Fife firm promises security for thousands of householders (19th feb 2001)

Inverkeithing-based Alarm Protection Ltd was founded last autumn to develop the prototype of the Alarm ProNet alarm network system, invented by electronic engineer Bill Marr, the company’s managing director.

With assistance from Fife’s Small Business Gateway high growth programme, the company plans to launch the Alarm ProNet system later this spring and has already had a lot of interest from local authorities throughout the country.

The alarm system uses sound waves to detect when unauthorised entry is gained to a protected building. Infrared sensors can be used to detect movement within the house, and a keypad can be used to alert the control centre if there is a fire or a vulnerable person needs help. The system is the first of its kind on the market and its inventors have patented its unique design.

Managing Director, Bill Marr, said: “The system has so many applications and because it doesn’t require any wiring or complicated installation, it’s very easy to use.

“Feeling secure in your own home is a fundamental need that many people don’t have the benefit of, particularly those living in the more run-down estates or inner-city areas. We believe that everyone has the right to feel safe in their own four walls, and this alarm system will go a long way towards making people feel secure and protected.”

Alarm Protection Ltd is proposing to local authorities that they install the Alarm ProNet system in council estates that suffer from the threats of theft and vandalism. Large numbers of houses would be protected, and would be linked to a call centre which would deal with the coded alarm signals to alert the emergency services if necessary, or a local Alarm Protection response team.

According to General Manager, Mike Harper, the long-term benefits of installing such a system will far outweigh the investment required by the council. “In the long run, councils will benefit because crime rates will drop, estates will no longer be no-go areas and law-abiding tenants will feel a great deal safer. With that comes pride in their surroundings and a greater feeling of community spirit. All that will save councils from having to repair and maintain properties which are neglected and empty because no-one wants to live there.”

John MacDougall, Convener of Fife Council, said: “Alarm Protection and the ProNet system are a welcome opportunity for the private sector to contribute to the well being of council house holders, and are an excellent example of the potential for private/public partnership in tackling the very real problems confronting communities today. I think it is tremendous that the company is based in Fife.”

Alarm Protection Ltd has received assistance throughout the process of starting up and developing the business from the Small Business Gateway’s high growth support programme, which provides specialist help to companies which have the potential to employ significant numbers of people.

With a target to provide at least 15,000 of the alarm units by the end of the year, the company aims to employ over 20 people over the same period.

Managing director Bill Marr said: “Without the help of the Small Business Gateway, we would have encountered many more difficulties along the way. We have a very small management team, and the Gateway adviser is like another member of that team, with a very valuable part to play.”

On behalf of Scottish Enterprise Fife, which manages the Small Business Gateway, Ian McLachlan said: “Alarm Protection is an example of the type of company the high growth programme was set up to support, with a home-grown invention which has the potential to become a world-beater. We wish the company the very best of success and look forward to working with them over the months and years to come.”

While the Alarm ProNet is undergoing its final trials and nearing its launch date, the company has notched up its first successful deal by signing a UK distribution deal with Israeli electronics firm KP Products. The contract is to supply KP’s monitored security systems to the UK market.

The Small Business Gateway offers assistance to new and small businesses to start up and grow, along with a comprehensive business information service. The high growth support service can be contacted on 0845 609 6633.

For further information, please contact Kathryn Slater at Catchline PR and Communications on (01592) 643200.