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The terms "fire alarm" and "smoke detector" are often used interchangeably, but they're not the same thing. Understanding the difference matters, particularly if you're responsible for a business premises or want to make sure your home has the right level of protection.

What is a smoke detector?

A smoke detector is a single, self-contained device that detects smoke and emits a loud alarm sound to warn anyone nearby. Smoke detectors are suitable for domestic properties and smaller spaces. They're relatively simple, affordable and easy to install. However, they operate independently, so if one goes off in a room where nobody is present, there's no broader notification and no connection to any monitoring service.

What is a fire alarm system?

A fire alarm system is a network of interconnected devices, typically including smoke detectors, heat detectors, manual call points and sounders, all linked to a central control panel. When any device on the network is triggered, the entire system activates, alerting everyone in the building simultaneously. More advanced systems can also be connected to an alarm receiving centre (ARC) that monitors the system. If an alert is triggered, the ARC will be notified and initiate a response, even if the building is empty. A monitored fire alarm is a sensible precaution for all businesses and a legal requirement for some, such as high-risk environments, care homes or hotels.

Which do you need?

For most homes, standalone smoke detectors provide a reasonable level of protection, provided they're installed in the right locations, tested regularly, and have working batteries or are hard-wired. However, larger homes or those with multiple floors may benefit from interlinked smoke alarms, which trigger all units simultaneously. All new builds and any house undergoing building works usually require interlinked smoke detectors to comply with Building regs. For business premises, a standalone smoke detector is unlikely to be sufficient. Almost all business premises in the UK are legally required to have an appropriate fire detection and warning system under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The fire alarm system must comply with British Standard BS 5839 and be installed by a competent person, ideally a qualified and accredited fire safety specialist.

Don't forget servicing

Whether you have a domestic smoke detector or a commercial fire alarm system, regular testing and servicing are essential. A device that hasn't been maintained properly may fail to activate when it's needed most, which could have serious consequences.

Not sure what your premises need?

At Tamar Security, we design, install and maintain fire alarm systems for businesses across Devon and the surrounding area. If you're unsure whether your current setup meets the required standard, or you'd like to discuss fire safety for a new or existing premises, get in touch for a no-obligation quote.

As the days get longer and the weather improves, we open windows, spend more time outside, and often leave properties unattended for longer periods. It’s a good time to review your security, as opportunistic burglars may look to take advantage of these changes. A few simple checks can help ensure your home or business remains protected as routines shift with the seasons.

1. Check your alarm system is working properly

It sounds obvious, but alarm systems are often forgotten and left unchecked for long periods. Test your system to make sure:

• Sensors are responding correctly
• The control panel is functioning
• Batteries aren’t running low

If you have a monitored system, it’s worth confirming that your alarm is transmitting signals to the monitoring centre, even if it has automated self-testing features.

2. Review your CCTV coverage

Look at your cameras with fresh eyes and ask yourself:

• Are they still positioned effectively?
• Are lenses clean and images clear?
• Have trees or plants grown and started to block views?

Spring growth can quickly reduce visibility without you noticing, so it’s wise to check regularly.

3. Inspect doors, windows, and locks

Fluctuations in temperature and moisture during winter can affect how doors and windows close. Check for:

• Stiff or misaligned locks
• Gaps or movement in frames
• Any signs of wear or damage

Small issues can become easy access points if left unresolved.

4. Refresh your outdoor lighting

Outdoor lighting is among the simplest and most effective deterrents.

• Replace any failed bulbs
• Check that motion sensors are working
• Adjust timers to reflect longer daylight hours

Well-lit properties are much less attractive to opportunistic intruders.

5. Trim back landscaping

Spring is when gardens come back to life, but overgrown plants can create hiding spots.

• Cut back shrubs near entrances and windows
• Keep pathways and access points clear and visible.
• Avoid letting hedges obscure CCTV or lighting

A tidy exterior not only looks better but also improves visibility and security.

6. Review access and permissions (for businesses)

If you run a business, now is a good time to review who has access to your premises.

• Are there old keyholders or codes still active?
• Have staff changes been reflected in your system?
• Are access levels still appropriate?

Keeping your access permissions up to date reduces unnecessary risk.

7. Think about how you use your space in spring and summer

Seasonal changes often mean different routines. Ask yourself:

• Are doors being left open more frequently?
• Are outdoor areas being used regularly?
• Will the property be left empty for holidays?

A simple check now can prevent problems later, and a small adjustment, such as adding a sensor, camera, or timer, can make a significant difference. Security doesn’t always need major changes. Often, it’s simply about ensuring what you already have is working as it should. Taking a little time this spring to review your setup can give you peace of mind for the months to come. If you’d like a professional assessment of your current security, we’re always happy to help. Please call us on 01392 368830 or complete our contact form.

Choosing an intruder alarm involves many important decisions, not least whether to opt for a monitored or unmonitored system. Both are designed to protect your property, but they work in very different ways. The right choice depends on how much support and reassurance you want when an alarm is triggered. In this blog post, we break down the differences to help you decide what’s best for your home or business.

What is an unmonitored intruder alarm?

An unmonitored alarm is a standalone system. When it detects a potential break-in, it activates an audible siren and may flash external lights to alert anyone nearby. It doesn’t send a notification to a third party, so it relies on a neighbour or a passer-by hearing it and responding.

Benefits of an unmonitored intruder alarm

• Acts as a strong visual and audible deterrent
• Alerts people on-site or nearby
• Lower upfront and ongoing costs
• Adequate and straightforward for basic security needs

Unmonitored alarms are best suited to smaller homes, low-risk properties, or locations where someone is usually nearby to hear and respond to the alarm.

What is a monitored intruder alarm?

A monitored alarm works similarly to an unmonitored system but links to a professional alarm-receiving centre (ARC). If the system is triggered by a potential intruder, a trained ARC operator will receive and assess the alert, then follow an agreed response plan. This may include contacting you, a keyholder, or the emergency services. 24/7 monitoring ensures a response even if you’re asleep, away from the property, or unable to respond.

Benefits of a monitored intruder alarm

• 24/7 professional oversight
• Faster response times
• Police or keyholder call-outs where applicable
• Added reassurance when the property is unattended

Monitored alarms are popular with businesses, larger homes, and anyone seeking maximum peace of mind.

Which alarm option is right for you?

Every situation is unique, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. When deciding which option is right for you, consider the following questions:

• How often is the property empty?
• Would someone respond quickly if an alarm sounded?
• Do you want professional backup in an emergency?
• Is police response or insurance compliance important?

If your home is often empty, you run a business, or you want reassurance that someone will always respond, a monitored system is usually the better choice. If you’re looking for a cost-effective deterrent and are often nearby, an unmonitored alarm may be sufficient.

Insurance and compliance considerations

Many insurers offer lower premiums for monitored alarm systems, particularly for commercial properties. Some may even require monitoring as part of their policy terms. It’s always worth checking your insurance requirements before deciding, as the right alarm could save you money in the long run.

Can you upgrade from unmonitored to monitored?

An existing intruder alarm can often be upgraded to include professional monitoring. An experienced installer can advise whether your current system is suitable and what’s involved.

Summary

The key difference between monitored and unmonitored intruder alarms is who responds when it matters most. Both offer protection, but monitored systems provide an extra layer of support that may also lower insurance premiums. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, we’re always happy to offer straightforward, honest advice. Please call us on 01392 368830 or complete our contact form.

Tamar Security has achieved Silver Partner status with Paxton, the UK’s leading provider of access control and door entry systems. This recognition highlights our team’s commitment to quality, expertise, and trusted installation of Paxton products. Achieving Silver status means we have completed Paxton training, gained hands-on experience, and demonstrated our ability to deliver reliable, professional access control security solutions.

Benefits of access control

Increasingly, businesses are adopting access control systems to enhance on-site security. They allow businesses to:

• Control who can enter specific areas to protect sensitive data, equipment, and staff.
• Track and monitor access to provide a clear audit trail in case of incidents.
• Enhance safety by ensuring only authorised personnel can access high-risk or restricted areas.
• Integrate with other security systems, such as alarms and CCTV, to ensure a comprehensive approach.

By achieving Silver status, we’re officially certified to design, install, and support Paxton’s access control solutions.

What Paxton Silver Partner means for our customers

Our Silver status gives our business customers confidence that their premises are secure and compliant with industry standards.

• Expert system design and installation: Silver Partners have been recognised for their competence in designing and installing Paxton10 and Net2 systems, ensuring a high-quality, reliable setup.
• Trusted installer: The status requires a proven track record of high service standards, giving you confidence and peace of mind in our installations.
• Ongoing support: Silver status gives us access to Paxton’s resources and technical support, enabling us to deliver the best service and up-to-date solutions.
• 5-year guarantee: While standard for many Paxton products, a certified installer ensures the 5-year hardware warranty is maintained correctly.

We’re proud to be recognised for our dedication and professionalism. We’re committed to delivering secure, reliable, and innovative security solutions to our community. If you’d like a no-obligation quote to enhance your business security through access control, please get in touch.

As the year draws to a close, we’d like to let our customers know about our festive opening hours. We will be closing for the Christmas break at 5pm on Tuesday, 23rd December, and will reopen at 9am on Friday, 2nd January 2025. During this period, our emergency call-out service will remain available for our contract customers. For urgent assistance, please call 01392 368830. We want to take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their support throughout the year and to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!

When it comes to your building’s security, restricting access is fundamental. Whether it’s an office, shop or industrial site, controlling who can enter and when is the first line of defence against theft, vandalism, and unauthorised activity. For most businesses, there are two options to control access: traditional keys or a modern electronic access control system. Both have benefits, but the right solution depends on how your business operates, how many people need access, and the level of security you require. In this blog, we’ll compare both so you can make an informed decision about your building’s security.

Traditional keys

Traditional lock-and-key systems are the simplest and often the cheapest way to secure a door. They’ve been used for decades and remain a popular option for small businesses, single-site premises, and low-risk environments.

Pros

• Low upfront cost
• Simple to use
• No training or system knowledge required
• Reliable even during power cuts

Cons

• Keys can be easily lost, stolen or copied
• Changing locks can be expensive and disruptive
• No way to track who has entered your building
• Restricting access to certain areas requires numerous locks and keys
• Difficult to manage multiple keys across multiple staff members

Traditional keys do the job, but they rely heavily on trust and manual processes, which can quickly become inefficient or insecure as your business grows.

Access control

Access control uses electronic readers, key fobs, cards, or smartphones to control who can enter specific areas. Entry is enabled by swiping a card or other form of scanner at the door. You decide who gets access, when, and to which doors.

Pros

• Instantly add or remove users
• Full audit trail showing who entered and when
• No more changing locks if a key is lost
• Scales easily as your business grows
• Can integrate with alarms, CCTV or time/attendance systems
• Flexible access levels for staff, contractors or visitors

Cons

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires power and occasional maintenance
• Staff may need a short period to get used to the system

For most modern businesses, access control offers greater security, convenience, and control—especially in multi-user or multi-site environments.

Making the right choice for your business

Deciding between traditional keys and an electronic access control system depends on your security requirements, budget, and the size of your operation. As a guide:

Choose traditional keys if:

• You have a small business with a handful of staff
• Your premises contain assets of low value
• You rarely change staff
• You only need basic door security

Choose access control if:

• You have regular staff turnover
• You manage contractors or visitors
• You want to know who has entered your site
• You have multiple entry points or buildings
• You handle valuable stock, data or equipment
• You want a system that integrates with your wider security setup

Most businesses reach a point where keys are no longer practical. When managing 10+ people or multiple entry points, the cost and hassle of lost keys, key cutting, and lock replacements add up quickly.

How Tamar Security can help

We supply and install a variety of access control solutions throughout the South West, from simple single-door systems to fully networked multi-site setups. We can tailor a system to suit your premises and budget. If you’re considering upgrading from traditional keys, we can conduct a site survey and recommend the best approach for your business. Please get in touch to book a site survey.

As sponsors of the Devon Tourism Awards 2025, we’re delighted to see the list of finalists for this year’s accolades. Drawn from visits across the county to 91 shortlisted businesses, the shortlist is a true celebration of Devon’s vibrant tourism sector.

For the second consecutive year, Tamar Security is proud to sponsor the Business Events Venue of the Year award, recognising venues that go above and beyond to host conferences, meetings, and events that leave a lasting impression. Each finalist in this category represents the very best of Devon’s professional hospitality scene, combining outstanding facilities with warm local service. As the providers of fire and security systems for many Devon-based business event venues, we understand the commitment required to deliver an exceptional experience.

The finalists

This year, two outstanding venues have been shortlisted for the Business Events Venue of the Year award:

1. Raceworld, Woodbury Salterton

Raceworld is an exciting venue that offers something a bit different for business events. Located near Exeter, it’s best known for its indoor karting track, but it also provides versatile event spaces suitable for meetings, training sessions, and team-building activities.

The venue combines great facilities with a fun, high-energy atmosphere, giving businesses the chance to mix professional events with memorable experiences.

2. Holne Park House, Ashburton

Nestled in the picturesque countryside on the edge of Dartmoor, Holne Park House is a beautiful venue full of character. It’s a popular choice for weddings and celebrations, but also provides a peaceful and elegant setting for meetings, conferences, and corporate away days. With its grand rooms, scenic views, and welcoming team, Holne Park House offers a relaxed yet professional atmosphere that makes every event feel special.

Both businesses are no strangers to these awards, having secured gold and silver, respectively, in the 2024 awards. We look forward to the award presentation on 27th November to see who will claim the top spot this year. Nonetheless, regardless of which is awarded Gold, these nominations reflect a high standard of quality in these businesses, and we’re honoured to help celebrate that.

The full list of finalists is available to view on the Devon Tourism Awards website.

When it comes to protecting your home or business, you need to choose a security provider you can trust. But how can you be sure that the security company you select will deliver consistently high-quality service? One key indicator is NSI Gold accreditation - a mark of excellence in the security industry.

What is NSI Gold accreditation?

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) is an independent, UK-based organisation that assesses security and fire protection companies against strict industry standards. NSI Gold is their highest level of accreditation, awarded only to companies that meet rigorous criteria in both quality and reliability. Achieving NSI Gold isn’t just about passing an inspection. It demonstrates that a company:

• Follows strict operational procedures and health and safety protocols
• Employs highly trained, vetted staff
• Provides ongoing appropriate training for their staff, ensuring the required level of skill
• Uses and installs equipment to the highest industry standards
• Works to International and British Standards and NSI Codes of Practice
• Maintains consistent and reliable service levels
• Has a commitment to continual improvement through the ISO 9001 Quality Management System

NSI Gold is a symbol of trust and professionalism.

How companies achieve NSI Gold accreditation

Gaining NSI Gold is a thorough process that includes the following steps:

Application and documentation

Companies submit detailed information about their operations, policies, staff training, and past work.

Rigorous inspection and audits

NSI inspectors review the documentation and carry out on-site evaluations, checking equipment installation, maintenance procedures, and compliance with safety standards.

Continuous assessment

Accreditation isn’t a one-time event. NSI-approved companies are all subject to a rigorous audit programme annually. They may be required to make improvements, e.g. in their operations or competency, or have their approval withdrawn, subject to auditor findings. Achieving NSI Gold shows a company isn’t just meeting basic requirements but is going above and beyond to deliver safe, reliable, and high-quality security solutions.

Why NSI Gold matters for your security

Choosing an NSI Gold-accredited security provider offers many benefits, including:

Peace of mind

Knowing that your security system is installed and maintained by a fully accredited company gives confidence that it will perform when it matters most.

Compliance with insurance requirements

Many insurers prefer, or even require, that NSI-accredited companies install security systems. Choosing an NSI Gold provider can simplify insurance claims, ensure compliance and sometimes even lower insurance premiums.

Higher standards, fewer risks

NSI Gold companies undergo regular audits and assessments, reducing the likelihood of errors, equipment failures, or lapses in service.

Expertise you can rely on

NSI Gold accreditation reflects years of experience, training, and a commitment to staying ahead of industry best practices.

Why Tamar Security is NSI Gold accredited

At Tamar Security, our NSI Gold status is more than just a badge - it’s a promise. Every security system we install is completed to the highest standards, giving you complete confidence in your protection. Our accreditation reflects our commitment to reliability, quality, and safety in every project. If you’d like the peace of mind that comes with working with an NSI Gold-accredited company, contact us today for a free, no-obligation assessment and quote for your home or business security.

Towns and villages across Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly now have a unique opportunity to improve community safety thanks to a new CCTV funding scheme. The initiative, led by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), is part of a broader effort to help communities prevent crime, gather vital evidence, and reduce offending. The scheme launched on 15 September 2025 with £125,000 from the Strategic Interventions Fund. Eligible organisations, including councils and voluntary groups, can apply for up to £10,000 to invest in CCTV equipment and infrastructure. The grant can be used to fund new CCTV installations or to upgrade CCTV systems already in place. CCTV is a highly effective tool for preventing and detecting crime, helping to keep residents safe and protect businesses from theft and antisocial behaviour. An advocate of CCTV's benefits, Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez is dedicating this funding to help reduce antisocial behaviour and tackle drugs and alcohol, serious violence, and theft.

How to apply

Eligible organisations interested in applying for CCTV funding must submit an Expression of Interest form by Friday, 24 October. Forms are available by emailing: PCCCommissioning@dc-pcc.gov.uk.

Applications should include:

• Details of any current CCTV installations
•  Plans for new installations or upgrades, including monitoring arrangements
• Proposed timelines for using the funding
• The location of the CCTV and details of who will benefit

Only one application per town or parish council will be considered. While the funding can cover equipment and infrastructure, the OPCC will not cover ongoing maintenance or monitoring costs, which must be funded locally. All applicants will be notified of the panel’s decision by the end of November. We’re pleased to see this funding initiative, which offers a valuable opportunity for communities to improve public safety, prevent criminal activity, and reassure residents and businesses. For any organisation looking to utilise these funds, we can offer advice on CCTV planning and installation. Please get in touch for our help.