A method and apparatus is described for interacting with a security system using a television remote control. Commands sent by the remote control are received by an auxiliary interface device, which then provides the commands to a security system controller either directly, via a local-area network, or via a wide-area network and server. Status and acknowledgement messages are transmitted from the security system controller to the auxiliary device, whereupon they are provided to and displayed by a television in the form of a security dashboard

A portable alarm system is disclosed. The portable alarm system includes a portable base station, which has an outer housing that encloses a power supply and a secondary protective housing. The secondary protective housing encloses at least a controller and a cellular modem that are electrically connected to each other. An energy storage device, such as a super capacitor, is configured to maintain a store of energy and is electrically connected to the controller and the cellular modem to provide an alternative power source thereto.

A portable alarm system is disclosed. The portable alarm system includes a portable base station, which has an outer housing that encloses a power supply and a secondary protective housing. The secondary protective housing encloses at least a controller and a cellular modem that are electrically connected to each other. An energy storage device, such as a super capacitor, is configured to maintain a store of energy and is electrically connected to the controller and the cellular modem to provide an alternative power source thereto.

A community safety system (CSS) including a notification management entity (NME) comprising servers, the NME communicatively coupled to multiple user devices and one or more administrator devices (collectively, registered user devices). The CSS includes a plurality of registered users, wherein each registered user is associated with an organization, and a user category of a set of user categories. The NME may maintain a list of the registered users and associated information. The registered users may have user devices including a CSS application operating thereon. In some embodiments the CSS enables inter-organizational communication, allowing for members of a first organization to provide alerts that the NME can pass to a second organization when the registered user is physically located within a security zone associated with a second organization but not a member of the second organization.

A wireless fire protection system valve inspection and monitoring system, including: a plurality of valves, each valve including a detecting unit adapted to detect valve state information for the valve, wherein the valve state information comprises at least one of an open state, a partially-open state, and a closed state; at least one collection unit that wirelessly receives the valve state information from the detecting units; and an information module that receives the valve state information from the collection unit and aggregates, stores, and/or reports the valve state information.

A wireless fire protection system valve inspection and monitoring system, including: a plurality of valves, each valve including a detecting unit adapted to detect valve state information for the valve, wherein the valve state information comprises at least one of an open state, a partially-open state, and a closed state; at least one collection unit that wirelessly receives the valve state information from the detecting units; and an information module that receives the valve state information from the collection unit and aggregates, stores, and/or reports the valve state information.

A facility information access system, comprising: a housing positioned in a location proximate to a facility, wherein the housing is accessible to pedestrians at ground level. The housing defines an internal cavity and comprises an access cover to block unauthorised physical access to the internal cavity. A facility information device housed inside the housing and comprises: a processor; a communication interface accessible by the processor and configured to allow exchange of information with devices external of the housing; and a memory storing executable program instructions accessible by the processor. The processor is configured to execute program instructions to: receive facility information from an external computing device through the communication interface, wherein the facility information relates to the facility; store the received facility information in the memory; receive a request to access the facility information through the communication interface; and in response to the request, determine whether the first request is an authorised request and, if the request is an authorised request, transmit the facility information through the communication interface.

A system, method and apparatus for detecting moisture leaks in roofs and for providing a visual alert regarding such leaks, and which does not require puncturing or compromise of the roof membrane, comprises a dual part moisture detection and indicator system which comprises a wicking sensor, a wicking portion, a non-electronic trigger portion below the membrane, which is enabled to receive a non-electronic signal from the wicking portion and a non-electronic indicator portion above the membrane which is enabled to receive a non-electronic signal from the trigger portion and to thereafter produce a notification of a leak.

An integrated security system is described that integrates broadband and mobile access and control with conventional security systems and premise devices to provide a tri-mode security network (broadband, cellular/GSM, POTS access) that enables users to remotely stay connected to their premises. The integrated security system, while delivering remote premise monitoring and control functionality to conventional monitored premise protection, complements existing premise protection equipment. The integrated security system integrates into the premise network and couples wirelessly with the conventional security panel, enabling broadband access to premise security systems. Automation devices (cameras, lamp modules, thermostats, etc.) can be added, enabling users to remotely see live video and/or pictures and control home devices via their personal web portal or webpage, mobile phone, and/or other remote client device. Users can also receive notifications via email or text message when happenings occur, or do not occur, in their home.

An integrated security system is described that integrates broadband and mobile access and control with conventional security systems and premise devices to provide a tri-mode security network (broadband, cellular/GSM, POTS access) that enables users to remotely stay connected to their premises. The integrated security system, while delivering remote premise monitoring and control functionality to conventional monitored premise protection, complements existing premise protection equipment. The integrated security system integrates into the premise network and couples wirelessly with the conventional security panel, enabling broadband access to premise security systems. Automation devices (cameras, lamp modules, thermostats, etc.) can be added, enabling users to remotely see live video and/or pictures and control home devices via their personal web portal or webpage, mobile phone, and/or other remote client device. Users can also receive notifications via email or text message when happenings occur, or do not occur, in their home.