem and assistance
is required immediately.
The nearby neighbours are notified
of an installation by pre-printed cards posted
through letter boxes to encourage a response to
the alarm, either by reacting themselves if they
are able or by dialing 999 for the Police.
The system is not designed to
protect the property when left unattended but
to summon help quickly when required. However
there is no doubt that the visual effect of an
alarm box on the outside of the house has some
deterrent effect. |
