Euralarm calls for 7-year notice period in Digital Networks Act
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Fire safety, security and social alarm systems across Europe rely heavily on public electronic communications networks to transmit emergency signals. Millions of installed devices – including fire alarm transmission systems, intruder alarms and telecare equipment for elderly and vulnerable citizens – depend on existing network technologies that are progressively being phased out.
When network operators migrate to new technologies, these systems often require physical hardware replacement, product redesign, certification and on-site installation, making the transition complex and time-consuming.
Euralarm therefore warns that completing such large-scale migrations within a two-year timeframe would be operationally unrealistic and could create temporary safety gaps affecting millions of European citizens.
Proposal: extend notice period to seven years
To ensure continuity of critical safety services, Euralarm calls for Article 5.4 to require notification at least seven years in advance when network changes may lead to the discontinuation of services on existing devices.
A seven-year transition window would allow industry and service providers to:
- develop and certify replacement technologies
- scale manufacturing and supply chains
- organise structured equipment replacement programmes
- coordinate installations with building owners and vulnerable users
- maintain uninterrupted life-safety services
Euralarm supports the modernisation of European communication networks but stresses that realistic migration timelines are essential to protect critical safety systems and the citizens who rely on them. We therefore urge EU policymakers to clarify Article 5.4 and ensure that life-safety services are fully considered in the final text of the Digital Networks Act.
