Home Safeguard

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The Home Safeguard Community Service Annual Report 2010/11 can be viewed PDF file here (79KB - 13 April 2011 - PDF Help)

For many people, the telephone is their only means of talking to friends and neighbours. But in a crisis, the Home Safeguard service can give emergency help to people who need it most, day or night.

The service benefits
- older people;
- people with a disability;  and
- people feeling vulnerable who need reassurance.

PDF file Click here to view our Sheltered Accommodation Handbook (215KB - 20 January 2010 - PDF Help)

What is Home Safeguard?

Home Safeguard is the Council’s emergency alarm system for frail and vulnerable people.  Those connected to the system can get help quickly and efficiently through an easy-to-operate alarm, 24 hours-a-day, 365 days-a-year.

The system consists of a small personal alarm, called a pendant, that can be easily worn around the neck, on a wriststrap, or clipped to clothing. The pendant transmits to a small base unit connected to an ordinary BT telephone line and works alongside your existing telephone.

How does it work?

  1. When you press the pendant, you send an alarm signal to the base unit, which automatically dials the control room in Sidmouth. There is also an alarm button on the base unit.
  2. The details of the person who activated an alarm appear on a computer screen, and a fully trained operator is then able to talk to them through a speaker and microphone.
  3. If staff are unable to speak to someone who has raised an alarm they can try contacting them by their phone, contact a neighbour or other nominated person, or call the emergency services.

How will they help me?

The operator is trained to establish quickly what help is needed, such as an ambulance, doctor, or a nominated contact. The operator can stay on the system to reassure the subscriber until help arrives.

Do I need any special wiring in my home?

You will need to have a modern telephone point near a 13 amp electrical socket.

How much will it cost?

The Home Safeguard system can currently be rented.

It costs £172.56 per year (excluding VAT), equivalent to £3.32p per week (excluding VAT) to rent the alarm unit and pendant, and to connect to the monitoring service.

More details about the system and monitoring service are available from the Home Safeguard centre on 01395 519739 or 01395 578237.

Page last updated on 13 April 2011