Common Questions

 

Why have the COLSS service?

Being able to live independently and feeling safe within the community is important for everyone, whether elderly, frail, disabled or alone. There are times when it can be worrying. Accidents, falls or illness can be distressing not only for the person involved but also for their family and friends. Our service provides a means of obtaining assistance and provides a reassuring link at any time of the day and any day of the year. The service is ideal for people who live alone or work alone, who suffer from a medical condition or who are experiencing racial or social harassment, or are victims of domestic violence or bogus callers.

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What is a Community Alarm?

A Community Alarm is a system for calling for help at the touch of a button. They are installed for a variety of reasons, often to help people to continue to live independently, but also to help support people in vulnerable situations.

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What is a Pendant Alarm?

The Pendant Alarm is a small portable device that allows you to activate your Community Alarm remotely. With some telephone units you can also use it to answer your telephone remotely too.

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Should I wear the Pendant at all times?

We recommend that you wear the Pendant at all times when around the house and garden. You never know when you might need to use it. It is advisable to take it off when you go to bed, so that you don't activate it by mistake. However, keep it by your bedside.

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What is a Morning Call?

This is a telephone call that our clients receive every morning to ensure that they are alright. The call takes place at a predetermined time and it gives our clients an opportunity to talk to our operators on a daily basis.

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Can anyone have the service?

Yes. There are no eligibility criteria. However, the property must have a telephone line and for the Community Alarm the telephone socket must be within 6 feet of a 13 amp power point.

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Can the service be used by people with special needs?

The alarm equipment is purpose designed to meet a wide range of special needs. If you would like to discuss how the service can be tailored to meet a specific need then please Contact Us.

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If I join the service and for any reason want to stop, can I?

If for any reason you decide that our service is not for you or your family, simply let us know and we will arrange for removal of the service and the alarm system (if fitted). Remember, there are no financial penalties. no minimum notice period and no contracts.

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If the alarm develops a fault, how do I get it fixed?

Simply Contact Us and we will attempt to resolve any problems while you are on the telephone. If for some reason the problem cannot be resolved in this way, we will send someone to your home at no charge.

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What if I accidentally set off my alarm?

If this happens we will be more than happy to speak with you. Simply explain to the operator that it was a mistake and no further action will be taken.

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When should I make an alarm call?

There will always be someone waiting to take your call. You should never feel hesitant about contacting us for any reason. If you hear noises in the middle of the night, or if you have an accident in your home, or suffer any medical emergency, the operator will arrange help for you as quickly as possible.

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What if I can't get to the phone?

You will still be able to use the Pendant Alarm because it has a range large enough to work around your home and garden. Even if you activate the alarm from another room, the operator may still be able to hear you. If you cannot be heard, the operator will still respond and get help to you. In a situation where you were not wearing your Pendant Alarm, you would still fail to answer your Morning Call. In this instance someone from your nominated contact list would be called to investigate.

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Does the alarm work outside?

Yes. If you should have a problem outside your home, up to about 45ft from the home, the system will still work. However, we are not going to be able to speak to you because you are outside. We will know that you are in trouble and we will contact the emergency services and someone on your nominated contacts list.

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I live in a rural area can I still be covered?

Although we are based in Glasgow, we have a national reach. You can have our service anywhere in Scotland.

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Can I update my service or change information after I join?

Yes. Just Contact Us and let us know what you would like to change.

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Can I take the system with me when I move?

Yes. Just Contact Us so that we can update your file with your new address and telephone number.

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How will the emergency services get into my home?

Should you have to call the emergency services, we would immediately call someone on your contact list that has a key to your home and who live close enough to be there to open the door.

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I'd like the service for both my parents, do I have to pay twice?

No. As long as they are in the same location, only one system is needed. An additional pendant can be supplied free of charge.

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How soon can the service be up and running after I join?

The Morning Call service can be activated on the day that you join. The Community Alarm with Pendant by a trained engineer at a suitable appointment time agreed with you. This is usually no more than 10 working days after we receive your application.

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What do I do if my question isn't answered here?

If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to Contact Us. We are always happy to update our list of Common Questions as needed.

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Community On-Line Support Service (Glasgow)
© Copyright 2004 colss
Last Modified:31 March 2004
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