Abstract: An alarm system for monitoring alarm conditions and for generating alert signals responsive thereto. The alarm system includes alarm signal processing circuitry for generating signals responsive to alarm conditions, control circuitry coupled to both transmitter and receiver control circuitry which are in turn coupled to a plurality of transceivers located about a selected site. Message control coupled to a recorded audio message unit transmits selected messages, via the transceivers, to portable remote units. Remote personnel respond to signals or messages from the alarm system by means of a portable radio with a built in keyboard In the event that an appropriate response is not received by the control system, dialer control circuitry places a phone call to a predetermined assistance seeking number and a prerecorded message from the message unit states the alarm condition and location.