When it comes to security, it’s not just about alarms and sirens — it’s also about having smart, discreet tools for the most dangerous situations. That’s where duress codes and verbal duress codes come in. These signals can be life-saving in a hostage or break-in scenario, and understanding how they work could make all the difference.
What Is a Duress Code?
A duress code is a secret PIN entered on your alarm keypad that appears to disarm the system—but silently notifies your central monitoring station to dispatch police. This is useful in scenarios like home invasions or robberies, where an intruder may be forcing you to turn off your alarm. Instead of entering your usual code, you use the duress code, signaling for help without raising any suspicion. Chicago homeowners and business owners should treat this as a lifesaving layer of security.
What Is a Verbal Duress Code?
A verbal duress code is used during a phone call with your monitoring center after an alarm triggers. Instead of your usual “all clear,” you provide a pre‑agreed secret word. The operator responds normally but simultaneously sends silent help—no sirens, no alarm panel, no alert to the intruder.
For example: If your real verbal passcode is “sunshine,” but your duress word is “cloudy,” giving the wrong phrase will inform the operator that you’re in trouble. The operator will act as if everything is fine, but they will immediately dispatch the police.
Key Differences
| Duress Code | Verbal Duress Code |
| Alarm panel/keypad | Phone call with the central station |
| Disarms system, sends silent alarm | Sends silent alarm via voice confirmation |
| Appears normal to intruder | Operator acts normal |
| Programmed in alarm panel | Must be pre-set with alarm company |
When Should You Use a Duress Code?
1. Home Invasion
You’re being forced to disarm your alarm system. Entering the duress code makes it seem like you’ve complied, while help is already on the way.
2. Alarm Triggers and Intruder Present
The alarm goes off and the monitoring company calls. You answer, but the intruder is watching. Instead of your normal code, you give the verbal duress code, signaling danger discreetly.
3. Someone Follows You into Your Business
You arrive at your Chicago storefront and someone suspicious follows you in. They demand you disarm the alarm system. Use your duress code to comply while silently alerting police—without tipping them off that help is on the way.
Why It Matters for Chicago Residents
- Both features require professional monitoring only—self‑monitoring can’t trigger silent alarms.
- Setting these up requires coordination with your alarm provider.
- Regular testing (e.g., quarterly) ensures functionality, especially for staff in Chicago businesses.
Important Reminder: Duress Codes Only Work With Professional Alarm Monitoring
Duress codes and verbal duress codes only work if your alarm system is connected to a central monitoring station. This feature is not available with self-monitored or local-only alarm setups. Be sure to check with your alarm company to ensure your current monitoring plan supports these features.
Final Thoughts
Duress codes and verbal duress codes are critical features that every business or homeowner should have. These tools offer discreet, reliable protection when it matters most. In a high-stakes situation, they can provide a silent but powerful call for help.
If you’re unsure whether your system supports duress functions or if you’d like to add this feature to your existing setup, contact us today. We’ll help you review your current security system and walk you through how to stay protected, even in the most dangerous scenarios.
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Need help setting up a duress code? Want to upgrade your monitoring plan?
Call us at 773.733.0970
Email us at info@inv-sys.com
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