In security, seconds count.
Security risk assessment – The reality is simple: response time matters, and we call that Time X. Time X refers to the duration it takes for your security team to respond to an alarm. The faster the response, the smaller the window of opportunity for the criminal. That narrow window can be the difference between a failed attempt and a successful break-in. If an alarm only activates once the intruder is already inside, they’ve already made significant progress. They’ve bypassed your perimeter, breached your first line of defense, and now they’re inside with a head start. At that point, even a fast response may be too late. # Security Risk Assessment
But what happens if someone discovers the breach before they reach that point?
Imagine the impact if the perimeter triggers an alarm before the criminal even reaches a door or window. Now they’re under pressure. They know security is already aware and likely on the way. This alters the situation dramatically. The criminal has to break in, grab something, and get out, all while knowing they’re being watched and pursued. Most don’t take that risk.
This pattern has been observed repeatedly. The data confirms this: when an early alarm at the boundary triggers, criminals often abandon their attempt. It’s not bravery they lack; it’s a quick response that kills the criminals opportunity.
This is why we place such a strong emphasis on Time X in every security risk assessment by Alwinco.
It’s not just a figure we throw into a report; it’s a vital indicator of your property’s ability to respond and contain a threat before it becomes a crisis. You cannot guess your response time. You must measure it. Accurately. That means assessing incident data: when the alarm was triggered, how long it took to respond, and whether that time was consistent across events. Only then can you get a true picture of your Time X and know where you stand. Please click here to read more about what your property says when no one is listening.
When we assess security risks,
We always include a detailed Time X section. We want you to see exactly how effective or ineffective your current response times are. If your response times are excessively slow, we recommend addressing this. If they’re fast, we push to make them even faster, especially by improving early detection, starting at the perimeter. So, when you receive your risk assessment from Alwinco, don’t skip over the Time X section. Read it carefully. It might just be the most important part of the report. This is because effective security encompasses more than just alarms, guards, or fences. It’s about timing. It’s about stopping crime before it starts. And it starts with understanding and improving Time X.
Another interesting read: 45 days to a safer security environment
Article written by Andre Mundell. # Security Risk Assessment Bloemfontein