The National Security Inspectorate has commissioned research into the reasons for false alarms, with support from a substantial grant from the DTI.
With the full support of the British Security Industry Association, the research will be conducted nationally, with a focus on the Midlands. West Midlands Police is a key supporter of the project.

The project, which will be conducted independently by a team led by Professor Martin Gill, has already gained the support of leading NACOSS installers and Alarm Receiving Centres across the country.

The research will be concluded in April and it is hoped to issue preliminary results shortly afterwards.

The NSI says there has been little previous extensive research to quantify the problem of false alarms and recommend measures to remedy it. Chief Executive Tom Mullarkey commented: "There has been much discussion over the cause of false alarms but no agreement.

"The ACPO-inspired DD243 is already having an impact in the reduction of false activations but still more needs to be done on establishing and eliminating the underlying causes. This work will help the industry to prepare additional measures, driving down false alarms for the long-term benefit of the nation as a whole." West Midlands Chief Insp James Andronov said: "We are happy to support this valuable research."