Crash highlights need for modern alarm and communication systems.

Last month's plane crash into a high-rise residential building on Manhattan's Upper East Side illustrates the vital importance of having proper residential alarm and communications systems in place before another tragedy happens, notes Lucien Bohbot, president of Unitone, a leading New York City firm specializing in residential security systems.

"Obviously, no system in the building could have prevented this terrible accident from happening," says Bohbot, "but what can be done in the future is for developers and building owners to make it a priority, as early as possible, to install the most effective intercom and annunciation systems available. With annunciation and intercom capabilities, the building doormen--often the first to know what is happening in an emergency--can alert building residents quickly about what to do.

"For example, in the event of a fire, a terrorist attack or an explosion, the doorman can advise residents individually, or en masse, by using an integrated announcement feature that can be directed to one apartment, several apartments or throughout the building."

Effective and timely communication is essential to saving residents' lives, adds Mr. Bohbot.

"It not only guides them as to what course of action to take, but reduces their panic and fear. Systems that can help direct people in emergency situations--for example, whether or not they should evacuate a building--can be lifesavers."