Here's how it works: When the Console is triggered, it flashes your home's lights and blares apiercing 95 decibel siren (about as loud as a home stero on max volume). And, it activates the voice dialer system. It calls you first. If you don't answer, it alls three programmable numbers (friends & family) until somebody picks up. When you answer, it plays a pre-recoredd message. Press"0" to listen in on your home. That way you can determine if there really is an emergency or if it's just a false alrm. You can kiss those false alarm fines goodbye once and for all!