How are two way radios used for improving security?

Icom UK via its large dealer network, is providing two way radio solutions for customers throughout the country. Through its dealers the company is supplying products to radio schemes that are providing numerous benefits for users including better security and an increase in community spirit. The many systems that are in existence are described as follows:

- Shopwatch/Storenet. These schemes are used to address problems including retail crime, including shop theft, violence, credit card fraud and intimidation of staff.
- Ruralwatch. These schemes are used to address problems of rural crime including burglary, vandalism and intimidation.
- Farmwatch. These schemes are used to address problems including theft of plant and machinery, theft of cattle and criminal damage.
- NiteNet. These schemes are used to address problems including drunken and disorderly behaviour, criminal damage, violence and intimidation of staff.
- There are also other links available including both business and residential schemes.

Their aims are quite general and include:

- Increasing the safety of their members and the general public.
- Reducing levels of actual and perceived crime, with the aim of improving the community's quality of life and improving communication between its members.

In almost all examples the police are involved. The existence of effective communication between the police, users, members and service providers provides greater opportunities for police patrols to be focussed and directed by the receipt of relevant and timely information. This aids the officer's crime deterrent and detection capabilities.

More importantly, radio links indicate to users that police officers are available and because of the invasive nature of radio communication, that the officer is present with them. This immediate availability and the audible presence of an officer reassures radio users. With increased numbers using the radio scheme, the sense of well being and safety are multiplied. With more than one police officer on the network, that effect is multiplied again.

Radio schemes are a means of immediate communication, which doesn't take a person away from the scene of the incident. They can therefore maintain contact with the incident whilst informing others who may be able to assist them, or who would have an interest in the information.

Two way radio schemes provide many other benefits including:

- Improved communication and liaison between users and the police,
- Increased intelligence exchange,
- Increased safety and confidence for users,
- A more effective early warning system enabling the police to provide a more pro-active approach,
- Support and backup,
- Crime deterrence, public safety and improved confidence,
- Greater knowledge of criminals, especially for retail operatives

To find out more, contact our team on 01227 741741 or sales@icomuk.co.uk.

07/11/2003