Abstract: Security systems, such as in a home or other building, are interfaced with one another so that alarm messages and other information regarding a first security system are communicated to a second security system. In response, a user at the second system can send commands to the first system, such as for arming or disarming the first system. A user interface device at the second system includes an output component, such as a display screen, for displaying alarm messages from both the first and second systems. Other information, such as video and audio data from the first system, can also be provided at the second system. An input component, such as a keypad, allows the user to enter commands for controlling both the first and second systems. Communication between the security systems may be realized via an RF link, telephone link, and/or computer network.

Abstract: A system and method for providing assistance to emergency personnel that includes the apparatus and method for detecting the presence of personnel within a protected premises, apparatus for detecting an imminent threat selected from the group consisting of a fire, seismological and terrorist events and apparatus, responsive to the means for detecting, for displaying the location of personnel within protected premises. The apparatus for detecting an imminent threat may include an ionization-type detector or a photoelectric detector or temperature sensing and may utilize fuzzy logic or Boolean logic. The temperature sensing apparatus may utilize one or more thermistors. The apparatus for detecting the presence of personnel may include ultrasonic apparatus, microwave apparatus, or infrared sensing.

Abstract: A system and method to facilitate escape from a building in an emergency which includes apparatus for monitoring at least a part of a building for a life threatening conditions selected from the group consisting of fire, seismological and terrorist threats. The system also includes a fire ladder having a compact position and a deployed position. The fire ladder in the deployed position extends generally vertically. The system further includes apparatus for mounting the fire ladder proximate to the lower edge of an associated window in the building and apparatus for releasably retaining the fire ladder in the compact position. In addition the system further includes apparatus for releasing the fire ladder that is responsive to the apparatus for monitoring. The rungs of the ladder may have projections dimensioned and configured to rest against the side of the associated building when the ladder is deployed along the side of the associated building.

Abstract: A home or other building security system is interfaced with a vehicle control system, such as for an automobile. The vehicle control system includes a transceiver for receiving commands from the home security system for performing certain actions, such as arming or disarming an alarm system, unlocking or locking doors, opening or closing windows, and starting or stopping the engine. The vehicle control system also transmits status information regarding the vehicle to the home security system. The vehicle can be protected as a zone or partition of the home security system. Furthermore, a remote vehicle monitoring apparatus may be provided that triggers an alarm or annunciation based on its control mode when a change of status signal is received from the vehicle. The control mode is optionally tied to the status of a home security system.

Abstract: A safety light is activated by a wireless signal from a control panel in a home security system is response to detection of a fire by the system. The safety light alerts rescuers of rooms in a home in which children may be located. The light may be window, door or wall-mounted, and have a single, or dual opposing, backlit faces. The backlit face includes a logo and/or text that is quickly recognized by rescuers. For example, a logo of a firefighter carrying a baby may be used with the text “tot rescue”. The safety light may communicate status information to the control panel, such as a low battery condition or a tamper alert. A tamper alert switch detects tampering with the housing of the safety light or its installation. Additional safety lights provide ambient illumination and directional information to an exit.