The Risk Of Self-Monitored Devices

There is no 000 response guarantee

Non-monitored

There are two sub-groups. They can be whistles, battery-operated alarms which emit a high-pitched shriek when activated, flashing lights, etc. These usually have a limited range and rely upon someone who is willing to help being within hearing range.

Automated telephone systems (sometimes called auto diallers) which dial pre-set numbers, are not connected electronically to a monitoring centre and thus rely on a person willing to help being contactable on the pre-set number. Automated telephone systems dial pre-set telephone numbers that are programmed into the system and then deliver a pre-recorded message. It is important to ensure that the message is clear and audible and that any information contained is up-to–date.

These systems rely upon the user having a network of people who they trust, that they can call for assistance. The system continues to call the programmed numbers until the call is answered. In most systems, there is a feature called ‘acknowledging’. This requires the person answering to press a particular button to let the system know that the call has been answered by a person, not an answering machine or voicemail.

Programming 000 into your auto dialler:

Although it is possible to program 000 into an auto dialler (along with other numbers), it is important to be aware that 000 calls from automated devices, such as auto diallers, cannot be guaranteed a response from the emergency services. This is due to the fact that the 000 system requires a person, not an automatic message, to make the 000 call, because the emergency services operator must be able to discuss and confirm the details of the emergency with the caller.

Calls to 000 are answered in a two-step process. It is particularly important during the second stage of the call that the caller’s details, including their address, can be clearly and accurately provided to the emergency service operator.

To ensure a call for emergency assistance is correctly and promptly attended, the emergency services must have verification that there is an actual emergency, the nature of the emergency, and the address of the emergency. Without a validated condition and verified address, a response cannot be guaranteed.

Because of the length of time that it takes for a call from an auto dialler to reach the relevant emergency service organisation, part of any pre-recorded message may have already been played by the time it reaches the emergency services operator. This then makes it very difficult to determine the nature of the call, to identify the caller, and most importantly, to ascertain the caller’s address, which is essential for an emergency response.

Monitored

These generally consist of an attachment to a home phone which receives signals from a pendant or other device worn by the user. These signals are received at a monitoring centre and a pre-agreed response is put into action after calling the client to confirm that the alert has not been accidentally activated. Centre staff will usually have some medical history of the client and access details if the residence is secured. This information can be passed onto the ambulance staff as required. In addition to the cost of the unit and possibly an installation fee, a monthly monitoring fee is normally charged.

Source: Seniors Information Inc. www.seniors.asn.au