HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP INC
S-1, 1996-07-26
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS SERVICES
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<PAGE>


    AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON JULY 26, 1996 
                                                      REGISTRATION NO. 333- 
============================================================================= 
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, D.C. 20549
                                     ------
                                    FORM S-1
                             REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                      UNDER
                           THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
                                     ------
                          HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC.
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

          Delaware                       7382                   06-1070719 
(State or other jurisdiction  (Primary Standard Industrial   (I.R.S. Employer 
   of incorporation or         Classification Code Number)  Identification No.)
      organization) 

          440 Ninth Avenue                          George V. Flagg 
    New York, New York 10001-1695         President and Chief Executive Officer 
          (212) 760-0630                            440 Ninth Avenue 
(Address, including zip code, and             New York, New York 10001-1695 
         telephone number,                           (212) 760-0630 
including area code, of registrant's      (Name, address, including zip code,
    principal executive offices)                  and telephone number, 
                                     including area code, of agent for service) 
                                     ------
                                  Copies to: 
      Jeffrey W. Rubin, Esq.                     Michael Hirschberg, Esq. 
   Squadron, Ellenoff, Plesent &                  Piper & Marbury L.L.P. 
         Sheinfeld, LLP                        1251 Avenue of the Americas 
        551 Fifth Avenue                        New York, New York 10020 
     New York, New York 10176                         (212) 835-6000 
           (212) 661-6500 
                                     ------

   Approximate date of proposed sale to the public: As soon as practicable 
after the effective date of this Registration Statement. 

   If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered 
on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities 
Act of 1933, as amended, check the following box. [ ]

   If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering 
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following 
box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier 
effective registration statement for the same offering. [ ]

   If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) 
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act 
registration statement number of the earlier registration statement for the 
same offering. [ ] 

   If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule 434, 
please check the following box. [ ]

                                     ------
<PAGE>

                       CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE 
===============================================================================
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                             Proposed 
                                                               Proposed       Maximum 
                                                               Maximum       Aggregate 
           Title of Each Class of             Amount To Be  Offering Price   Offering       Amount of 
        Securities To Be Registered            Registered   Per Share (2)      Price     Registration Fee 
<S>                                           <C>           <C>             <C>          <C>    
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Common Stock, par value $.01 per share(1)     1,150,000        $9.75       $11,212,500     $3,866.38
========================================================================================================= 
</TABLE>

(1) Includes 150,000 shares which the Underwriters have the option to 
    purchase from the Company solely to cover over-allotments. 

(2) Estimated solely for purposes of determining the registration fee 
    pursuant to Rule 457(c) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, on 
    the basis of the average of the high and low sale prices per share of the 
    Company's Common Stock on July 25, 1996, as reported by the Nasdaq 
    SmallCap Market. 


   The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or 
dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant 
shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this 
Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with 
Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration 
Statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting 
pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine. 

============================================================================= 
                                      
<PAGE>

                            CROSS-REFERENCE SHEET 

   Showing Location in Prospectus of Information Required by Items of Form 
S-1 Pursuant to Item 501(b) of Regulation S-K 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Registration Statement Item and Heading                          Location in Prospectus 
- --------------------------------------------------------------   --------------------------------------------------------- 
<S>       <C>                                                   <C>
1.        Forepart of the Registration Statement and Outside
          Front Cover Page of Prospectus .....................   Outside Front Cover of Prospectus 
          
2.        Inside Front and Outside Back Cover Pages of
          Prospectus .........................................   Inside Front and Outside Back Cover of Prospectus 

3.        Summary Information, Risk Factors and Ratio of
          Earnings to Fixed Charges ..........................   Prospectus Summary; Risk Factors; Not Applicable 
          
4.        Use of Proceeds.....................................   Prospectus Summary; Use of Proceeds

5.        Determination of Offering Price ....................   Outside Front Cover of Prospectus; Underwriting

6.        Dilution............................................   Not Applicable 

7.        Selling Security Holders ...........................   Not Applicable
 
8.        Plan of Distribution ...............................   Outside Front Cover of Prospectus; Underwriting 

9.        Description of Securities to be Registered..........   Description of Capital Stock 

10.       Interests of Named Experts and Counsel..............   Legal Matters 

11.       Information with Respect to the Registrant .........   Prospectus Summary; Risk Factors; Use of Proceeds; Price Range 
                                                                 of Common Stock and Dividend Policy; Capitalization; Selected 
                                                                 Financial Data; Management's Discussion and Analysis of 
                                                                 Financial Condition and Results of Operations; Business; 
                                                                 Management; Principal Stockholders; Description of Capital 
                                                                 Stock; Financial Statements; Financial Statement Schedules
 
12.       Disclosure of Commission Position on Indemnification  
          for Securities Act Liabilities.......................  Not Applicable 
 
13.       Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution..........  Part II 

14.       Indemnification of Directors and Officers............  Part II 

15.       Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities .............  Part II 

16.       Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules ..........  Part II; Exhibits 

17.       Undertakings ........................................  Part II 

</TABLE>

<PAGE>

Information contained herein is subject to completion or amendment. A 
registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the 
Securities and Exchange Commission. These securities may not be sold nor may 
offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the registration statement 
becomes effective. This prospectus shall not constitute an offer to sell or 
the solicitation of any offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these 
securities in any State in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be 
unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of 
any such State. 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                  SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED JULY 26, 1996 
PROSPECTUS 

                                                                          LOGO 
                               1,000,000 SHARES 
                        HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. 
                                 COMMON STOCK 


                                    ------ 


   All of the 1,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $.01 per share (the 
"Common Stock"), offered hereby are being sold by Holmes Protection Group, 
Inc. ("Holmes" or the "Company"). 

   Since March 27, 1995, the Company's Common Stock has traded on the Nasdaq 
SmallCap Market under the symbol "HLMS". Prior thereto, the Common Stock 
traded on the London Stock Exchange. On July 25, 1996, the last sale price 
for the Common Stock as reported by the Nasdaq SmallCap Market was $10.25. 
Application has been made to quote the Common Stock on the Nasdaq National 
Market under the proposed symbol "HLMS". 

                                    ------ 

   The shares offered hereby involve a high degree of risk. See "Risk 
Factors" beginning on page 6 hereof. 

                                    ------ 

THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND 
  EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS THE 
    SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES 
       COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS 
         PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A 
                              CRIMINAL OFFENSE. 

===============================================================================
                                      Underwriting 
                   Price to          Discounts and           Proceeds 
                    Public           Commissions (1)       to Company (2) 
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per Share........    $                 $                       $
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
Total (3) .......  $                $                       $ 
==============================================================================
(1) The Company has agreed to indemnify the several Underwriters against 
    certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 
    1933, as amended. See "Underwriting". 

(2) Before deducting expenses of the offering payable by the Company 
    estimated to be $500,000. 

(3) The Company has granted the Underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up 
    to an aggregate of 150,000 additional shares of Common Stock on the same 
    terms and conditions as the Common Stock offered hereby solely to cover 
    over-allotments, if any. If the Underwriters exercise this option in 
    full, the total Price to Public, Underwriting Discounts and Commissions 
    and Proceeds to Company will be $    , $     and $    , respectively. See 
    "Underwriting." 

   The shares of Common Stock offered hereby are offered by the Underwriters, 
subject to prior sale when, as and if delivered to and accepted by the 
Underwriters and subject to certain other conditions. The Underwriters 
reserve the right to withdraw, cancel or modify such offer and to reject 
orders in whole or in part. It is expected that delivery of the certificates 
representing shares of Common Stock will be made at the offices of Brean 
Murray, Foster Securities Inc. in New York, New York on or about 
 , 1996. 
                                    ------ 

                     BREAN MURRAY, FOSTER SECURITIES INC. 

                                    ------ 
                  The date of this Prospectus is      , 1996 


<PAGE>


                          Holmes Protection Group, Inc.
 
                                Still the First.
 
                   Protecting People and Property Since 1858.

                                     [LOGO]













Public Offices                                  Commercial Facilities 










                                                     
Industrial Sites                                Residential Premises 


                                     ------


    IN CONNECTION WITH THIS OFFERING, THE UNDERWRITERS MAY OVER-ALLOT OR EFFECT
TRANSACTIONS WHICH STABILIZE OR MAINTAIN THE MARKET PRICE OF THE COMMON STOCK
OFFERED HEREBY AT A LEVEL ABOVE THAT WHICH MIGHT OTHERWISE PREVAIL IN THE OPEN
MARKET. SUCH TRANSACTIONS MAY BE EFFECTED ON THE OVER-THE-COUNTER MARKET OR
OTHERWISE. SUCH STABILIZING, IF COMMENCED, MAY BE DISCONTINUED AT ANY TIME.


   IN CONNECTION WITH THIS OFFERING, CERTAIN UNDERWRITERS AND SELLING GROUP 
MEMBERS, IF ANY, MAY ENGAGE IN PASSIVE MARKET MAKING TRANSACTIONS IN THE 
COMPANY'S COMMON STOCK ON NASDAQ IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULE 10b-6A UNDER THE 
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934, AS AMENDED. SEE "UNDERWRITING." 



<PAGE>

                              PROSPECTUS SUMMARY 

   The following summary is qualified in its entirety by the more detailed 
information and Financial Statements and Notes thereto appearing elsewhere in 
this Prospectus, including information under "Risk Factors." The shares of 
Common Stock offered hereby involve a high degree of risk and investors 
should carefully consider information set forth in "Risk Factors." Unless 
otherwise indicated, all information contained in this Prospectus assumes 
that the Underwriters' over-allotment option as described in "Underwriting" 
is not exercised. 

                                 THE COMPANY 

   Holmes provides security alarm monitoring services and designs, sells, 
installs and services electronic security systems for commercial and mid- to 
high-end residential subscribers. These systems include event detection 
devices, surveillance equipment and access control devices which restrict 
access to specified areas. The Company currently provides its services in the 
Northeast, primarily in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and conducts 
its operations through four branch offices, two central monitoring stations 
and 37 independent alarm service dealers and franchisees. According to a 
published survey, the Company was the twelfth largest provider of electronic 
security services in the United States in terms of total 1995 revenues. 

   Following an internal management transition and reorganization that 
occurred during 1995, the Company engaged the services of several former 
senior executives of The National Guardian Corporation ("National Guardian"), 
a large national electronic security alarm services company which was 
acquired by Ameritech Monitoring Services, Inc. in October 1995. Among the 
executives hired by the Company was George V. Flagg, the Company's President 
and Chief Executive Officer, who served as the President and Chief Executive 
Officer of National Guardian from 1986 to 1995. During Mr. Flagg's tenure, 
National Guardian became one of the four largest electronic security services 
companies in the United States based upon revenues, which grew from 
approximately $40 million in 1985 to over $200 million in 1995. Under the 
direction of the Company's new management team, the Company is implementing a 
new business strategy involving a combination of strategic acquisitions and 
internal growth. In regard to strategic acquisitions, the Company intends to 
pursue both (i) fold-in acquisitions, which consist of businesses or 
portfolios of alarm monitoring accounts that can be readily combined with the 
Company's existing branch offices and management structure and (ii) new 
market acquisitions, which consist of companies in the electronic security 
services industry located outside the Company's current geographic market. To 
date, no agreements or understandings have been entered into with respect to 
any acquisitions, but the Company has identified one acquisition candidate 
located in the western region of the United States. In regard to its internal 
growth strategy, the Company intends to capitalize on public recognition of 
the historic Holmes brand name (which has been utilized in the security 
services industry since 1858) in connection with (i) expanding its security 
services product offerings, including the HolmesNet system for wireless data 
communications; (ii) establishing a national accounts program; (iii) 
increasing its sales and marketing efforts; and (iv) expanding its dealer 
operations. 

   The Company's revenues consist primarily of recurring payments under 
written contracts for security alarm monitoring activities and associated 
services, which represented approximately 74% of total revenues in 1995. The 
Company monitors digital alarm signals arising from various activities, 
including burglaries, fires and other events, through security systems 
installed at subscribers' premises. These signals are received and processed 
at one of the Company's central monitoring stations. In order to reduce 
overall manpower requirements, achieve economies of scale and other cost 
efficiencies, and enhance the quality of service being provided, the Company 
is in the process of consolidating its central monitoring stations into one 
state-of-the-art facility with monitoring capacity of approximately 60,000 
accounts. In order to avail itself of more extensive technological resources, 
the Company entered into a ten-year information technology services agreement 
with a subsidiary of Electronic Data Systems Corporation ("EDS") in 1995. The 
Company currently monitors approximately 35,000 accounts. To date, the 
Company has consolidated four central monitoring stations into two, and 
completion of the consolidation activities is scheduled for the third quarter 
of 1996. An additional 16% of the Company's total revenues in 1995 was 
comprised of direct sales and installation of security equipment. 

                                      3 
<PAGE>

   The balance of the Company's revenues in 1995 was derived from (i) jewelry 
vault rentals, (ii) insured parcel delivery services for the jewelry trade 
and (iii) royalty fees and product sales relating to its franchise and dealer 
operations. Approximately 80% of the Company's business is derived from 
commercial customers, including financial institutions, jewelry and fine art 
dealers, corporate headquarters, manufacturers, distribution facilities and 
health care and education facilities. The Company's residential business 
focuses principally on mid- to high-end customers. 

   Electronic security services is a consolidating but still a highly 
fragmented industry, consisting of a large number of local and regional 
companies and several integrated national companies. The fragmented nature of 
the industry can be attributed to the low capital requirements associated 
with performing basic installation and maintenance of electronic security 
systems. However, the business of a full service, integrated electronic 
security services company providing central station monitoring services is 
capital intensive, and the Company believes that the high fixed costs of 
establishing both central monitoring stations and full service operations 
contribute to the small number of national competitors. The low marginal cost 
of monitoring additional customers has been one of the principal factors 
leading full service, integrated electronic security services companies to 
seek acquisitions of other electronic security businesses to consolidate into 
their existing operations. The principal focus of the Company's business 
strategy is to aggressively pursue acquisitions in this environment. 

   The Company was incorporated as a Delaware corporation on October 29, 
1982. The Company's principal executive offices are located at 440 Ninth 
Avenue, New York, New York 10001-1695, and its telephone number is (212) 
760-0630. Unless the context indicates otherwise, references to the "Company" 
or "Holmes" in this Prospectus are to Holmes Protection Group, Inc. and its 
direct and indirect subsidiaries. 

                                 THE OFFERING 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S>                                                  <C>
Common Stock Offered by the Company  ..............  1,000,000 shares 
Common Stock Outstanding After the Offering(1)  ...  5,459,257 shares 
Use of Proceeds  ..................................  To finance the Company's business expansion plans, 
                                                     including pursuing strategic acquisitions, expanding its 
                                                     security services product offerings, establishing a 
                                                     national accounts program, increasing its sales and 
                                                     marketing efforts, and expanding its dealer operations. 
Nasdaq SmallCap Market Symbol and 
  Proposed Nasdaq National Market Symbol ..........  "HLMS" 

</TABLE>
- ------ 
(1) Excludes (i) 57,846 and 165,429 shares of Common Stock reserved for 
    issuance upon exercise of outstanding options under the Executives Plan 
    and the Directors Plan (each as defined in "Management--Stock Option 
    Plans"), respectively; (ii) 878,864 shares of Common Stock reserved for 
    issuance upon exercise of the Investor Warrants and Institution Warrants 
    (each as defined in "Risk Factors--Control by Certain Stockholders"); and 
    (iii) 830,000 shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance upon exercise 
    of options which have been granted under the 1996 Stock Incentive Plan 
    (the "1996 Plan"), subject to and conditioned upon stockholder approval 
    of the 1996 Plan at the Company's 1996 annual meeting of stockholders, 
    scheduled for October 31, 1996. See "Management--Stock Option Plans," 
    "Business--Historical Developments" and Notes 7 and 8 to Notes to 
    Consolidated Financial Statements. 


                                      4 
<PAGE>

                     SUMMARY FINANCIAL AND OPERATING DATA 
                    (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               Three Months 
                                             Ended March 31,                              Year Ended December 31, 
                                      -----------------------------    ------------------------------------------------------------
                                               (unaudited) 
                                          1996           1995            1995         1994          1993         1992        1991 
                                       ----------   ---------------    ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   -------- 
<S>                                   <C>           <C>                <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>
Statement of Operations Data:(1) 
Revenues  ..........................    $12,292         $12,584        $ 50,075     $ 51,402      $ 53,500     $ 56,173     $59,042 

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation 
  expense) .........................     (6,429)         (6,179)        (26,262)     (24,885)      (26,916)     (29,560)    (32,152)
Gross profit  ......................      5,863           6,405          23,813       26,517        26,584       26,613      26,890 
Selling, general and administrative 
  expenses .........................     (3,195)         (3,626)        (16,668)     (15,051)      (17,837)     (17,287)    (18,157)
Depreciation and amortization  .....     (2,663)         (2,519)        (10,390)      (9,736)       (8,919)      (8,139)     (8,034)
Income (loss) before cumulative effect 
  of change in accounting principle and 
  extraordinary item ...............       (253)              5          (3,674)         404           (55)      (3,795)    (73,066)
Net income (loss)  .................       (253)          2,482          (1,197)         404           (55)      19,392     (73,066)
Income (loss) per common share before 
  cumulative effect of change in 
  accounting principle and 
  extraordinary item ...............      (0.06)           0.00           (0.82)        0.11         (0.02)       (3.04)    (372.10)
Net income (loss) per common share(2)     (0.06)           0.55           (0.27)        0.11         (0.02)       15.54     (372.10)
Weighted average shares outstanding .     4,459           4,459           4,459        3,580         2,944        1,250         196 

                                            At March 31, 1996 
                                               (unaudited) 
                                      ----------------------------- 
                                         Actual     As adjusted(3) 
Balance Sheet Data: 
Working capital  ...................    $(6,108)        $ 2,822 
Total assets  ......................     79,360          88,290 
Long-term debt, net of current 
  maturities .......................      4,248           4,248 
Shareholders' equity  ..............     47,419          56,349 
</TABLE>
- ------ 
(1) Results of operations vary significantly among the years due to several 
    reorganizations and a recapitalization of the Company. Net loss for 1995 
    reflects the effect of a non-recurring charge of $2,074,000 recorded in 
    the fourth quarter of 1995 and the cumulative effect of a change in the 
    method of accounting for non- refundable payments received from customers 
    for company-owned systems resulting in a net credit after tax of 
    $2,477,000. See Notes 3 and 4 to Notes to Consolidated Financial 
    Statements for further explanations. Net income for 1992 reflects the 
    effect of an extraordinary gain, net of tax of $23,187,000, resulting 
    from the restructuring of debt that occurred in August 1992. Net income 
    for 1991 includes a non-recurring charge of $70,412,000 for the writedown 
    of subscriber contracts, goodwill, fixed assets and other items resulting 
    from management's assessment of the adequacy of the carrying values of 
    such assets and other non-recurring expenses. 

(2) The net income (loss) per common share data has been adjusted to give 
    effect to the one-for-fourteen reverse stock split of the Common Stock on 
    March 27, 1995. 

(3) Adjusted to reflect the sale of 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock offered 
    by the Company hereby at an assumed offering price of $10.25 per share 
    (after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated 
    offering expenses) and the application of the estimated net proceeds 
    therefrom. See "Use of Proceeds" and "Capitalization." 


                                      5 
<PAGE>

                                 RISK FACTORS 

   This Prospectus contains certain forward-looking statements within the 
meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 
1934. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the 
forward-looking statements as a result of certain uncertainties set forth 
below and elsewhere in this Prospectus. An investment in the shares of Common 
Stock offered hereby involves a high degree of risk. Prospective investors 
should carefully consider the following risk factors, in addition to the 
other information set forth in this Prospectus, in connection with an 
investment in the shares of Common Stock offered hereby. 

RECENT NET LOSSES AND ACCUMULATED DEFICIT 

   The Company incurred a net loss of $1,197,000 in 1995. This loss reflects 
the effect of a non-recurring charge of $2,074,000 and the cumulative effect 
of the change in the method of accounting for non-refundable payments 
received from customers for company-owned systems resulting in a net credit 
after tax of $2,477,000. The Company had net income of $404,000 in 1994 and 
net loss of $55,000 in 1993. At December 31, 1995, the Company had an 
accumulated deficit of $70,188,000, up from $68,991,000 at December 31, 1994, 
and a working capital deficit of $5,246,000 up from $1,818,000 at December 
31, 1994. Although the Company has experienced a decline in revenues in 
recent years, the percentage rate of decline in revenues over the past three 
years has been reduced. See "Risk Factors -- Customer Cancellation Rates," 
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of 
Operations" and Notes 3 and 4 to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

NEED TO SECURE FUTURE FINANCING 

   The Company entered into an Amended and Restated Loan Agreement with Fleet 
Bank, N.A. (formerly NatWest Bank N.A.) (the "Bank"), dated September 30, 
1993 (the "Loan Agreement"), providing for a $9 million five-year term note 
(the "Term Note") and a $3 million revolving loan facility (the "Credit 
Note"). The Term Note is currently being repaid as scheduled. The Company is 
currently unable to draw down any amounts under the Credit Note. In November 
1995, the Bank informed the Company that there would be no further extensions 
of credit thereunder. The Company has entered into commitment letters with 
two other banks, pursuant to which such banks have agreed, subject to the 
terms and conditions set forth therein (including, without limitation, 
negotiation of a definitive loan agreement), to provide a two-year, $25 
million revolving credit facility which, following the expiration of such 
two-year period, converts into a five-year term loan (the "Credit Facility"). 
Subject to specified borrowing conditions, up to $12.5 million of the Credit 
Facility will be available for borrowing upon the closing thereof, and up to 
an additional $12.5 million will become available if the Company receives at 
least $10 million in net proceeds from the sale of newly issued Common Stock 
by October 31, 1996. There can be no assurance, however, that the Credit 
Facility or any other financing will become available to the Company. 
Further, in the event the Credit Facility becomes available to the Company, 
there can be no assurance that the Company will receive at least $10 million 
in net proceeds from the sale of newly issued Common Stock by October 31, 
1996 and that, therefore, the additional amount of $12.5 million of the 
Credit Facility will become available to the Company. The inability to obtain 
the initial $12.5 million portion of the Credit Facility or any other 
financing could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business. See 
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of 
Operations." 

GEOGRAPHIC CONCENTRATION 

   The Company's existing subscriber base is geographically concentrated in 
New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Accordingly, the performance of the 
Company may be adversely affected by regional or local economic conditions. 

   The Company may from time to time make acquisitions in regions outside of 
its current operating area. The acquisition of companies in other regions, or 
in metropolitan areas in which the Company does not currently have 
subscribers, requires an investment by the Company. In order for the Company 
to expand successfully into a new area, the Company must acquire companies 
with a sufficient number and density of subscriber accounts in such area to 
support the investment. There can be no assurance that the Company will find 
such opportunities or that an expansion into new geographic areas will 
generate operating profits. 

                                      6 
<PAGE>

RISK RELATED TO GROWTH THROUGH ACQUISITIONS 

   One of the Company's primary strategies is to increase its revenues and 
the markets it serves through the acquisition of other companies in the 
electronic security services industry and portfolios of alarm monitoring 
accounts. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to acquire 
or profitably manage suitable acquisition candidates or successfully 
integrate such businesses into its operations without substantial costs, 
delays or other problems. In addition, there can be no assurance that any 
businesses acquired will be profitable at the time of their acquisition or 
will achieve sales and profitability that justify the investment therein or 
that the Company will be able to realize expected operating and economic 
efficiencies following such acquisitions. Acquisitions may involve a number 
of special risks, including adverse effects on the Company's reported 
operating results, diversion of management's attention, increased burdens on 
the Company's management resources and financial controls, dependence on 
retention and hiring of key personnel, risks associated with unanticipated 
problems or legal liabilities, and amortization of acquired intangible 
assets, some or all of which could have a material adverse effect on the 
Company's operations and financial performance. See "Use of Proceeds" and 
"Business -- Business Strategy." 

CUSTOMER CANCELLATION RATES 

   The Company is heavily dependent on its recurring monitoring and service 
revenues. Given the relatively fixed nature of monitoring and service 
expenses, increases and decreases in monitoring and service revenues have a 
significant impact on the Company's profitability. Substantially all of the 
Company's monitoring and service revenues are derived from recurring charges 
to subscribers for the provision of various services. Although no single 
subscriber represents more than one-half of one percent of the Company's 
recurring revenue base, the Company is vulnerable to subscribers cancelling 
their contracts. In recent years, lost recurring revenues from such 
cancellations have exceeded the new recurring revenues added by the Company's 
sales efforts. However, the Company's cancellation rate (as defined in detail 
below), representing lost recurring revenues from cancellations as a 
percentage of gross recurring revenues, decreased significantly from 15.2% in 
1991 to 10.9% in 1995. Although the Company's rate of subscriber 
cancellations has been substantially reduced since 1991, there can be no 
assurance that this rate may not increase in the future for a variety of 
reasons associated with general economic conditions, market competition and 
the level of customer satisfaction with the Company's services. See 
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of 
Operations." 

   As described herein, the "cancellation rate" means the gross recurring 
revenues lost through cancellation in a given period; less those recurring 
revenues derived from subscribers who cancel their service with the Company 
in order to move and then contract for the Company's services at their new 
premises; and less those recurring revenues derived from new subscribers who 
occupy a vacant premises where the Company has an existing company-owned 
system and who contract for the Company's services using that equipment; 
divided by the gross recurring revenues in force at the beginning of the 
period, annualized and expressed as a percentage. 

COMPETITION 

   The electronic security services industry is highly competitive and 
fragmented. The Company competes with national and regional companies, as 
well as smaller local companies, in all of its operations. Furthermore, new 
competitors are continuing to enter the industry and the Company may 
encounter additional competition from such future industry entrants. Subject 
to regulatory compliance, certain companies engaged in the telephone and 
cable business are competing in the electronic security services industry and 
other such companies may, in the future, enter the industry. Certain of the 
Company's current competitors have, and new competitors may have, 
substantially greater financial resources than the Company. See "Business -- 
Competition." 

SIGNIFICANT OWNERSHIP OF COMMON STOCK BY CERTAIN STOCKHOLDERS 

   At July 15, 1996, seven U.S. insurance companies and other institutions 
(the "Institutions") owned approximately 36% (38% including warrants to 
purchase an aggregate of 193,150 shares of Common Stock at $10.68 per share 
(the "Institution Warrants") of the Company's outstanding shares of Common 
Stock. Following this offering, the Institutions will own approximately 29% 
(32% including the Institution Warrants) of the Company's outstanding shares 
of Common Stock. Pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, dated as of December 18, 


                                      7 
<PAGE>


1991, which agreement was amended as of January 31, 1992, May 24, 1992 and 
June 30, 1992 (the "Exchange Agreement"), between the Institutions and the 
Company, the Institutions will be entitled to nominate two directors (the 
"Institution-Nominees") to the Board based on their ownership of Common Stock 
upon consummation of this offering. At July 15, HP Partners L.P., a Delaware 
limited partnership (the "Investor"), owned approximately 34% (43% including 
warrants to purchase 685,714 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of 
$4.58 per share (the "Investor Warrants") of the Company's outstanding shares 
of Common Stock. Following this offering, the Investor will own approximately 
28% (36% including the Investor Warrants) of the Company's outstanding shares 
of Common Stock. Pursuant to the Investment Agreement dated as of June 29, 
1994 between the Investor and the Company (the "Investment Agreement"), 
unless the Company, the Investor and the Institutions agree otherwise, the 
number of directors the Investor is entitled to nominate to the Board (the 
"Investor- Nominees") upon consummation of this offering will be reduced from 
four to three directors. As of the date hereof, it has not been determined 
which, if any, of the Investor-Nominees will cease to be an Investor-Nominee 
upon the consummation of this offering. Following the offering, the Board 
will still be comprised of nine individuals. As of a result of these separate 
agreements with the Company, the Institution-Nominees and the 
Investor-Nominees constitute a majority of the Company's directors and are 
therefore in a position to control the Company. See "Business -- Historical 
Developments." 

LIABILITY FOR EMPLOYEE ACTS AND DEFECTIVE EQUIPMENT 

   The nature of the security services provided by the Company potentially 
exposes it to greater risk of liability claims for employee acts or omissions 
or system failure than may be inherent in many other service businesses. 
Although (i) substantially all of the Company's customers have subscriber 
agreements which contain provisions for limited liability and predetermined 
liquidated damages and (ii) the Company carries insurance which it believes 
provides adequate coverage for businesses of the Company's type, there can be 
no assurance that such existing arrangements will prevent the Company from 
being adversely affected as a result of damages arising from the acts of its 
employees, defective equipment or because some jurisdictions prohibit or 
restrict limitations on liabilities and liquidated damages. In addition, 
certain of the Company's insurance policies and the laws of some states may 
limit or prohibit insurance coverage for punitive damages and for certain 
other kinds of damages arising from employee misconduct. See "Business -- 
Risk Management." 

POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS OF GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS 

   The Company's operations are subject to a variety of federal, state, 
county and municipal laws, regulations and licensing requirements. Many of 
the states in which Holmes operates, as well as certain local authorities, 
require Holmes to obtain licenses or permits to conduct a security alarm 
services business. Certain governmental entities also require persons engaged 
in the security alarm services business to be licensed and to meet certain 
standards in the selection and training of employees and in the conduct of 
business. The loss of such licenses, or the imposition of conditions on the 
granting or retention of such licenses, could have a material adverse effect 
on the Company. The Company believes that it holds the required licenses and 
is in substantial compliance with all licensing and regulatory requirements 
in each jurisdiction in which it operates. See "Business -- Regulation." 

DEPENDENCE UPON SENIOR MANAGEMENT 

   The success of the Company's business is dependent upon the active 
participation of the executive officers of the Company, most of whom have 
only recently been employed by the Company. In the event that the services of 
certain of such officers are lost for any reason, the Company's business may 
be materially and adversely affected. See "Management -- Directors and 
Executive Officers of the Company." 

POSSIBLE ANTI-TAKEOVER EFFECTS OF DELAWARE LAW 

   The Company is subject to the provisions of Section 203 of the General 
Corporation Law of Delaware. In general, Section 203 prohibits a publicly 
held Delaware corporation from engaging in a "business combination" with an 
"interested stockholder" for a period of three years after the date of the 
transaction in which the person becomes an interested stockholder, unless the 
business combination is approved in a prescribed manner or unless 

                                      8 
<PAGE>

the interested stockholder acquires at least 85% of the corporation's voting 
stock (excluding shares held by certain designated stockholders) in the 
transaction in which it becomes an interested stockholder. A "business 
combination" includes mergers, asset sales, and other transactions resulting 
in a financial benefit to the interested stockholder. Subject to certain 
exceptions, an "interested stockholder" is a person who, together with 
affiliates and associates, owns, or within the previous three years did own, 
15% or more of the corporation's voting stock. This provision of the Delaware 
law could delay and make more difficult a business combination even if the 
business combination could be beneficial, in the short term, to the interests 
of the stockholders. This provision of the Delaware law could also limit the 
price certain investors might be willing to pay in the future for shares of 
Common Stock. 

CLASSIFIED BOARD OF DIRECTORS; NO STOCKHOLDER ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT; 
SUPERMAJORITY VOTING 

   Certain provisions of the Restated Certificate of Incorporation could have 
an anti-takeover effect by making it more difficult to acquire the Company by 
means of (i) a tender offer, a proxy contest or otherwise and (ii) the 
removal of incumbent officers and directors. These provisions are expected to 
discourage certain types of coercive takeover practices and inadequate 
takeover bids and to encourage persons seeking to acquire control of the 
Company to negotiate first with the Company. However, these provisions could 
also delay, deter or prevent a tender offer or takeover attempt that a 
stockholder might consider in its best interest, including those attempts 
that might result in a premium over the market price for the shares held by 
the Company's stockholders. 

   The Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws provide 
for the division of the Board into three classes of directors serving 
staggered three-year terms. The By-Laws provide that the size of the Board 
shall be nine, provided that the Board, by vote of three-quarters of the 
directors then in office, may increase or decrease the number of directors in 
any class. The classified board provision may prevent any party who acquires 
control of a majority of the outstanding voting stock of the Company from 
obtaining control of the Board until the second annual stockholders meeting 
following the date the acquiror obtains the controlling interest. See 
"Business -- Historical Developments/The 1994 Investment Agreement" and "-- 
Historical Developments/The 1992 Restructuring" for a description of certain 
arrangements relating to the size and composition of the Board. 

   The Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company also provides 
that stockholder action can be taken only at an annual or special meeting of 
stockholders and cannot be taken by written consent in lieu of meeting. 
Additionally, the Restated Certificate of Incorporation requires an 
affirmative vote of three-quarters of the Company's voting power (unless 
three-quarters of the total number of directors then in office shall have 
approved the amendment) to amend the provisions of the Restated Certificate 
of Incorporation with respect to the number and classification of the Board, 
stockholder action without written consent, director liability, 
indemnification and amendments to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation. 
See "Business -- Historical Developments/Other Certificate of Incorporation 
and By-Law Provisions." 

POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECT OF "FALSE ALARMS" ORDINANCES 

   According to certain data concerning the residential security alarm market 
prepared in 1995 by J.P. Freeman & Co. (the "Freeman Data"), approximately 
97% of alarm activations that result in the dispatch of police or fire 
department personnel are not emergencies, and thus are "false alarms." 
Significant concern has arisen in certain municipalities about this high 
incidence of false alarms. This concern could cause a decrease in the 
likelihood or timeliness of police response to alarm activations and thereby 
decrease the propensity of consumers to purchase or maintain alarm monitoring 
services. 

   A number of local governmental authorities have considered or adopted 
various measures aimed at reducing the number of false alarms. Such measures 
include (i) subjecting alarm monitoring companies to fines or penalties for 
transmitting false alarms, (ii) licensing individual alarm systems and the 
revocation of such licenses following a specified number of false alarms, 
(iii) imposing fines on alarm subscribers for false alarms, (iv) imposing 
limitations on the number of times the police will respond to alarms at a 
particular location after a specified number of false alarms and (v) 
requiring further verification of an alarm signal before the police will 
respond. Enactment of such measures could adversely affect the Company's 
future business and operations. 

POSSIBLE VOLATILITY OF STOCK PRICE 

   The stock market has from time to time experienced extreme price and 
volume fluctuations that have been unrelated to the operating performance of 
particular companies. The market price of the Company's Common 

                                      9 
<PAGE>

Stock may be significantly affected by quarterly variations in the Company's 
operating results, changes in financial estimates by securities analysts or 
failure by the Company to meet such estimates, litigation involving the 
Company, general trends in the security alarm industry, actions by 
governmental agencies, national economic and stock market conditions, 
industry reports and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of 
the Company. See "Price Range of Common Stock and Dividend Policy." 

SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE; REGISTRATION RIGHTS 

   Upon completion of this offering, the Company will have 5,459,257 shares 
of Common Stock outstanding (5,609,257 shares if the Underwriters' 
over-allotment option is exercised in full). In addition, 878,864 shares of 
Common Stock are reserved for issuance upon the exercise of outstanding 
Investor Warrants and Institution Warrants, 223,275 shares of Common Stock 
are reserved for issuance upon exercise of outstanding options and 830,000 
shares of Common Stock are reserved for issuance upon exercise of options 
which have been granted under the 1996 Plan, subject to and conditioned upon 
stockholder approval of the 1996 Plan at the Company's annual meeting of 
stockholders, scheduled for October 31, 1996. Substantially all of the shares 
of Common Stock outstanding following this offering will be freely tradeable, 
except for (i) any such shares held at any time by an "affiliate" of the 
Company, as such term is defined under Rule 144 promulgated under the 
Securities Act ("Rule 144"), (ii) certain shares subject to the Registration 
Rights Agreements described below and (iii) shares subject to the "lockup 
agreements" described below. The possibility that substantial amounts of 
Common Stock may be sold in the public market could have a material adverse 
effect on prevailing market prices of the Common Stock and could impair the 
Company's ability to raise capital or make acquisitions through the sale of 
its equity securities. The Company, its officers and directors and certain of 
its principal stockholders (who beneficially hold in the aggregate 4,031,495 
shares of Common Stock, including shares of Common Stock issuable upon 
exercise of outstanding options and warrants beneficially owned by them), 
have agreed not to sell, offer to sell, issue, distribute or otherwise 
dispose of any shares of Common Stock of the Company for a period of 90 days 
from the date of this Prospectus (subject, in the case of the Company, to 
certain limited exceptions), without the prior written consent of the 
Representative (as hereinafter defined in "Underwriting"). See "Shares 
Eligible for Future Sale" and "Underwriting." 

   Pursuant to the terms of their Registration Rights Agreements (as 
hereinafter defined in "Business -- Historical Developments"), the Investor 
and each Institution have been granted certain registration rights with 
respect to their shares of Common Stock presently held or shares of Common 
Stock issuable upon exercise of their warrants. In connection with this 
offering, the Investor and each Institution have waived their respective 
registration rights for a period of 180 days from the date of this 
Prospectus. In the future, however, the Company may experience added costs 
and complexity in the event such registration rights are exercised. In 
addition, the exercise of such rights could have an adverse effect on the 
market price of the Common Stock. See "Business -- Historical Developments." 

                                      10 
<PAGE>

                               USE OF PROCEEDS 

   The net proceeds to the Company from the sale of shares of Common Stock 
offered hereby after deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and 
estimated offering expenses payable by the Company, are estimated to be 
$8,930,000 ($10,344,500 if the Underwriters' over-allotment option is 
exercised in full), assuming a public offering price of $10.25 per share. 

   The Company currently intends to use a significant portion of the net 
proceeds from the sale of the Common Stock offered hereby to pursue all or 
part of its business strategy, including pursuing strategic acquisitions, 
expanding its security services product offerings, establishing a national 
accounts program, increasing its sales and marketing efforts and expanding 
its dealer operations. The Company is actively exploring acquisition 
opportunities and, except for an acquisition candidate located in the western 
region of the United States, has not yet identified any companies which it 
might wish to acquire. To date, the Company has not entered into any 
contracts, understandings or arrangements for any acquisition. Any decision 
to make an acquisition will be based upon a variety of factors, including the 
purchase price and other financial terms of the transaction, the business 
prospects and competitive position of and services provided by the 
acquisition candidate and the extent to which any such acquisition would 
enhance the Company's future prospects. See "Risk Factors -- Risk Related to 
Growth Through Acquisitions" and "Business -- Business Strategy." 

   Pending the application of such proceeds, the Company intends to invest 
the net proceeds of this offering in government securities and 
investment-grade, short-term interest-bearing securities. 

                                      11 
<PAGE>

               PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK AND DIVIDEND POLICY 

   The Common Stock traded on the London Stock Exchange through March 24, 
1995. Since March 27, 1995, the Common Stock has traded on the Nasdaq 
SmallCap Market under the trading symbol "HLMS." Application has been made to 
quote the Common Stock on the Nasdaq National Market under the same symbol. 
The following table sets forth, as applicable for the periods indicated, the 
range of the high and low mid-market closing prices for the Common Stock as 
reported by the London Stock Exchange and the range of high and low sale 
prices as reported by the Nasdaq SmallCap Market. The prices set forth below 
have been adjusted to give effect to the one-for-fourteen reverse stock split 
of the Common Stock effected on March 27, 1995. 

                                          U.S. Dollars*       British Pounds 
                                       ------------------   ------------------ 
                                         High       Low       High      Low 
                                        -------   -------    -------   ------- 
1994                                                         sterling  sterling
                                                              pounds    pounds 
     First Quarter  .................   $ 7.70  $6.72         5.18      4.48 
     Second Quarter  ................     6.86   3.78         4.48      2.52 
     Third Quarter  .................     6.58   5.46         4.20      3.50 
     Fourth Quarter  ................     6.30   4.90         3.92      3.08 
1995                                                        sterling   sterling
     First Quarter (on London Stock                          pounds     pounds 
        Exchange through March 24, 1995) $6.25  $5.81         3.92      3.64 
     First Quarter (on the Nasdaq 
        SmallCap Market effective March 
        27, 1995 ....................     6.25   6.25           --       -- 
     Second Quarter  ................     7.25   5.50           --       -- 
     Third Quarter  .................     9.25   4.25           --       -- 
     Fourth Quarter  ................     6.50   3.75           --       -- 
1996 
     First Quarter  .................   $ 9.00  $4.38           --       -- 
     Second Quarter  ................     9.25   7.75           --       -- 
     Third Quarter (through July 25, 
        1996) .......................    11.50   9.00           --       -- 

- ------ 
* For purposes of this table, historical pound/dollar exchange rates have 
  been used based on the average of the rates at the end of each month during 
  each quarterly period. 

   On July 25, 1996 the last reported sales price for the Company's Common 
Stock on the Nasdaq SmallCap Market was $10.25 per share. At July 15, 1996, 
the Company had approximately 765 stockholders of record. 

   The Company has not paid cash dividends on the Common Stock since 1989 and 
does not anticipate paying such dividends in the foreseeable future. The 
Company currently intends to retain any future earnings for use in the 
Company's business. The payment of any future dividends will be determined by 
the Board in light of the conditions then existing, including the Company's 
financial condition and requirements, future prospects, restrictions in 
financing agreements, business conditions and other factors deemed relevant 
by the Board. In addition, the Company is subject to certain restrictions 
regarding the payment of cash dividends and the making of other distributions 
in respect of the Common Stock pursuant to the Loan Agreement and anticipates 
that it will be subject to similar restrictions under the Credit Facility and 
any other new financing arrangements. 

                                      12 
<PAGE>

                                CAPITALIZATION 

   The following table sets forth the actual capitalization of the Company as 
of March 31, 1996 and as adjusted to give effect to the sale of the 1,000,000 
shares of Common Stock offered by the Company hereby at an assumed public 
offering price of $10.25 per share (after deducting underwriting discounts 
and commissions and estimated offering expenses) and the application of the 
estimated net proceeds of $8,930,000 therefrom. See "Use of Proceeds." This 
table should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and 
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the financial 
statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this Prospectus. 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                          At March 31, 1996 
                                                                     --------------------------- 
                                                                        Actual      As Adjusted 
                                                                      ----------   ------------- 
                                                                            (in thousands) 
<S>                                                                  <C>           <C>             
Short-term obligations: 
     Existing term note  ..........................................    $  2,250      $  2,250 
     Capital lease obligations  ...................................         168           168 
     Other debt  ..................................................          34            34 
                                                                      ----------   ------------- 
        Total short-term obligations ..............................    $  2,452      $  2,452 
                                                                      ==========   ============= 
Long-term obligations: 
     Existing term note  ..........................................    $  3,375      $  3,375 
     Capital lease obligations  ...................................         749           749 
     Other debt  ..................................................         124           124 
                                                                      ----------   ------------- 
        Total long-term obligations  ..............................    $  4,248      $  4,248 
                                                                      ==========   ============= 
Shareholders' equity: 
     Preferred Stock, $1.00 par value; 1,000,000 shares authorized; 
        none issued and outstanding ...............................    $     --      $     -- 
     Common Stock, $.01 par value; 12,000,000 shares authorized; 
        4,466,399 shares issued and outstanding
        (5,466,399 as adjusted) (1) ...............................          45            55 
     Additional paid-in capital  ..................................     120,763       129,683 
     Accumulated deficit  .........................................     (70,441)      (70,441) 
     Minimum pension liability adjustment  ........................      (2,863)       (2,863) 
     Less: treasury stock (7,142 shares)  .........................         (85)          (85) 
                                                                      ----------   -------------    
        Total shareholders' equity  ...............................    $ 47,419      $ 56,349 
                                                                      ==========   =============
</TABLE>

(1) Excludes (i) 57,846 and 165,429 shares of Common Stock reserved for 
    issuance upon exercise of outstanding options under the Executives Plan 
    and the Directors Plan, respectively; (ii) 878,864 shares of Common Stock 
    reserved for issuance upon exercise of the Investor Warrants and 
    Institution Warrants (each as defined in "Risk Factors -- Control by 
    Certain Stockholders"); and (iii) 830,000 shares of Common Stock reserved 
    for issuance upon exercise of options which have been granted under the 
    1996 Plan, subject to and conditioned upon stockholder approval of the 
    1996 Plan at the Company's 1996 annual meeting of stockholders, scheduled 
    for October 31, 1996. See "Management -- Stock Option Plans," "Business 
    -- Historical Developments" and Notes 7 and 8 to Notes to Consolidated 
    Financial Statements. 

                                      13 
<PAGE>
                           SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA 

   The following selected financial data for the years ended December 31, 
1991, 1992, 1993, 1994 and 1995 were derived from financial statements of the 
Company which have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent certified 
public accountants. The unaudited balance sheet data as of March 31, 1996 and 
the unaudited statement of operations data for the three months ended March 
31, 1995 and March 31, 1996 have been prepared on the same basis as the 
audited financial statements and in the opinion of management, include all 
adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary to 
present fairly the information set forth herein. Results for the three months 
ended March 31, 1996 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be 
expected for the year ending December 31, 1996. The data should be read in 
conjunction with the financial statements, related notes and the other 
financial information included elsewhere herein. 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      Three Months Ended 
                                          March 31,                             Year Ended December 31, 
                                    ----------------------   --------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                         (unaudited) 
                                       1996        1995         1995         1994         1993         1992         1991 
                                     ---------   ---------   ----------   ----------   ----------    ----------   ---------- 
                                                            (in thousands, except per share amounts) 
<S>                                 <C>          <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>
Statement of Operations Data:(1) 
Revenues ........................    $12,292     $12,584      $ 50,075     $ 51,402     $ 53,500     $ 56,173     $ 59,042 
Cost of sales (exclusive of 
  depreciation expense)  .........    (6,429)     (6,179)      (26,262)     (24,885)     (26,916)     (29,560)     (32,152) 
Gross profit ....................      5,863       6,405        23,813       26,517       26,584       26,613       26,890 
Selling, general and administrative 
  expenses  ......................    (3,195)     (3,626)      (16,668)     (15,051)     (17,837)     (17,287)     (18,157) 
Depreciation and amortization ...     (2,663)     (2,519)      (10,390)      (9,736)      (8,919)      (8,139)      (8,034) 
Income (loss) before income taxes
  and cumulative effect of change in 
  accounting principle  ..........      (168)         57        (5,793)         982          145        3,803      (77,461) 
Income (loss) before cumulative 
  effect of change in accounting 
  principle and extraordinary item      (253)          5        (3,674)         404          (55)      (3,795)     (73,066) 
Cumulative effect of change in 
  accounting principle  ..........        --       2,477         2,477           --           --           --           -- 
Extraordinary item ..............         --          --            --           --           --       23,187           -- 
Net income (loss) ...............       (253)      2,482        (1,197)         404          (55)      19,392      (73,066) 
Income (loss) per common share before 
  cumulative effect of change in 
  accounting principle and 
  extraordinary item  ............     (0.06)         --         (0.82)        0.11        (0.02)       (3.04)     (372.10) 
Net income (loss) per common share(2)  (0.06)        .55         (0.27)        0.11        (0.02)       15.54      (372.10) 
Weighted average shares outstanding    4,459       4,459         4,459        3,580        2,944        1,250          196 
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  Three Months Ended 
                                       March 31,                        Year Ended December 31, 
                                 --------------------    ------------------------------------------------------- 
                                      (unaudited) 
                                    1996       1995       1995        1994        1993       1992        1991 
                                  --------   --------    --------   ---------   --------   ---------    -------- 
                                                                 (in thousands) 
<S>                              <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>         <C>        <C>          <C>
Other Data: 
EBITDA (3)  ...................    $2,679     $2,783     $7,392     $11,659      $9,649     $12,312     $9,217 
Interest expense  .............       184        207        721         941         585         370      8,232 
Capital expenditures  .........     2,670      1,917      7,494       7,361       7,883       7,074      6,423 
Net cash provided by operating 
  activities ..................     2,056      2,130      6,144       6,164       2,335       1,797      3,618 
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      At March 31,                                 At December 31, 
                                 ----------------------    ---------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                       (unaudited) 
                                     1996        1995        1995         1994          1993         1992          1991 
                                  ----------   --------    ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------    ----------- 
                                                                       (in thousands) 
<S>                              <C>           <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>
Balance Sheet Data: 
Working capital  ..............    $(6,108)    $  (911)     $(5,246)     $(1,818)     $(9,107)     $(8,307)      $(73,158) 
Total assets  .................     79,360      85,940       81,629       87,148       84,078       83,450         87,862 
Long-term debt, net of current 
  maturities ..................      4,248       6,154        4,862        6,709        5,995          435            851 
Shareholders' equity  .........     47,419      50,902       47,672       48,420       39,319       38,006        (22,142) 
</TABLE>
- ------ 
(1) Results of operations vary significantly among the years due to several 
    reorganizations and a recapitalization of the Company. Net loss for 1995 
    reflects the effect of a non-recurring charge of $2,074,000 recorded in 

                                      14 
<PAGE>

    the fourth quarter of 1995 and the cumulative effect of a change in the 
    method of accounting for non- refundable payments received from customers 
    for company-owned systems resulting in a net credit after tax of 
    $2,477,000. See Notes 3 and 4 to Notes to Consolidated Financial 
    Statements for further explanations. Net income for 1992 reflects the 
    effect of an extraordinary gain, net of tax of $23,187,000, resulting 
    from the restructuring of debt that occurred in August 1992. Net income 
    for 1991 includes a non-recurring charge of $70,412,000 for the writedown 
    of subscriber contracts, goodwill, fixed assets and other items resulting 
    from management's assessment of the adequacy of the carrying values of 
    such assets and other non-recurring expenses. 

(2) The net income (loss) per common share data has been adjusted to give 
    effect to the one-for-fourteen reverse stock split of the Common Stock 
    effected on March 27, 1995. 

(3) EBITDA means earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and 
    amortization and is presented because it is an accepted and useful 
    financial indicator of a company's ability to service and incur debt. 
    EBITDA should not be considered (i) as an alternative to net income or 
    any other GAAP measure of performance, (ii) as an indicator of operating 
    performance or cash flows generated by operating, investing or financing 
    activities or (iii) as a measure of liquidity. EBITDA for 1995 does not 
    reflect the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle of 
    $2,477,000 or a non-recurring charge of $2,074,000. EBITDA for 1992 does 
    not reflect an extraordinary gain of $23,187,000. EBITDA for 1991 does 
    not reflect a non-recurring charge of $70,412,000. 


                                      15 
<PAGE>

                   MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF 
                FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     Three Months 
                                                    Ended March 31,             Year Ended December 31, 
                                                ----------------------   ------------------------------------- 
                                                      (unaudited) 
                                                                        (in thousands) 
                                                   1996        1995         1995         1994          1993 
                                                 ---------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
<S>                                             <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
Monitoring and service  ......................    $ 9,093     $ 9,609     $ 37,912     $ 39,747      $ 41,004 
Installation  ................................      2,219       2,175        8,155        8,425         9,141 
Franchise royalties, product sales and other .        980         800        4,008        3,230         3,355 
                                                 ---------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
Total revenues  ..............................     12,292      12,584       50,075       51,402        53,500 
Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation expense 
  shown below) ...............................     (6,429)     (6,179)     (26,262)     (24,885)      (26,916) 
                                                 ---------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
Gross profit  ................................      5,863       6,405       23,813       26,517        26,584 
Selling, general and administrative expenses .     (3,195)     (3,626)     (16,668)     (15,051)      (17,837) 
Depreciation and amortization  ...............     (2,663)     (2,519)     (10,390)      (9,736)       (8,919) 
Non-recurring charge  ........................         --          --       (2,074)          --            -- 
Other income  ................................         11           4          247          193           902 
Interest expense, net  .......................       (184)       (207)        (721)        (941)         (585) 
                                                 ---------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
Income (loss) before income taxes and cumulative 
  effect of change in accounting principle ...       (168)         57       (5,793)         982           145 
Provision (benefit) for income taxes  ........         85          52       (2,119)         578           200 
                                                 ---------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
Income (loss) before cumulative effect of change 
  in accounting principle ....................       (253)          5       (3,674)         404           (55) 
Cumulative effect of change in accounting 
  principle, net of tax of $1,942 ............         --       2,477        2,477           --            -- 
                                                 ---------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
Net income (loss)  ...........................    $  (253)    $ 2,482     $ (1,197)    $    404      $    (55) 
                                                 =========   =========    ==========   ==========   ========== 
</TABLE>

    OVERVIEW 

   The majority of the Company's revenues is derived from a combination of 
(i) recurring payments received from subscribers for providing monitoring, 
service and equipment relating to electronic security systems, primarily 
under renewable contracts which generally have an initial five-year term, 
(ii) non-refundable charges received in connection with the installation of 
company-owned systems in subscribers' premises, (iii) direct sales of 
electronic security systems and (iv) billable service charges, primarily from 
subscribers who own their systems outright. The remainder of the Company's 
revenues is derived from its insured parcel delivery service for the jewelry 
trade, jewelry vault rentals and royalties and product sales relating to its 
franchise and dealer operations. 

   Recurring revenues are payable monthly, quarterly or annually in advance 
and are recognized as service is provided. Effective January 1, 1995, the 
Company changed its method of accounting for installation revenues with 
respect to the recording of non-refundable payments received from customers 
upon the completion of the installation of company-owned systems. The 
cumulative net effect of this change was to increase net income by $2.5 
million in 1995. However, excluding the cumulative effect, this change 
resulted in an increase in net loss of $.4 million in 1995. Prior to this 
change, the Company deferred the difference between these payments and 
estimated selling costs and amortized such difference over the life of the 
non-cancelable subscriber contracts (generally five years). The Company 
believes that, on an ongoing basis, this change will not have a significant 
effect on net income. In addition, the Company further believes that 
recognizing revenues upon completion of 

                                      16 
<PAGE>

the installation results in a better matching of revenues and expenses, 
better reflects the actual level of new business activity and conforms with 
the dominant practice being followed by the electronic security services 
industry. See Note 3 to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

   Direct installation costs of company-owned systems, which include 
materials, labor and installation overhead, are capitalized and depreciated 
over the average useful life of subscriber contracts (including renewals), 
estimated by the Company to be twelve years. Other than direct installation 
costs of company-owned systems, all costs are recognized in the period in 
which they are incurred. 

    FIRST QUARTER 1996 COMPARED WITH FIRST QUARTER 1995 

   Revenues declined 2.3% to $12.3 million in the first quarter of 1996 from 
$12.6 million in the first quarter of 1995. The decline was primarily 
attributable to a reduction of monitoring and service revenues due to the 
excess of cancellations over new recurring revenues added to the base by the 
Company's sales efforts offset, in part, by revenues from the One Service 
business, acquired in March 1995. The annualized subscriber cancellation rate 
was 10.1% in the first quarter of 1996 compared to 11.9% in the first quarter 
of 1995. The Company's annual recurring revenue base declined from $35.5 
million at December 31, 1995 to $35.2 million at March 31, 1996. However, it 
was $37.1 million at March 31, 1995. The severe winter weather during the 
first quarter of 1996 was partially responsible for a reduction in additions 
to recurring revenues from sales efforts and billings for service work during 
this period. 

   Cost of sales increased 4.0% from $6.2 million in the first quarter of 
1995 to $6.4 million in the same quarter of 1996, due primarily to the 
acquisition of the One Service business in March 1995. In the first quarter 
of 1996, selling, general and administrative expenses declined $.4 million 
compared to the first quarter of 1995, reflecting some of the initiatives 
taken in late 1995 to reduce costs. Depreciation and amortization charges 
increased 5.7% to $2.7 million in the first quarter of 1996 from $2.5 million 
in the first quarter of 1995. This increase relates primarily to depreciation 
expense on additions of company-owned systems on subscribers' premises. 

   Income from operations decreased from $260,000 in the first quarter of 
1995 to $5,000 in the first quarter of 1996, primarily as a result of the 
reduced revenues and increased depreciation expense, offset by lower selling, 
general and administrative expenses, as described above. 

   Income (loss) before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 
was $(253,000) in the first quarter of 1996, compared to $5,000 in the first 
quarter of 1995. 

    FISCAL YEAR 1995 COMPARED WITH FISCAL YEAR 1994 

   Revenues declined $1.3 million (2.6%) to $50.1 million in 1995 from $51.4 
million in 1994. A portion of the decline was attributable to a reduction in 
revenues of $1.8 million from the Company's monitoring and service operations 
relating to the cancellation of annual recurring revenues in excess of new 
sales. Such annual recurring revenue base declined from $37.4 million at 
December 31, 1994 to $35.5 million at December 31, 1995. In addition, reduced 
revenues resulted from a decline in revenues of $.7 million from franchise 
and dealer operations and $.7 million from the change in the method of 
accounting for non-refundable installation fees on company-owned systems. The 
decline in revenues was partially offset by revenues from the insured parcel 
delivery service of $1.4 million, which business was acquired in March 1995. 
In 1995, the franchise and dealer operations experienced the loss of several 
franchisees and a reduction in related royalties and product sales. The 
change in accounting policy regarding non-refundable installation fees, while 
having a favorable cumulative effect on net income, resulted in lower 
installation income recognition in 1995. The Company's cancellation rate 
continued to improve from a high in 1991 of 15.2%, to 10.9% in 1995, which 
was slightly better than the 11.1% cancellation rate in 1994. This 
improvement reflects continued efforts to upgrade older accounts with new 
systems and to provide high quality service to subscribers. 

   Cost of sales increased by $1.4 million (5.5%) to $26.3 million in 1995 
from $24.9 million in 1994 primarily due to costs incurred in the operation 
of the insured parcel delivery business. 

                                      17 
<PAGE>

   Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $1.6 million 
(10.7%) to $16.7 million in 1995 from $15.1 million in 1994. The increase 
relates in part to legal and professional fees incurred in connection with 
the Outsourcing Agreement (as hereinafter defined in "Business -- Historical 
Developments/The 1995 Outsourcing Agreement") and a significant prospective 
acquisition which did not materialize. Increased selling expenses were 
incurred in connection with new marketing efforts relating to the ProWatch 
and LifeNet systems. 

   Depreciation and amortization expense increased $.7 million (6.7%) to 
$10.4 million in 1995 from $9.7 million in 1994. The increase relates to 
additional depreciation of installation costs relating to new company- owned 
systems as well as those systems which have been upgraded. 

   Interest expense, net of interest income, declined by $.2 million (23.4%) 
from $.9 million in 1994 to $.7 million in 1995 primarily due to an increase 
in interest income on investments and a declining debt balance under the Loan 
Agreement. 

   Non-recurring charges of $2.1 million in 1995 included $1.1 million 
relating to (i) severance pay and related benefit costs in connection with 
the selective reduction of approximately 70 employees in the Company's work 
force, all of whom were terminated, notified or identified at December 31, 
1995 and (ii) approximately $1.0 million relating to the write-off of 
unamortized leasehold improvements and other assets in connection with the 
Company's central station consolidation and the relocation of the Company's 
corporate headquarters scheduled for late 1996. See Note 4 to Notes to 
Consolidated Financial Statements. 

   In 1995, the Company changed its method of accounting for non-refundable 
installation fees on company- owned systems. The cumulative net effect of 
this change was to increase net income by $2.5 million in 1995. However, 
excluding the cumulative effect, this change resulted in an increase in net 
loss of $.4 million in 1995. The Company believes that, on an ongoing basis, 
the effect on net income of this change will not be significant. See Note 3 
to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

   The Company recorded a net loss in 1995 of $1.2 million compared to net 
income of $.4 million in 1994. The net reduction in income of $1.6 million in 
1995 is due to all the various changes described above. 

    FISCAL YEAR 1994 COMPARED WITH FISCAL YEAR 1993 

   Revenues declined $2.1 million (3.9%) to $51.4 million in 1994 from $53.5 
million in 1993. The decline was primarily attributable to a reduction of 
$1.3 million in monitoring and service revenues owing to the net loss of 
recurring revenues from the base, despite the acquisition of $.7 million of 
annual recurring revenues in the first quarter of 1994. The subscriber 
cancellation rate was 11.1% in both 1994 and 1993. There was also a decline 
of $.7 million in installation revenues from 1993 to 1994, mainly as a result 
of the very severe weather in the first quarter of 1994 which adversely 
impacted the Company's sales and installation activities. Finally, franchise 
revenues declined $.1 million from 1993 and 1994, mainly as a result of lower 
royalty payments and equipment purchases by franchisees caused by the 
imposition of stricter credit controls by the Company. 

   Cost of sales decreased by $2.0 million (7.5%) to $24.9 million in 1994 
from $26.9 million in 1993, thus improving the Company's gross margin from 
49.7% to 51.6% of revenues. The decline in cost of sales resulted primarily 
from a decline in monitoring and service costs of $1.9 million related to a 
headcount reduction of 13, the refurbishment of older alarm systems and the 
termination and renegotiation of certain real estate leases. Installation 
costs also declined by $.4 million from 1993 to 1994 mainly as a result of 
lower material usage related to the lower level of installation activity. 
Franchise costs increased by $.4 million primarily owing to a change in the 
equipment sales mix. 

   Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $2.8 million 
(15.6%) to $15.0 million in 1994 from $17.8 million in 1993. This decrease 
was mainly as a result of lower selling costs related to the lower level of 
sales activity in 1994, and reductions in general and administrative salary 
costs and professional fees. 

   Depreciation and amortization expense increased $.8 million (9.2%) to $9.7 
million in 1994 from $8.9 million in 1993. The increase is due to additional 
depreciation of installation costs relating to new company-owned systems as 
well as those refurbished. Amortization expense increased due to additional 
amortization of two groups of acquired subscriber monitoring contracts. 


                                      18 
<PAGE>


   Interest expense increased $.4 million (60.9%) to $.9 million in 1994 from 
$.6 million in 1993. This increase was due to higher interest rates and 
additional debt incurred for acquisitions of subscriber monitoring contracts 
and to fund other liabilities, primarily consisting of prior years' 
obligations including a portion of the pension fund and retroactive insurance 
premium liabilities. 

   Net income increased by $.5 million to $.4 million in 1994 from a loss of 
$.1 million in 1993. This increase was primarily due to the reduction in 
costs exceeding the reduction in revenues described above, despite the fact 
that the income tax provision increased from $.2 million in 1993 to $.6 
million in 1994. 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES 

  FIRST QUARTER 1996 

   Cash and cash equivalents decreased by $.1 million from $.4 million on 
January 1, 1996 to $.3 million at the end of the first quarter of 1996. Net 
cash provided by operating activities was $2.1 million, offset by cash 
utilized by investing activities of $.6 million and cash utilized by 
financing activities (debt repayment) of $1.6 million. 

   Net cash provided by operating activities in the first quarter of 1996 
consisted primarily of $2.4 million in cash provided by sales of electronic 
security services, offset by a decrease in accounts payable and accrued 
expenses of $1.1 million, an increase in prepaid expenses and other current 
assets of $.2 million and an increase in deferred revenues of $.6 million. 

   Net cash of $.6 million used in investing activities in the first quarter 
of 1996 consisted primarily of $2.6 million of additions to company-owned 
equipment on subscribers' premises and other fixed assets, offset by a net 
reduction of $2.0 million from net maturities of short-term investments. 

   Net cash of $1.6 million used by financing activities during this period 
consisted primarily of principal repayments of $.7 million of the Company's 
term loan under the Loan Agreement and repayments of short-term borrowings of 
$.9 million under the Company's margin account which was secured against the 
value of securities in the Company's short-term investment account. 

  FISCAL YEAR 1995 

   Cash and cash equivalents declined by $1.0 million from $1.4 million in 
1994 to $.4 million in 1995. In 1995, net cash provided by operating 
activities of $6.1 million was offset by $1.5 million of cash used by 
financing activities and $5.6 million of cash used by investing activities. 

   Net cash provided by operating activities of $6.1 million in this period 
principally consisted of cash provided by sales of electronic security 
services, adjusted for non-cash charges for depreciation and amortization, an 
increase in accounts receivable of $1.6 million, an increase in accounts 
payable and accrued expenses of $2.3 million and a decrease in customer 
deposits and other liabilities of $1.6 million. The excess of current 
liabilities over current assets increased from $1.8 million in 1994 to $5.2 
million in 1995 primarily as a result of a reduction in long-term debt, 
additions to property, plant and equipment and establishment of the reserve 
for severance and related benefit costs. 

   Net cash of $5.6 million used by investing activities in 1995 consisted of 
$7.5 million of capital expenditures (primarily for installation of alarm 
equipment on subscribers' premises), offset by a net reduction of $1.9 
million from net maturities of short-term investments. 

   Net cash of $1.5 million used by financing activities during this period 
consisted principally of repayments of amounts due under the Loan Agreement 
and short-term borrowings under the Company's margin account. See Note 6 to 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

  FUTURE COMMITMENTS 

   Liquid assets available to the Company as of December 31, 1995 included 
cash and cash equivalents of $.4 million. Additionally, the Company purchased 
short-term U.S. government and federal agency securities during 

                                      19 
<PAGE>

the third quarter of 1994, of which $2.0 million remained available in a 
short-term investment account at December 31, 1995 to provide for working 
capital and other liabilities. The assets in the short-term investment 
account provide collateral for borrowing under a Company margin account. At 
December 31, 1995, $.9 million was outstanding under this margin account. 

   Liquid assets available to the Company as of March 31, 1996 included cash 
and cash equivalents of $.3 million. During the first quarter of 1996, the 
Company repaid the $.9 million outstanding under the margin account and 
converted the remaining assets in the short-term investment account into cash 
and cash equivalents. 

   In September 1993, the Company entered into the Loan Agreement with the 
Bank providing for a $9 million five-year term note (the "Term Note") and a 
$3 million revolving loan facility (the "Credit Note"). In 1993 and 1994, the 
Company borrowed approximately $12 million under the Loan Agreement. Such 
amounts were used to replace the Company's existing short-term borrowings, to 
finance acquisitions and to provide working capital. In August 1994, the 
Company repaid all outstanding amounts under the Credit Note. In September 
1994, the Company began repaying outstanding principal amounts under the Term 
Note, which payments currently continue. On March 10, 1995, the Loan 
Agreement was amended to permit an additional borrowing of $2 million, during 
the month of December 1995 only, for the purpose of paying a portion of the 
costs of consolidation pursuant to the Outsourcing Agreement (as such term is 
defined below). This facility expired, unused. At March 31, 1996 and December 
31, 1995, the outstanding balance on the Term Note was $5.6 and $6.2 million, 
respectively, and the unused balance on the Credit Note was $3 million on 
both dates. See Note 6 to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

   The Company is currently unable to draw down any amounts under the Credit 
Note. In November 1995, the Bank informed the Company that there would be no 
further extensions of credit thereunder. The Company has entered into 
commitment letters (the "Commitment Letters") with Merita Bank Ltd and Bank 
of Boston Connecticut (the "New Banks") pursuant to which the New Banks have 
agreed, subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein (including, 
without limitation, negotiation of a definitive loan agreement) to provide a 
two-year $25 million revolving credit facility which, following the 
expiration of such two-year period, converts into a five-year term loan (the 
"Credit Facility"). Subject to specified borrowing conditions, up to $12.5 
million of the Credit Facility will be available for borrowing upon the 
closing thereof, and up to an additional $12.5 million will become available 
if the Company receives at least $10 million in net proceeds from the sale of 
newly issued Common Stock by October 31, 1996. The proceeds of the Credit 
Facility will be used to repay the outstanding balance under the Loan 
Agreement ($4.9 million at July 15, 1996), to pay amounts due under the 
Outsourcing Agreement, to finance acquisitions and for general corporate 
purposes. There can be no assurance, however, that the Credit Facility or any 
other financing will become available to the Company. Further, in the event 
the Credit Facility becomes available to the Company, there can be no 
assurance that the Company will receive at least $10 million in net proceeds 
from the sale of newly issued Common Stock by October 31, 1996 and that, 
therefore, the additional amount of $12.5 million of the Credit Facility will 
become available to the Company. See "Risk Factors -- Recent Net Losses and 
Accumulated Deficit" and "-- Need to Secure Future Financing." 

   The following summary of the material provisions of the Commitment Letters 
does not purport to be complete and is subject to, and is qualified in its 
entirety by reference to, the Commitment Letters, copies of which are filed 
as exhibits to the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus is a part. 
Because the terms, conditions and covenants of the Credit Facility are 
subject to the negotiation, execution and delivery of definitive 
documentation, certain of the actual terms, conditions and covenants thereof 
may differ from those described below. 

   The Credit Facility will mature seven years from closing with principal 
payments due in years three through seven. Borrowing under the Credit 
Facility will bear interest, at the Company's option, at an annual rate equal 
to either the prime rate or the Eurodollar rate plus an applicable margin 
which varies with the Company's leverage (the ratio of total debt to EBITDA 
less capital expenditures). The Company will be obligated to pay a commitment 
fee of 1/2% per annum of any undrawn amounts. The New Banks will also 
receive warrants to purchase an aggregate of 166,666 shares of Common Stock 
at an exercise price of $9.75 per share. 

   Mandatory prepayments of the Credit Facility will be required with the 
proceeds of certain issuances of indebtedness, the sale of assets outside the 
ordinary course of business and 50% of the Company's Excess Cash Flow (to be 
defined) after the second year. 

                                      20 
<PAGE>

   The Commitment Letters contemplate that the Credit Facility will contain a 
number of negative covenants customary in credit agreements for this type of 
loan including, without limitation, restrictions on additional indebtedness, 
dividends, acquisitions, investments, mergers and sales of assets, creation 
of liens, guarantees, issuance of capital stock and transactions with 
affiliates. The Company will also be required to comply with various 
financial covenants, tests and ratios including those relating to (i) ratios 
of total debt to EBITDA and total debt to recurring monthly revenue, (ii) 
minimum debt service coverage, (iii) minimum net worth and (iv) maximum 
capital expenditures. Beginning July 1, 1997, the Company's subscriber 
cancellation rate (to be defined) may not exceed 12% per annum. 

   Failure to satisfy many of the financial and other covenants will 
constitute an event of default under the Credit Facility, notwithstanding the 
ability of the Company to meet it debt service obligations. The Credit 
Facility will also include other customary event of default, including, 
without limitation, material adverse change, change of management, and change 
of control (each to be defined). 

   The Commitment Letters provide that the Credit Facility will be secured by 
all current and future assets of the Company's subsidiaries and guaranteed by 
the Company. 

   On April 4, 1995, the Company entered into a ten-year information 
technology services agreement, as amended (the "Outsourcing Agreement"), with 
PremiTech Corporation ("PremiTech"), a subsidiary of EDS. The Outsourcing 
Agreement provides for PremiTech to manage the Company's technological 
infrastructure, perform certain of the Company's administrative functions, 
and assist in the consolidation of the Company's central monitoring 
facilities. For ongoing services during the ten-year term of the agreement, 
the Company is obligated to pay PremiTech a total of $47.7 million in equal 
monthly installments aggregating $4.8 million per year, subject to certain 
adjustments. In addition, the Company is obligated to pay PremiTech a total 
of $3.3 million for its consolidation activities, of which $500,000 was paid 
in 1995, $550,000 was paid during the first half of 1996, and the balance is 
payable on or before August 1, 1996. The Company may not have sufficient 
funds to meet its payment obligation to PremiTech on August 1, 1996. Unless 
the Company is able to obtain such funds in a timely fashion, extend the 
payment date or make other provision for payment, the Company will be in 
default under the Outsourcing Agreement. A default under the Outsourcing 
Agreement may have a material adverse effect on the operations of the 
Company. The Outsourcing Agreement also provides for additional payments to 
PremiTech in the event of a substantial increase in the number of the 
Company's subscriber accounts. See "Business -- Historical Developments/The 
1995 Outsourcing Agreement" and Note 2 to Notes to Consolidated Financial 
Statements. 

   The Company has and may continue to experience cash flow shortages. The 
Company's ability to meet its future cash needs will depend upon net cash 
provided by operations, together with potential financing from banks or other 
financial institutions, and net proceeds available from the sale of the 
shares of Common Stock offered hereby. 

   In the course of its business, the Company plans ongoing annual capital 
expenditures for company-owned alarm equipment installed at subscriber 
premises. Additionally, the Company continues to invest in the replacement 
and modernization of the equipment utilized in its central monitoring 
activities and associated security services. All such capital expenditures 
will require substantial financial resources which are expected to be 
provided by internally generated funds and, as necessary, supplemental 
funding from other sources. 

                                      21 
<PAGE>

                                   BUSINESS 

THE COMPANY 

   Holmes provides security alarm monitoring services and designs, sells, 
installs and services electronic security systems for commercial and mid- to 
high-end residential subscribers. These systems include event detection 
devices, surveillance equipment and access control devices which restrict 
access to specified areas. The Company currently provides its services in the 
Northeast, primarily in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and conducts 
its operations through four branch offices, two central monitoring stations 
and 37 independent alarm service dealers and franchisees. According to a 
published survey, the Company was the twelfth largest provider of electronic 
security services in the United States in terms of total 1995 revenues. 

   Following an internal management transition and reorganization that 
occurred during 1995, the Company engaged the services of several former 
senior executives of National Guardian, a large national electronic security 
alarm services company which was acquired by Ameritech Monitoring Services, 
Inc. in October 1995. Among the executives hired by the Company was George V. 
Flagg, the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer, who served as the 
President and Chief Executive Officer of National Guardian from 1986 to 1995. 
During Mr. Flagg's tenure, National Guardian became one of the four largest 
security services companies in the United States based upon revenues, which 
grew from approximately $40 million in 1985 to over $200 million in 1995. 
Under the direction of the Company's new management team, the Company is 
implementing a new business strategy involving a combination of strategic 
acquisitions and internal growth. In regard to strategic acquisitions, the 
Company intends to pursue both (i) fold-in acquisitions, which consist of 
businesses or portfolios of alarm monitoring accounts that can be readily 
combined with the Company's existing branch offices and management structure 
and (ii) new market acquisitions, which consist of companies in the 
electronic security services industry located outside the Company's current 
geographic market. To date, no agreements or understandings have been entered 
into with respect to any acquisitions, but the Company has identified one 
acquisition candidate located in the western region of the United States. In 
regard to its internal growth strategy, the Company intends to capitalize on 
public recognition of the historic Holmes brand name (which has been utilized 
in the security services industry since 1858) in connection with (i) 
expanding its security services product offerings, including the HolmesNet 
system for wireless data communications; (ii) establishing a national 
accounts program; (iii) increasing its sales and marketing efforts; and (iv) 
expanding its dealer operations. 

   The Company's revenues consist primarily of recurring payments under 
written contracts for security alarm monitoring activities and associated 
services, which represented approximately 74% of total revenues in 1995. The 
Company monitors digital alarm signals arising from various activities, 
including burglaries, fires and other events, through security systems 
installed at subscribers' premises. These signals are received and processed 
at one of the Company's central monitoring stations. In order to reduce 
overall manpower requirements, achieve economies of scale and other cost 
efficiencies, and enhance the quality of service being provided, the Company 
is in the process of consolidating its central monitoring stations into one 
state-of-the-art facility with monitoring capacity of approximately 60,000 
accounts. In order to avail itself of more extensive technological resources, 
the Company entered into a ten-year information technology services agreement 
with a subsidiary of EDS in 1995. The Company currently monitors 
approximately 35,000 accounts. To date, the Company has consolidated four 
central monitoring stations into two, and completion of the consolidation 
activities is scheduled for the third quarter of 1996. An additional 16% of 
the Company's total revenues in 1995 was comprised of direct sales and 
installation of security equipment. 

   The balance of the Company's revenues in 1995 was derived from (i) jewelry 
vault rentals, (ii) insured parcel delivery services for the jewelry trade 
and (iii) royalty fees and product sales relating to its franchise and dealer 
operations. Approximately 80% of the Company's business is derived from 
commercial customers, including financial institutions, jewelry and fine art 
dealers, corporate headquarters, manufacturers, distribution facilities and 
health care and education facilities. The Company's residential business 
focuses principally on mid- to high-end customers. 

   Electronic security services is a consolidating but still a highly 
fragmented industry, consisting of a large number of local and regional 
companies and several integrated national companies. The fragmented nature of 

                                      22 
<PAGE>

the industry can be attributed to the low capital requirements associated 
with performing basic installation and maintenance of electronic security 
systems. However, the business of a full service, integrated electronic 
security services company providing central station monitoring services is 
capital intensive, and the Company believes that the high fixed costs of 
establishing both central monitoring stations and full service operations 
contribute to the small number of national competitors. The low marginal cost 
of monitoring additional customers has been one of the principal factors 
leading full service, integrated electronic security services companies to 
seek acquisitions of other electronic security businesses to consolidate into 
their existing operations. The principal focus of the Company's business 
strategy is to aggressively pursue acquisitions in this environment. 

MARKET OVERVIEW AND TRENDS 

   The Company is a leading competitor in the electronic security services 
industry, offering services in both the commercial and mid- to high-end 
residential segments of the market. The products and services marketed in the 
electronic security services industry range from alarm systems that provide 
basic intrusion and fire detection to sophisticated systems incorporating 
such features as closed circuit television and access control. The industry 
consists of companies that design, sell, install, monitor and maintain 
intrusion, fire alarm and other electronic security systems. It includes 
companies using both hardwire and wireless technology for systems installed 
on subscribers' premises and digital, multiplex and wireless (radio) 
technologies for the transmission of alarm signals to a central monitoring 
center, such as the Company's central station monitoring facilities. The 
Company believes that the electronic security services industry is 
characterized by the following attributes: 

   o  High Degree of Fragmentation. The electronic security services industry 
      is comprised of a large number of local and regional companies and 
      several integrated national companies. The Company believes that, based 
      on industry studies, there are approximately 11,000 separate companies 
      in the industry generating approximately $12 to $13 billion in revenues 
      annually. A survey published by SDM magazine (formerly Security 
      Distributing and Marketing) in May 1996 reported that in 1995, based 
      upon information provided by the respondents, the 100 largest companies 
      in the industry accounted for approximately 23% of total industry 
      revenues. According to the same survey, the Company ranks twelfth among 
      the 100 largest companies in the industry in terms of total 1995 
      revenues. 

   o  Trend Toward Consolidation. The Company believes that because the 
      central station monitoring sector of the electronic industry has 
      relatively high fixed costs but relatively low marginal costs 
      associated with servicing additional subscribers, the industry offers 
      significant opportunities for consolidation. In addition, the Company 
      believes that the fragmented nature of the industry can be attributed 
      to the low capital requirements associated with performing basic 
      installation and maintenance of electronic security systems. However, 
      the business of a full service, integrated electronic security services 
      company which provides central station monitoring services is capital 
      intensive, and the Company believes that the high fixed costs of 
      establishing both central monitoring stations and full service 
      operations contribute to the small number of national competitors. The 
      marginal cost of monitoring additional customers is low and has been 
      one of the principal factors leading full service, integrated 
      electronic security services companies to seek acquisitions of other 
      electronic security services businesses to consolidate into their 
      existing operations. The Company intends to actively participate in the 
      industry consolidation by pursuing its acquisition business strategy. 

   o  Continued Product Diversification and Integration of Services. A recent 
      trend in the commercial electronic security services industry has been 
      increased integration of different types of products into single 
      systems provided by single vendors. The Company believes that this 
      trend has resulted from commercial needs for enhanced security services 
      on a more cost-effective basis. Whereas basic alarm systems were once 
      adequate for many businesses, it appears that many companies now 
      require access control and closed circuit television systems integrated 
      into a single system to provide for their overall security needs. A 
      security system which provides burglar and fire alarm monitoring along 
      with closed circuit television and access control, all integrated into 
      one central system, not only provides enhanced security services, but 
      also is more cost-effective than four separate systems installed by 
      four separate vendors. In this environment, the Company believes that 
      it can gain a competitive advantage over smaller companies in the 
      industry that do not have the infrastructure or the expertise to 
      support the larger and more sophisticated integrated systems. Hence, 
      the Company is aggressively positioning itself to take advantage of 
      this trend by expanding the breadth of its electronic security service 
      offerings. 

                                      23 
<PAGE>

   o  Advances in Digital Communications Technology. Prior to the development 
      of digital communications technology, alarm monitoring required a 
      dedicated telephone line, which made long-distance monitoring 
      uneconomic. Consequently, in order to achieve a national or regional 
      presence, alarm monitoring companies were required to maintain a large 
      number of geographically dispersed monitoring stations. The development 
      of digital communications technology eliminated the need for dedicated 
      telephone lines, reducing the cost of monitoring services to the 
      subscriber and permitting the monitoring of subscriber accounts over a 
      wide geographic area from a central monitoring station. The elimination 
      of local monitoring stations has decreased the cost of providing alarm 
      monitoring services and has substantially increased the economies of 
      scale for larger alarm service companies. In addition, the concurrent 
      development of microprocessor-based control panels has substantially 
      reduced the cost of the equipment available to subscribers in the 
      residential and commercial markets and has substantially reduced 
      service costs because many diagnostic and maintenance functions can be 
      performed from a company's office without having to send a technician 
      to the customer's premises. 

   The Company believes that several factors contribute to a favorable market 
for electronic security services generally in the United States. 

   o  Increase in Crime Rates. According to the Uniform Crime Report 
      published by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in 1995 (the "UCR"), 
      between 1985 and 1994 the number of violent crimes reported in the 
      United States increased by more than 40.3% and the total number of 
      reported criminal offenses increased by 12.6%. The UCR also reported 
      that although the number of reported criminal offenses decreased on a 
      nationwide basis from 1993 to 1994 by 1.1%, a property crime was 
      committed in the United States in 1994 once every three seconds. 

   o  High Level of Concern About Crime. As violent crime and the reporting 
      of crime by the news media has increased, the perception by Americans 
      that crime is a significant problem has also grown. Concurrently, 
      demand for security systems has grown with greater awareness of risk 
      management within the business community. In addition to the protection 
      that electronic detection and surveillance systems provide, the Company 
      believes that such systems also have a deterrent effect against crime. 

   o  Insurance Requirements and Premium Discounts. The increase in demand 
      for security systems may also be attributable, in part, to the 
      requirement of insurance companies that businesses install an 
      electronic security system as a condition of insurance coverage. The 
      purchase of an electronic alarm system often entitles the subscriber to 
      obtain premium discounts as well. In addition, in order to comply with 
      many municipal fire codes, the installation of an electronic fire 
      system is required in many localities. 

BUSINESS STRATEGY 

   In January 1996, the Company engaged the services of several former senior 
executives of National Guardian, including George V. Flagg, who had been the 
President and Chief Executive Officer of National Guardian from 1986 to 1995. 
See "Management -- Directors and Executive Officers of the Company." During 
Mr. Flagg's tenure, National Guardian became one of the four largest 
electronic security services companies in the United States based upon 
revenues, which grew from approximately $40 million in 1985 to over $200 
million in 1995. Such growth resulted, in part, from National Guardian's 
acquisition program and from its internal sales and marketing strategy. 
During the same period, National Guardian's business was focused primarily on 
commercial and mid- to high-end residential subscribers, with an important 
component of its commercial subscriber base being large, national account 
businesses with multiple locations nationwide that required electronic 
security services at each site. The background, experience and combined 
expertise of the new management team has been integral to the development of 
the Company's new business strategy. 

   The new management team believes that Holmes is uniquely positioned to 
pursue a new business strategy involving a combination of strategic 
acquisitions and internal growth. Because the historic Holmes brand name is 
well established in the Northeast and has been utilized since 1858, the 
Company believes that it can capitalize on public recognition of this name 
and its historic reputation in connection with expanding into new geographic 
markets throughout the United States, establishing a national accounts 
program, increasing its sales and 

                                      24 

<PAGE>
marketing strategy and expanding its dealer operations and achieving 
continued market penetration by increasing its sales force. The Company 
further believes that its new management team's previous experience will be 
helpful in successfully implementing its business strategy. 

  GROWTH THROUGH ACQUISITIONS 

   The Company intends to become an active participant in the consolidation 
of its industry by aggressively pursuing two fundamental types of 
acquisitions: fold-in acquisitions and new market acquisitions. Various 
factors will be considered when evaluating any potential acquisition, 
including the purchase price and other financial terms of the transaction, 
the business prospects and competitive position of and services provided by 
the acquisition candidate and the extent to which any such acquisition would 
enhance the Company's future prospects. In addition to determining the 
economic viability of the proposed acquisition, an acquisition candidate will 
be evaluated for stability of subscriber base, market share, quality of 
operations, compatibility of equipment and contract terms and growth 
opportunities. 

   Fold-in Acquisitions. Fold-in acquisitions will mainly target businesses 
   or portfolios of alarm monitoring accounts that can be readily 
   consolidated with existing Holmes branch offices and monitoring centers. 
   Such acquisitions are attractive because the Company believes that, 
   through consolidation, cost savings will be achieved due to the low 
   variable cost associated with monitoring and supporting additional 
   subscriber accounts. In addition, the Company believes that productivity 
   gains and economies of scale may be realized through the elimination of 
   redundant monitoring centers and increased usage of its newly consolidated 
   state-of-the-art central monitoring facilities. The Company believes that 
   certain fold-in acquisitions may also add specialized expertise to the 
   Company. For example, acquiring a business that specializes in fire system 
   installation would bring many of the expected financial benefits of a 
   typical fold-in acquisition, and in addition, would enhance the Company's 
   ability to broaden its product and service offerings with the added 
   industry-specific knowledge and management obtained through the 
   acquisition. 

   New Market Acquisitions. The Company also intends to expand its operations 
   through strategic acquisitions of electronic security services companies 
   in new geographic markets throughout the United States, thereby 
   diversifying its business base beyond the Northeast. In the Company's 
   view, expansion into new geographic markets will also create additional 
   opportunities for fold-in acquisitions. The Company believes that 
   acquiring existing companies that have established a local market presence 
   in areas outside of the Northeast is a less costly alternative to the 
   internal development of new markets. In addition, through the retention of 
   certain of the existing employees of acquired companies who are familiar 
   with local markets, the Company believes it will be able to capitalize on 
   local affiliations and relationships. New market acquisitions will be 
   sought in geographic markets which the Company believes can serve as a 
   framework for establishing national accounts business from subscribers who 
   require electronic security services at multiple locations nationwide. 

   The Company is actively exploring acquisition opportunities and has 
   identified one company located in the western region of the United States, 
   which it may wish to acquire. The Company has engaged in certain 
   preliminary due diligence activities with regard to this potential 
   acquisition. However, these activities have not resulted in any contract, 
   understanding or arrangement for an acquisition as of the date of this 
   Prospectus. 

  INTERNAL GROWTH 

   The Company plans to grow internally by expanding its product and service 
offerings, establishing a national accounts program which will focus on 
commercial subscribers conducting business in multiple locations nationwide, 
enhancing its sales and marketing activities and expanding its dealer 
operations. The Company believes that this proposed expansion will increase 
usage and cost efficiencies of its newly consolidated state- of-the-art 
central monitoring station, which in turn should result in overall improved 
productivity and enhanced operating margins. The Company's target market will 
remain oriented toward the commercial and mid- to high- end residential 
subscriber, where the Company's sophisticated and specialized security 
systems have been relied upon since 1858. 

                                      25 
<PAGE>

   Expanding Security Services Product Offerings. The Company believes that 
   it has established a reputation as a provider of quality systems and 
   services and that this reputation is the result, in part, of the Company's 
   attention to advances in technology and their application to the Company's 
   products and services. In this regard, the Company has recently 
   established an Equipment Evaluation Committee that evaluates new products 
   and the development of improvements to existing products and services. The 
   Company is committed to offering a broad range of services, products and 
   features that incorporate the latest technology generally available to the 
   industry. As a result, the Company has entered into a relationship with 
   ARDIS, a company owned by Motorola, Inc., under which the Company plans to 
   utilize a national wireless data communications network for highly 
   reliable and immediate transmissions of alarm signals as part of its 
   HolmesNet system. Wireless data transmission methods are less susceptible 
   to accidental or intentional signal transmission interruptions because 
   they are less reliant on land-based telephone wiring networks. Due to its 
   high level of security and reliability, the Company believes that the 
   HolmesNet system will be attractive to customers such as jewelry stores, 
   banks and others who require more than a conventional digital (telephone 
   based) alarm system. The Company also offers other specialized services 
   using products from various manufacturers to allow itself maximum 
   flexibility in the types of systems and services that it provides. These 
   include, but are not limited to, LifeNet, a sophisticated vehicle tracking 
   system which uses global positioning satellite ("GPS") technology and is 
   designed to provide a high level of security to executives while they 
   travel in automobiles; CargoNet, also a GPS-based system, designed to 
   protect trucks and trailers from theft; and ProWatch, an integrated 
   security system for high-rise office buildings designed to automate fire 
   and burglar alarms and access control systems located on tenants' premises 
   as well as in the buildings' common areas, thereby reducing the need for 
   physical guards on-site. 

   Establishing A National Accounts Program.  The Company believes that large 
   companies conducting business on a national scale with multiple locations 
   throughout the United States can achieve cost benefits by centralizing all 
   of their security needs with a single vendor. The Company currently has 
   several regional and national accounts, but has not generally pursued 
   business outside the Northeast. The Company intends to establish a 
   national accounts program that will enable it to compete for business from 
   large commercial subscribers with multi-location security needs. This 
   program is designed to offer national account subscribers, through an 
   account manager, a single source for centralized and standardized system 
   design, installation, service, billing, comprehensive activity and data 
   reporting, nationwide monitoring and system operation for all of the 
   subscriber's locations. The Company believes that a national accounts 
   program will enhance its competitive position and increase the 
   marketability of its services and products. A dedicated management team 
   and sales force will implement and operate the national accounts business. 
   It is intended that the Company's branch offices and dealers from its 
   dealer program, under the direction of the centralized management team, 
   will provide service and installation support for national account 
   subscribers. 

   Increasing Sales and Marketing Activities. The Company will continue to 
   focus its marketing efforts on increasing its visibility throughout the 
   United States. The Company intends to aggressively market and sell its 
   products and services through its existing sales force and through the 
   hiring of additional sales people. Sales compensation and incentive plans 
   are being revised to increase the motivation of the sales force by 
   reducing base salaries and increasing incentive compensation. The Company 
   intends to provide its sales force and operational personnel with advanced 
   training and market resources, including professionally prepared 
   literature and presentation manuals, background research and technical 
   information. The Company believes that such training and resources will 
   expand the expertise and knowledge of its employees and enable each branch 
   office to offer a full range of security products and services. In 
   addition, the Company is returning to one of the original Holmes logos 
   used in the early part of this century, which it believes will further 
   increase public recognition and awareness of Holmes and its historical 
   presence and long-standing reputation in the industry. 

   Expanding Dealer Operations. The Company plans to expand its dealer 
   operations by adding a number of new independent dealers to its authorized 
   Dictograph dealer program and by implementing a separate Holmes authorized 
   dealer program. The Dictograph program had previously been operated as a 
   franchise network prior to 1996. Recently, the Company hired a dealer 
   operations manager, with seven years of experience managing an extensive 
   national dealer network, to market both of its dealer programs and to 
   identify new dealer candidates. Increased recruiting efforts for the 
   Dictograph and Holmes dealer programs 


                                      26 
<PAGE>

   will begin in the third quarter of 1996. As of July 15, 1996, the Company 
   had 8 Dictograph dealers operating in exclusive territories throughout the 
   United States. New Dictograph dealers will acquire exclusive territories 
   from the Company and will be required to purchase a minimum quota of 
   specialized proprietary security equipment from the Company. On the other 
   hand, while authorized Holmes dealers will not be provided with exclusive 
   territories, they will be allowed to purchase specialized proprietary 
   security equipment from the Company without meeting minimum purchase 
   requirements. In addition, Holmes dealers will be authorized to use the 
   Holmes brand name to gain market advantage. It is intended that both 
   Dictograph and Holmes dealers will be offered the opportunity to provide 
   service and installation support for certain of the Company's national 
   accounts subscribers. It is also anticipated that the Company will provide 
   central monitoring services to some of its dealers' customers. Both 
   Dictograph and Holmes dealers will be provided with literature, access to 
   Holmes' products and services, including monitoring, and other benefits. 

   The Company believes that its dealer programs will provide it with a 
   presence in local markets in which the Company may not have an office and 
   thereby broaden recognition of its brand names. In addition, the dealers, 
   who will be located throughout the United States, will give the Company 
   greater geographic coverage for its developing national accounts business 
   by providing subcontractor installation services. The Company believes 
   that the development of these dealer programs will be an important aspect 
   of establishing and supporting its national accounts program. In addition, 
   the Company anticipates that, as a result of its dealer programs, revenues 
   may be increased through the provision of monitoring services to its 
   dealers' customers and by sales of its products to its dealers. 

DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS 

   The Company provides security alarm monitoring services and designs, 
sells, installs and services electronic security systems for commercial and 
residential subscribers. During 1995, approximately 74% of the Company's 
revenues was derived from security alarm monitoring activity and associated 
services. An additional 16% of the Company's 1995 revenues was derived from 
the direct sale and installation of security equipment. The remainder of 
Holmes' revenues in 1995 was derived from (i) jewelry vault rentals, (ii) 
insured parcel delivery services for the jewelry trade and (iii) royalty fees 
and product sales relating to its franchise and dealer operations. 

  ALARM MONITORING SERVICES 

   Central Monitoring Activity. The Company monitors signals arising from 
various activities, including burglaries, fires and other events, through 
certain of the systems described below which are installed at the 
subscriber's premises. The Company's monitored security systems consist of 
sensors, transmitters and other event detection devices designed to detect a 
variety of conditions including, but not limited to, entry, movement, fire, 
temperature, water flow and electric power interruption. The sensors and 
other event detection devices are connected to a control panel/transmitter 
which sends signals to one of four central monitoring stations maintained by 
the Company. Signals may be transmitted over leased telephone lines, 
multiplex circuits, public telephone lines and cellular and radio networks. 
The control panel/transmitters are generally microprocessor-based and can 
identify the nature of the emergency and the area within a building where the 
sensor or other device was activated. Company personnel at its central 
monitoring stations respond to incoming alarm signals by contacting the 
subscriber, alerting the police, the fire department or other emergency 
response services or, where contracted, dispatching a Holmes response agent. 

   Central Monitoring Stations. The Company monitors its subscriber accounts 
at one of two central monitoring stations located in New York City and 
Edison, New Jersey. Currently, each of the Company's central monitoring 
stations is operated separately by the Company's branch operation where each 
such central monitoring station is located, with alarm signals being 
processed by a central computer system located at the Company's branch 
operation in New York City. In order to reduce overall manpower requirements, 
achieve economies of scale and other cost efficiencies and enhance the 
quality of service being provided, the Company is in the process of 
consolidating its central monitoring facilities into one state-of-the-art 
facility to be located in Edison, New Jersey. To date, the Company has 
consolidated four central monitoring stations into two, and anticipates that 
its consolidation activities will be completed by the third quarter of 1996. 
In order to avail itself of more extensive technological resources, the 
Company entered into the Outsourcing Agreement in 1995. See "Business -- 
Historical Developments/The 1995 Outsourcing Agreement." 

                                      27 
<PAGE>

   The Company's central monitoring stations incorporate the use of 
communications and computer systems that route incoming alarm signals and 
telephone calls to operators at each station. Each operator sits before a 
computer monitor that provides immediate information concerning the nature of 
the alarm signal, the subscriber whose alarm has been activated and the 
premises on which such alarm is located. All telephone conversations are 
automatically recorded. Due to the security-sensitive nature of their 
employment, the Company's central monitoring employees are subject to 
extensive pre-employment screening. 

   The Company's central computer system, which consists of two computers 
with built-in redundancy, has the capacity to monitor up to 60,000 subscriber 
accounts. The equipment at each of the Company's two central monitoring 
stations includes: phone switching equipment; digital receivers that process 
the incoming signals; a multi-channel, voice-activated recording system; an 
uninterruptable power supply; dual backup generators supplied by different 
fuel sources; and other equipment in support of specialized services such as 
LifeNet, CargoNet and ProWatch. 

   The Company's central monitoring stations are listed by Underwriters 
Laboratories Inc. ("UL"). The Company also offers Factory Mutual Research 
Corporation ("FM") approved services through its New York City central 
monitoring station. UL and FM specifications for central monitoring stations 
include building integrity, back-up systems, staffing and standard operating 
procedures. UL and FM confirm compliance with their respective specifications 
through periodic on-site inspections. In many jurisdictions, applicable law 
requires that security alarms for certain buildings be monitored by UL-listed 
and/or FM-approved facilities. In addition, such listing and/or approval is 
required by certain commercial subscribers' insurance companies as a 
condition to insurance coverage. 

   Operation of Central Monitoring Stations. Depending upon the type of 
service for which the subscriber has contracted, central monitoring station 
personnel respond to alarms by relaying information to the local fire or 
police departments, notifying the subscriber, or taking other appropriate 
action, such as dispatching alarm response personnel to the subscriber's 
premises where this service is available. Other non-emergency administrative 
signals are generated by low battery status, deactivation and reactivation of 
the alarm monitoring system, and test signals, and are processed 
automatically by computer. Each of the Company's central monitoring stations 
operates 24 hours per day, seven days a week, including all holidays. Each 
operator receives training that includes familiarization with substantially 
every type of alarm system in the Company's subscriber base. The Company's 
training program encompasses classroom study as well as personalized 
instruction by experienced operators on all aspects of alarm monitoring 
procedure. 

   Subscriber Contracts. The Company's alarm monitoring subscriber contracts 
generally have initial terms of five years in duration and provide for 
automatic renewal terms for fixed periods (typically one or two years) unless 
the Company or the subscriber elects to cancel the contract at the end of its 
term. 

   In the normal course of its business, the Company experiences customer 
cancellations of monitoring and related services as a result of subscribers 
relocating, the cancellation of purchased accounts in the process of 
assimilation into the Company's operations, unfavorable economic conditions, 
dissatisfaction with field maintenance services and other reasons. This 
attrition is offset to a certain extent by revenues from the sale of 
additional services to existing subscribers, price increases, the 
reconnection of premises previously occupied by subscribers and conversions 
of accounts previously monitored by other alarm companies. See "Risk Factors 
- -- Customer Cancellation Rates" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of 
Financial Condition and Results of Operations." 

   Alarm Response Services. The Company supplements its security alarm 
monitoring services by providing to certain subscribers "alarm response 
service" in connection with alarm system activations. Upon receipt of an 
alarm activation signal from an alarm response service subscriber, a response 
guard is dispatched by the Company to the subscriber's premises. If the 
Company's response guard observes potential criminal activity upon arrival at 
the Subscriber's premises, the response guard will report the activity to the 
dispatch office, which will in turn notify local law enforcement. The 
response guard will then maintain surveillance until law enforcement officers 
arrive. Depending upon a subscriber's preference, the dispatch of the 
Company's response guards may be used as an alternative to the dispatch of 
local police. 

   The Company's patrol and response officers are subject to extensive 
pre-employment screening. Patrol and response officers are required to have 
firearm permits and applicable state and city guard licenses. The Compa- 

                                      28 
<PAGE>

ny's training program for patrol and response officers includes arrest 
procedure, criminal law, firearms usage and patrol and search tactics. This 
training program complies with state-mandated requirements. The provision of 
patrol and alarm response services subjects the Company to greater risks, 
including those relating to accidents or inappropriate employee behavior, 
than other types of services. 

   The Company believes that demand for alarm response service may increase 
as a result of a trend on the part of local police departments to limit their 
response to alarm activations and other factors that may lead to a decrease 
of police presence. In addition, the Company believes that alarm response 
service is an effective means to assist subscribers in reducing their 
exposure to false alarm fines. 

   Electronic Security Alarm Systems and Associated Services 

   Electronic Security Systems. The Company uses what it believes to be the 
highest quality, most cost- effective components and products in the design 
and installation of electronic security systems for its customers. An effort 
is being made to incorporate the most suitable combination of products such 
that each system provides the highest level of security required at 
competitive prices. The Company designs, sells, installs and services the 
following types of security alarm systems: 

   Intrusion Detection Systems incorporate control panels and sensors to 
   detect glass breakage, unauthorized door and window openings, vibration, 
   motion and noise, together with personal emergency alarms and other 
   peripheral equipment such as sirens and bells. Activity indicating the 
   presence of intruders is automatically communicated to the Company's 
   central monitoring stations, a monitoring facility at the subscriber's own 
   premises or the local police or fire department. 

   Commercial and industrial businesses are the traditional users of these 
   types of systems and generally regard them as a necessary business 
   expense. In addition, residential purchases of these systems have grown in 
   recent years. In an effort to minimize false alarms and improve customer 
   service, the Company provides a video alarm verification system (Computect 
   VS) for use in conjunction with intrusion detection systems. The Company 
   is in the process of adding two-way voice capabilities to its central 
   monitoring facility being consolidated in Edison, New Jersey. 

   Fire Detection Systems incorporate heat, ionization, smoke and flame 
   sensing devices, manual pull stations, evacuation sounders, sprinkler 
   systems, elevator controls and evacuation systems. Fire detection systems 
   are designed to comply with applicable fire codes. Activities indicating 
   fire related conditions or events are automatically communicated to the 
   Company's central monitoring stations, a local police or fire department 
   or a monitoring center at the subscriber's own premises. 

   Access Control Systems are primarily designed to exclude unauthorized 
   personnel from specified areas. These systems provide access control that 
   is generally card-activated and can be integrated with fire and burglary 
   detection systems. Entry and exit activity can be monitored or recorded, 
   and may be controlled on the basis of time and authority level. In 
   addition to standard access control systems, the Company has introduced 
   ProWatch, an integrated building security system specially designed for 
   multi-tenant office buildings. ProWatch integrates access control and 
   intrusion and fire detection systems, which systems may be controlled and 
   monitored by a Holmes central monitoring station. 

   Closed Circuit Television Systems can monitor and record entry and exit 
   activity or provide surveillance of designated areas. These systems can 
   deter theft and vandalism or support other access control systems. These 
   systems can be monitored either by a video recorder or in real time via a 
   monitoring screen. 

   Critical Condition Monitoring provides supervision of various commercial 
   systems and processes. A common form of this service is monitoring of 
   sprinkler system functions, such as water flow, air and water pressure, 
   fire pump conditions, shut-off valves and water tank levels. Additionally, 
   these systems can consist of ambient temperature sensors that signal 
   failure of heating or refrigeration systems, devices that monitor 
   manufacturing processes, and other equipment that monitors power levels, 
   water levels and energy waste. 

   Vehicle Tracking Systems provide covert tracking of vehicles and can 
   pinpoint the location of a vehicle anywhere in the continental United 
   States using global positioning satellite technology. In addition to pro- 

                                      29 
<PAGE>

   viding tracking capabilities, the Company's LifeNet system and CargoNet 
   system control a vehicle's engine functions thereby allowing LifeNet or 
   CargoNet, as the case may be, to direct a vehicle to a complete halt. 
   CargoNet also protects commercial trucks and trailers from theft. 

   Wireless Security Transmission Systems are designed to be monitored by a 
   central monitoring facility via wireless security transmissions. In 1996 
   the Company introduced HolmesNet, an in-building wireless security 
   transmission system which is constantly monitored by a Holmes central 
   monitoring station. HolmesNet is also a two-way communication network that 
   allows a subscriber to send a message directly to a Holmes central 
   monitoring station and receive a confirmation that such message was 
   received. 

   Field Repair Services. The Company believes one of the most effective ways 
of improving customer retention is the provision of quality, responsive field 
repair service by Company employees. Repair services generate revenues 
primarily through billable field service calls and contractual payments under 
the Company's extended service program. The increasing density of the 
Company's subscriber base, as a result of the Company's continuing effort to 
infill areas surrounding its branch operations with new subscribers, permits 
more efficient scheduling and routing of field service technicians, and 
results in economies of scale at the branch level. The increased efficiency 
in scheduling and routing also allows the Company to provide faster field 
services response and support, which leads to a higher level of subscriber 
satisfaction. 

FRANCHISE AND DEALER OPERATIONS 

   The Company acquired the business of Dictograph Franchise Corporation in 
1988. Headquartered in Edison, New Jersey, this business operates a 
widespread franchise network and authorized Dictograph dealer program 
throughout the United States and the Caribbean. As of July 15, 1996, the 
Company had 29 independent franchisees and 8 independent Dictograph dealers, 
all authorized to do business under the name of Dictograph Security Systems. 
The Company is in the process, however, of phasing out its franchise 
operations and, since 1993, has not established additional franchise 
relationships. Accordingly, the existing Dictograph franchisees are being 
given an option either to convert their franchises into dealerships by March 
31, 1997 or to maintain their franchises under existing franchise agreements. 
The Company's franchise agreements require franchisees to purchase products 
based on individual minimum quotas and pay royalties based on a percentage of 
their revenues. 

   In accordance with its current business strategy, the Company plans to 
increase the number of Dictograph dealers in the Dictograph dealer program 
and to establish an authorized Holmes dealer program. Under both programs, 
dealers are independent electronic security services businesses which sell, 
install and service security equipment. These businesses are typically small 
and often cannot properly provide monitoring services because they lack a 
sufficient number of subscribers to support the fixed operating expenses 
associated with such services. Hence, Dictograph and Holmes dealers are able 
to have their customers' security systems monitored by the Company. Other 
Company services are also available to dealers under both programs, including 
technical support, sales training and marketing assistance. In addition, it 
is intended that both Dictograph and Holmes dealers will be offered the 
opportunity to provide service and installation support for certain of the 
Company's national accounts subscribers. Pursuant to dealership arrangements 
under the Dictograph dealer program, dealers acquire exclusive operating 
territories and are required to purchase a minimum quota of specialized 
proprietary security equipment from the Company on an annual basis. On the 
other hand, under the Holmes program, authorized Holmes dealers will not be 
provided with exclusive operating territories, but will be allowed to 
purchase specialized proprietary security equipment from the Company without 
meeting minimum purchase requirements. In addition, Holmes dealers will be 
authorized to use the Holmes brand name to gain market advantage. 

   In connection with the Company's efforts to expand its dealer operations, 
a dealer operations manager, with seven years of experience managing an 
extensive national dealer network, was recently hired to market both of the 
Company's dealer programs and to identify new dealer candidates. Increased 
recruiting efforts for the Dictograph and Holmes dealer programs began in the 
third quarter of 1996. 

   To date, the Company's revenues from its franchise and dealer operations 
are derived primarily from (i) the gross margin on the sale of security 
equipment to franchisees and Dictograph dealers, (ii) royalties received from 
franchisees based upon their revenues and (iii) subcontract monitoring 
charges from security alarm services performed for monitoring franchisee and 
Dictograph dealer accounts. See "Business -- Business Strategy." 

                                      30 
<PAGE>

OTHER SERVICES 

   Jewelry Vault Rentals. The Company operates a maximum security safe 
deposit vault facility in the jewelry district of New York City. Vault 
rentals are provided on a short-term or long-term basis to jewelers, many of 
whom also utilize the Company's security alarm services for their businesses 
located in the jewelry district. 

   Insured Parcel Delivery. In 1995, the Company began providing insured 
parcel delivery services to the jewelry markets of New York City, Los Angeles 
and other locations after acquiring the assets of its One Service business. 
This business involves the arranging of overnight shipping of insured jewelry 
parcels from jewelry centers in New York, Los Angeles and other locations to 
various points throughout the United States. The Company's insured parcel 
delivery service provides a number of special handling features to ensure the 
security of the parcel, including computerized tracking and proof of 
delivery. In addition, insurance coverage is provided for each parcel in an 
amount up to $50,000 of the declared value of such parcel with no deductible. 

MARKETING AND SALES 

   The Company is currently focusing its marketing efforts on increasing its 
visibility throughout the United States. This is accomplished through 
national and local advertising in various forms of print media, direct mail 
campaigns, telemarketing efforts, referrals from existing customers and 
attendance at national trade shows. Additionally, the Company's marketing 
strategy includes the return to one of the original Holmes logos used in the 
early part of this century. The Company believes that use of this original 
logo will increase public recognition and awareness of Holmes and its 
historical presence and long-standing reputation in the industry. The Company 
also intends to provide its sales force with extensive training and market 
resources, including professionally prepared literature and presentation 
materials, background research and technical information. 

   The Company installs security equipment either on the basis of an outright 
sale of the equipment to the subscriber, or as a "company-owned system" where 
Holmes charges the subscriber for the installation, but retains title to the 
equipment. Each of the Company's four branch offices has sales 
representatives for new system sales and for offering additional services to 
existing customers. In total, the Company currently employs 43 sales 
representatives. It is anticipated that additional sales representatives will 
be hired in the future to support the national accounts program and to 
support the Company's continued sales and marketing efforts. Sales of alarm 
systems are generally made at the customer's premises, typically through 
visits by a sales representative. The Company's sales representatives analyze 
a customer's security needs and, acting in coordination with necessary 
technical support staff, design or specify an appropriate security system to 
meet those needs and coordinate the installation of the system in the 
customer's premises. The Company maintains installation and field service 
personnel, as well as inventories of parts, in each of its branch offices. 
See "Business -- Business Strategy." 

COMPETITION 

   The electronic security services industry in the United States is highly 
competitive and highly fragmented, with new competitors continually entering 
the field. Competition is based primarily on price in relation to quality of 
service. The Company believes that it derives competitive strength from its 
emphasis on high quality systems and services and its attention to 
technological advances. Sources of competition in the electronic security 
services industry are other providers of central monitoring services, systems 
directly connected to local police and fire departments, local alarm systems 
and other methods of protection, such as locks and gates and manned guarding. 
The Company believes that it competes with numerous local, regional and 
national companies. The Company's primary nationwide competitors include ADT 
Security Systems, Inc., Ameritech Monitoring Services, Inc., Wells Fargo 
Alarm Services and Honeywell, Inc. Some of the Company's national competitors 
have greater financial, marketing and other resources than the Company. It is 
possible that, subject to regulatory compliance, companies such as those 
engaged in the telephone and cable business, if not already competing, may in 
the future endeavor to enter the electronic security services industry. 

SUPPLIERS 

   The Company currently has multiple sources of supply for the components 
used in the electronic security and fire detection systems that it designs 
and installs. The Company does not manufacture any of the equipment 

                                      31 
<PAGE>

or components that it designs and installs. The Company believes that a 
variety of alternative sources of supply are available on reasonable terms. 
However, the Company has no guaranteed supply arrangements with its suppliers 
and purchases components pursuant to purchase orders placed from time to time 
in the ordinary course of business. There can be no assurance that shortages 
of components will not occur in the future. Failure of sources of supply and 
the inability of the Company to develop alternative sources of supply if 
required in the future could have a material adverse effect on the Company's 
operations. 

REGULATION 

   The Company's operations are subject to a variety of federal, state, 
county and municipal laws, regulations and licensing requirements. Many of 
the states in which Holmes operates, as well as certain local authorities, 
require Holmes to obtain licenses or permits to conduct a security alarm 
services business. Certain governmental entities also require persons engaged 
in the security alarm services business to be licensed and to meet certain 
standards in the selection and training of employees and in the conduct of 
business. The Company believes that it holds the required licenses and is in 
substantial compliance with all licensing and regulatory requirements in each 
jurisdiction in which it operates. 

   In addition, there has been a trend recently on the part of municipalities 
and other localities to attempt to reduce the level of false alarms through 
various measures such as the licensing of individual alarm systems and the 
imposition of fines upon customers, revocation of customer licenses or 
non-response to alarms after a certain number of false alarms. While such 
statutes and ordinances have not had a material adverse effect on Holmes' 
business operations to date, Holmes is unable to predict whether such 
statutes or ordinances, or any similar statues or ordinances enacted by other 
jurisdictions, will adversely affect its business and operations in the 
future. The security alarm industry is also subject to the oversight and 
requirements of various insurance, approval, listing and standards 
organizations. Adherence to the standards and requirements of such 
organizations may be mandatory or voluntary depending upon the type of 
customer served, the nature of security service provided and the requirements 
of the local governmental jurisdiction. The Company has not had any material 
difficulties in complying with such standards and requirements in the past. 

   Holmes' electronic security business relies on the use of telephone lines 
and radio frequencies to transmit signals and to communicate with field 
personnel. The cost of such lines and the type of equipment which may be 
utilized in telephone line transmissions are regulated by both the federal 
and state governments. The operation and utilization of radio frequencies are 
regulated by the Federal Communications Commission and state public utilities 
commissions. 

RISK MANAGEMENT 

   The nature of the services provided by Holmes potentially exposes it to 
greater risks of liability for employee acts or omissions, or system 
failures, than may be inherent in many other service businesses. To reduce 
those risks, substantially all of Holmes' customers have subscriber 
agreements which contain provisions for limited liability and predetermined 
liquidated damages to customers and indemnification by customers against 
third party claims; however, some jurisdictions prohibit or restrict 
limitations on liability and liquidated damages. Holmes carries insurance of 
various types, including general liability and errors and omissions insurance 
to insure it from liability arising from acts or omissions of its employees. 
Holmes' general and umbrella liability insurance policies combined provide up 
to $15 million of coverage, depending on the nature of claims. Certain of 
Holmes' insurance policies and the laws of some states may limit or prohibit 
insurance coverage for punitive or certain other kinds of damages arising 
from employee misconduct. In addition, in some states the contractual 
limitation of liability and indemnification provisions may be ineffective in 
cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct and in certain other 
situations. 

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY 

   Holmes Protection and Dictograph are the Company's principal trademarks 
and service marks. The Company also uses the Computect service mark in 
connection with its alarm services and related products, the LifeNet and 
CargoNet service marks for its vehicle tracking systems, the HolmesNet 
service mark in connection with its wireless transmission system and the One 
Service service mark for its insured parcel delivery service. 


                                      32 
<PAGE>

The Company believes that its rights in these trademarks and service marks 
are of unlimited duration and adequately protected by registration or 
applications to register. In addition, the ProWatch trademark is authorized 
for use by the Company from a third party. The Company believes that certain 
of its trademarks and service marks are important to the marketing of its 
security alarm services, particularly as the Company strives to establish a 
strong identity for Holmes with its customers. In addition, the Company 
relies on trade secret and other laws to protect its proprietary rights in 
its security systems and programs. No assurance can be given that the Company 
will be able to successfully enforce or protect its rights to its trademarks, 
service marks or proprietary information in the event that any of them is 
subject to third party infringement or misappropriation. The Company's 
central monitoring operations utilize proprietary software which the Company 
has licensed from a third party. 

EMPLOYEES 

   As of July 15, 1996, the Company had approximately 433 full-time 
employees. The Company believes that relations with its employees and their 
unions are satisfactory. All of the Company's installation and service 
personnel and a small portion of its response personnel are represented by 
unions under the following collective bargaining agreements with the 
Company's subsidiaries: 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        Agreement         Employees 
             Subsidiary                          Union               Expiration Date       Covered 
 ----------------------------------   ---------------------------   ------------------    ----------- 
<S>                                  <C>                           <C>                    <C>
Holmes Protection of Long Island,    United Service Workers of     December 31, 1996           10 
  Inc.                               America, Local 355  
Holmes Protection of Philadelphia,   Local No. 98, International   May 10, 1996(1)             16
  Inc.                               Brotherhood of Electrical     
                                     Workers                        
Holmes Protection of New Jersey,     United Service Workers of     September 30, 1996          36 
  Inc.                               America, Local 355            
Holmes Protection of New York,       Local 3, International        January 31, 1997            66 
  Inc.                               Brotherhood of Electrical     
                                     Workers                       
Holmes Protection of New York,       United Service Workers of     March 29, 1997              17 
  Inc.                               America, Local 355            

</TABLE>
- ------ 
(1) Although this collective bargaining agreement expired on May 10, 1996, 
    the parties thereto are currently negotiating a new agreement. 

HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENTS 

  THE 1995 OUTSOURCING AGREEMENT 

   On April 4, 1995, the Company entered into a ten-year, $51 million 
information technology services agreement, as amended (the "Outsourcing 
Agreement"), with PremiTech Corporation ("PremiTech"), a subsidiary of EDS. 
Pursuant to the Outsourcing Agreement, PremiTech is assisting the Company in 
consolidating the Company's four central monitoring stations to a single 
location, managing all of the Company's technological infrastructure and 
performing certain of the Company's administrative functions. As part of the 
consolidation plan, PremiTech is administering the expansion of the Company's 
Edison, New Jersey facility to accommodate the computer equipment, voice and 
data transmission lines and monitoring workstations necessary for Holmes' 
employees to perform all central monitoring activities and dispatch 
functions. In regard to the Company's technological infrastructure, PremiTech 
has assumed ongoing responsibility for maintaining all of the Company's 
computer hardware and software systems, as well as all telephone and other 
voice and data communication systems and equipment. In addition, PremiTech is 
managing Holmes' customer service, purchasing, billing and collection 
functions. In accordance with the Outsourcing Agreement, 40 former employees 
of the Company became employees of PremiTech during 1995. See "Management's 
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations." 


                                      33 
<PAGE>

   PremiTech's obligations under the Outsourcing Agreement are guaranteed by 
EDS, a Texas-based corporation which is a world leader in the application of 
information technology. PremiTech is a limited partner in the Investor, 
holding a partnership interest equivalent to approximately 6% of the 
Company's Common Stock. 

  THE 1994 INVESTMENT AGREEMENT 

   On August 1, 1994, pursuant to the Investment Agreement, the Investor 
purchased 1,515,886 shares of Common Stock (the "Investor Shares") and the 
Investor Warrants for an aggregate consideration of $10 million. The 
Investment Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including 
amendments to the Company's By-Laws and the adoption of the Restated 
Certificate of Incorporation of the Company which effected the one- for- 
fourteen reverse stock split of the Common Stock, were approved by the 
Company's stockholders at a meeting held on July 29, 1994. 

   In connection with the Investment Agreement, the Investor received the 
right to nominate four Investor- Nominees, subject to adjustment as described 
below, to the Company's Board. In the event that the number of shares of 
Investor Securities (as defined herein) as adjusted pursuant to stock splits 
and recapitalizations, shall be fewer than the number of shares set forth 
below and the Board shall at the date of such determination consist of nine 
or more members, the number of Investor-Nominees shall be reduced to the 
number set forth opposite the number and percentage of shares below: 

    Percentage of 
      Number of             Outstanding Common Stock            Number of 
Investor Securities         As of December 31, 1995         Investor-Nominees 
 -------------------        ------------------------         ----------------- 
      1,532,709                    34.4%                           3 
      1,149,531                    25.8%                           2 
        862,148                    19.3%                           1 
        478,971                    10.7%                           0 

   In the event that the number of Institution-Nominees shall be fewer than 
three, the Investment Agreement provides that the Investor shall use its best 
efforts to cause the Investor-Nominees to vote to reduce the size of the 
Board to seven members. Upon the adoption by the Board of such resolution 
reducing the number of directors constituting the entire Board to seven 
members, the number of Investor-Nominees shall be reduced to three. 
Thereafter, the number of Investor-Nominees shall be subject to further 
reduction according to the reduction in the number of Investor Securities as 
follows: 

                                 Percentage of 
      Number of             Outstanding Common Stock            Number of 
Investor Securities         As of December 31, 1995         Investor-Nominees 
 -------------------        ------------------------         ----------------- 
     1,532,709                       34.4%                         2 
     1,053,737                       23.6%                         1 
       478,971                       10.7%                         0 

   As described below under the caption "The 1992 Restructuring," it is 
anticipated that, upon consummation of this offering, the number of permitted 
Institution-Nominees will be reduced from three to two. In such event, the 
Investment Agreement provides that the number of Investor-Nominees shall be 
reduced from four to three upon the condition that the size of the Board is 
reduced to seven directors. Unless the Company, the Investor and the 
Institution agree otherwise, the Investor will cause the number of 
Investor-Nominees to be reduced from four to three upon consummation of this 
offering. The Investor and the Company have agreed to waive the condition 
regarding a reduction in the size of the Board. Accordingly, the size of the 
Board will remain at nine members, subject to change as provided by the 
By-Laws. As of the date hereof, it has not been determined which, if any, of 
the Investor-Nominees will cease to be an Investor-Nominee upon the 
consummation of this offering. See "Business--Historical Developments/The 
1992 Restructuring," "--Historical Developments/Other Certificate of 
Incorporation and By-Law Provisions" and "Management-Nomination of Certain 
Directors." 

   In the event of the death, resignation or removal of a director of the 
Company (other than an Investor- Nominee or an Institution-Nominee) on or 
prior to August 1, 1996, the remaining directors then in office shall use 
their best efforts to elect a successor director to fill the vacancy created 
thereby. In the event that they shall 

                                      34 
<PAGE>

fail to elect a successor director within 60 days following the date of such 
death, resignation or removal, and shall not, by a majority vote of the 
directors remaining in office within such period, agree to leave such 
directorship position vacant until the next annual meeting of stockholders, 
the Company shall use its best efforts to, and the Investor, to the extent 
permitted by the By-Laws shall, call a special meeting of stockholders for 
the purpose of electing a successor director to serve for the unexpired term 
created by the vacancy. George Flagg, the President and Chief Executive 
Officer of the Company, was appointed in May 1996 to fill such a vacancy. 

   Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Investment Agreement provides that in 
the event the percentage interest of the Investor and the Investor 
Affiliates, as defined herein, represented by the Investor Securities shall 
be less than 8.5% of the issued and outstanding number of shares of Common 
Stock (including up to 400,000 shares of Common Stock issuable upon the 
exercise of the Investor Warrants), the Investor shall not be entitled to 
designate any Investor-Nominees. Except for such 8.5% minimum requirement, 
the percentage of the outstanding Common Stock represented by the number of 
Investor Securities set forth in the preceding tables does not affect the 
number of Investor-Nominees. 

   As defined in the Investment Agreement, "Investor Affiliates" means 
collectively, Mark S. Hauser, David Jan Mitchell, William Spier (the 
foregoing, the "Individuals"), any partner of the Investor at August 1, 1994 
("Partner"), any former partner of the Investor who, upon withdrawal as a 
partner or upon the liquidation of the Investor, shall have received in 
distribution or liquidation any shares of Common Stock or Investor Warrants 
(a "Former Partner"), any wholly-owned subsidiary of any Partner or Former 
Partner, any successor to any Partner or Former Partner by reason of merger 
or the sale or disposition of all or substantially all of the business of 
such Partner or Former Partner (provided that such Partner or Former Partner 
has substantial operating activities), any immediate family member of any 
Partner or Former Partner or any of the Individuals or any trust for the 
benefit of any Partner or Former Partner or any of the Individuals or his or 
her immediate family members, and the estate, personal representative or the 
beneficiary of the estate of any Partner or Former Partner or any of the 
Individuals. 

   As defined in the Investment Agreement, "Investor Securities" means all 
the shares of Common Stock (without duplication) beneficially owned solely, 
or on a shared basis exclusively with any Investor Affiliates, by the 
Investor and any Investor Affiliates, together with such number of shares of 
Common Stock beneficially owned by the Investor or any Investor Affiliates 
which are issuable upon the exercise of the Investor Warrants; provided that, 
for purposes of such definition, the number of such shares of Common Stock 
issuable upon the exercise of the Investor Warrants shall not exceed 400,000. 
The Investor Securities deemed to be held by any Investor Affiliate does not 
include any shares of Common Stock held by any Partner or Former Partner 
prior to the date such person first became a Partner. 

    REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENTS 

   In connection with the Investment Agreement, the Company entered into 
substantially similar Registration Rights Agreements, each dated August 1, 
1994, with the Investor and each of the Institutions, respectively (the 
"Registration Rights Agreements"). Pursuant to the Registration Rights 
Agreements, the Company agreed to use its best efforts to prepare and file 
with the Securities and Exchange Commission and thereafter keep effective for 
a period of up to 15 years a registration statement under the Securities Act 
of 1933 (the "Securities Act") permitting the public resale of the Investor 
Shares, the 1,588,105 shares held by the Institutions on August 1, 1994, and 
the shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of the Investor Warrants 
and the Institution Warrants. The Registration Rights Agreements provide that 
the Company may not grant any "piggyback" registration rights with respect to 
underwritten offerings to any person without the written consent of the 
Investor and the holders of more than 50% of Registrable Securities (as 
defined therein) held by the Institutions. All expenses incident to the 
Company's performance of or compliance with the Registration Rights 
Agreements will be borne by the Company except that underwriters' discounts 
and commissions with respect to sales of Registrable Securities and fees and 
disbursements of counsel for the holders of Registrable Securities will be 
paid by such holders. In connection with this offering, the Investor and each 
Institution have waived their respective registration rights until 180 days 
following the date of this Prospectus. 

                                      35 

<PAGE>

    WARRANTS 

   Investor Warrants. The Investor Warrants entitle the holder thereof to 
purchase 685,714 shares of Common Stock, and are exercisable at an exercise 
price of $4.58 per share at any time prior to expiration, subject to 
adjustment upon certain dilutive events. The Investor Warrants expire on 
August 1, 2004. 

   Institution Warrants. The Institution Warrants initially entitled the 
holders thereof to purchase an aggregate of 147,572 shares of Common Stock, 
subject to adjustment upon certain dilutive events. The Institution Warrants 
expire on August 13, 2002. The Institution Warrants are exercisable at any 
time prior to expiration at an exercise price which is subject to adjustment 
upon certain dilutive events. 

   As a result of the antidilution provisions contained in the Institution 
Warrants, upon the issuance of the Investor Shares and Investor Warrants to 
the Investor pursuant to the Investment Agreement, the Institution Warrants 
were adjusted to provide for an increase in the number of shares purchasable 
to 193,150 and a reduction in the exercise price from $13.97 to $10.68. 

   The material provisions of the Investor Warrants and the Institution 
Warrants (collectively, the "Warrants") are substantially similar. Each of 
the Warrants provides that the exercise price and the number of shares of 
Common Stock issuable upon exercise of the Warrants are subject to adjustment 
from time to time upon the occurrence of the following events: upon issuance 
of shares of Common Stock below certain specified prices, payment of 
dividends by the Company in shares of Common Stock or extraordinary cash 
dividends, subdivision by the Company of its Common Stock, combination by the 
Company of the outstanding shares of Common Stock into a smaller number of 
shares of Common Stock, issuance by the Company of certain rights, options, 
warrants, evidences of its indebtedness or assets, or in case of any 
consolidation, merger or sale of substantially all the assets of the Company. 
Also, as stated below, the terms of the Warrants generally prohibit the 
Company from issuing preferred stock. 

    OTHER CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAW PROVISIONS 

   In connection with the 1994 Investment Agreement, stockholders of the 
Company approved certain modifications to the Company's Restated Certificate 
of Incorporation and Amended and Restated By-Laws (the "By- Laws"). 

   Under the Restated Certificate of Incorporation, the Board has the 
authority to issue Preferred Stock in one or more series and to determine its 
rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions, including the dividend 
rights, dividend rate, conversion rights, voting rights, terms of redemption 
(including sinking fund provisions), redemption price or prices, liquidation 
preferences and the number of shares constituting any series or the 
designations of such series, without any further vote or action by the 
stockholders, except that (i) any voting rights conferred on such Preferred 
Stock require the consent of three-quarters of the entire Board and a 
majority of the shares of Common Stock then outstanding and (ii) no regular 
dividends may be paid with respect to the Preferred Stock without the consent 
of the holders of a majority of the shares of Common Stock then outstanding. 
It should be noted, however, that pursuant to the terms of the Warrants, the 
Company is prohibited from issuing any capital stock of any class which has 
the right to more than one vote per share or which is preferred as to 
dividends or as to the distribution of assets upon voluntary or involuntary 
dissolution, liquidation or winding up of the Company. 

   The Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws were 
amended in 1994 to provide for the division of the Board into three classes 
of directors serving staggered three-year terms. The By-Laws fix the initial 
size of the Board at nine, provided that the Board, by vote of three-quarters 
of the directors then in office, may increase or decrease the size of the 
Board and the number of directors in any class. Currently, the Board is 
comprised of 9 directors. The Restated Certificate of Incorporation also 
provides that stockholder action can be taken only at an annual or special 
meeting of stockholders and cannot be taken by written consent in lieu of a 
meeting. Additionally, the Restated Certificate of Incorporation requires an 
affirmative vote of three-quarters of the Company's voting power (unless 
three-quarters of the total number of directors then in office shall have 
approved the amendment) to amend provisions of the Certificate of 
Incorporation with respect to the number and classification of the directors, 
stockholder action without written consent, director liability, 
indemnification and amendments to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation. 

                                      36 

<PAGE>

    THE 1992 RESTRUCTURING 

   On August 13, 1992, the Company effected a financial restructuring (the 
"1992 Restructuring") pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, dated as of 
December 18, 1991, which agreement was amended as of January 31, 1992, May 
24, 1992 and June 30, 1992 (the "Exchange Agreement"). Stockholder approval 
of the Exchange Agreement was received on August 10, 1992. The Exchange 
Agreement provided for the satisfaction of the Notes representing 
approximately $72.6 million of loans to the Company by the Institutions 
(including accrued interest and penalties thereon, as at June 30, 1992), by a 
combination of cash payment, an exchange of Common Stock for debt, and 
forgiveness of approximately $34.5 million of debt. The Company implemented a 
25 for 1 reverse stock split and then sold for 8.75 British pounds 
(approximately $16.91) per share additional shares of Common Stock to the 
Institutions as well as a total of 1,151,947 shares to its existing 
stockholders and directors and to certain institutional investors. Upon the 
completion of the 1992 Restructuring, the Institutions received a total of 
1,603,224 new shares of Common Stock (representing 54.3% of the resulting 
outstanding shares of Common Stock), warrants (the "Institution Warrants") to 
purchase an aggregate of 147,572 shares of Common Stock at 8.75 British 
pounds per share (representing 5% of the resulting outstanding shares), and a 
cash payment of $12.6 million. As of August 13, 1992, after giving effect to 
the reverse stock split, the average trading price of the Common Stock on the 
London Stock Exchange was 7.28 British pounds per share and, based upon such 
price, the aggregate value of the shares issued to the Institutions was 
approximately $22.5 million. (United States dollar equivalents stated in this 
paragraph assume an exchange rate of $1.9323 per British pound.) John Hancock 
Mutual Life Insurance Company and The Mutual Life Insurance Company of New 
York, and their respective affiliates, are currently the two largest 
stockholders among the Institution group. 

   In connection with the 1992 Restructuring and pursuant to the Exchange 
Agreement, the Institutions received the right to nominate three directors of 
the Company, subject to adjustment based on their percentage ownership of 
total Common Stock. Specifically, the Exchange Agreement provides that so 
long as the Institutions in the aggregate continue to hold at least the 
percentage of the issued and outstanding Common Stock of the Company set 
forth below, the Institutions owning Common Stock (or such of the 
Institutions who wish to participate in the selection) shall have the right 
to nominate the following number of persons to the Board: 

  Percentage of Outstanding Common                                Number of 
     Stock Held by Institutions                                   Directors 
 ------------------------------------                            ------------- 
              30.0%                                                  3 
              20.0%                                                  2 
               7.5%                                                  1 

Following this offering, the aggregate share ownership of the Institutions 
will be reduced below 30%, and, accordingly, the Institutions will have the 
right to nominate only two directors. See also "Business -- Historical 
Developments/The 1994 Investment Agreement." 

The Exchange Agreement provides with respect to any Institution that so long 
as such Institution holds any shares of Common Stock, if at any time the 
Company engages in any transaction that involves the offer or issuance of 
securities to its stockholders generally (including rights offerings and 
exchange offers), the Company will (i) allow such Institution to participate 
in any such transaction on identical terms, if such participation can be made 
pursuant to an exemption under the Securities Act of 1933 or (ii) in the 
event of a rights offering, at such Institution's option, provide for the 
sale by the Company of such Institution's rights or the underlying securities 
at the market price of such securities and the transmittal of the sale 
proceeds to such Institution in connection with such sale. 

See also the discussion under "Warrants" above for a description of 
additional rights received by the Institutions pursuant to the Institution 
Warrants. 


                                      37 
<PAGE>

PROPERTIES 

   As of July 15, 1996, the Company leased the following principal 
properties: 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 Square      Annual 
   Address                            Principal Use               Feet       Rental      Lease Expires 
                             --------------------------------   --------    ----------   ----------------- 
<S>                         <C>                                 <C>         <C>         <C>
95F Hoffman Lane            Service center and sales office        3,848       $25,008  June 30, 1997 
Islandia, Long Island, NY 
440 9th Avenue              Corporate and sales offices and       20,000      $392,800  February 28, 2002 
New York, NY                central station 
580 5th Avenue              Service and response center            6,500      $217,000  June 30, 2000 
New York, NY                and vaults 
524 West 29th Street        Service and response center           12,755      $128,125  June 30, 1999 
New York, NY 
21 Northfield Avenue        Sales office, service center and      15,620      $127,476  August 31, 1999 
Edison, NJ                  central station 
701 Callowhill Street       Sales office and service center       10,000       $35,000  August 31, 1999 
Philadelphia, PA 19123 

</TABLE>
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS 

   The Company experiences routine litigation in the normal course of its 
business, which claims are generally covered under the Company's insurance 
policies. The Company believes that none of such pending litigation will have 
a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial condition, future 
results of operations or liquidity. 

   The Company is a defendant in a lawsuit captioned Pan American Diamond 
Corporation and Wasko Gold v. Holmes Protection of New York, Inc. commenced 
in New York State Supreme Court, New York County, on January 7, 1994. The 
complaint seeks compensatory, consequential and punitive damages in excess of 
$1,000,000 arising out of a burglary at a New York City jewelry manufacturing 
company in which an employee of the Company participated. In the event that 
it is determined that the Company's applicable insurance coverage for acts of 
employee dishonesty is limited to $100,000 at the date of the loss, the 
Company faces an uninsured exposure for any damages that may be awarded in 
excess of such amount. However, there are a variety of legal, factual and 
insurance coverage issues to be determined before an evaluation can be made 
as to the likely outcome of the action and the effect, if any, it may have on 
the Company. The Company intends to continue to vigorously defend this 
action. 

                                      38 
<PAGE>

                                  MANAGEMENT 

DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY 

   The executive officers and directors of the Company are set forth in the 
following table: 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   Class of 
Name                       Age    Director(1)   Position 
 ----------------------   -----   -----------    ---------------------------------------------- 
<S>                       <C>     <C>           <C>
George V. Flagg (2)  ..    55          B        President, Chief Executive Officer and Director 
James L. Boehme (2)  ..    48         --        Executive Vice President -- Sales and Marketing 
Glenn C. Riker  .......    51         --        Senior Vice President of Human Resources and 
                                                Assistant Secretary 
Lawrence R. Irving (2) .   39         --        Vice President -- Finance 
Pierre Besuchet  ......    62          A        Director 
Daniel T. Carroll (3) .    70          A        Director 
Lawrence R. Glenn  ....    58          B        Director 
Mark S. Hauser (4)  ...    38          C        Director, Vice Chairman of the Board 
William P. Lyons (4)  .    54          C        Director, Chairman of the Board 
David Jan Mitchell (4) .   34          C        Director 
Edward L. Palmer  .....    78          B        Director 
William Spier (4)  ....    60          C        Director 
</TABLE>
- ------ 
(1) In accordance with the Restated Certificate of Incorporation and the 
    By-Laws of the Company, the Board is divided into three classes of 
    directors serving staggered three-year terms. The terms of the Class A, 
    Class B and Class C directors will expire at the annual meetings of 
    stockholders in 1998, 1996 and 1997, respectively. Each class of 
    directors serves for three years, with the terms of office of the 
    respective classes expiring in successive years. 

(2) Mr. Flagg and Mr. Boehme assumed their respective positions as officers 
    of the Company on January 8, 1996 and Mr. Irving assumed his position as 
    an officer of the Company on May 13, 1996. Mr. Flagg became a director of 
    the Company in May 1996. 

(3) Mr. Carroll became a director of the Company on June 27, 1996. 

(4) Pursuant to the Investment Agreement, unless the Company, the Investor 
    and the Institutions agree otherwise, the number of directors the 
    Investor is entitled to nominate will be reduced from four to three. As 
    of the date hereof, it has not been determined which, if any, of the 
    Investor-Nominees will cease to be an Investor-Nominee upon consummation 
    of this offering. See "Business -- Historical Developments/The 1994 
    Investment Agreement" and "Management -- Nomination of Certain 
    Directors." 

   George V. Flagg. Mr. Flagg joined the Company on January 8, 1996 as 
President and Chief Executive Officer. Prior thereto, from September 1985 to 
December 1995, Mr. Flagg served in various executive capacities at National 
Guardian, a security alarm services company, and most recently as President 
(from May 1986 to December 1995) and Chief Executive Officer (from May 1991 
to December 1995). Mr. Flagg became a director of the Company in May 1996. 

   James L. Boehme. Mr. Boehme was appointed Executive Vice President-Sales 
and Marketing of the Company on January 8, 1996. Prior thereto, from March 
1988 to December 1995, Mr. Boehme served in various executive capacities at 
National Guardian, and most recently as Senior Vice President, Sales and 
Marketing (from June 1994 to December 1995) and Vice President, Sales and 
Marketing (from January 1990 to June 1994). 

   Glenn C. Riker. Mr. Riker has been with the Company since December 1989, 
starting as Director of Human Resources and currently serving as Senior Vice 
President of Human Resources and Assistant Secretary. Prior to joining the 
Company, Mr. Riker was Vice President of Human Resources at Atlas Copco North 
America, Inc., a manufacturer of industrial equipment. 

                                      39 
<PAGE>

   Lawrence R. Irving. Mr. Irving joined the Company in May 1996 as Vice 
President-Finance. From July 1995 to April 1996, Mr. Irving served as 
Controller, and then as Vice President-Finance and Treasurer, respectively, 
of Centennial Security Holdings, Inc., a security alarm services company. 
Prior thereto, from April 1987 to June 1995, Mr. Irving served as Assistant 
Controller, and then as Assistant Vice President/Assistant Controller, 
respectively, of National Guardian. 

   Pierre Besuchet. Mr. Besuchet has been a director since 1991. Mr. Besuchet 
has been the President of Gerant des Fortunes, a Swiss investment management 
company since 1983. He is also a non-executive director of Faisal Finance 
(Switzerland) S.A., a Swiss investment firm. 

   Daniel T. Carroll. Mr. Carroll has been a director since June 1996. Since 
1982, Mr. Carroll has been the Chairman of The Carroll Group, a management 
consulting company. He is also a director of American Woodmark Corporation, 
Aon Incorporated, Comshare, Inc., DeSoto, Inc., Diebold Incorporated, Oshkosh 
Truck Corporation and Woodhead Industries Inc. 

   Lawrence R. Glenn. Mr. Glenn has been a director since February 1996. 
Since 1995, Mr. Glenn has been Chairman of J.W. Goddard and Company, a 
privately owned investment company dealing in real estate, corporate finance 
and financial advisory services. Mr. Glenn is the retired former Chairman of 
the Credit Policy Committee of Citicorp and Citibank, N.A. He is also a 
director of First Bank of Americas and Gerber Childrenswear Holdings, Inc. 

   Mark S. Hauser. Mr. Hauser has been a director since 1994. He was elected 
Vice Chairman of the Board in May 1995. He is the founder and, since 1991, 
has been a Managing Director of Tamarix Capital Corporation, a New York-based 
private investment banking firm. Prior thereto, Mr. Hauser was a Managing 
Director at Hauser, Richards & Co., and Ocean Capital Corporation, private 
international investment banking firms. He is also a director of ICC 
Technologies, Inc. and EA Industries, Inc. 

   William P. Lyons. Mr. Lyons has been a director since 1994. He was elected 
Chairman of the Board in May 1995. He has been President and Chief Executive 
Officer of William P. Lyons and Co., Inc., a private investment firm, since 
1975. From 1992 to 1995, Mr. Lyons served as Chairman of JVL Corp., a 
pharmaceutical manufacturer, and from 1988 to 1991, he served as Chairman and 
Chief Executive Officer of Duro-Test Corporation, a manufacturer of specialty 
lighting products. Mr. Lyons was an adjunct Professor of Management and Law 
at Yale University from 1973 to 1989. Mr. Lyons is also a director of Lydall, 
Inc., Video Lottery Technologies, Inc. and DeSoto, Inc. 

   David Jan Mitchell. Mr. Mitchell has been a director since 1994. Since 
January 1991, Mr. Mitchell has been President of Mitchell & Company, Ltd., a 
New York-based private merchant banking company he founded. Since March 1992, 
Mr. Mitchell has been a partner of Pertherton Capital Corporation, a 
privately held real estate investment company. From April 1988 to December 
1990, Mr. Mitchell served as a managing principal and a director of Rodman & 
Renshaw, Inc., a publicly traded investment banking and brokerage firm. Mr. 
Mitchell also serves as a director of Kellstrom Industries, Inc. and Bogen 
Communications International. 

   Edward L. Palmer. Mr. Palmer has been a director since 1992. He is the 
retired Chairman of the Executive Committee of Citicorp and Citibank, N.A. 
Mr. Palmer's current directorships include Devon Group, Inc., SunResorts Ltd. 
N.V., FondElec Group and Energy Services International Corporation. Mr. 
Palmer has also served on the board of directors of several U.S. and 
international corporations. 

   William Spier. Mr. Spier has been a director since 1994. He has served as 
Chairman of DeSoto, Inc., a detergent manufacturer, since 1991. From 1991 to 
1994 and again since September 1995, Mr. Spier has been Chief Executive 
Officer of DeSoto, Inc. Since 1991, he has also served as Chairman and 
President of Sutton Holding Corp., an investment company. He is also a 
director of DeSoto, Inc., Geotek Communications, Inc., Video Lottery 
Technologies, Inc. and EA Industries, Inc. 

NOMINATION OF CERTAIN DIRECTORS 

   The Company is party to the Exchange Agreement and the Investment 
Agreement which entitle certain stockholders to nominate members of the 
Board. Messrs. Palmer and Glenn were initially nominated by the Institutions 
and appointed to the Board on November 30, 1992 and February 8, 1996, 
respectively, in accordance 

                                      40 
<PAGE>

with the terms of the Exchange Agreement. Upon consummation of this offering, 
the aggregate share ownership of the Institutions will be reduced below 30%, 
and, accordingly, the Institutions will have the right to nominate only two 
directors. See "Business -- Historical Developments/The 1992 Restructuring." 
Messrs. Hauser, Lyons, Mitchell and Spier were nominated by HP Partners L.P. 
and elected to the Board on July 29, 1994 in accordance with the terms of the 
Investment Agreement. Messrs. Hauser, Mitchell and Spier are stockholders and 
directors of the general partner of HP Partners L.P. and Messrs. Mitchell and 
Spier are also limited partners of HP Partners L.P. Pursuant to the 
Investment Agreement, unless the Company, the Investor and the Institutions 
agree otherwise, the number of directors the Investor is entitled to nominate 
to the Board following this offering will be reduced from four to three. As 
of the date hereof, it has not been determined which, if any, of the 
Investor- Nominees will cease to be an Investor-Nominee upon consummation of 
this offering. See "Business -- Historical Developments/The 1994 Investment 
Agreement" and "--Historical Developments/The 1992 Restructuring." 

BOARD COMMITTEES AND COMPENSATION 

   The Board has designated an Audit Committee that reviews the scope and 
results of the audit and other services performed by the Company's 
independent accountants. The Audit Committee currently consists of Messrs. 
Carroll, Glenn, Lyons, Mitchell, Palmer (Chairman) and Spier. The Board has 
also designated a Compensation Committee that establishes objectives for the 
Company's senior executive officers, sets the compensation of directors, 
executive officers and other employees of the Company and is charged with the 
administration of the Company's employee benefit plans. The Compensation 
Committee currently consists of Messrs. Besuchet, Carroll, Lyons (Chairman), 
Palmer and Spier. The Board of Directors also has a Retirement Benefits 
Committee which provides oversight for the Company's pension and retirement 
benefit plans. The Retirement Benefits Committee currently consists of 
Messrs. Glenn, Hauser (Chairman) and Mitchell. 

   Each non-employee director receives an annual director's fee of $15,000 
(except for the Chairman who receives an annual fee of $25,000) and a fee of 
either $500 per day for attending in person meetings of the Board or 
Committees of the Board, or $250 per day for participating in such meetings 
by telephone. Non-employee directors are reimbursed for their reasonable 
expenses incurred in connection with attendance at or participation in such 
meetings. In addition, under the 1996 Plan, each non-employee director who 
was a director of the Company on December 4, 1995 was granted an option to 
purchase 25,000 shares of Common Stock. Messrs. Glenn and Carroll were each 
granted an option to purchase 25,000 shares of Common Stock on February 8, 
1996 and June 27, 1996, respectively, at the time of their respective 
appointments to the Board. Such grants and the terms thereof are subject to 
and conditioned upon stockholder approval of the 1996 Plan at the Company's 
1996 annual meeting of stockholders, scheduled for October 31, 1996. See 
"Management -- Stock Option Plans." 

   Directors who are employees of the Company receive no additional 
compensation for their services as directors. However, such directors are 
reimbursed for their reasonable expenses incurred in connection with 
attendance at or participation in meetings of the Board or Committees of the 
Board. 

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDE PARTICIPATION 

   During the Company's fiscal year ended December 31, 1995, the Compensation 
Committee of the Board consisted of Messrs. Besuchet, Lyons, Palmer and Spier 
(Chairman). None of these individuals has ever served as an officer or an 
employee of the Company (other than by reason of the officer status conferred 
upon the Chairman of the Board pursuant to the Company's By-Laws). In 
addition, no executive officer of the Company has ever served as (i) a member 
of the compensation committee or equivalent of another entity, one of whose 
executive officers served on the Company's Compensation Committee, (ii) a 
director of another entity, one of whose executive officers served on the 
Compensation Committee or (iii) a member of the compensation committee or 
equivalent of another entity, one of whose executive officers served as a 
director of the Company. 

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 

   The following table sets forth a summary of annual and long-term 
compensation earned by or paid to the former Chief Executive Officer and each 
of the other four most highly compensated current or former executive 
officers of the Company (collectively, the "Named Officers") for services 
rendered to the Company during each of the last three fiscal years: 

                                      41 
<PAGE>
                          SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                        Long-Term 
                                                                                       Compensation 
                                                        Annual Compensation               Awards 
                                               -----------------------------------    -------------- 
                                                                           Other        Securities 
                                                                           Annual       Underlying      All Other 
                                                                          Compen-        Options/        Compen- 
                                                  Salary       Bonus       sation          SARs          sation 
    Name and Principal Position         Year       ($)          ($)         ($)            (#)           ($)(1) 
 -----------------------------------   ------   ----------    ---------   ---------   --------------   ----------- 
<S>                                   <C>       <C>           <C>          <C>         <C>              <C>   
Richard Hickson (2)  ...............    1993     $183,300     $ 7,600     $    --           --           $   -- 
President and Chief Executive           1994      208,333       5,346          --        35,418(3)           -- 
Officer                                 1995      108,605          --          --           --               -- 
Brian H. Jaffe (4)  ................    1993      115,000       6,000      10,400           --            3,630 
Vice President, General Counsel and     1994      117,884      13,151      10,400         8,854(3)        3,931 
Secretary                               1995      122,000      25,010      10,400           --            4,325 
Eugene G. Lestardo (5)  ............    1993      125,000      17,455      11,700           --            4,500 
Acting Chief Operating Officer          1994      128,128      42,667      11,700        13,281(3)        4,624 
                                        1995      141,300      16,250      12,425        15,000(6)        4,628 
Glenn C. Riker  ....................    1993       86,000      15,300      13,000           --            3,039 
Senior Vice President of Human          1994       88,150      12,782      13,000         8,854(3)        3,209 
Resources                               1995       91,260      20,716      13,000           --            3,476 
William C. Sholl (7)  ..............    1993       54,692       3,783       6,320           --              208 
Vice President Management               1994       90,000      10,378      10,400           --            3,011 
Information Systems                     1995       93,150      20,027      10,400         8,854           3,339 
</TABLE>
- ------ 
(1) Represents matching contributions by the Company under the Company's 
    401(k) Plan. 20% of accrued matching contributions become vested on each 
    of the second through sixth anniversaries of employment and are fully 
    vested thereafter. 

(2) Mr. Hickson resigned as President and Chief Executive Officer and a 
    director of the Company, effective May 30, 1995. His outstanding stock 
    options were cancelled on such date pursuant to the terms of the 
    Executives Plan (as defined in "Management-Stock Option Plans"). From May 
    31 through September 30, 1995, Mr. Hickson served as a consultant to the 
    Company for which services he received additional compensation of $6,531. 

(3) 1994 option grants replaced a like number of options previously granted 
    under the Executives Plan to Messrs. Hickson, Lestardo and Riker in 1992 
    and Mr. Jaffe in 1994. 

(4) Mr. Jaffe resigned as Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of 
    the Company, effective as of April 27, 1996. His unvested options to 
    purchase 6,198 shares of Common Stock were cancelled. Mr. Jaffe's vested 
    options to purchase 2,656 shares of Common Stock remain outstanding 
    through June 30, 1997. Mr. Jaffe is serving as a consultant to the 
    Company in exchange for compensation on a per diem basis. 

(5) Mr. Lestardo served in the capacity of Acting Chief Operating Officer of 
    the Company from June 14 to December 31, 1995. Mr. Lestardo continues to 
    serve as President of Holmes Protection of New York, Inc., a wholly-owned 
    subsidiary of the Company. 

(6) Represents a grant of stock options made in December 1995 under the 1996 
    Plan. The 1996 Plan will be submitted for stockholder approval at the 
    Company's 1996 annual meeting of stockholders, scheduled for October 31, 
    1996. All options granted thereunder are subject to and conditioned upon 
    approval of the 1996 Plan by stockholders of the Company. 

(7) Mr. Sholl joined the Company on May 26, 1993, which accounts for the 
    lower compensation level for such year. Mr. Sholl resigned from his 
    position with the Company, effective March 31, 1996. Under the terms of 
    the Executives Plan, his unvested options to purchase 6,198 shares of 
    Common Stock were cancelled on such date. Mr. Sholl's vested options to 
    purchase 2,656 shares of Common Stock will remain outstanding through 
    September 30, 1996. 

   All information under "Executive Compensation" herein relating to stock 
options (except for those granted under the 1996 Plan) and related exercise 
and hurdle prices have been adjusted to give effect to the one-for-fourteen 
reverse stock split of the Common Stock effected on March 27, 1995. 

                                      42 
<PAGE>
   The following table contains information concerning the grant of stock 
options made to the Named Officers during 1995 under the Executives Plan or 
the 1996 Plan: 

                    OPTION/SAR GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                             Potential     
                                                      Individual Grants                                   Realizable Value 
                           ------------------------------------------------------------------------          at Assumed    
                                             Percent of                                                        Annual      
                                                Total                                                         Rates of     
                             Number of       Option/SARs                   Market                           Stock Price    
                             Securities      Granted to      Exercise     Price on                        Appreciation For 
                             Underlying       Employees       or Base       Grant                          Option Term(2)  
                            Options/SARs      in Fiscal        Price        Date        Expiration     -------------------
          Name              Granted (#)         Year         ($/sh)(1)     ($/sh)          Date        5% ($)       10% ($) 
 -----------------------   --------------   -------------    ----------   ----------   ------------   ---------    ---------- 
<S>                        <C>             <C>              <C>          <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>

Eugene G. Lestardo (3) .       15,000             60%          $5.50       $5.50        12/4/2005      $51,884     $131,484 
William C. Sholl (4)  ..        8,854            100%           7.28        6.12(5)     1/12/2005       23,807       76,089 
</TABLE>
- ------ 
(1) Once vested, all options which have been granted under the Executives 
    Plan become exercisable only if the price per share of the Common Stock 
    on the Nasdaq SmallCap Market or the Nasdaq National Market, as the case 
    may be, is not less than $13.30 for 30 consecutive trading days. Such 
    condition had not been met as of July 15, 1996. The 1996 Plan and all 
    options granted thereunder are subject to and conditioned upon 
    stockholder approval at the Company's 1996 annual meeting of 
    stockholders, scheduled for October 31, 1996. 

(2) Amounts indicated under the "Potential Realizable Value" columns above 
    have been calculated by multiplying the market price on the date of grant 
    by the annual appreciation rate shown (compounded for the term of the 
    options), subtracting the exercise price per share and multiplying the 
    gain per share by the number of shares covered by the options. 

(3) Represents a grant of stock options made under the Company's 1996 Plan. 
    Such grant and the terms thereof are subject to and conditioned upon the 
    approval of the 1996 Plan by stockholders at the Company's 1996 annual 
    meeting of stockholders. 

(4) Mr. Sholl resigned from his position with the Company, effective March 
    31, 1996. Under the terms of the Executives Plan, certain of his stock 
    options were cancelled. See Note 7 to Summary Compensation Table. 

(5) On the date of grant, January 12, 1995, the Company's Common Stock traded 
    on the London Stock Exchange. Accordingly, the dollar-denominated market 
    price on the grant date has been converted at an assumed exchange rate of 
    $1.56 per British pound. 

   Except as disclosed above, no other grants of stock options were made in 
1995 to any of the Named Officers. No stock options were exercised by any of 
the Named Officers during 1995. 

   The following table sets forth information with respect the unexercised 
options held by each of the Named Officers as of the end of 1995: 

             AGGREGATED OPTION/SAR EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL YEAR 
                    AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION/SAR VALUES 

                                                             Value of 
                          Number of Securities             Unexercised 
                         Underlying Unexercised            In-the-Money 
                              Options/SARs                 Options/SARs 
                         at Fiscal Year-End (#)       at Fiscal Year-End ($) 
        Name           Exercisable/Unexercisable    Exercisable/Unexercisable 
 -------------------    -------------------------    ------------------------- 
Richard Hickson  ...              0/0                          0/0 
Brian H. Jaffe  ....           2,656/0(1)                      0/0 
Eugene G. Lestardo .       3,984/24,297(1)(2)                  0/0 
Glenn C. Riker  ....         2,656/6,198(1)                    0/0 
William C. Sholl  ..           0/8,854(1)                      0/0 

- ------ 
(1) Options were granted pursuant to the Executives Plan on July 29, 1994, 
    except in the case of Mr. Sholl whose options were granted on January 12, 
    1995. 

(2) Includes options which were granted pursuant to the 1996 Plan on December 
    4, 1995. 

 EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS 

   Mr. Flagg is employed by the Company pursuant to an employment agreement 
dated January 8, 1996, which expires on December 31, 1997, but continues 
year-to-year thereafter unless terminated in accordance with its terms. Mr. 
Flagg's employment agreement provides for an annual base salary of no less 
than $200,000. Mr. 

                                      43
<PAGE>

Boehme is employed by the Company pursuant to an employment agreement dated 
January 8, 1996, which expires on December 31, 1997, but continues 
year-to-year thereafter unless terminated in accordance with its terms. Mr. 
Boehme's employment agreement provides for an annual base salary of no less 
than $150,000. Mr. Irving is employed by the Company pursuant to an 
employment agreement dated May 13, 1996, which expires on May 31, 1998, but 
continues year-to-year thereafter unless terminated in accordance with its 
terms. Mr. Irving's employment agreement provides for an annual base salary 
of no less than $105,000. The salaries provided under all of these employment 
agreements may be increased at the discretion of the Board or the 
Compensation Committee thereof. Under the terms of Messrs. Flagg's, Boehme's 
and Irving's respective employment agreements, options to purchase shares of 
Common Stock under the Company's 1996 Plan (260,000 shares in the case of Mr. 
Flagg, 195,000 shares in the case of Mr. Boehme and 25,000 shares in the case 
of Mr. Irving) have been granted subject to and conditioned upon stockholder 
approval of the 1996 Plan at the Company's 1996 annual meeting of 
stockholders. Messrs. Flagg, Boehme and Irving are also provided with certain 
other benefits and perquisites pursuant to their respective employment 
agreements. Upon termination of employment with the Company, Messrs. Flagg, 
Boehme and Irving are each subject to a non-compete period of six months. 

   In accordance with Messrs. Flagg's, Boehme's and Irving's respective 
employment agreements, upon a termination of employment by the Company for 
reasons other than (i) "Cause," (ii) "Disability" (each as defined in such 
employment agreements), or (iii) death, incompetency or bankruptcy, the 
Company will be obligated to pay to each of Messrs. Flagg, Boehme and Irving 
12 months base salary, and to maintain certain benefits. Upon termination of 
employment by the Company within 12 months of a "Change-of-Control Event" (as 
defined below), Messrs. Flagg, Boehme and Irving shall each be entitled to 
receive their respective base salaries and certain other benefits for an 
additional period of 12 months. As defined in Messrs. Flagg's, Boehme's and 
Irving's respective employment agreements, a "Change-of-Control Event" means 
the consummation of (i) a proxy contest for control of the Company's Board 
resulting in the person or entity or group of affiliated persons or entities 
(collectively, a "Control Group") initiating such proxy contest electing a 
majority of the members of the Company's Board; (ii) the purchase by a 
Control Group of the Common Stock or other securities of the Company which, 
when aggregated with any other securities of the Company then held by such 
Control Group, gives such Control Group "beneficial ownership" (as defined in 
Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act) of securities representing 
more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company; or (iii) any such 
transaction that the Company's Board shall have favorably recommended to 
stockholders of the Company at any time prior to its consummation, and such 
recommendation shall not have been withdrawn. 

   Mr. Riker is employed by the Company pursuant to an employment agreement 
dated October 12, 1994, which expires on December 31, 1996, and which 
provides for an annual base salary of $91,260. Mr. Lestardo is employed by 
the Company pursuant to an employment agreement dated June 22, 1995, which 
expires on June 12, 1997, and which provides for an annual base salary of 
$150,000. The salaries provided under these employment agreements may be 
increased at the discretion of the Board or the Compensation Committee 
thereof. Under the terms of their respective employment agreements, Messrs. 
Riker and Lestardo are entitled to receive cash bonus awards under a senior 
management incentive plan, provided certain targets with regard to Company 
performance are met or exceeded. Messrs. Riker and Lestardo are also provided 
with certain other benefits and perquisites pursuant to their respective 
employment agreements. Upon termination of employment with the Company, 
Messrs. Riker and Lestardo are each subject to a non-compete period of four 
months and six months, respectively. 

   In accordance with Messrs. Riker's and Lestardo's respective employment 
agreements, upon a termination of employment by the Company for reasons other 
than (i) "Cause," (ii) "Disability" (each as defined in such employment 
agreements), (iii) death, incompetency or bankruptcy, or (iv) the expiration 
of the term of such employment agreement, the Company will be obligated to 
pay six months base salary in the case of Mr. Lestardo, and four months base 
salary in the case of Mr. Riker, and to maintain certain benefits. Upon 
termination of employment by the Company within 12 months of a "Contested 
Takeover Event" (as defined below), Messrs. Riker and Lestardo shall each be 
entitled to receive their respective base salaries and certain other benefits 
for a period of 12 months. As defined in Messrs. Riker's and Lestardo's 
respective employment agreements, a "Contested Takeover Event" means the 
consummation of (i) a proxy contest for control of the Company's Board 
resulting in the person or entity or group of affiliated persons or entities 
(collectively, a "Control Group") initiating such proxy contest electing a 
majority of the members of the Company's Board, or (ii) the purchase by a 

                                      44
<PAGE>

Control Group of the Common Stock or other securities of the Company which, 
when aggregated with any other securities of the Company then held by such 
Control Group, gives such Control Group "beneficial ownership" (as defined in 
Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act) of securities representing 
more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company; provided that no 
"Contested Takeover Event" shall be deemed to occur if the Company's Board 
shall have favorably recommended the transaction to stockholders of the 
Company at any time prior to its consummation, and such recommendation shall 
not have been withdrawn. 

   Upon the occurrence of a "Change-of-Control Event" and/or a "Contested 
Takeover Event," as the case may be, the Company's maximum aggregate salary 
payment obligation would be $1,151,200. Such amount is calculated by 
combining the 1996 base salaries of each of Messrs. Flagg, Boehme and Irving 
for a period of 24 months, together with the 1996 annual base salaries of 
each of Messrs. Riker and Lestardo for a period of 12 months. 

   Messrs. Hickson, Jaffe and Sholl were employed by the Company pursuant to 
employment agreements which contained substantially similar terms to those in 
the employment agreements of Messrs. Riker and Lestardo. Following the 
termination of their respective employment agreements, Messrs. Hickson, Jaffe 
and Sholl were each subject to non-compete periods of six months, three 
months and three months, respectively. 

STOCK OPTION PLANS 
 SENIOR EXECUTIVES' OPTION PLAN 

   The Company's Amended and Restated Senior Executives' Option Plan (the 
"Executives Plan") was adopted by the Company's Board on June 29, 1994 and 
approved by the stockholders of the Company on July 29, 1994 (the "Effective 
Date"). The Executives Plan, as amended and restated (i) replaced all options 
outstanding under a previous senior executives' option plan with a like 
number of new ten-year options at a reduced exercise price of $7.28 per 
share; (ii) commenced a new vesting period for such options providing for 
vesting at a rate of 30% on the first anniversary of the Effective Date, 20% 
on each of the second and third anniversaries and 15% on each of the fourth 
and fifth anniversaries; (iii) set the "hurdle rate" at $13.30 representing 
the price at which the shares must trade for 30 consecutive trading days 
prior to becoming exercisable; and (iv) contained certain provisions 
necessary to satisfy the requirements of Rule 16b-3 of the Exchange Act. 

   The purpose of the Executives Plan is to provide long-term incentives and 
rewards to officers and key employees of the Company, to assist the Company 
in attracting and retaining the services of such individuals on a basis 
competitive with industry practices, to align those individuals' interests 
with those of the Company's stockholders and to provide additional 
compensation to Executives Plan participants. The Executives Plan provides 
for granting to certain designated senior executives and key employees of 
incentive stock options ("ISOs") or nonqualified stock options ("NSOs"), each 
as defined in Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended 
(the "Code"). 

   A maximum of 138,722 shares of Common Stock have been reserved for 
issuance under the Executives Plan pursuant to which outstanding options to 
purchase 57,846 shares have been granted and were outstanding at July 15, 
1996. 

   The Executives Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the 
Board. Subject to the provisions of the Executives Plan and the terms of the 
initial option grants provided for therein, the Compensation Committee 
determines when and to whom options will be granted, the number of shares to 
be covered by each option, the option price, the period during which each 
option is exercisable and certain other terms and conditions relating to the 
options under the Executives Plan. The Compensation Committee also exercises 
all the powers and authority necessary or advisable in the administration of 
the Executives Plan, subject to the provisions of the Executives Plan. If the 
1996 Plan is approved by stockholders, no further grants will be made under 
the Executives Plan. See "Management -- Stock Option Plans/1996 Stock 
Incentive Plan." 

   If the Compensation Committee determines that any dividend, distribution, 
recapitalization, stock split, reverse split, reorganization, merger, 
consolidation, spin-off, combination, repurchase, share exchange or similar 
transaction effects the stock such that an adjustment is appropriate in order 
to prevent the dilution or enlarge- 

                                      45
<PAGE>

ment of the rights of option holders, then the Compensation Committee will 
make such equitable changes or adjustments to any or all of (i) the number of 
shares of stock available for options, (ii) the number of such shares covered 
by outstanding options and/or (iii) the exercise price per share of options, 
to the extent equitably required to preserve the economic value of the 
options. 

   In the event of a change in control of the Company (as defined in the 
Executives Plan), outstanding options vest immediately and become exercisable 
in full, whether or not otherwise vested or exercisable. 

   If a grantee under the Executives Plan ceases to be in the service or 
employ of the Company due to death, disability or termination without cause 
(as defined in the Executives Plan ), such grantee's vested options will 
expire six months from the date of such cessation. The Compensation Committee 
may in its discretion extend this period of exercisability. If a grantee 
under the Executives Plan ceases to be in the service or employ of the 
Company for any other reason, such options will expire on the date of such 
cessation. 

 DIRECTORS' OPTION PLAN 

   The Company's 1992 Directors' Option Plan (the "Directors Plan") was 
adopted by the Company's Board on July 16, 1992, approved by the stockholders 
of the Company on August 10, 1992 and became effective on August 13, 1992. On 
such effective date, one-time grants of options were made under the Directors 
Plan to Mr. Besuchet and to certain former directors. Currently, there are 
only three individuals holding options that were granted under the Directors 
Plan, including Mr. Besuchet. No additional grants are permitted under the 
Directors Plan. 

   The purpose of the Directors Plan was to aid the Company in attracting and 
retaining the services of directors who joined the Board prior to the 1992 
Restructuring and to afford such directors an opportunity to acquire a 
proprietary interest in the Company through stock ownership. 

   Outstanding options to purchase 165,429 shares of Common Stock were 
granted and outstanding at July 15, 1996. 

   The Directors Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee which 
exercises all the powers and authority necessary or advisable in the 
administration of the Directors Plan, subject to the provisions of the 
Directors Plan. 

   All options under the Directors Plan vested on January 1, 1993 and have an 
exercise price of $13.97 per share. However, no option under the Directors 
Plan will become exercisable until the price of the shares subject thereto 
reaches or has reached a trading price of not less than $24.45, and remains 
at or above such price for 30 consecutive trading days. Mr. Besuchet's 
options expire August 13, 2002. 

   Upon the occurrence of a capitalization issue, a rights issue or a 
subdivision, consolidation of shares or reduction of capital, the 
Compensation Committee will adjust, to reflect such change, the number of 
shares covered by outstanding options under the Directors Plan and the option 
price to preserve the economic value of the options and to give grantees the 
same proportion of the equity as that to which they were previously entitled. 

   The Directors Plan provides that if the service of a grantee terminates 
(other than by reason of death, disability or involuntary termination without 
cause, as such terms are defined in the Directors Plan), all options of such 
grantee, unless earlier terminated in accordance with their terms, shall 
terminate on the date of such termination. The Directors Plan also provides 
that if a grantee ceases to be in the service or employ of the Company due to 
death, disability or termination without cause, such grantee's options shall 
expire on June 30, 1997. Options to purchase an aggregate of 147,545 shares 
are held by two former directors, Keith Anderson and Eric F. Kohn, whose 
services were deemed to have been terminated without cause pursuant to the 
Directors Plan. 

   Except in certain very limited circumstances (such as by will or pursuant 
to a "qualified domestic relations order" as defined in the Code), an option 
may not be transferred by a grantee except that Mr. Kohn may assign the right 
to exercise his options under the Directors Plan, and the Common Stock 
issuable upon exercise of such options, to a corporation controlled by him. 


                                      46
<PAGE>

   Under the Directors Plan, in the event of a change in control of the 
Company (as defined in the Directors Plan), outstanding options vest 
immediately and become exercisable in full, whether or not otherwise vested 
or exercisable. 

 1996 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN 

   On December 4, 1995, the Board approved and recommended, and at the 1996 
annual meeting of stockholders, scheduled for October 31, 1996, the 
stockholders will be asked to approve, the 1996 Stock Incentive Plan (the 
"1996 Plan"). 

   The purpose of the 1996 Plan is to provide an incentive to the Company's 
key employees, consultants and directors and to attract, secure and retain 
key employees, consultants and directors. The 1996 Plan provides for the 
grant of options to acquire a maximum of 2,000,000 shares of Common Stock. Of 
such shares, as of July 15, 1996, 830,000 shares were subject to outstanding 
options (subject to stockholder approval). The 1996 Plan provides that, upon 
approval by stockholders, no further options or other awards will be granted 
under either the Executives Plan or the Directors Plan. All options 
outstanding under the prior plans will continue to be governed by the terms 
of those plans. The 1996 Plan permits the granting of ISOs or NSOs, at the 
discretion of the Compensation Committee with regard to employee or 
consultant optionees, and NSOs to non-employee directors. 

   The 1996 Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee. Subject to 
the terms of the 1996 Plan, the Compensation Committee determines the terms 
and conditions of options granted under the 1996 Plan to employees and 
consultants of the Company. The Compensation Committee, however, has no 
discretion with respect to the selection of non-employee directors to receive 
options, the number of shares of Common Stock subject to any such options, 
the purchase price thereunder or the timing of grants of options to 
non-employee directors. Options granted under the 1996 Plan are not 
transferable, except by the laws of descent and distribution, and are 
evidenced by written agreements which contain such terms, conditions, 
limitations and restrictions as the Compensation Committee deems advisable 
and which are not inconsistent with the terms of the 1996 Plan. 

   The option exercise price must be paid in full at the time the notice of 
exercise of the option is delivered to the Company and must be tendered in 
cash or by transferring shares of Common Stock upon terms and conditions 
determined by the Compensation Committee. The Board has certain rights to 
suspend, amend or terminate the 1996 Plan provided stockholder approval is 
obtained. 

   In the event of a change in control (as defined in the 1996 Plan), 
outstanding options vest immediately and become exercisable in full, whether 
or not otherwise vested or exercisable. In addition, the optionee has the 
right to surrender his or her options for cancellation within sixty days 
after a change in control and receive a cash payment therefor. 

   Non-Employee Director Awards. The 1996 Plan provides for awards of options 
to directors ("Eligible Directors") of the Company who are not employees of 
the Company or its affiliates and who have not, within one year immediately 
preceding the determination of such director's eligibility, received any 
award under any other plan of the Company or its affiliates that entitles the 
participants therein to acquire stock, stock options or stock appreciation 
rights of the Company or its affiliates (other than options granted under any 
other plan under which participants' entitlements are governed by provisions 
meeting the requirements of Rule 16b-3(c)(2)(ii) promulgated under the 
Exchange Act.) The exercise price of the options is equal to 100% of the fair 
market value (as such term is defined in the 1996 Plan) of the Common Stock 
on the date of grant. The options are exercisable in whole or in part at all 
times during the period beginning on the date of grant until five years from 
the date of grant. 

   Pursuant to the 1996 Plan, subject to stockholder approval, each 
non-employee director then in office in December 1995 was awarded an Initial 
Grant (as defined below). In addition, upon first election or appointment to 
the Board, each newly elected or appointed Eligible Director will be granted 
an option to purchase 25,000 shares of Common Stock (the "Initial Grant"). 
Immediately following each annual meeting of stockholders commencing with the 
meeting following the close of fiscal year 1996, each Eligible Director will 
be granted an additional option to purchase 1,000 shares of Common Stock (an 
"Annual Grant"). 

   If an optionee's service as a director terminates for any reason other 
than disability, cause (each as defined in the 1996 Plan) or death, the 
optionee may exercise options in the three-month period following such termi- 

                                      47
<PAGE>

nation. If the optionee's service as a director terminates by reason of 
resignation or removal from the Board due to disability, the optionee may 
exercise options in the one-year period following such termination. If an 
optionee dies while a director or within three months after termination of 
service as a director, any options held by such director may be exercised in 
the twelve-month period following the optionee's death by the person to whom 
such rights under the option pass by will or pursuant to the laws of descent 
and distribution. If an optionee's service as a director terminates for 
cause, any options granted to such optionee will terminate immediately. 

   Other Awards. The 1996 Plan provides that the Compensation Committee must 
establish an exercise price for employee stock options that is not less than 
the fair market value (as defined in the 1996 Plan) of the Common Stock on 
the date of grant. Each ISO must expire within ten years of the date of 
grant. However, if ISOs are granted to persons owning more than 10% of the 
voting stock of the Company, the 1996 Plan provides that the exercise price 
may not be less than 110% of the fair market value per share at the date of 
grant and that the term of such ISOs may not exceed five years. Each employee 
option vests at a rate designated by the Compensation Committee. 

   If an optionee's employment is terminated by reason of death, disability 
or retirement (as defined in the 1996 Plan), the Compensation Committee may 
determine that any options held by such person become immediately exercisable 
and may be exercised at any time prior to the expiration date of the options 
or within twelve months (three months with regard to ISOs) after the date of 
termination. If an optionee's employment is terminated for any reason other 
than death, disability or retirement or if the Compensation Committee does 
not provide the treatment discussed in the prior sentence, all unvested 
options held by such person will terminate and all vested options will be 
exercisable for a period of three months after the date of termination. 

                                      48 
<PAGE>

                            PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS 


   The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial 
ownership, as of July 15, 1996, of the Company's Common Stock by (i) any 
person known by the Company to beneficially own more than 5% of the 
outstanding Common Stock; (ii) each director of the Company; (iii) each of 
the Named Officers; and (iv) all directors and executive officers of the 
Company as a group, including the Named Officers. All share and warrant 
amounts and related exercise prices have been adjusted to give effect to the 
one-for-fourteen reverse stock split of the Common Stock completed on March 
27, 1995. On July 15, 1996, there were 4,459,257 shares of Common Stock 
issued and outstanding. 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   Number of Shares 
                                                    of Common Stock               Percentage(1) 
                                                     Beneficially 
Name of Beneficial Owner                               Owned(1)         Before Offering   After Offering 
 ----------------------------------------------   -------------------   ---------------    -------------- 
<S>                                               <C>                   <C>               <C>
HP Partners L.P.(2)............................        2,201,600             42.8%             35.8%
  c/o HP Management, Inc. 
  101 East 52nd Street 
  New York, New York 10022
                              
John Hancock Mutual Life.......................          636,095             14.0%             11.5% 
  Insurance Company(2) 
  John Hancock Place 
  P.O. Box 111 
  Boston, Massachusetts 02117 
                           
The Mutual Life Insurance Company..............          397,716              8.8%              7.2% 
  of New York(2) 
  1740 Broadway 
  New York, New York 10019 
                              
TJS Partners, L.P.(2)..........................          399,000              9.0%              7.3%  
  52 Vanderbilt Avenue 
  5th Floor 
  New York, New York 10017 
                              
Pierre Besuchet(3)(6)  ........................           19,048                 *                 * 

Daniel T. Carroll(6)  .........................               --               --                -- 

George V. Flagg(6)  ...........................            6,000                 *                 * 

Lawrence R. Glenn(6)  .........................               --               --                -- 

Mark S. Hauser(4)(6)(7)  ......................        2,201,600             42.8%             35.8% 

Richard Hickson  ..............................              142                 *                 * 

Brian H. Jaffe(5)  ............................              306                 *                 *

Eugene G. Lestardo(5)(6)  .....................            1,000                 *                 * 

William P. Lyons(4)(6)(7)  ....................        2,210,600             43.0%             36.0% 

David Jan Mitchell(4)(6)(7)  ..................        2,204,600             42.8%             35.9% 

Edward L. Palmer(6)  ..........................            2,592                 *                 * 

Glenn C. Riker(5)  ............................               --               --                -- 

William C. Sholl  .............................            2,207                 *                 * 

William Spier(4)(6)(7)  .......................        2,209,600             42.9%             36.0% 

All directors and executive officers as a group 
  (16 persons)(3)(4)(5)(6) ....................        2,252,895             43.8%             36.7% 
</TABLE>

- ------ 
* Represents less than 1% of outstanding Common Stock. 

                                      49 
<PAGE>

(1) Each director and executive officer has sole voting and investment power 
    with respect to the shares beneficially owned, except as otherwise noted 
    in the footnotes to this table. For purposes of this table, a person or 
    group of persons is deemed to have "beneficial ownership" of any shares 
    of Common Stock which such person has the right to acquire on or within 
    60 days of July 15, 1996. For purposes of computing the percentage of 
    outstanding Common Stock held by each person or group of persons named 
    above, any shares which such person has or has the right to acquire on or 
    within 60 days after July 15, 1996 are deemed to be outstanding, but are 
    not deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage 
    ownership of any other person. 

(2) Includes shares issuable upon the exercise of warrants having a current 
    exercise price of $10.68 per share, as follows: John Hancock Mutual Life 
    Insurance Company and affiliates - 68,394; and The Mutual Life Insurance 
    Company of New York and affiliates - 42,764. With respect to HP Partners 
    L.P., includes 685,714 shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise 
    of warrants having a current exercise price of $4.58 per share. The 
    information in the foregoing table and in this note is based on the 
    Company's records and on a Schedule 13G (or Schedule 13D, as amended, in 
    the case of TJS Partners, L.P.) filed with the Securities and Exchange 
    Commission by each of the following stockholders and dated as indicated: 
    HP Partners L.P., dated January 20, 1995; John Hancock Mutual Life 
    Insurance Company, dated January 16, 1996; The Mutual Life Insurance 
    Company of New York, dated March 2, 1995; and TJS Partners, L.P., dated 
    June 17, 1996. The Schedule 13D filed by TJS Partners, L.P. states that 
    TJS Management, L.P., TJS Corporation, and Thomas J. Salvatore may be 
    deemed to own beneficially the shares owned beneficially by TJS Partners, 
    L.P. 

(3) Excludes vested options to purchase 17,884 shares of Common Stock granted 
    to Mr. Besuchet under the Directors Plan. Such options have a current 
    exercise price of $13.97 per share, however, they become exercisable only 
    if the price per share of the Common Stock on the Nasdaq SmallCap Market 
    or the Nasdaq National Market, as the case may be, is not less than 
    $24.45 for 30 consecutive trading days. Such condition had not been met 
    as of July 15, 1996. 

(4) Includes 1,515,886 shares of Common Stock and warrants to purchase 
    685,714 shares of Common Stock owned by HP Partners L.P. Messrs. Hauser, 
    Mitchell and Spier are stockholders and directors of the general partner 
    of HP Partners L.P. and Messrs. Mitchell and Spier are also limited 
    partners of HP Partners L.P. Messrs. Hauser, Mitchell and Spier are also 
    the sole stockholders of the special limited partner of HP Partners L.P. 
    which is entitled to various rights relating to 285,714 of the 
    partnership's warrants. Pursuant to HP Partners L.P.'s partnership 
    agreement, Mr. Lyons has an arrangement to participate in any economic 
    benefit which Mr. Spier obtains as a result of Mr. Spier's shareholding 
    interest in such general partner. 

(5) Excludes vested options granted under the Executives Plan to each of 
    Messrs. Jaffe, Lestardo, Riker, Sholl and one other former executive 
    officer to purchase 2,656, 3,984, 2,656, 2,656 and 2,656 shares of Common 
    Stock, respectively, at an exercise price of $7.28 per share. These 
    options become exercisable only if the price per share of the Common 
    Stock on the Nasdaq SmallCap Market or the Nasdaq National Market, as the 
    case may be, is not less than $13.30 for 30 consecutive trading days. 
    Such condition had not been met as of July 15, 1996. 

(6) Excludes options granted under the 1996 Plan to each of Messrs. Besuchet, 
    Carroll, Glenn, Hauser, Lestardo, Lyons, Mitchell, Palmer and Spier to 
    purchase 25,000, 25,000, 25,000, 40,000, 15,000, 85,000, 55,000, 25,000 
    and 40,000 shares of Common Stock, respectively, at exercise prices 
    ranging from $5.50 to $5.56 per share. Also excludes options granted 
    under the 1996 Plan to each of Messrs. Flagg, Boehme and Irving to 
    purchase 260,000, 195,000 and 25,000 shares of Common Stock, 
    respectively, in accordance with their respective employment agreements. 
    The grant of all options under the 1996 Plan and terms thereof are 
    subject to and conditioned upon approval of such plan by stockholders at 
    the Company's 1996 annual meeting of stockholders, scheduled for October 
    31, 1996. 

(7) The address of such stockholder is: c/o Holmes Protection Group, Inc., 
    440 Ninth Avenue, New York, New York 10001. 


                                      50
<PAGE>

                             CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS 

   Mr. Eric F. Kohn joined the Company on September 24, 1991 as Chief 
Executive Officer and Director and ceased serving in such capacities on May 
4, 1993 and July 29, 1994, respectively. During such time period, Mr. Kohn 
was a director of Barons Financial Services SA ("BFSSA"). From late 1991 to 
May 1993 BFSSA received fees from the Company at the rate of $15,000 per 
month (paid three months in advance) for making the resources, equipment, 
services and expertise of its Geneva office available to the Company, and 
$20,000 per month (paid three months in advance) for making the services of 
Mr. Kohn available to the Company in the United States and Europe. In 
addition, the Company paid the costs of Mr. Kohn's accommodation in the New 
York area and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. During the same time period, 
Mr. Kohn was also a director of Barons (UK) Limited ("BUK"). From late 1991 
to May 1993 BUK received fees from the Company at the rate of $7,500 per 
month (paid three months in advance), for providing office facilities and 
services for Holmes in London. These arrangements were terminated by the 
Board on May 4, 1993. While the Company believed that the fee arrangements 
with BFSSA and BUK fairly reflected the value of the services provided to the 
Company, the Company is unable to determine whether the terms of its 
agreements with such parties were no less favorable than could have been 
obtained from an unaffiliated third party. The Company subsequently paid U.S. 
federal, state and local withholding taxes and related interest in an 
aggregate amount of $155,192 with respect to such fees paid in 1991, 1992 and 
1993 to BFSSA for Mr. Kohn's services. 

   In 1994, Mr. William Spier, a director of the Company, entered into an 
agreement with PremiTech, which is a limited partner of HP Partners L.P., to 
acquire PremiTech's limited partnership interest for approximately 
$2,000,000, at the option of PremiTech, in the event that PremiTech did not 
enter into an agreement for the provision of information technology services 
to the Company. Such information technology agreement was subsequently 
executed on April 4, 1995, thereby terminating PremiTech's option to sell its 
interest to Mr. Spier. 

   On December 4, 1995, each of Messrs. Hauser, Lyons, Mitchell and Spier, 
directors of the Company, were granted options under the 1996 Plan to 
purchase 15,000, 60,000, 30,000 and 15,000 shares of Common Stock, 
respectively, at an exercise price of $5.56 per share. Such grants were made 
in recognition of the extraordinary services that each of these individuals 
provided to the Company in connection with the management transition and 
reorganization that occurred during 1995. The grant of all options under the 
1996 Plan and the terms thereof are subject to and conditioned upon 
stockholder approval at the Company's 1996 annual meeting of stockholders, 
scheduled for October 31, 1996. 

                         DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK 

DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES 

   The following summary of the terms of the Company's capital stock does not 
purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the 
applicable provisions of Delaware law and the Company's Restated Certificate 
of Incorporation, the Company's By-Laws, the Investor Warrants, the 
Institution Warrants and the Registration Rights Agreements. Although the 
Preferred Stock, the Investor Warrants and the Institution Warrants are not 
being registered hereby, information relating to such securities may be 
relevant to holders of Common Stock. 

   As set forth in the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, 
the Company's authorized capital stock consists of 12,000,000 shares of 
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share, of which 4,459,257 shares are 
outstanding as of July 15, 1996, and 1,000,000 shares of undesignated 
Preferred Stock, par value $1.00 per share, of which no shares are 
outstanding. 

   On March 27, 1995, the Company effected a reverse stock split pursuant to 
which one new share of Common Stock, $.01 par value, was exchanged for every 
fourteen (14) whole shares of Common Stock, $.25 par value, then issued or 
outstanding and shareholders received a cash payment in lieu of any 
fractional shares. All share amounts and related share price information in 
this Prospectus have been adjusted to give effect to such reverse stock 
split. 

                                      51
<PAGE>

COMMON STOCK 

   The holders of Common Stock are entitled to one vote for each share held 
of record on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders. Subject to the 
prior right of any holders of Preferred Stock with respect to dividends, the 
holders of Common Stock are entitled to receive ratably such dividends as are 
declared by the Board out of funds legally available therefor. In the event 
of a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, holders of Common 
Stock have the right to a ratable portion of assets remaining after payment 
of liabilities and the liquidation preferences of any outstanding shares of 
Preferred Stock. Except with respect to the Institutions pursuant to the 
Exchange Agreement as described above under "Business-Historical 
Developments/The 1992 Restructuring," the holders of Common Stock have no 
preemptive rights or rights to convert their Common Stock into any other 
securities and are not subject to future calls or assessments by the Company. 
All outstanding shares of Common Stock are fully paid and non-assessable. 

PREFERRED STOCK 

   The Board has the authority to issue the Preferred Stock in one or more 
series and to determine the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions, 
including the dividend rights, dividend rate, conversion rights, voting 
rights, terms of redemption (including sinking fund provisions), redemption 
price or prices, liquidation preferences and the number of shares 
constituting any series or the designations of such series, without any 
further vote or action by the stockholders, except that (i) any voting rights 
conferred on such Preferred Stock require the consent of three-quarters of 
the entire Board and a majority of the shares of Common Stock then 
outstanding and (ii) no regular dividends may be paid with respect to the 
Preferred Stock without the consent of the holders of a majority of the 
shares of Common Stock then outstanding. These rights and privileges of the 
Preferred Stock could adversely affect the voting power of holders of Common 
Stock or their rights to receive dividends or liquidation proceeds. The 
Company has no present plans to issue any shares of Preferred Stock. It 
should be noted, however, that pursuant to the terms of the Institution 
Warrants and the Investor Warrants, the Company is prohibited from issuing 
any capital stock of any class which has the right to more than one vote per 
share or which is preferred as to dividends or as to the distribution of 
assets upon voluntary or involuntary dissolution, liquidation or winding up 
of the Company. 

WARRANTS 

   Investor Warrants. The Investor Warrants entitle the holder thereof to 
purchase 685,714 shares of Common Stock and are exercisable at an exercise 
price of $4.58 per share at any time prior to expiration, subject to 
adjustment upon certain dilutive events. The Investor Warrants expire on 
August 1, 2004. 

   Institution Warrants. The Institution Warrants initially entitled the 
holders thereof to purchase an aggregate of 147,572 shares of Common Stock, 
subject to adjustment upon certain dilutive events. The Institution Warrants 
expire on August 13, 2002. The Institution Warrants are exercisable at any 
time prior to expiration at an exercise price which is subject to adjustment 
upon certain dilutive events. 

   As a result of the antidilution provisions contained in the Institution 
Warrants, upon the issuance of the Investor Shares and Investor Warrants to 
the Investor pursuant to the Investment Agreement, the Institution Warrants 
were adjusted to provide for an increase in the number of shares purchasable 
to 193,150 and a reduction in the exercise price from $13.97 to $10.68. 

   The material provisions of the Investor Warrants and the Institution 
Warrants (collectively the "Warrants") are substantially similar. Each of the 
Warrants provides that the exercise price and the number of shares of Common 
Stock issuable upon exercise of the Warrants are subject to adjustment, from 
time to time: upon issuance of shares of Common Stock below certain specified 
prices, payment of dividends by the Company in shares of Common Stock or 
extraordinary cash dividends, subdivision by the Company of its Common Stock, 
combination by the Company of the outstanding shares of Common Stock into a 
smaller number of shares of Common Stock, issuance by the Company of certain 
rights, options, warrants, evidences of its indebtedness or assets, or in 
case of any consolidation, merger or sale of substantially all the assets of 
the Company. Also, as stated above, the terms of the Warrants prohibit the 
Company from issuing preferred stock. 

                                      52
<PAGE>

DELAWARE LAW 

   The Company is subject to the provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware 
General Corporate Law which prohibit publicly held Delaware corporations from 
engaging in certain business combinations with interested stockholders. See 
"Risk Factors-Possible Anti-Takeover Effects of Delaware Law." 

CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAWS 

   Certain provisions of the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation 
and By-Laws may make a change in control of the Company more difficult to 
effect. See "Business -- Historical Developments/Other Certificate of 
Incorporation and By-Law Provisions" and "Risk Factors-Classified Board of 
Directors; No Stockholder Action by Written Consent; Supermajority Voting." 

TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR 

   ChaseMellon Shareholder Services, L.L.C. serves as Transfer Agent and 
Registrar for the Company's Common Stock. 

                       SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE 

   Upon completion of this offering, the Company will have 5,459,257 shares 
of Common Stock outstanding. An additional 878,864 shares of Common Stock may 
be issued upon the exercise of the outstanding Investor Warrants and 
Institution Warrants, 223,275 shares of Common Stock may be issued upon the 
exercise of outstanding options and 830,000 shares of Common Stock are 
reserved for issuance upon exercise of options which have been granted under 
the 1996 Plan, subject to and conditioned upon stockholder approval at the 
Company's 1996 annual meeting of stockholders, scheduled for October 31, 
1996. Substantially all of these shares, including the 1,000,000 shares of 
Common Stock sold in this offering, will be freely tradeable without 
restriction under the Securities Act, except for (i) any such shares held at 
any time by an "affiliate" of the Company, as such term is defined under Rule 
144 promulgated under the Securities Act ("Rule 144"), (ii) certain shares 
subject to the Registration Rights Agreements and (iii) shares subject to the 
"lockup agreements" described below. 

   In general, under Rule 144, as currently in effect, a person who has 
beneficially owned shares for at least two years, including an "affiliate," 
as that term is defined in Rule 144, is entitled to sell, within any three- 
month period, a number of "restricted" shares that does not exceed the 
greater of 1% of the then-outstanding shares of Common Stock and the average 
weekly trading volume during the four calendar weeks preceding such sale. 
Sales under Rule 144 are subject to certain manner of sale limitations, 
notice requirements and the availability of current public information about 
the Company. Rule 144(k) provides that a person who is not deemed an 
"affiliate" during the three months preceding a sale and who has beneficially 
owned shares for at least three years is entitled to sell such shares at any 
time under Rule 144 without regard to the limitations described above. 

   The Company, its officers and directors and certain of its principal 
stockholders (who beneficially hold in the aggregate 4,031,495 shares of 
Common Stock, including shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of 
outstanding options and warrants beneficially owned by them) have agreed not 
to sell, offer to sell, issue, distribute or otherwise dispose of any shares 
of Common Stock of the Company for a period of 90 days from the date of this 
Prospectus (subject, in the case of the Company, to certain limited 
exceptions), without the prior written consent of the Representative (as 
defined in "Underwriting"). 

   The Company is unable to estimate the number of shares that may be sold in 
the future by its existing stockholders or the effect, if any, that sales of 
such shares will have on the market price of the Common Stock prevailing from 
time to time. Sale of substantial amounts of Common Stock by existing 
stockholders could adversely affect prevailing market prices. See "Risk 
Factors-Shares Eligible for Future Sale; Registration Rights." 

                                      53 
<PAGE>

                                 UNDERWRITING 

   Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in an underwriting agreement 
(the "Underwriting Agreement"), the Company has agreed to sell to each of the 
underwriters named below (the "Underwriters"), for which Brean Murray, Foster 
Securities Inc. is acting as representative (the "Representative"), and each 
of the Underwriters severally has agreed to purchase from the Company the 
aggregate number of shares of Common Stock set forth opposite its name below. 

Underwriters                                                  Number of Shares 
- -------------------------------------                        ----------------- 
Brean Murray, Foster Securities Inc. . 

                                                              ---------------- 
     Total  ..........................                           1,000,000 
                                                              ================ 

   Under the terms and conditions of the Underwriting Agreement, the Company 
is obligated to sell, and the Underwriters are obligated to purchase, all of 
the shares of Common Stock set forth in the above table if any of the shares 
of Common Stock are purchased. 

   The Underwriters propose to offer the shares of Common Stock to the public 
initially at the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this 
Prospectus, and to selected dealers at such public offering price less a 
concession not to exceed $   per share. The Underwriters or such dealers may 
reallow a commission to certain other dealers not to exceed $   per share. 
After the offering to the public, the offering price, the concessions to 
selected dealers and the reallowance to other dealers may be changed by the 
Representative. 

   In connection with this offering, certain Underwriters may engage in 
passive market making transactions in the Common Stock on the Nasdaq SmallCap 
Market or Nasdaq National Market, as the case may be, immediately prior to 
the commencement of sales in this offering, in accordance with Rule 10b-6A 
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Passive market making consists of 
displaying bids on the Nasdaq SmallCap Market or Nasdaq National Market, as 
the case may be, limited by the bid prices of independent market makers and 
purchases limited by such prices and effected in response to order flow. Net 
purchases by a passive market maker on each day are limited to a specified 
percentage of the passive market maker's average daily trading volume in the 
Common Stock during a specified prior period and must be discontinued when 
such limit is reached. Passive market making may stabilize the market price 
of the Common Stock at a level above that which might otherwise prevail and, 
if commenced, may be discontinued at any time. 

   The Company has granted to the Underwriters an option, exercisable for 30 
days from the date of this Prospectus, to purchase up to 150,000 additional 
shares of Common Stock to cover over-allotments, if any, at the public 
offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions, as set forth on 
the cover page of this Prospectus. If the Underwriters exercise this option, 
then each of the Underwriters will have a firm commitment, subject to certain 
conditions, to purchase a number of option shares proportionate to such 
Underwriters' initial commitment as indicated in the table above. The 
Underwriters may exercise such option only to cover over- allotments made in 
connection with the sale of the shares of Common Stock offered hereby. 

   The Company, its officers and directors and certain of its principal 
stockholders (who beneficially hold in the aggregate 4,031,495 shares of 
Common Stock, including shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of 
outstanding options and warrants beneficially owned by them) have agreed not 
to sell, offer to sell, issue, distribute or otherwise dispose of any shares 
of Common Stock of the Company for a period of 90 days from the date of this 
Prospectus (subject, in the case of the Company, to certain limited 
exceptions), without the prior written consent of the Representative. 

   The Company has agreed to reimburse the Underwriters for up to $150,000 of 
the Underwriters' out-of-pocket expenses (including fees of its counsel) in 
connection with the sale of the Common Stock offered hereby. The Company has 
also agreed to indemnify the Underwriters or contribute to losses arising out 
of certain liabilities that may be incurred in connection with this offering, 
including liabilities under the Securities Act. 

                                      54
<PAGE>

                                LEGAL MATTERS 

   The validity of the shares of Common Stock offered hereby will be passed 
upon for the Company by Squadron, Ellenoff, Plesent & Sheinfeld, LLP, New 
York, New York. Certain legal matters will be passed upon for the 
Underwriters by Piper & Marbury L.L.P., New York, New York. 

                                   EXPERTS 

   The financial statements of the Company as of December 31, 1994 and 1995 
and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1995 
appearing in this Prospectus have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, 
independent auditors, as stated in their report appearing herein, and are 
included in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their authority 
as experts in accounting and auditing. 

                            AVAILABLE INFORMATION 

   The Company is subject to the information requirements of the Exchange 
Act, as amended, and in accordance therewith files reports, proxy statements 
and other information with the Commission. Such reports, proxy statements and 
other information may be inspected without charge at the public reference 
facilities maintained by the Commission at Room 1024, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., 
Judiciary Plaza, Washington, D.C. 20549, and at the Commission's Regional 
Offices at Suite 1400, Citicorp Center, 500 West Madison Street, Chicago, 
Illinois 60661; and 13th Floor, Seven World Trade Center, New York, New York 
10048. Copies of such material may be obtained at prescribed rates from the 
Public Reference Section of the Commission at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., 
Judiciary Plaza, Washington, D.C. 20549. The Commission maintains a World 
Wide Web site on the Internet at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, 
proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants 
that file electronically with the Commission. 

   The Company has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, a 
Registration Statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act with respect to 
the Common Stock offered hereby. This Prospectus does not contain all of the 
information set forth in the Registration Statement and the exhibits and 
schedules thereto. For further information with respect to the Company and 
the Common Stock offered hereby, reference is made to the Registration 
Statement and the exhibits and schedules filed as a part thereof. Statements 
contained in this Prospectus as to the contents of any contract or any other 
document referred to are not necessarily complete, and, in each instance, if 
such contract or document is filed as an exhibit to the Registration 
Statement, each such statement is qualified in all respects by such reference 
to such exhibit. The Registration Statement, including exhibits and schedules 
thereto, may be inspected without charge at the Commission's principal office 
at 450 Fifth Street, N. W., Washington, D.C. 20549, and copies of all or any 
part thereof may be obtained from such office after payment of fees 
prescribed by the Commission. 

   In addition, reports, proxy statements and other information concerning 
the Company may be inspected at the offices of the Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc., 
1735 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006. 

                                      55
<PAGE>

                        INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                       Page 
                                                                                                     -------- 
<S>                                                                                                  <C>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS  ........................................................     F-2
 
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: 
   Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1995 and 1994 and as of March 31, 1996 
     (unaudited)  ................................................................................     F-3
 
   Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 and
     for the Three Months Ended March 31, 1996 and 1995 (unaudited)  .............................     F-4 

   Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 1995, 1994 
     and 1993 and for the Three Months Ended March 31, 1996 and 1995 (unaudited)  ................     F-5

   Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 and
     for the Three Months Ended March 31, 1996 and 1995 (unaudited)  .............................     F-6

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  ......................................................     F-7 

SCHEDULE II -- VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS  ................................................     S-1 

</TABLE>

                                     F-1 
<PAGE>

                   REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS 

To Holmes Protection Group, Inc.: 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Holmes 
Protection Group, Inc. (a Delaware corporation) and subsidiaries as of 
December 31, 1995 and 1994, and the related consolidated statements of 
operations, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years 
in the period ended December 31, 1995. These financial statements and the 
schedule referred to below are the responsibility of the Company's 
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial 
statements and schedule based on our audits. 

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing 
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and 
schedule are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a 
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial 
statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used 
and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the 
overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide 
a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above 
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Holmes 
Protection Group, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1995 and 1994, and 
the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three 
years in the period ended December 31, 1995 in conformity with generally 
accepted accounting principles. 

As discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, effective 
January 1, 1995, the Company changed its revenue recognition policy of 
accounting for non-refundable payments received from customers upon 
completion of installation of Company owned systems. 

Our audits were made for the purpose of forming an opinion on the basic 
financial statements taken as a whole. The schedule listed on the Index to 
Financial Statements is presented for purposes of complying with the 
Securities and Exchange Commissions rules and is not part of the basic 
financial statements. This schedule has been subjected to the auditing 
procedures applied in the audits of the basic financial statements and, in 
our opinion, fairly states in all material respects the financial data 
required to be set forth therein in relation to the basic financial 
statements taken as a whole. 

                                                        ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP 
New York, New York 
March 20, 1996 

                                     F-2
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
                         CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 
                               (000'S OMITTED) 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         Three Months 
                                                        Ended March 31,          Year Ended 
                                                          (Unaudited)           December 31, 
                                                        ---------------  ------------------------ 
                                                             1996            1995         1994 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
<S>                                                    <C>                <C>            <C>
                        ASSETS 
CURRENT ASSETS: 
     Cash and cash equivalents  .....................      $    262        $    435     $  1,409 
     Short-term investments  ........................            --           2,043        3,986 
     Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful 
        accounts of $1,119 in 1996, $1,340 in 1995 and 
        $1,315 in 1994 ..............................         4,872           4,997        3,855 
     Inventories  ...................................         1,840           1,923        1,980 
     Prepaid expenses and other  ....................         3,480           3,320        3,660 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
               Total current assets  ................        10,454          12,718       14,890 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
FIXED ASSETS, net  ..................................        45,940          45,231       46,091 
SUBSCRIBER CONTRACTS, at cost, less accumulated 
   amortization of $23,169 in 1996, $22,522 in 1995 and 
   $19,942 in 1994 ..................................        18,247          18,894       21,515 
TRADENAMES, less accumulated amortization of $1,918 in 
   1996, $1,875 in 1995 and $1,705 in 1994 ..........         4,191           4,234        4,404 
OTHER ASSETS  .......................................           528             552          248 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
                                                           $ 79,360        $ 81,629     $ 87,148 
                                                        ===============   ==========    ========== 
         LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 
CURRENT LIABILITIES: 
     Short-term borrowings  .........................      $     --        $    943     $     -- 
     Current maturities of long-term debt  ..........         2,452           2,497        2,687 
     Accounts payable and accrued expenses  .........         8,914          10,110        7,040 
     Deferred revenue  ..............................         3,310           2,664        4,535 
     Customer deposits  .............................         1,886           1,750        2,446 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
               Total current liabilities  ...........        16,562          17,964       16,708 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES: 
     Long-term debt  ................................         4,248           4,862        6,709 
     Other long-term liabilities  ...................           834             834        4,110 
     Deferred income taxes  .........................        10,297          10,297       11,201 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
               Total long-term liabilities  .........        15,379          15,993       22,020 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 12) 
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY: 
     Preferred stock, $1.00 par value; 1,000 authorized; 
        none outstanding ............................            --              --           -- 
     Common stock, $0.01 par value; 12,000 authorized 
        shares; 4,466 issued in 1996, 1995 and 1994 .            45              45           45 
     Additional paid-in capital  ....................       120,763         120,763      120,763 
     Accumulated deficit  ...........................       (70,441)        (70,188)     (68,991) 
     Minimum pension liability adjustment  ..........        (2,863)         (2,863)      (3,312) 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
                                                             47,504          47,757       48,505 
     Less- Treasury stock - 7 shares in 1996, 1995 and 
        1994 at cost ................................           (85)            (85)         (85) 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
               Total shareholders' equity  ..........        47,419          47,672       48,420 
                                                        ---------------   ----------    ---------- 
                                                           $ 79,360        $ 81,629     $ 87,148 
                                                        ===============   ==========    ========== 
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes to financial statements are an integral part of these 
balance sheets. 

                                     F-3
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
                    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS 
               (000'S OMITTED, EXCEPT EARNINGS PER SHARE DATA) 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          Three Months 
                                                        Ended March 31, 
                                                          (Unaudited)                Year Ended December 31, 
                                                    -----------------------   ------------------------------------- 
                                                        1996        1995         1995         1994          1993 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
<S>           <C>                                                 <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
REVENUES: 
   Monitoring and service ........................    $ 9,093      $ 9,609      $37,912      $39,747      $41,004 
   Installation ..................................      2,219        2,175        8,155        8,425        9,141 
   Franchise royalties, product sales and other ..        980          800        4,008        3,230        3,355 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
          Total revenues  ........................     12,292       12,584       50,075       51,402       53,500 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
COST OF SALES (exclusive of depreciation expense shown 
   below): 
   Monitoring and service ........................      4,551        4,778       18,554       18,632       21,004 
   Installation ..................................        973          802        3,971        3,595        3,606 
   Franchise royalties, product sales and other ..        905          599        3,737        2,658        2,306 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
          Total cost of sales  ...................      6,429        6,179       26,262       24,885       26,916 
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE  .............      3,195        3,626       16,668       15,051       17,837 
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION  ...................      2,663        2,519       10,390        9,736        8,919 

NON-RECURRING CHARGE  ............................         --           --        2,074           --           -- 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
                                                       12,287       12,324       55,394       49,672       53,672 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
     Income (Loss) from operations  ..............          5          260       (5,319)       1,730         (172) 
OTHER INCOME  ....................................         11            4          247          193          902 
INTEREST EXPENSE (net of interest income of $4 and 
   $32 in the three months ended March 31, 1996 and 
   1995, respectively, $276 in 1995, $70 in 1994 and 
   $-0- in 1993) .................................       (184)        (207)        (721)        (941)        (585) 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND CUMULATIVE EFFECT 
   OF CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE .............       (168)          57       (5,793)         982          145 
PROVISION (BENEFIT) FOR INCOME TAXES  ............         85           52       (2,119)         578          200 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
   Income (Loss) before cumulative effect of change 
     in accounting principle  ....................       (253)           5       (3,674)         404          (55) 
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE, 
   net of income taxes of $1,942 .................         --        2,477        2,477           --           -- 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
          Net Income (Loss)  .....................    $  (253)     $ 2,482      $(1,197)     $   404      $   (55) 
                                                     ==========   =========    ==========   ==========   ========== 
EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE: 
   Earnings (Loss) before cumulative effect of change 
     in accounting principle  ....................    $ (0.06)     $  0.00      $ (0.82)    $   0.11      $ (0.02) 
   Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle      --        0.55         0.55           --           -- 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
   Net Earnings (Loss) per common share ..........    $ (0.06)        0.55      $ (0.27)    $   0.11      $ (0.02) 
                                                     ----------   ---------    ----------   ----------   ---------- 
WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING  .............      4,459        4,459        4,459        3,580        2,944 
                                                     ==========   =========    ==========   ==========   ========== 
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes to financial statements are an integral part of these 
                                 statements. 

                                     F-4
<PAGE>


                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
                          CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF 
                             SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 
              FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND THE 
                 YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995, 1994 AND 1993 
                               (000'S OMITTED) 


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                Minimum 
                                                               Additional       Pension 
                                      Common      Treasury       Paid In       Liability      Accumulated 
                                      Stock        Stock         Capital      Adjustment        Deficit        Total 
                                    ----------   ----------    ------------   ------------   -------------   ---------- 
<S>                                 <C>          <C>           <C>            <C>            <C>             <C>
BALANCE, January 1, 1993  .......    $ 10,330     $  (85)      $ 101,978       $ (4,877)      $ (69,340)     $38,006 
   Net loss for year ............          --         --              --             --             (55)         (55) 
   Change in minimum pension 
     obligation (net of taxes of 
     $1,076)  ...................          --         --              --          1,368              --         1,368 
                                    ----------   ----------    ------------   ------------   -------------   ---------- 
BALANCE, December 31, 1993  .....      10,330        (85)        101,978         (3,509)        (69,395)       39,319 
   Net income for year ..........          --         --              --             --             404           404 
   Proceeds from issuance of shares 
     of common stock  ...........       5,305         --           4,695             --              --        10,000 
   Common stock issuance and other 
     related costs  .............          --         --          (1,500)            --              --        (1,500) 
   Change in minimum pension 
     obligation (net of taxes of 
     $155)  .....................          --         --              --            197              --           197 
   Effect of reverse stock split .    (14,518)        --          14,518             --              --            -- 
   Effect of change in par value .     (1,072)        --           1,072             --              --            -- 
                                    ----------   ----------    ------------   ------------   -------------   ---------- 
BALANCE, December 31, 1994  .....          45        (85)        120,763         (3,312)        (68,991)       48,420 
   Net loss for year ............          --         --              --             --          (1,197)       (1,197) 
   Change in minimum pension 
     obligation (net of taxes of 
     $307)  .....................          --         --              --            449              --           449 
                                    ----------   ----------    ------------   ------------   -------------   ---------- 
BALANCE, December 31, 1995  .....          45        (85)        120,763         (2,863)        (70,188)       47,672 
   Net loss for quarter (unaudited)        --         --              --             --            (253)         (253) 
                                    ----------   ----------    ------------   ------------   -------------   ---------- 
BALANCE, March 31, 1996 (unaudited)  $     45      $ (85)       $120,763        $(2,863)      $ (70,441)     $ 47,419 
                                    ==========   ==========    ============   ============   =============   ========== 
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes to financial statements are an integral part of these 
                                 statements. 

                                     F-5
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
                    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 
                               (000'S OMITTED) 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     Three Months 
                                                    Ended March 31, 
                                                      (Unaudited)               Year Ended December 31, 
                                                ----------------------   -------------------------------------- 
                                                   1996        1995          1995         1994          1993 
                                                 ---------   ---------    -----------   ----------   ---------- 
<S>          <C>                                             <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING 
  ACTIVITIES: 
   Net Income (Loss) .........................    $  (253)    $ 2,482      $(1,197)    $     404      $   (55) 
   Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to 
     net cash provided by operating activities- 
     Depreciation and amortization  ..........      2,663       2,519       10,390         9,736         8,919 
     Provision for doubtful accounts  ........         54          72          486           506           586 
     Cumulative effect of change in accounting 
        principle ............................         --      (2,477)      (2,477)           --            -- 
     Non-recurring charge  ...................         --          --        2,074            --            -- 
     Deferred income taxes  ..................         35          27       (2,319)          484            -- 
     Changes in operating assets and liabilities- 
        Increase in accounts receivable ......         71         130       (1,628)         (423)         (432) 
        Decrease (increase) in inventories ...         83         192           57           337          (441) 
        Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses 
          and other current assets  ..........       (183)       (752)         140           957          (268) 
        Decrease in other assets .............         --          --           --            58           173 
        Increase (decrease) in accounts payable 
          and accrued expenses  ..............     (1,081)        343        2,259        (2,812)       (1,769) 
        (Decrease) increase in customer deposits      136        (943)        (696)          376           672 
        Decrease in deferred revenue .........        646         660         (123)         (801)         (874) 
        Decrease in pension and other liabilities    (115)       (123)        (822)       (2,658)       (4,176) 
                                                  ---------   ---------    -----------   ----------   ---------- 
               Net cash provided by operating 
                  activities .................      2,056       2,130        6,144         6,164         2,335 
                                                  ---------   ---------    -----------   ----------   ---------- 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING 
   ACTIVITIES: 
   Purchase of fixed assets ..................     (2,670)     (1,917)      (7,494)       (7,361)       (7,883) 
   Purchase of subscriber contracts ..........         --         (71)          --        (1,840)       (2,415) 
   Purchase of short-term investments ........         --      (3,614)      (6,601)       (5,486)           -- 
   Maturities of short-term investments ......      2,043       4,000        8,544         1,500            -- 
   Other .....................................         --         (50)         (50)           --            -- 
                                                  ---------   ---------    -----------   ----------   ---------- 
               Net cash used by investing 
                  activities .................       (627)     (1,652)      (5,601)      (13,187)      (10,298) 
                                                  ---------   ---------    -----------   ----------   ---------- 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING 
   ACTIVITIES: 
   Proceeds from secured note ................       (659)       (595)          --         3,405         9,037 
   Payments on secured note ..................         --          --       (2,250)       (3,681)       (1,837) 
   Payments on other long-term debt ..........         --          --         (210)         (449)           -- 
   Proceeds from issuance of common stock ....         --          --           --        10,000            -- 
   Transaction and other related costs .......         --          --           --        (1,500)           -- 
   Proceeds from short-term borrowings .......                                 943            --            -- 
   Payment on short-term borrowings ..........       (943)         --           --            --            -- 
                                                 ---------   ---------    -----------   ----------   ---------- 
               Net cash provided (used) by 
                  financing activities .......     (1,602)       (595)      (1,517)        7,775         7,200 
                                                 ---------   ---------    -----------   ----------   ---------- 
               Net increase (decrease) in cash 
                  and cash equivalents .......       (173)       (117)        (974)          752          (763) 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period        435       1,409        1,409           657         1,420 
                                                 ---------   ---------    -----------   ----------   ---------- 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period  ....    $   262     $ 1,292      $   435      $  1,409      $    657 
                                                 =========   =========    ===========   ==========   ========== 
CASH PAYMENTS FOR: 
   Interest ..................................    $   166     $   247      $ 1,016      $    992      $    524 
   Income taxes ..............................    $   107     $    42      $   167      $    155      $    189 
NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES: 
   Capital lease obligations .................    $    --     $    --      $   234      $    302      $    511 

</TABLE>

The accompanying notes to financial statements are an integral part of these 
statements. 

                                     F-6
<PAGE>


                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
                  NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
  (UNAUDITED WITH RESPECT TO MARCH 31, 1996 AND THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 
                              31, 1996 AND 1995) 

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION 

   Holmes Protection Group, Inc. (the "Company"), a Delaware corporation, is 
the holding company for its subsidiaries which operate in the security alarm 
business primarily in the Northeastern United States. The consolidated 
financial statements incorporate all the accounts of the Company and its 
subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been 
eliminated. Certain amounts for prior periods have been reclassified to 
conform to the 1995 presentation. 

INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION 

   The unaudited consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 1996 and the 
consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' equity and cash flows 
for the three months ended March 31, 1996 and 1995 include, in the opinion of 
management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) 
necessary to present fairly the Company's financial position and the 
Company's results of operations and cash flows. 

REVENUE RECOGNITION 

   The Company's subsidiaries design, install, service and monitor security 
alarm systems, which are either sold outright ("customer owned") or the 
Company retains title to the equipment ("Company owned"). Installation 
revenue, and related cost under customer owned contracts, is recognized upon 
completion of installation. In contracts relating to Company owned equipment, 
the Company changed its method of accounting for installation revenue (see 
Note 3). In both cases, revenue from monitoring and servicing activities is 
recognized on a straight-line basis over the life of the contract. 

ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS 

   Management reviews the collectibility of accounts receivables on a regular 
basis. Amounts, if any, which are determined to be uncollectible are provided 
for in the financial statements in the period such determination is made. 

FIXED ASSETS 

   Fixed assets are recorded at cost. The Company's equipment installed on 
the subscribers' premises is capitalized on the basis of the cost of 
materials, labor and overhead relating to the specific installation. The 
Company provides for depreciation of equipment on subscribers' premises, 
central stations and vaults using the straight-line method over an average 
life of 12 years. Periodically, management will review these lives to assess 
their adequacy given changes in its business. If circumstances warrant a 
significant change in lives, management will adjust such lives to those which 
are more representative of its business environment. The Company depreciates 
other equipment, including computers, utilizing the straight-line method over 
a period ranging between 5 to 12 years, and automotive equipment over the 
equipment's useful lives ranging from 3 to 5 years. Leasehold improvements 
are depreciated utilizing the straight-line method over the asset's useful 
life or the remaining lease term, whichever is shorter. Assets held under 
capital lease obligations are depreciated utilizing the straight line method 
over the life of the lease or asset, whichever is applicable. 

   Repair and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. 

SUBSCRIBER CONTRACTS 

   The cost of acquired subscriber contracts is amortized, based upon average 
experience, on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives which 
has been determined to be 12 years. Such life is periodically reviewed by 
management in order to assess its reasonableness. When, in the opinion of the 
Company's manage- 

                                     F-7
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 
                              31, 1996 and 1995) 

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES  - (Continued) 

ment, a permanent diminution in the value of subscriber contracts has 
occurred, the amount of the diminution would be included in the consolidated 
statements of operations. In order to determine whether a permanent 
diminution in value has occurred, management monitors the Company's 
cancellation rates. If an increasing trend in cancellation rates exists and 
is recurring, and such cancellation rates indicate nonrecoverability of the 
assets, a write down of assets is reflected in the consolidated statement of 
operations based upon the discounted future net cash flows of the remaining 
subscriber contracts or other method to determine fair market value of such 
assets. 

   Amortization expense was $2,580,000, $2,483,000 and $2,320,000 in 1995, 
1994 and 1993, respectively. 

TRADENAMES 

   Tradenames are amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of forty 
years. Such life is periodically reviewed by management in order to assess 
its adequacy. When, in the opinion of the Company's management, a permanent 
diminution in the value of tradenames has occurred, the amount of the 
diminution would be included in the consolidated statements of operations. 
Amortization expense was $170,000 for each year presented. 

INVENTORIES 

   Inventories consist primarily of parts used in the installation and repair 
of equipment on subscribers' premises and equipment sold to franchise 
dealers. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, cost being 
determined on a first-in, first-out basis. Inventories as of December 31, 
1995 and 1994 consist of the following (000's omitted): 

                                        1995                           1994 
                                      ---------                      --------- 
Materials  .....                       $1,390                         $1,495 
Work-in-process                           533                            485 
                                      ---------                      --------- 
                                       $1,923                         $1,980 
                                      =========                      ========= 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 

   Cash equivalents consist principally of short-term investments having 
original maturities of 90 days or less, and are carried at cost, which 
approximates market. 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS 

   Short-term investments consist primarily of short-term U.S. Government 
obligations ($1,853,000 at December 31, 1995), which have an original 
maturity of greater than 90 days, as well as certificates of deposit 
($190,000 at December 31, 1995). The maturities of the short-term investments 
range from January 1996 to May 1996. 

   In May 1993, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of 
Financial Accounting Standards No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments 
in Debt and Equity Securities". This Statement requires the classification of 
debt and equity securities based on whether the securities will be held to 
maturity, are considered trading securities or are available for sale. 
Classification within these categories may require the securities to be 
reported at their fair market value with unrealized gains and losses included 
either in current earnings or reported as a separate component of 
shareholders' equity, depending on the ultimate classification. The Company 
adopted the provisions of this statement effective January 1, 1994, the 
adoption of which had no impact on the 

                                     F-8 
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 
                              31, 1996 and 1995) 

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES  - (Continued) 

Company's consolidated financial statements. As of December 31, 1995, all 
short-term investments used as part of the Company's investment management 
have been classified as held to maturity. These investments are stated at 
cost which approximates market. Interest is accrued as earned. 

INCOME TAXES 

   Income taxes are accounted for in accordance with Statement of Financial 
Accounting Standards No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes." Deferred income 
taxes are recognized for the tax consequences in future years of differences 
between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their financial reporting 
amounts at each year- end based on the enacted tax law rates. Valuation 
allowances are established, when necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to 
the amount expected to be realized. 

EARNINGS PER SHARE 

   Earnings per common share calculations are based on the weighted average 
number of shares of common stock outstanding and dilutive common stock 
equivalents outstanding. All earnings per share amounts have been adjusted to 
give effect of the reverse stock split (Note 7). 

USE OF ESTIMATES 

   The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally 
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and 
assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and 
accompanying notes. Although these estimates are based on management's 
knowledge of current events and actions it may undertake in the future, they 
may ultimately differ from actual results. 

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS 

   In 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of 
Financial Accounting Standards No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of 
Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of" ("SFAS 121"). 
The Company's required adoption date is January 1, 1996. SFAS 121 
standardizes the accounting practices for the recognition and measurement of 
impairment losses on certain long-lived assets. The Company anticipates the 
adoption of SFAS 121 will not have a material impact on its results of 
operations or financial position. 

2. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES AGREEMENT 

   On April 4, 1995, the Company entered into an information technology 
services agreement with PremiTech Corporation ("PremiTech"), a subsidiary of 
Electronic Data Systems Corporation. The ten year $51 million outsourcing 
agreement provides for PremiTech to consolidate and manage the Company's data 
processing, communications and certain administrative functions. In 
connection with the consolidation of the Company's operations, it will pay to 
PremiTech $3.3 million. This amount is to compensate PremiTech for the cost 
to construct a new central station facility and leasehold improvements. The 
Company negotiated a standby credit facility with its bank which allowed the 
Company to borrow $2 million in December 1995 to pay a portion of the $3.3 
million consolidation amount due PremiTech. No amounts were drawn upon this 
standby credit facility, which expired unused. The amount of $500,000 paid in 
1995 relating to the consolidation was obtained from existing internal cash 
of the Company. The remaining amount due for the consolidation will be paid 
in various installments through 1996. 

   PremiTech is a limited partner of the Investor (see Note 7), holding a 
partnership interest equivalent to approximately 6% of the Company's common 
stock. Payments made to PremiTech for managing the Company's data processing, 
communications and certain administrative functions amounted to $3,073,000 
during 1995. 

                                     F-9
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 
                              31, 1996 and 1995) 

3. CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE 

   Effective January 1, 1995 the Company changed its method of accounting for 
installation revenue with respect to the recording of non-refundable payments 
received from customers upon the completion of the installation of Company 
owned systems. Previous to this change, the Company deferred the difference 
between these payments and estimated selling costs and amortized such 
difference over the life of the non-cancelable customer monitoring and 
service contract (generally five years). The Company believes that 
recognizing revenue upon completion of the installation results in a better 
matching of revenue and expenses, better reflects recorded installation 
revenues with the actual level of new business activity, and conforms with 
the dominant practice being followed by the security alarm industry. 
Excluding the cumulative effect, this change resulted in an increase in net 
loss of $443,000 or $0.10 net loss per share in 1995. The Company estimates 
that the effect of adopting this accounting principle would have resulted in 
a decrease in the results from operations of $470,000 or $0.13 per share in 
1994 and $470,000 or $0.16 per share in 1993. 

4. NON-RECURRING CHARGE 

   In connection with the Company entering into the information technology 
services agreement (see Note 2), the Company determined that certain existing 
asset and resource requirements were to be redeployed or no longer required. 
After analyzing numerous alternatives regarding its consolidation, during the 
fourth quarter, management determined that certain existing assets and 
personnel resources would no longer be necessary. Accordingly, the Company 
recorded a non-recurring charge of $2,074,000, which consists of severance 
and related benefit costs of $1,133,000 covering selected reductions in work 
force throughout the Company of approximately 70 employees, all of whom have 
been terminated, notified or identified at December 31, 1995 and writedowns 
of leasehold improvements and other fixed assets amounting to $941,000 which 
would no longer be utilized. As of December 31, 1995, the reserve for 
severance and related benefit costs was $1,020,000. 

5. FIXED ASSETS 

   Fixed assets as of December 31, 1995 and 1994 consist of the following 
(000's omitted): 

                                                 1995                 1994 
                                               ----------           ---------- 
Subscriber installation costs  .....           $ 97,558             $ 91,141 
Central station and other equipment .             9,588                8,656 
Leasehold improvements  ............              4,087                5,671 
Furniture and fixtures  ............                917                1,312 
Construction in progress  ..........                615                  721 
                                               ----------           ---------- 
                                                112,765              107,501 
Less- Accumulated depreciation  ....            (67,534)             (61,410) 
                                               ----------           ---------- 
                                               $ 45,231             $ 46,091 
                                               ==========           ========== 

   Depreciation expense relating to cost of sales is $6,378,000, $6,507,000 
and $5,056,000 for 1995, 1994 and 1993, respectively. 

6. DEBT 

SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS: 

   Short-term borrowings of $943,000 at December 31, 1995 consisted of 
borrowings from a margin account, which are secured against the value of the 
securities in the Company's short term investment account. The weighted 
average interest rate on the outstanding balances during 1995 was 8%. 

                                      F-10
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 
                              31, 1996 and 1995) 

6. DEBT  - (Continued) 

LONG-TERM DEBT: 

   At December 31, 1995 and 1994, the Company had the following long-term 
indebtedness outstanding (000's omitted): 

                                                         1995          1994 
                                                       ---------     --------- 
Term Note  .......................................      $6,188        $8,438 
Capital lease obligations, interest rates ranging 
 from 7.4% to 10.9%, maturing through August 2000.         981           958 
Other  ...........................................         190            -- 
                                                       ---------     --------- 
                                                         7,359         9,396 
Less- Current portion  ...........................       2,497         2,687 
                                                       ---------     --------- 
                                                        $4,862        $6,709 
                                                       =========     ========= 

   The maturities of long-term debt due within the next five years are as 
follows (000's omitted): 

                                                        1995 
                                                      --------- 
   1996  ......................................        $2,497 
   1997  ......................................         2,506 
   1998  ......................................         1,952 
   1999  ......................................           260 
   2000  ......................................           144 
                                                      --------- 
                                                       $7,359 
                                                      ========= 

   In 1993 the Company negotiated a credit facility of $12 million (the "loan 
agreement") with its bank. The loan agreement provides a $9 million five-year 
term note ("Term Note") and a $3 million revolving loan facility ("Credit 
Note"). These amounts were used in 1993 and 1994 to replace the Company's 
existing short-term borrowings, to finance acquisitions and to provide 
working capital. The Term Note bears interest on the outstanding balance at 
the bank's prime rate (8.5 percent at December 31, 1995) plus 2 percent. 
However, the Company has a separate agreement with its bank which provides 
for a minimum and a maximum interest rate on its term note of 8% and 10.25%, 
respectively, the fair market value of which was $6,300 at December 31, 1995. 
Principal payments of the Term Note began September 30, 1994, at $187,500 per 
month for 48 months. The Credit Note bears interest on any outstanding 
balance at the bank's prime rate (8.5 percent at December 31, 1995) plus 1 
percent and is subject to renewal at the option of the bank on May 31, 1996. 
The loan agreement includes a provision that any outstanding balance on the 
$3 million Credit Note be repaid in full for a minimum of 30 days prior to 
September 1, each year. The outstanding balance on the Term Note was 
$6,188,000 on December 31, 1995. The Company is currently unable to draw down 
on the Credit Note as its bank has informed the Company that there will be no 
further extensions of credit. The Company is presently discussing alternative 
arrangements with certain banks and other financial institutions. 

   The Company is subject to and was in compliance with certain covenants 
under the loan agreement. The covenants include, but are not limited to, 
requirements that the Company maintain both defined levels of net worth and 
specified financial ratios, and stay within defined limitations on capital 
expenditures and additional indebtedness. In addition, the Company is 
prohibited from paying cash dividends or making other distributions (i) if 
there is an Event of Default (as described therein) under the agreement or 
(ii) if the profits of the Company for the most recent fiscal year do not 
equal or exceed $1,000,000. In the event such profits exceed $1,000,000, 

                                      F-11
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 
                              31, 1996 and 1995) 

6. DEBT  - (Continued) 

the Company's dividends for such fiscal year cannot be greater than the 
amount by which tangible net worth (as defined therein) at fiscal year end 
for the previous fiscal year exceeded $26,500,000 in 1995 and increasing 
amounts thereafter. The Notes are secured principally against the Company's 
subscriber contracts and trade receivables. 

   The Company has an outstanding letter of credit amounting to $450,000. 
Letter of credit fees of 2% are payable on outstanding letters of credit. 

   The carrying amounts of the Company's short-term borrowings and long-term 
debt approximate their fair value. The fair value of the Company's long-term 
debt is estimated based on current rates offered to the Company for debt with 
similar remaining maturities. 

7. COMMON STOCK 

   On August 1, 1994, the Company sold to HP Partners L.P. (the "Investor") 
for $10,000,000 (i) 1,515,886 shares of common stock and (ii) warrants to 
purchase 685,714 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $4.58 per 
share. The warrants are exercisable at any time prior to their expiration 
date on August 1, 2004 and are subject to adjustment upon certain dilutive 
events. 

   On March 27, 1995, the Company effected a reverse stock split pursuant to 
which one share of common stock, $.01 par value, was exchanged for every 14 
shares of common stock, $.25 par value, then issued or outstanding. In 
addition, the Company reduced its authorized shares of preferred and common 
stock from 10,000,000 and 100,000,000 shares to 1,000,000 and 12,000,000 
shares, respectively. The share information included in the accompanying 
financial statements reflect the effect of the reverse stock split effected 
March 27, 1995. 

   At December 31, 1995, the Company has 604,151 shares of common stock 
reserved for share option plans and 878,865 for warrants. 

   Changes in common stock outstanding are as follows (000's omitted): 

                                                Common              Treasury 
                                                Stock                 Stock 
                                               --------             ---------- 
January 1, 1993  ..................             2,951                   7 
 Additions  .......................                --                  -- 
                                               --------             ---------- 
December 31, 1993  ................             2,951                   7 
 Additions - Sales of common stock .            1,515                  -- 
                                               --------             ---------- 
December 31, 1994  ................             4,466                   7 
 Additions  .......................                --                  -- 
                                               --------             ---------- 
December 31, 1995  ................             4,466                   7 
                                               ========             ========== 

8. STOCK OPTIONS 

   The Company, with the approval of its stockholders, adopted the 1992 
Senior Executives' Option Plan (the "Executives Plan") and the 1992 
Directors' Option Plan (the "Directors Plan"). The Executives Plan and the 
Directors Plan (collectively, the "Option Plans") took effect on August 13, 
1992. On such date, one-time grants of options were made to certain current 
and former directors under the Directors Plan. No additional grants are 
permitted under the Directors Plan. 

   On July 29, 1994 (the "Effective Date"), the Company's stockholders 
approved the amendment and restatement of the Executives Plan, which 
amendment and restatement, (i) replaced all options outstanding under the 

                                      F-12
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 
                              31, 1996 and 1995) 

8. STOCK OPTIONS  - (Continued) 

Plan with a like number of options at a reduced exercise price of $7.28 per 
share, (ii) commenced a new vesting period for such options, (iii) reduced 
the "hurdle rate" relating to the price at which the shares must trade prior 
to becoming exercisable and (iv) modified the provisions of the Plan to 
satisfy the requirements of Rule 16b-3 of the Securities Exchange Act of 
1934. 

   The Option Plans are administered by the Compensation Committee (the 
"Committee") of the Board of Directors (the "Board") or, at the Board's 
discretion, a stock option committee consisting of not less than two 
directors of the Company who are selected by the Board. 

   Subject to the provisions of the Executives Plan and the terms of the 
initial option grants provided for therein, the Committee will determine when 
and to whom options will be granted, the number of shares to be covered by 
each option, the option price, the period during which each option shall be 
exercisable and certain other terms and conditions relating to the options 
under such plan. The Committee may also exercise all the powers and authority 
necessary or advisable in the administration of the Option Plans, subject to 
and not inconsistent with the provisions of the Option Plans. 

   Grants of options may be made under the Executives Plan to (i) certain 
designated senior executives (the "Designated Executives") and to (ii) 
selected executives of the Company and its subsidiaries. Under the Executives 
Plan, initial option grants to Designated Executives made on the Effective 
Date will become exercisable as to thirty percent (30%) of the option shares 
on the first anniversary of the Effective Date; twenty percent (20%) of the 
option shares on the second and third anniversaries of the Effective Date and 
as to fifteen percent (15%) of the option shares on each of the fourth and 
fifth anniversaries of the Effective Date. Options granted to all other 
executives will become exercisable over the exercise period, at such times 
and upon such conditions as the Committee may determine (as reflected in the 
agreement evidencing the option grant), and the Committee may accelerate the 
exercisability of any outstanding option under such circumstances as it deems 
appropriate. No option granted to any executive will become exercisable until 
the price of the shares subject thereto reaches or has reached a trading 
price of $13.30 and remains at or above such price for 30 consecutive trading 
days. The options will expire ten years after the date of grant. 

   Under the Directors Plan, all options vested on January 1, 1993, and no 
option will become exercisable until the price of the shares subject thereto 
reaches or has reached a trading price of not less than $24.45 and remains at 
or above such price for 30 consecutive trading days. The options will expire 
ten years after the date of grant. 

   On December 4, 1995, the Board approved the granting of various options to 
purchase the Company's common stock, under a proposed stock option plan (the 
"Plan") to be submitted for shareholder approval. The Board granted options 
to certain executives to purchase a total of 25,000 shares at an exercise 
price of $5.50. Also, under the Plan, each current director would be granted 
an option at the same exercise price of $5.50 to purchase 25,000 shares of 
the Company's common stock, vesting immediately and exercisable for five 
years; and all new directors, upon being appointed or elected, would receive 
a similar grant at the then quoted market price. A total of 150,000 shares 
were granted as of December 31, 1995 to existing directors. In addition, a 
special committee of the Board granted certain directors and a consultant a 
total of 125,000 options to purchase the Company's common stock under the 
Plan, vesting immediately at a $5.56 exercise price. 

   Upon approval of the Plan by the stockholders of the Company, no further 
stock options or other awards shall be granted under the Executives Plan and 
the Directors Plan. All stock options outstanding under the Executives Plan 
and the Directors Plan shall continue to be governed by the terms of the 
respective plans, and the relevant stock option agreement pertaining to each 
such stock option. 


                                      F-13
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 
                              31, 1996 and 1995) 

8. STOCK OPTIONS  - (Continued) 

   Stock options issued under these plans are as follows: 

                                               Number of 
                                                Shares         Exercise Price 
                                              -----------       -------------- 
Options outstanding, January 1, 1993  .        265,637          $ 7.28-$13.97 
     Granted  .........................          8,854                 $ 7.28 
     Canceled  ........................        (26,563)         $ 7.28-$13.97 
     Exercised  .......................             --                     -- 
                                              -----------       -------------- 
Options outstanding, December 31, 1993 .       247,928          $ 7.28-$13.97 
     Granted  .........................         73,930          $ 7.28-$13.97 
     Canceled  ........................        (29,515)                $13.97 
     Exercised  .......................             --                     -- 
                                              -----------       -------------- 
Options outstanding, December 31, 1994 .       292,343          $ 7.28-$13.97 
     Granted  .........................        308,854          $ 5.50- $7.28 
     Canceled  ........................        (56,672)         $ 5.50- $7.28 
     Exercised  .......................             --                     -- 
                                              -----------       -------------- 
Options outstanding, December 31, 1995 .       544,525          $ 5.50-$13.97 
                                              ===========       ============== 

   At December 31, 1995, options to purchase 275,000 shares of common stock 
were exercisable at $5.50 to $5.56. There were 59,626 options available for 
future grant at December 31, 1995. 

9. INCOME TAXES 


   Income tax provision (benefit) include current and deferred taxes as 
follows (000's omitted): 

                                    For the Years Ended December 31 
                          ---------------------------------------------------- 
                             1995                   1994                1993 
                          ----------               -------              ------ 
Current: 
     Federal ......       $     --                 $  --               $  -- 
     State ........            200                    94                 200 
                          ----------               -------              ------ 
                               200                    94                 200 
                          ----------               -------              ------ 
Deferred: 
     Federal ......         (1,764)                  301                  -- 
     State ........           (555)                  183                  -- 
                          ----------               -------              ------ 
                            (2,319)                  484                  -- 
                          ----------               -------              ------ 
                           $(2,119)                 $578                $200 
                          ==========               =======              ====== 

                                      F-14
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 31, 
                                1996 and 1995) 

9. INCOME TAXES  - (Continued) 

   The types of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and 
liabilities and their financial reporting amounts that give rise to a 
significant portion of the deferred tax liability and deferred tax asset and 
their approximate tax effects are as follows at December 31 (000's omitted): 

                                                   1995               1994 
                                                -----------         ---------- 
Current deferred tax asset: 
     Accrued expenses  ................          $    414           $    604 
     Deferred revenues  ...............                --                769 
     Allowance for doubtful accounts  .               589                579 
     Other  ...........................               145                 31 
                                                -----------         ---------- 
               Net current deferred tax 
                  asset ...............             1,148              1,983 
                                                -----------         ---------- 
Noncurrent deferred tax liability: 
     Fixed assets  ....................           (11,867)           (12,336) 
     Subscriber contracts  ............            (4,990)            (5,757) 
     Net operating loss carryforward  .             7,418              5,830 
     Deferred revenues  ...............                --              1,173 
     Accrued expenses and other  ......              (858)              (111) 
                                                -----------         ---------- 
               Net noncurrent deferred 
                  tax liability .......           (10,297)           (11,201) 
                                                -----------         ---------- 
               Net deferred tax liability        $  (9,149)         $  (9,218) 
                                                ===========         ========== 

   The tax expense allocated to shareholders' equity related to the change in 
the minimum pension obligation was $307,000, $155,000 and $1,076,000 in 1995, 
1994 and 1993, respectively. Reconciliation of tax at the U.S. statutory 
income tax rate of 34% to the provision (benefit) for income taxes was as 
follows (000's omitted): 

                                       1995              1994           1993 
                                    ----------          -------         ------ 
U.S. statutory rate  ......          $(1,970)            $334           $ 49 
Nondeductible amortization .              58               58             -- 
State income taxes  .......             (234)             163            200 
Other  ....................               27               23            (49) 
                                    ----------          -------         ------ 
Tax provision (benefit)  ..          $(2,119)            $578           $200 
                                    ==========          =======         ====== 

   The Company has net operating loss carryforwards for tax purposes at 
December 31, 1995 of approximately $17,000,000 which expire through 2010, of 
which $4,500,000 is limited as to its utilization due to a prior change in 
ownership of the Company. Future changes in ownership, as defined by Section 
382 of the Internal Revenue Code, could limit the amount of net operating 
loss carryforwards in any one year. 

10. PENSION PLANS 

   The Company covers approximately 22 percent of its employees under two 
defined benefit pension plans which were frozen at June 30, 1987. The 
benefits under these plans are based upon compensation levels and length of 
service. The pension plans are being funded in accordance with the Employee 
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. 


                                      F-15
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 
                              31, 1996 and 1995) 

10. PENSION PLANS  - (Continued) 

   The components of net periodic pension cost were as follows: 

                                                        1995            1994 
                                                      ---------        ------- 
Components: 
     Service cost - benefits earned during period    $   150          $  150 
     Interest cost on projected benefit obligation     1,623           1,598 
     Actual return on assets  ................        (3,174)           (660) 
     Net amortization and deferral  ..........         1,795            (725) 
                                                      ---------        ------- 
               Net periodic pension cost  ....       $   394          $  363 
                                                     ==========        ======= 
Assumptions: 
     Discount rate for benefit obligations  ..           7.5%            8.5% 
     Expected long-term rate of return on assets         8.5%            8.5% 

   The following table sets forth the funded status of the plans at September 
30, 1995 and 1994 and amounts recognized in the Company's consolidated 
balance sheets at December 31, 1995 and 1994, respectively (000's omitted): 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                1995                 1994 
                                                     -------------------------    ------------ 
                                                         Over         Under          Under 
                                                        Funded       Funded         Funded 
                                                         Plan         Plan           Plans 
                                                      ----------   -----------    ------------ 
<S>                                                    <C>          <C>            <C>
Vested benefits  ..................................    $(1,601)     $(19,838)      $ (19,822) 
                                                      ----------   -----------    ------------ 
Accumulated benefit obligation  ...................     (1,603)      (19,892)       (19,879) 
                                                      ----------   -----------    ------------ 
Project benefit obligation  .......................     (1,603)      (19,892)       (19,879) 
Plan assets at fair value  ........................      1,645        18,871         18,052 
                                                      ----------   -----------    ------------ 
          Plan assets in excess of (less than)
             projected benefit obligation .........         42        (1,021)        (1,827) 
                                                      ----------   -----------    ------------ 
Unrecognized net (gain) loss  .....................        602         5,164          5,965 
Unrecognized prior service cost  ..................         --            --             -- 
Unrecognized net transition obligation (asset)  ...        (10)           (5)           (50) 
Fourth quarter contribution  ......................         18           203            243 
Adjustment required to recognize minimum liability .        --        (5,159)        (5,915) 
                                                      ----------   -----------    ------------ 
          Prepaid (accrued) pension cost recognized 
             in the balance sheet .................    $   652      $    (818)     $  (1,584) 
                                                      ==========   ===========    ============ 
</TABLE>

   Pension plan assets are primarily invested in corporate common stocks and 
bonds and U.S. government securities. 

                                      F-16 
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 
                              31, 1996 and 1995) 


11. SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT DATA 

                                                   1995                1994 
                                                ----------           --------- 
                                                       (000's omitted) 
Prepaid expenses and other: 
     Prepaid insurance  ..............           $ 1,297              $1,312 
     Deferred tax assets  ............             1,148               1,983 
     Prepaid pension cost  ...........               652                  -- 
     Other  ..........................               223                 365 
                                                ----------           --------- 
                                                 $ 3,320              $3,660 
                                                ==========           ========= 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses: 
     Accounts payable  ...............           $ 3,975              $2,281 
     Accrued insurance  ..............             1,421               1,002 
     Accrued pension  ................               740               1,057 
     Accrued severance  ..............             1,020                  -- 
     Accrued expenses  ...............             2,954               2,700 
                                                ----------           --------- 
                                                 $10,110              $7,040 
                                                ==========           ========= 
Other long-term liabilities: 
     Deferred installation revenue  ..           $    --              $2,667 
     Other  ..........................               834               1,443 
                                                ----------           --------- 
                                                 $   834              $4,110 
                                                ==========           ========= 

12. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES 

   The Company conducts its operations principally from leased facilities and 
has entered into capital lease arrangements for certain fixed assets. Future 
minimum lease payments with respect to leases in effect at December 31, 1995 
are as follows (000's omitted): 

                                               Capital             Operating 
                                              ---------            ----------- 
1996  .............................            $  309                $1,406 
1997  .............................               293                 1,194 
1998  .............................               274                 1,090 
1999  .............................               242                   857 
2000  .............................               103                   529 
2001 and thereafter  ..............                --                   471 
                                              ---------            ----------- 
                                                1,221                $5,547 
                                                                   =========== 
Less- Amount representing interest .             (240) 
                                              --------- 
                                               $  981 
                                              ========= 

   Rental expense for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 was 
approximately $1,084,000, $1,166,000, and $1,250,000, respectively. 

   Certain subsidiaries of the Company are defendants or co-defendants in 
various lawsuits, some of which claim damages in substantial amounts. 
Management of the Company is of the opinion that the ultimate resolution of 
all these claims is not likely to have a material adverse effect on the 
consolidated financial condition of the Company, future results of operations 
or liquidity. 

   The Company has entered into employment agreements with certain of its 
employees which terminate through May 31, 1997. Future payments under these 
employment agreements are approximately $618,000. Ter- 

                                      F-17
<PAGE>

                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
          NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
(Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended March 
                              31, 1996 and 1995) 

12. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES  - (Continued) 

mination of employment for reasons other than (i) "Cause" (ii) such 
employee's "Disability" (each defined in the Employment Agreements), (iii) 
the employee's death, incompetence or bankruptcy or (iv) the expiration of 
the term of the employment agreement will obligate the Company to pay the 
employee's salary for periods ranging from three to six months and maintain 
certain benefits. The amount of this obligation would be approximately 
$218,000. In addition, the employment agreements grant these employees the 
right to receive their respective salaries and certain other benefits for a 
period of twelve months if the Company terminates any of such employees 
within twelve months of a change in control of the Company (as defined). Upon 
a change in control, the salary obligation would result in an aggregate 
payment of approximately $555,000 based upon such employees 1995 salary. 

13. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) 

   The following is a summary of the quarterly results of operations for the 
years ended December 31, 1995 and 1994: 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 Three Months Ended 
                                             ----------------------------------------------------------- 
                                              March 31*     June 30*     September 30*     December 31 
                                             -----------   ----------    ---------------   ------------- 
                                                       (000's omitted, except per share data) 
<S>                                          <C>           <C>           <C>               <C>
1995: 
     Revenue  ............................     $12,584      $12,539         $12,569          $12,383 
     Gross profit  .......................       6,405        6,155           5,787            5,466 
     Income (loss) before cumulative effect 
        of accounting change .............           5         (645)         (1,040)          (1,994) 
     Net income (loss)  ..................       2,482         (645)         (1,040)          (1,994) 
                                             -----------   ----------    ---------------   ------------- 
     Earnings (loss) per share before 
        cumulative effect of accounting 
        change ...........................     $    --      $  (0.14)       $ (0.23)        $  (0.45) 
     Earnings (loss) per share  ..........     $  0.55      $  (0.14)       $ (0.23)        $  (0.45) 
                                             ===========   ==========    ===============   ============= 
</TABLE>

                                         Three Months Ended 
                      --------------------------------------------------------- 
                       March 31     June 30      September 30     December 31 
                      ----------   ----------    --------------   ------------- 
                               (000's omitted, except per share data) 
1994: 
     Revenue  .....   $12,865      $12,967        $12,942           $12,628 
     Gross profit .     6,791        6,906          6,673             6,147 
     Net income (**)      128          154             97                25 
                      ----------   ----------    --------------   ------------- 
     Earnings per 
        share .....   $  0.04      $  0.05       $   0.02           $    -- 
                      ==========   ==========    ==============   ============= 

- ------ 
(*)  First, second and third quarter 1995 results have been restated for the 
     change in accounting principle (see Note 3). 


(**) The results for the first, second and third quarters have been restated 
     to record a reduction of $103,000, $135,000 and $66,000, respectively, 
     in previously reported net earnings in order to reflect a more accurate 
     effective tax rate. Accordingly, earnings per share for the first, 
     second and third quarters was reduced by $0.03, $0.05 and $0.02, 
     respectively. 

                                      F-18

<PAGE>


                  HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  - (Continued) 
     (Unaudited with respect to March 31, 1996 and the three months ended 
                             March 31, 1996 and 1995) 

14. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (UNAUDITED) 

   The Company has entered into commitment letters with two banks pursuant to 
which such banks have agreed, subject to the terms and conditions set forth 
therein (including, without limitation, negotiation of a definitive loan 
agreement), to provide a two-year $25 million revolving credit facility 
which, following the expiration of such two-year period, converts into a 
five-year term loan. Subject to specified borrowing conditions, up to $12.5 
million will become available for borrowing upon the closing of such credit 
facility, and up to an additional $12.5 million will become available upon 
the Company's receipt of at least $10 million in net proceeds from the sale 
of newly issued common stock by October 31, 1996. 


                                      F-19


<PAGE>
                HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
                  CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE 
               SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS 
                               (000'S OMITTED) 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    Charged 
                                     Balance at     to Costs      Charged                     Balance at 
                                     Beginning        and        to Other         (A)           End of 
           Description               of Period      Expenses     Accounts     Deductions        Period 
 --------------------------------   ------------   ----------    ----------   ------------   ------------ 
<S>                                 <C>            <C>           <C>          <C>            <C>
Allowance for doubtful accounts: 
   December 31- 
     1995  ......................      1,315          486           --            461           1,340 
     1994  ......................      1,240          506           --            431           1,315 
     1993  ......................      1,359          586           --            705           1,240 
</TABLE>

- ------ 
(A) Deductions represent the net effect of write-offs and recoveries. 

                                     S-1

<PAGE>

                                     LifeNET - A technically advanced 
                                     vehicle tracking system utilizing 
                                     both cellular and global 
                                     positioning satellite technology.

                                     ProWATCH - With ProWATCH, an 
                                     integrated building security system, 
                                     tenants have access after hours by 
                                     using an access card at a convenient 
                                     building entrance, while after-hours 
                                     visitors use an entry phone. 

               Central Station - In our 
               state-of-the-art facility 
               trained professionals 
               monitor virtually all 
               security needs such as fire, 
               burglar, access control and 
               closed circuit television at 
               locations including 
               businesses and homes. 

                       Alarm Video Verification - 
                       When an alarm is triggered 
                       the system provides a visual 
                       transmission of the actual 
                       event to our central 
                       station.

                       Patrol Service - Our patrol 
                       service patrols premises to 
                       ensure the integrity of the 
                       site and to facilitate 
                       emergency procedures as 
                       needed. 






<PAGE>
============================================================================= 
   No dealer, salesperson or any other person has been authorized to give any 
information or to make any representations other than those contained in this 
Prospectus in connection with the offer made by this Prospectus, and, if 
given or made, such information or representations must not be relied upon as 
having been authorized by the Company or the Underwriters. This Prospectus 
does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy 
any security other than in connection with the offer made by this Prospectus, 
nor does it constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to 
buy, the shares of Common Stock by anyone in any jurisdiction in which such 
an offer or solicitation is not authorized, or in which the person making 
such offer or solicitation is not qualified to do so, or to any person to 
whom it is unlawful to make such offer or solicitation. Neither the delivery 
of this Prospectus nor any sale made hereunder shall, under any 
circumstances, create any implication that the information contained herein 
is correct as of any time subsequent to its date. 


                                    ------ 
                              TABLE OF CONTENTS 
                                    ------ 

                                                                       Page 
                                                                      -------- 
Prospectus Summary  .........................                             3 
Risk Factors  ...............................                             6 
Use of Proceeds  ............................                            11 
Price Range of Common Stock and Dividend Policy                          12 
Capitalization  .............................                            13 
Selected Financial Data  ....................                            14 
Management's Discussion and Analysis 
  of Financial Condition and Results of 
  Operations ................................                            16 
Business  ...................................                            22 
Management  .................................                            39 
Principal Stockholders  .....................                            49 
Certain Transactions  .......................                            51 
Description of Capital Stock  ...............                            51 
Shares Eligible for Future Sale  ............                            53 
Underwriting  ...............................                            54 
Legal Matters  ..............................                            55 
Experts  ....................................                            55 
Available Information  ......................                            55 
Index to Financial Statements  ..............                           F-1 

============================================================================= 

<PAGE>

============================================================================= 
                               1,000,000 Shares

                              HOLMES PROTECTION 
                                 GROUP, INC. 
                                     LOGO 

                                 Common Stock 
                               ($.01 par value)

 
                                    ------ 
                                  PROSPECTUS 
                                    ------ 


                             Brean Murray, Foster 
                               Securities Inc.

 
                                       , 1996 


============================================================================= 

                                     
<PAGE>

                                   PART II 
                    INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS 

ITEM 13. OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION. 

   The following is an itemization of all expenses (subject to future 
contingencies) incurred or expected to be incurred by the Company in 
connection with the issuance and distribution of the securities being offered 
hereby (items marked with an asterisk (*) represent estimated expenses): 

SEC Registration Fee  ..................                        $  3,866.38 
Legal Fees and Expenses  ...............                         150,000.00(*) 
Blue Sky Fees (including counsel fees) .                           5,000.00(*) 
NASD Filing Fee  .......................                           1,621.25 
NASDAQ Fee  ............................                           1,000.00 
Accounting Fees and Expenses  ..........                         100,000.00(*) 
Transfer Agent and Registrar Fees  .....                           2,500.00(*) 
Printing and Engraving Expenses  .......                          50,000.00(*) 
Underwriting Expense Allowance  ........                         150,000.00 
Miscellaneous Expenses  ................                          36,012.37(*) 
   Total  ..............................                        $500,000.00 
                                                               =============== 

ITEM 14. INDEMNIFICATION OF OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS. 

   Delaware General Corporation Law (the "DGCL"), Section 102(b)(7), enables 
a corporation in its original certificate of incorporation, or an amendment 
thereto validly approved by stockholders, to eliminate or limit personal 
liability of members of its Board for violations of a director's fiduciary 
duty of care. However, the elimination or limitation shall not apply where 
there has been a breach of the duty of loyalty, failure to act in good faith, 
intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of a law, the payment of a 
dividend or approval of a stock repurchase which is deemed illegal or an 
improper personal benefit is obtained. The Company's Restated Certificate of 
Incorporation eliminates the liability of directors to the extent permitted 
by Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL. 

   Reference is made to Section 145 of the DGCL which provides that a 
corporation may indemnify directors and officers as well as other employees 
and individuals against expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, 
fines and amounts paid in settlement in connection with specified actions, 
suits or proceedings, whether civil, criminal, administrative or 
investigative (other than an action by or in the right of the corporation (a 
"derivative action"); if they acted in good faith and in a manner they 
reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the 
corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no 
reasonable cause to believe their conduct was unlawful. A similar standard is 
applicable in the case of derivative actions, except that indemnification 
only extends to expenses (including attorneys' fees) incurred in connection 
with defense or settlement of such action, and the statute requires court 
approval before there can be any indemnification where the person seeking 
indemnification has been found liable to the corporation. The statute 
provides that it is not exclusive of other indemnification that may be 
granted by a corporation's charter, by-laws, disinterested director vote, 
stockholder vote, agreement or otherwise. The Restated Certificate of 
Incorporation of the Company provides for such indemnification of its 
directors and officers as permitted by Delaware law. 

   Reference is made to Article Eleventh of the Restated Certificate of 
Incorporation of the Company for certain indemnification rights of officers 
and directors of the Company. 

   In addition, the Company maintains a directors' and officers' liability 
insurance policy. 

   The Underwriting Agreement provides for reciprocal indemnification among 
the Company and the Underwriters and their respective officers, directors and 
control persons against certain liabilities in connection with this 
Registration Statement, including liabilities under the Securities Act. 

                                      II-1
<PAGE>

ITEM 15. RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES. 

   Pursuant to the Investment Agreement, on August 1, 1994, the Company sold 
1,515,886 shares of Common Stock and warrants to purchase 685,714 shares of 
Common Stock at an exercise price of $4.58 per share to the Investor for an 
aggregate cash consideration of $10 million. This issuance was exempt from 
registration under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act based on the limited 
nature of the offering and the representations made by the purchasing 
stockholder. 

   The purchaser of the securities described above has represented that it 
understands that the securities acquired may not be sold or otherwise 
transferred absent registration under the Act or the availability of an 
exemption from the registration requirements of the Act, and each certificate 
evidencing the securities owned by such purchaser bears or will bear upon 
issuance a legend to that effect. 

ITEM 16. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES. 

(A) EXHIBITS. 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   Exhibit 
     No. 
 ------------ 
<S>            <C>
 1.1           Form of the Underwriting Agreement(**) 
 3.1           Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company(5) 
 3.2           Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Company(5) 
 4.1           Specimen of Common Stock Certificate(5) 
 4.3           Investor Warrant(2) 
 4.4           Form of Institution Warrant(2) 
 5.1           Opinion of Squadron, Ellenoff, Plesent & Sheinfeld(**) 
10.1           Investment Agreement between HP Partners L.P. ("Investor") and the Company dated as of June 29, 1994(1) 
10.2           Registration Rights Agreement between Investor and the Company dated August 1, 1994(2) 
10.3           Exchange Agreement, dated as of December 18, 1991, among the Company and a number of insurance companies 
               and other institutions listed therein ("Institutions")(1) 
10.4           First Amendment to the Exchange Agreement dated January 31, 1992(1) 
10.5           Second Amendment to the Exchange Agreement dated May 24, 1992(1) 
10.6           Third Amendment to the Exchange Agreement dated June 30, 1992(1) 
10.7(a)        Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, dated September 30, 1993, between the Company and NatWest Bank 
               N.A. n/k/a Fleet Bank, N.A. (formerly National Westminster Bank USA) ("Loan Agreement")(1) 
10.7(b)        Amendment No. 1 to Loan Agreement dated October 10, 1994(2) 
10.7(c)        Amendment and Supplement No. 2 to Loan Agreement dated as of March 10, 1995(5) 
10.7(d)        Amendment No. 3 to Loan Agreement dated as of April 4, 1995(6) 
10.8           Holmes Protection Group, Inc. 1992 Directors' Option Plan(1) 
10.9           Amended and Restated Senior Executives Option Plan(2) 
10.10          Master Lease Agreement No. 12223 dated December 18, 1992 between Data General Corporation and the 
               Company(1) 
10.11          Letter Agreement dated July 12, 1995 and Lease Schedule No. 006 dated July 26, 1995 to Master Lease 
               Agreement No. 12223 between Data General Corporation and the Company(7) 
10.12          Software License and Sublicense Agreement dated April 4, 1995 among Monitoring Automation Systems, 
               PremiTech Corporation and the Company(6) 
10.13          Employment Agreement between the Company and Eugene G. Lestardo dated June 22, 1995(7) 
10.14          Employment Agreement between the Company and Glenn C. Riker dated October 12, 1994(5) 
10.15          Employment Agreement between the Company and Neville N. Rosemin dated October 12, 1994(5) 
10.16          Employment Agreement between the Company and Brian H. Jaffe dated January 1, 1995(5) 
10.17          Employment Agreement between the Company and William C. Sholl dated August 29, 1994(5) 
10.18          Employment Agreement between the Company and George V. Flagg dated January 8, 1996(9) 
10.19          Employment Agreement between the Company and James L. Boehme dated January 8, 1996(9) 

                                     II-2
<PAGE>
 Exhibit 
   No. 
- -------- 
10.19(a)       Amendment to Employment Agreement between the Company and James L. Boehme dated June 5, 1996(*) 
10.20          Employment Agreement between the Company and Lawrence R. Irving dated May 13, 1996(*) 
10.21          Lease Agreement, dated as of July 1, 1995, between Holmes Protection of New York Inc. ("HPNY") and 
               Forty-Seventh- Fifth Company; Lease Guaranty by the Company dated as of July 1, 1995(7) 
10.22(a)       Lease Agreement, dated March 2, 1987, between HPNY and Ninth Avenue Associates (including First Amendment 
               dated August 9, 1988 thereto)(1) 
10.22(b)       Second Amendment to Lease Agreement dated October 7, 1987(2) 
10.22(c)       Third Amendment to Lease Agreement dated October 27, 1994(3) 
10.22(d)       Fourth Amendment to Lease Agreement dated November 13, 1995(9) 
10.23          Lease Agreement, dated June 1992, among Holmes Protection of Long Island, Inc., Holmes Protection 
               Group, Inc. and J&B Properties Ltd.(1) 
10.24          Lease Agreement, dated January 31, 1974, between Holmes Protection of Philadelphia, Inc. and George 
               Shapiro (including amendments thereto)(1) 
10.25          Lease Agreement, dated August 15, 1989, between Dictograph Security Systems Inc. and Center Realty(2) 
10.26          Lease Agreement, dated June 8, 1989, between Holmes Protection, Inc. and High Ridge Enterprises, Inc.(1) 
10.27          Form of Registration Rights Agreement with Institutions(2) 
10.28          Agreement For Information Technology Services dated as of April 4, 1995 between PremiTech Corporation 
               (formerly Premisys Corporation) and the Company ("Outsourcing Agreement")(7) 
10.29          First Amendment to Outsourcing Agreement dated as of August 1, 1995(8) 
10.30          Second Amendment to Outsourcing Agreement dated as of December 14, 1995(9) 
10.31          Third Amendment to Outsourcing Agreement dated as of January 19, 1996(9) 
10.32          Parent Corporation Guarantee dated April 4, 1995 among Electronic Data Systems Corporation, PremiTech 
               Corporation and the Company(6) 
10.33          Commitment Letter, dated July 3, 1996, between the Company and Merita Bank Ltd(*) 
10.34          Commitment Letter, dated July 22, 1996, between the Company and Bank of Boston Connecticut(*) 
18.1           Letter from Arthur Andersen LLP dated March 20, 1996 regarding change in accounting principle(9) 
21.1           Subsidiaries of the Company(9) 
23.1           Consent of Arthur Andersen, LLP(*) 
23.2           Consent of Squadron, Ellenoff, Plesent & Sheinfeld, LLP (contained in the Opinion filed as Exhibit 
               5.1)(**) 
24.1           Power of Attorney (included on the signature page hereof) 
</TABLE>
- ------ 
(*)  Filed herewith. 

(**) To be filed by amendment. 

(1) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on Form 
    10 dated July 11, 1994. 

(2) Incorporated by reference to Amendment No. 1 to the Company's 
    Registration Statement on Form 10/A dated October 13, 1994. 

(3) Incorporated by reference to Amendment No. 2 to the Company's 
    Registration Statement on Form 10/A dated December 13, 1994. 

(4) Incorporated by reference to Amendment No. 3 to the Company's 
    Registration Statement on Form 10/A dated January 25, 1995. 

(5) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for 
    the fiscal year ended December 31, 1994. 

                                     II-3
<PAGE>

(6) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q 
    for the quarter ended March 31, 1995. 

(7) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q 
    for the quarter ended June 30, 1995. 

(8) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q 
    for the quarter ended September 30, 1995. 

(9) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for 
    the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995. 

(B) FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES. 

   Schedule II -- Valuation and Qualifying Accounts 

ITEM 17. UNDERTAKINGS. 

   The Company hereby undertakes to provide to the Underwriters at the 
closing specified in the Underwriting Agreement certificates in such 
denominations and registered in such names as required by the Underwriters to 
permit prompt delivery to each purchaser. 

   Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities 
Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the 
Company pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Company has 
been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission 
such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities 
Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for 
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the 
Company of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling 
person of the Company in the successful defense of any action, suit or 
proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in 
connection with the securities being registered, the Company will, unless in 
the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling 
precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether 
such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the 
Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue. 

   The Company hereby undertakes that, for purposes of determining any 
liability under the Securities Act, the information omitted from the form of 
prospectus filed as part of this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 
430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant 
to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed 
to be part of this registration statement as of the time it was declared 
effective. 

   The Company hereby undertakes that, for the purpose of determining any 
liability under the Securities Act, each post-effective amendment that 
contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration 
statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of 
such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide 
offering thereof. 

                                     II-4
<PAGE>
                                  SIGNATURES 


   Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the registrant 
has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the 
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, State of New 
York, on July 26, 1996. 


                                          HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC. 
                                          
                                          By:/s/ George V. Flagg 
                                             -------------------------------- 
                                               George V. Flagg 
                                               President, Chief Executive 
                                               Officer 
                                               and Director 

                              POWER OF ATTORNEY 

   KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears 
below constitutes and appoints George V. Flagg and Lawrence R. Irving, or any 
one of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full 
power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place, and 
stead, in any and all capacities, to sign and file (i) any and all pre- or 
post-effective amendments to this Registration Statement, with all exhibits 
thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, and (ii) any 
registration statement, and any and all amendments thereto, relating to the 
offering covered hereby pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act of 
1933, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said 
attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to 
do and perform each and every act and thing requisite or necessary to be done 
in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might 
or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said 
attorneys-in-fact and agents, or any of them, or their or his substitutes, 
may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. 

   In accordance with the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this 
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the 
capacities and on the dates stated. 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
         Signatures                                 Title                               Date 
 --------------------------   -------------------------------------------------   ---------------- 
<S>                          <C>                                                  <C>

/s/ George V. Flagg          President, Chief Executive Officer (Principal         July 26, 1996 
  -------------------------  Executive Officer) and Director 
  George V. Flagg 

/s/ Lawrence R. Irving       Vice President -- Finance (Principal Financial        July 26, 1996 
  -------------------------  and Accounting Officer) 
  Lawrence R. Irving 

/s/ Pierre Besuchet          Director                                              July 26, 1996 
  ------------------------- 
  Pierre Besuchet 

/s/ Daniel T. Carroll        Director                                              July 26, 1996 
  ------------------------- 
  Daniel T. Carroll 

/s/ Lawrence R. Glenn        Director                                              July 26, 1996 
  ------------------------- 
  Lawrence R. Glenn 

/s/ Mark S. Hauser           Director                                              July 26, 1996 
  ------------------------- 
  Mark S. Hauser  

/s/ William P. Lyons         Director                                              July 26, 1996 
  ------------------------- 
  William P. Lyons 
 
/s/ David Jan Mitchell       Director                                              July 26, 1996 
  ------------------------- 
  David Jan Mitchell 

/s/ Edward L. Palmer         Director                                              July 26, 1996 
  ------------------------- 
  Edward L. Palmer 
 
/s/ William Spier            Director                                              July 26, 1996 
  ------------------------- 
  William Spier 
</TABLE>

                                     II-5
<PAGE>

                                EXHIBIT INDEX 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Exhibit 
  No.                                               Description                                                        Page 
- ----------                                          -----------                                                        ---- 
<S>            <C>                                                                                                    <C>
 1.1           Form of the Underwriting Agreement(**) 
 3.1           Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company(5) 
 3.2           Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Company(5) 
 4.1           Specimen of Common Stock Certificate(5) 
 4.3           Investor Warrant(2) 
 4.4           Form of Institution Warrant(2) 
 5.1           Opinion of Squadron, Ellenoff, Plesent & Sheinfeld(**) 
10.1           Investment Agreement between HP Partners L.P. ("Investor") and the Company dated as of June 
               29, 1994(1) 
10.2           Registration Rights Agreement between Investor and the Company dated August 1, 1994(2) 
10.3           Exchange Agreement, dated as of December 18, 1991, among the Company and a number of insurance 
               companies and other institutions listed therein ("Institutions")(1) 
10.4           First Amendment to the Exchange Agreement dated January 31, 1992(1) 
10.5           Second Amendment to the Exchange Agreement dated May 24, 1992(1) 
10.6           Third Amendment to the Exchange Agreement dated June 30, 1992(1) 
10.7(a)        Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, dated September 30, 1993, between the Company and NatWest 
               Bank N.A. n/k/a Fleet Bank, N.A. (formerly National Westminster Bank USA) ("Loan Agreement")(1) 
10.7(b)        Amendment No. 1 to Loan Agreement dated October 10, 1994(2) 
10.7(c)        Amendment and Supplement No. 2 to Loan Agreement dated as of March 10, 1995(5) 
10.7(d)        Amendment No. 3 to Loan Agreement dated as of April 4, 1995(6) 
10.8           Holmes Protection Group, Inc. 1992 Directors' Option Plan(1) 
10.9           Amended and Restated Senior Executives Option Plan(2) 
10.10          Master Lease Agreement No. 12223 dated December 18, 1992 between Data General Corporation and 
               the Company(1) 
10.11          Letter Agreement dated July 12, 1995 and Lease Schedule No. 006 dated July 26, 1995 to Master 
               Lease Agreement No. 12223 between Data General Corporation and the Company(7) 
10.12          Software License and Sublicense Agreement dated April 4, 1995 among Monitoring Automation Systems, 
               PremiTech Corporation and the Company(6) 
10.13          Employment Agreement between the Company and Eugene G. Lestardo dated June 22, 1995(7) 
10.14          Employment Agreement between the Company and Glenn C. Riker dated October 12, 1994(5) 
10.15          Employment Agreement between the Company and Neville N. Rosemin dated October 12, 1994(5) 
10.16          Employment Agreement between the Company and Brian H. Jaffe dated January 1, 1995(5) 
10.17          Employment Agreement between the Company and William C. Sholl dated August 29, 1994(5) 
10.18          Employment Agreement between the Company and George V. Flagg dated January 8, 1996(9) 
10.19          Employment Agreement between the Company and James L. Boehme dated January 8, 1996(9) 
10.19(a)       Amendment to Employment Agreement between the Company and James L. Boehme dated June 5, 1996(*) 
10.20          Employment Agreement between the Company and Lawrence R. Irving dated May 13, 1996(*) 

                                    
<PAGE>

Exhibit 
  No.                                               Description                                                      Page 
- ---------                                           -----------                                                      ---- 
10.21          Lease Agreement, dated as of July 1, 1995, between Holmes Protection of New York Inc. ("HPNY") 
               and Forty-Seventh- Fifth Company; Lease Guaranty by the Company dated as of July 1, 1995(7) 
10.22(a)       Lease Agreement, dated March 2, 1987, between HPNY and Ninth Avenue Associates (including First 
               Amendment dated August 9, 1988 thereto)(1) 
10.22(b)       Second Amendment to Lease Agreement dated October 7, 1987(2) 
10.22(c)       Third Amendment to Lease Agreement dated October 27, 1994(3) 
10.22(d)       Fourth Amendment to Lease Agreement dated November 13, 1995(9) 
10.23          Lease Agreement, dated June 1992, among Holmes Protection of Long Island, Inc., Holmes Protection 
               Group, Inc. and J&B Properties Ltd.(1) 
10.24          Lease Agreement, dated January 31, 1974, between Holmes Protection of Philadelphia, Inc. and 
               George Shapiro (including amendments thereto)(1) 
10.25          Lease Agreement, dated August 15, 1989, between Dictograph Security Systems Inc. and Center 
               Realty(2) 
10.26          Lease Agreement, dated June 8, 1989, between Holmes Protection, Inc. and High Ridge Enterprises, 
               Inc.(1) 
10.27          Form of Registration Rights Agreement with Institutions(2) 
10.28          Agreement For Information Technology Services dated as of April 4, 1995 between PremiTech Corporation 
               (formerly Premisys Corporation) and the Company ("Outsourcing Agreement")(7) 
10.29          First Amendment to Outsourcing Agreement dated as of August 1, 1995(8) 
10.30          Second Amendment to Outsourcing Agreement dated as of December 14, 1995(9) 
10.31          Third Amendment to Outsourcing Agreement dated as of January 19, 1996(9) 
10.32          Parent Corporation Guarantee dated April 4, 1995 among Electronic Data Systems Corporation, 
               PremiTech Corporation and the Company(6) 
10.33          Commitment Letter, dated July 3, 1996, between the Company and Merita Bank Ltd(*) 
10.34          Commitment Letter, dated July 22, 1996, between the Company and Bank of Boston Connecticut(*) 
18.1           Letter from Arthur Andersen LLP dated March 20, 1996 regarding change in accounting principle(9) 
21.1           Subsidiaries of the Company(9) 
23.1           Consent of Arthur Andersen, LLP(*) 
23.2           Consent of Squadron, Ellenoff, Plesent & Sheinfeld, LLP (contained in the Opinion filed as Exhibit 
               5.1)(**) 
24.1           Power of Attorney (included on the signature page hereof) 
</TABLE>

- ------ 
(*)  Filed herewith. 

(**) To be filed by amendment. 

(1) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on Form 
    10 dated July 11, 1994. 

(2) Incorporated by reference to Amendment No. 1 to the Company's 
    Registration Statement on Form 10/A dated October 13, 1994. 

(3) Incorporated by reference to Amendment No. 2 to the Company's 
    Registration Statement on Form 10/A dated December 13, 1994. 

(4) Incorporated by reference to Amendment No. 3 to the Company's 
    Registration Statement on Form 10/A dated January 25, 1995. 

(5) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for 
    the fiscal year ended December 31, 1994. 

(6) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q 
    for the quarter ended March 31, 1995. 

(7) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q 
    for the quarter ended June 30, 1995. 

(8) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q 
    for the quarter ended September 30, 1995. 

(9) Incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for 
    the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995. 






<PAGE>

                                                              EXHIBIT 10.19(a)




                                            June 5, 1996


Mr. James L. Boehme
10 Thunderhill 
Ridgefield, CT 06877



Dear Jim:

     This will confirm the action taken by the Compensation Committee of the
Board of Directors of Holmes Protection Group, Inc. (the "Company"), that
Section 2 of the Employment Agreement between the Company and you, dated as of
January 8, 1996 (the "Agreement"), is hereby amended by changing the expiration
date provided therein from December 31, 1996 to December 31, 1997.

     Except as so amended, the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect
in accordance with its terms.

     Please acknowledge below your acceptance of such amendment on all the
enclosed copies hereof, and return two (2) copies to my office.


                              Sincerely,



                              /s/  William P. Lyons
                              ---------------------------
                              William P. Lyons
                              Chairman
                              Holmes Protection Group, Inc.



ACCEPTED AND AGREED TO:

/s/  James L. Boehme
- ----------------------------
James L. Boehme



<PAGE>

                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.20

                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

AGREEMENT,  made  as of  this  13th  day of  May,  1996  by and  between  Holmes
Protection Group, Inc. (the "Company") and Lawrence R. Irving ("Executive")

                                   WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, the Company is engaged in the business of providing central station
burglar and fire alarm protection services and of providing management services
to affiliated companies (the "Business");

WHEREAS, Executive has represented that he has the expertise, background and
experience to enable him to perform all of the duties and execute all of the
responsibilities contemplated by this Agreement;

WHEREAS, based on such representation, the Company wishes to employ Executive
upon the terms hereinafter set forth; and

WHEREAS, Executive wishes to be so employed by the Company;

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual convenants and
agreements herein contained, the Company and Executive agree as follows:

1.   Employment. The Company hereby agrees to employ Executive, and Executive
     hereby agrees to be employed and serve, subject to the provisions of this
     Agreement, as the Vice President - Finance of the Company. Executive shall
     perform such duties and responsibilities as are from time to time assigned
     to Executive by the Chief Executive Officer of the Company (the "CEO"), to
     whom Executive shall report. Executive agrees to devote all of his business
     time, attention and energies to the performance of the duties assigned to
     him hereunder, and to perform such duties faithfully, diligently and to the
     best of his abilities and subject to such laws, rules, regulations and
     policies from time to time applicable to the Company's employees, including
     but not limited to the Company's Code of Practice for Purchase of Shares.
     Executive agrees to refrain from engaging in any activity that does, will
     or could reasonably be deemed to conflict with or be detrimental to the
     best interests of the Company.

 2.  Term. This Agreement and Executive's employment hereunder shall commence as
     of May 13, 1996 and shall expire on May 31, 1998 (the "Term"), unless
     sooner terminated in accordance with Section 8 hereof; provided, however,
     unless so terminated, such employment shall continue year-to-year
     thereafter, subject to said Section 8 (such continued period being included
     hereunder as the "Term").

<PAGE>

3.   Compensation

     (a) Salary. Executive's salary shall be at the rate of no less than
     $105,000 payable in accordance with the Company's regular payroll
     practices. All applicable withholding taxes shall be deducted from such
     payments. Salary reviews will be conducted no less than annually.

     (b) Options. Subject and pursuant to the terms of a new stock option plan
     to be prepared and submitted by the Company for shareholder approval at the
     Company's 1996 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, and their approval thereof,
     the Company hereby agrees to grant to Executive a non-statutory option to
     purchase 25,000 shares of the Company's common stock, at an exercise price
     equal to the Fair Market Value (to be defined in said plan) of such shares
     on May 6, 1996. 5,000 options of the options granted pursuant hereto shall
     vest immediately upon the approval of said stock plan by the Company's
     shareholders as aforesaid, and 5,000 shall vest on each May 6th of the
     years 1997 to 2000. Provided, however, that if Executive's employment
     hereunder shall have been terminated by the Company for Cause (as
     hereinafter defined) or voluntarily by Executive without Good Reason (as
     hereinafter defined), prior to any of such dates, all unvested options
     shall immediately terminate upon Executive's termination of employment and
     no longer represent the right to purchase stock of the Company. If
     Executive's employment hereunder is terminated by the Company for any
     reason other than Cause, or by Executive with Good Reason, all unvested
     options shall vest immediately upon the date of such termination. All
     previously vested options, and those that have vested as aforesaid upon
     Executive's termination of employment, shall remain exercisable for three
     (3) months after the date of Executive's termination of employment or for
     such longer period as may be provided in the option agreements pursuant to
     which the options are granted.

4.   Benefits. Executive shall receive the benefits listed in Appendix A hereto,
     which benefits shall be provided to Executive in accordance with the terms
     and conditions of such benefit plans and programs as are maintained by the
     Company for individuals in positions comparable to those of Executive, as
     such plans are amended from time to time.

5.   Vacation.  Executive  shall be entitled to paid  vacation of four (4) weeks
     annually.  Such vacation  shall be taken at such times as will interfere as
     little as possible with the performance of Executive's duties hereunder.

6.   Expenses. The Company will reimburse Executive for reasonable and necessary
     business expenses of Executive for travel, meals and similar items incurred
     in connection with the performance of Executive's duties, and which are
     consistent with such guidelines as the Company may from time to time
     establish. All payments for reimbursement of such expenses shall be made to
     the Executive only upon the presentation to the Company of appropriate
     vouchers or receipts.

<PAGE>

7.   Confidentiality, Non-Competition, etc.

     (a) Executive acknowledges that (i) the Business is intensely competitive
     and that Executive's employment by the Company will require that Executive
     have access to and knowledge of but not limited to, the identity of the
     Company's customers, the identity of the representatives of customers with
     whom the Company has dealt, the kinds of services provided by the Company
     to customers and offered to be performed for potential customers, the
     manner in which such services are performed or offered to be performed, the
     service need of actual or prospective customers, pricing information,
     information concerning the creation, acquisition or disposition of products
     and services, customer maintenance listings, computer software applications
     and other programs, personnel information and other trade secrets (the
     "Confidential Information"); (ii) the direct or indirect disclosure of any
     such Confidential Information to existing or potential competitors of the
     Company would place the Company at a competitive disadvantage and would do
     damage, monetary or otherwise, to the Company's business, and (iii) the
     engaging by Executive in any of the activities prohibited by this Section 7
     may constitute improper appropriation and/or use of such information and
     trade secrets. Executive expressly acknowledges the trade secret status of
     the Confidential Information and that the Confidential Information
     constitutes a protectible business interest of the Company. Accordingly,
     the Company and Executive agree as follows:

     (b) For purposes of this Section 7, the Company shall be construed to
     include the Company and its parents, subsidiaries and affiliates engaged in
     the Business.

     (c) During the Term of this Agreement and at all times after the
     termination of Executive's employment by expiration of the Term or
     otherwise, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly, whether
     individually, as a director, stockholder, owner, partner, employee,
     principal or agent of any business, or in any other capacity, make known,
     disclose, furnish, make available or utilize any of the Confidential
     Information, other than in the proper performance of the duties
     contemplated herein. Executive agrees to return all Confidential
     Information, including all photocopies, extracts and summaries thereof, and
     any such information stored electronically on tapes, computer disks or in
     any other manner, to the Company at any time upon request by the Company
     and upon the termination of his employment for any reason.

     (d) Executive shall not, so long as he is employed by the Company, engage
     in "Competition" with the Company. For purposes of this Agreement,
     Competition by Executive shall mean Executive's engaging in, or otherwise
     directly or indirectly being employed by or acting as a consultant or
     lender to, or being a director, officer, employee, principal, agent,
     stockholder, member, owner or partner of, or permitting his name to be used
     in connection with the activities of any other business or organization
     anywhere in the United States which competes, directly or indirectly, with
     the business of the Company as the same shall be constituted at any time
     during his employment hereunder.
<PAGE>

     (e) For a period of six (6) months following the termination of Executive's
     employment hereunder, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly, engage
     in Competition with the Company in any locality or region of the United
     States in which the Company had operations at the time of, or within six
     (6) months prior to, such termination, or in which, during the six (6)
     month period prior to such termination, the Company had made substantial
     plans with the intention of establishing operations in such locality or
     region; provided , that it shall not be violation of this subparagraph for
     Executive to become the registered or beneficial owner of up to five
     percent (5%) of any class of the capital stock of a competing corporation
     registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, provided
     that Executive does not actively participate in the business of such
     corporation until such time as this covenant expires.

     (f) For a period of twelve (12) months following the termination of
     Executive's employment hereunder, Executive shall not, directly or
     indirectly, for his benefit or for the benefit of any other person, firm or
     entity, do any of the following:

            (i) solicit from any customer doing business with the Company, as of
     Executive's termination of employment hereunder, business of the same or of
     a similar nature to the business of the Company, it being understood,
     however, that since customers in the Business often utilize more than one
     company at the same time to provide such services, then, to the extent any
     customer of the Company, as of Executive's termination, was also at the
     time a customer of another company, the restriction under this Section 7(f)
     (i) shall only apply to any increase in the amount of services to that
     customer attributable, directly or indirectly, to Executive which exceeds
     increases in the ordinary course of business;

            (ii) solicit from any known potential customer of the Company
     business of the same or of a similar nature to that which has been the
     subject of a known written or oral bid, offer or proposal by the Company,
     or of substantial preparation with a view to making such a bid, proposal or
     offer, within six (6) months prior to Executive's termination of employment
     hereunder;

            (iii) solicit the employment or services of, or hire, any person who
     was known to be employed by or was a known consultant to the Company upon
     Executive's termination of employment hereunder or within six (6) months
     prior thereto; or

            (iv) otherwise interfere with the business or accounts of the
     Company.

     (g) Executive acknowledges that the services to be rendered by him to the
     Company are of a special and unique character, which gives this Agreement a
     peculiar value to the Company, the loss of which may not be reasonably or
     adequately compensated for by damages in an action at law, and that a
     material breach or threatened breach by him of any of the provisions
     contained in this Section 7 will cause the Company irreparable injury.
     Executive therefore agrees that the Company shall be entitled, in addition
     to any other right or remedy, to a temporary, preliminary and permanent
     injunction, without the necessity of proving the inadequacy of monetary
     damages or the posting of any bond or security, enjoining or restraining
     Executive from any such violation or threatened violation.

     (h) Executive further acknowledges and agrees that due to the uniqueness of
     his services and confidential nature of the information he possesses, the
     convenants set forth herein are reasonable and necessary for the protection
     of the business and goodwill of the Company.

<PAGE>

 8.   Termination.

     (a) Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, the
     employment of Executive hereunder shall terminate on the first to occur of
     the following dates:

            (i)   the date of Executive's death or adjudicated incompetency;

            (ii) the date on which the Company shall give Executive notice of
     termination on account of Disability (as hereinafter defined);

            (iii) the date on which the Company shall give Executive notice of
     termination for Cause (as hereinafter defined);

            (iv) the date on which the Company shall give Executive (or his
     representative) notice of termination for any reason other than the reasons
     set forth in (i) through (iii), above, in which event Executive shall be
     entitled to receive, as his sole and exclusive remedy, a severance payment
     of twelve (12) months' salary (paid through the severance payment period),
     continuation of medical benefits coverage for Executive and any covered
     dependents during such twelve (12) month severance payment period plus pay
     for any unused vacation; provided, that if the Company gives notice of
     termination pursuant to this Section 8(a)(iv) within 12 months of a
     Change-of-Control Event (as hereinafter defined), Executive shall be
     entitled to continue to receive the severance payment and benefits provided
     in this Section 8(a)(iv) for an additional period of twelve (12) months
     from and after such Event, for an aggregate severance payment period
     consisting of the time prior to such Event plus twelve (12) months.

     (b) The Company shall be entitled at any time, upon notice to Executive, to
     terminate his employment hereunder on account of the Disability of
     Executive or for Cause, and, in either of such events, or in the event that
     Executive's employment hereunder shall terminate on account of the death,
     or adjudicated incompetency of Executive, Executive or his estate,
     conservator or designated beneficiary, as the case may be, shall be
     entitled to payment of any earned but unpaid salary and payment for unused
     vacation days, through the date of termination. Following any such
     termination, neither Executive nor his estate, conservator or designated
     beneficiary shall be entitled to receive any salary or other payment
     provided for hereunder with respect to any period after such termination.

     (c) For purposes of this Agreement, "Disability" shall mean an illness,
     injury or other incapacitating condition as a result of which Executive is
     unable to perform the services required to be performed under this
     Agreement for (i) ninety (90) consecutive days during the Term, or (ii) a
     period or periods aggregating more than one hundred twenty (120) days in
     any twelve (12) consecutive months. In any such event, the Company, in its
     sole discretion, may terminate this Agreement by giving notice to Executive
     of termination for Disability. Executive agrees to submit to such medical
     examinations as may be necessary to determine whether a Disability exists,
     pursuant to such reasonable requests made by the Company from time to time.
     Any termination of Executive's employment under this subparagraph shall not
     preclude Executive from obtaining the benefits provided under any short or
     long term disability income program or policy maintained by the Company,
     which benefits shall be provided solely in accordance with the terms of
     such program or policy, as amended from time to time by the Company.
<PAGE>

     (d) For purposes of this Agreement, "Cause" shall mean the occurrence of
     any of the following, as reasonably determined by the Company:

            (i) the willful failure, neglect or refusal by Executive to
     substantially perform his duties hereunder (including, without limitation,
     Executive's inability to perform such duties as a result of alcohol or drug
     abuse, chronic alcoholism or drug addition), after a written demand for
     such substantial performance is delivered to Executive by the CEO
     specifying the manner in which the CEO believes Executive has not so
     substantially performed;

            (ii) any willful, intentional or grossly negligent act by Executive
     having the effect of materially injuring the business or reputation of the
     Company, or any of its parents, subsidiaries or affiliates;

            (iii) willful misconduct by Executive, including insubordination, in
     respect of the duties or obligation s of Executive under this Agreement;

            (iv) Executive's commission of a felony or misdemeanor involving
     moral turpitude (including entry of a nolo contendere plea);

            (v) any misappropriation or embezzlement of the property of the
     Company and its parents, subsidiaries and affiliates (whether or not a
     misdemeanor or felony); and

            (vi) a breach of any one or more of the convenants of this Agreement
     by Executive.

     Notwithstanding the foregoing, executive shall not be deemed to have been
     terminated for Cause unless and until (i) the CEO shall have delivered to
     Executive a preliminary notice of termination specifying the basis for such
     termination and given Executive and his counsel an opportunity, upon
     reasonable notice, to be heard by the Board of Directors of the Company,
     and (ii) following such hearing, the Board shall have determined that such
     termination was appropriate and so specified in a final notice to the
     effect and setting forth the effective date of such termination which shall
     be no earlier than the date of such final notice.

     (e) For purposes of this Agreement, "Good Reason" shall mean the occurrence
     of any of the following, as reasonably determined by Executive:

            (i) assignment to Executive of any duties materially and adversely
     inconsistent with his position or responsibilities as specified in Section
     1 hereof, or any other action by the Company which results in a material
     and adverse changes in such position or responsibilities;

            (ii) the failure of the Company to assign this Agreement to a
     successor to the Company;
<PAGE>

            (iii) any failure by the Company to comply with the provisions of
     this Agreement;

            (iv) The Company's requiring Executive to have as his principal
     place of employment any office or location more than 50 miles from New York
     City, New York; or

            (v) any material adverse change to the terms and conditions of
     Executive's employment under this Agreement.

     Notwithstanding the foregoing, no event(s) shall constitute Good Reason
     hereunder if after a notice of termination for Good Reason is given to the
     Company by Executive, the Company with reasonable promptness cures or
     otherwise corrects the event or events claimed to provide the basis for
     such a termination and, in such case, such notice shall be deemed not to
     have been delivered.

     (f) If Executive shall be entitled to the additional 12 months of severance
     benefits set forth in the proviso to Section 8(a)(v) hereof, following a
     Change-of-Control Event, the restrictive period following termination of
     employment referred to in the first sentence of Section 7(f) hereof shall
     be deemed to continue for such additional 12 month severance payment
     period.

     (g) For purposes of this Agreement, "Change-of-Control" shall mean the
     consummation of (i) a proxy contest for control of the Company's Board of
     Directors resulting in the person or entity or group of affiliated persons
     or entities (collectively, a "Control Group") initiating such proxy contest
     electing a majority of the members of the Board of Directors of the
     Company; or (ii) the purchase by a Control Group of the common stock or
     other securities of the Company which, when aggregated with any other
     securities of the Company then held by such Control Group, gives such
     Control Group "beneficial ownership" (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the
     Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) of securities representing
     more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company; or (iii) any
     such transaction which the Board of Directors of the Company shall have
     favorably recommended to shareholders of the Company at any time prior to
     its consummation (and such recommendation shall not have been withdrawn).

 9.  Return of Company Property. Executive agrees that following the termination
     of his employment hereunder for any reason, he shall return all property of
     the  Company,  or its  subsidiaries  and  affiliates,  which  is then in or
     thereafter  comes  into his  possession,  including,  but not  limited  to,
     documents,   contracts,   agreements,  plans,  photographs,  books,  notes,
     electronically  stored data and all copies of the  foregoing as well as any
     automobile  or other  materials  or  equipment  supplied  by the Company to
     Executive.

 10. Compensation in Event of Termination; Survival. Upon termination of
     Executive's employment hereunder for any reason, this Agreement shall
     terminate and the Company shall have no further obligation to Executive
     except to the extent Executive is otherwise entitled to any unpaid salary
     or benefits hereunder, insurance coverage in accordance with applicable
     law, and severance pay as provided herein; provided, that the provisions
     set forth in Sections 7, 8 and 9 hereof shall remain in full force and
     effect after the termination of Executive's employment, notwithstanding the
     expiration or termination of this Agreement.
<PAGE>

 11. Entire Agreement. This Agreement sets forth the entire agreement between
     the parties with respect to its subject matter and merges and supersedes
     all prior discussions, agreements and understandings of every kind and
     nature between them and neither party shall be bound by any term or
     condition other than as expressly set forth or provided for in this
     Agreement. This Agreement may not be changed or modified except by an
     agreement in writing, signed by the parties hereto.

 12. Waiver. The failure of either party to this Agreement to enforce any of its
     terms, provisions or convenants shall not be construed as a waiver of the
     same or of the right of such party to enforce the same. Waiver by either
     party hereto of any breach or default by the other party of any term or
     provision of this Agreement shall not operate as a waiver of any other
     breach or default.

 13. Severability. In the event that any one or more of the provisions of this
     Agreement shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the
     validity, legality and enforceability of the remainder of the Agreement
     shall not in any way be affected or impaired therby. Moreover, if any one
     or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement shall be held to be
     excessively broad as to duration, activity or subject, such provisions
     shall be construed by limiting and reducing them so as to be enforceable to
     the maximum extent allowed by applicable law.

 14. Notices. Any notice given hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed
     to have been given when delivered by messenger or courier service (against
     appropriate receipt), or mailed, by registered or certified mail (return
     receipt requested), addressed as follows:

              If to the Company:                 Holmes Protection Group
                                                 440 Ninth Avenue
                                                 New York, NY  10001-1607

                                                 Attn:  Sr. V.P. Human Resources

              If to the Executive:               Mr. Lawrence Irving
                                                 77 Branchville Road
                                                 Valley Cottage, NY  10989




     or at such other address as shall be indicated to either party in writing.
     Notice of change of address shall be effective only upon receipt.
<PAGE>

15.  Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
     accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to its
     conflict-of-law rules.

16.  Descriptive Headings. The paragraph headings contained herein are for
     reference purposes only and shall not in any way affect the meaning or
     interpretation of this Agreement.

17.  Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts,
     which, together, shall constitute one and the same agreement.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the date
first written above.

HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC.               EXECUTIVE

By: /s/ Holmes Protection Group, Inc.       /s/ Lawrence R. Irving
    --------------------------------       --------------------------------
                                           Lawrence R. Irving

<PAGE>

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

                                   APPENDIX A

Benefits

Medical
Dental
Life
Short Term Disability
Long Term Disability
401(k)
Business Travel and Accident
Automobile Allowance - $200/week

- -----------------------------       -----------------    ----------------------
Company                             Date                      Executive




<PAGE>


                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.33


Merita Bank 
New York Branch

July 3, 1996

Holmes Protection Group, Inc.
440 Ninth Avenue
New York, NY 10001

Attention: Mr. George V. Flagg
           President

Gentlemen:

Merita Bank, acting through its New York Branch, is pleased to provide for you
the following commitment letter in respect of a credit facility which would be
made available upon and subject to the terms and conditions set forth below.

Borrower:           Holmes Protection Group, Inc.

Guarantor:          Parent company of Borrower (it is assumed that a holding
                    company - operating company structure will be adopted).

Total Facility:     $25,000,000 of which $15,000,000 is the Available
                    Commitment Amount. Full Commitment Amount of $25,000,000
                    will become available upon a separate credit decision by the
                    Bank or the addition of another lender, whichever comes
                    first.

Type of Facility:   Two year Revolver that converts to a five year Term Loan
                    $4 million sublimit for standby letters of credit.

Conversion Date:    Two years from closing.

Use of Proceeds:    Refinance existing bank facility, acquisitions of other
                    security companies and monitoring contracts, capital
                    expenditures and for general corporate purposes.



<PAGE>

Permitted
Acquisitions:         Acquisitions are permitted as long as the following
                      conditions are met:
                      - Same line of business,
                      - Prior to and after giving effect to any acquisition, the
                      company is in compliance with all covenants and there is
                      no Event of Default.
                      - The Bank provides it consent (which will not be withheld
                      unreasonably) to any acquisition whose purchase price
                      exceeds $4 million or 35 times the RMR to be acquired. The
                      Bank will review the due diligence reports prepared by the
                      Borrower for acquisitions that require its consent as well
                      as for smaller acquisitions when such smaller acquisitions
                      shall have totalled $4 million in aggregate.

Final Maturity:       Seven years from closing.


Repayment:            In equal quarterly installments which total to the
                      following percentages (for the applicable year) of the
                      amount outstanding on the conversion date.

                      Year 3:         15%
                      Year 4:         20%
                      Year 5:         20%
                      Year 6:         20%
                      Year 7:         25%


Drawdown Period:      For Twenty-four months following the closing of the loan
                      agreement, subject to covenant compliance.


Interest Rates:       At the borrower's option -

                      Prime rate plus Applicable Margin (365/6 day year) or

                      1, 2, 3 or 6 month Eurodollar rate plus Applicable Margin
                      (provided that each principal amount accruing at a
                      Eurodollar rate is at least $1 million and not more than 4
                      Eurodollar options are outstanding at once; 360 day year).

Interest Rate Hedge:  At least 50% of indebtedness must be hedged for a minimum
                      of three years for rates acceptable to the Bank; hedging
                      must be completed within 60 days after borrowing.


Interest:             Payable monthly in arrears for prime rate borrowing; at
                      the end of each Eurodollar period for Eurodollar
                      borrowings except in the case of the six month option when
                      interest is to be paid on the 90th and 180th day.




<PAGE>


Applicable Margin:    Varies with leverage (ratio of total debt to EBITDA for
                      the trailing four quarters less capital expenditures):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                              Margin Over             Margin Over
                      Leverage  Ratio:                           Prime                   Libor
                      ----------------                         -----------             -----------
<S>                                                            <C>                     <C>  
                      Less than 2.0x                              1.50%                   2.50%
                      Greater than 2.0x and Less than 1.0x        1.00%                   2.00%
                      Greater than 1.0X                           0.75%                   1.75%
</TABLE>

Fees:                 Due diligence fee: $5,000 payable at the closing of the
                      loan agreement.

                      Facility fee: 3/4% of the Available Commitment Amount
                      ($112,500) payable at the closing of the loan agreement.

                      Commitment Fee: 1/2% p.a. on the undrawn amount of the
                      Available Commitment Amount, payable quarterly in arrears:
                      amounts outstanding under letters of credit are
                      considered drawn for purposes of calculating this fee.

                      Letter of Credit Fee: 1.50%, 1.75% or 2.25%, based on the
                      Applicable Margin Leverage Ratio as above.

Security:              i) First priority lien on all tangible and intangible
                          assets of the Borrower; collateral assignment of
                          material contracts.

                      ii) A pledge of all equity interests in the Borrower.

                     iii) Guarantees from the Borrower's present and future
                          subsidiaries, excluding purchased subsidiaries that
                          will be consolidated within 180 days.

                      iv) Any advance by the Borrower to the Guarantor must be
                          evidenced by a promissory note that is pledged to the
                          Bank





Prepayments:          Optional

                      Permitted without premium or penalty subject to three (3)
                      banking days' prior written notice. Any costs associated
                      with early termination of Eurodollar contracts to be borne
                      by the Borrower.



<PAGE>

                      Mandatory

                         i)  Proceeds from the issuance of any other
                             indebtedness;

                        ii)  50% of Excess Cash Flow (to be defined) after
                             conversion date;

                       iii)  Proceeds from the sale of assets outside the
                             normal course of business.

Separable Warrant:    Part of the consideration for the Available Commitment
                      Amount: A warrant to purchase 100,000 shares of common
                      stock of Parent Company; exercise price per share equal to
                      105% of the closing price on the date of issue of our
                      commitment letter but not more than $9.75 per share;
                      expires 6 years after issuance or 1 year after repayment
                      in full of the credit facility, whichever is later;
                      standard anti-dilution rights; registration rights -
                      unlimited piggyback and one demand.

Representations and
Warranties:           Customary in credit agreements for this type of
                      transaction including, without limitation absence of
                      material adverse change in the business conditions,
                      operations, properties or prospects of the Borrower and
                      Guarantor, solvency of the Borrower and Guarantor and the
                      absence of material litigation or environmental hazards.

Conditions Precedent: The loan agreement will include conditions precedent to
                      borrowing that are standard for this type of loan. In
                      addition:
                      the Bank must receive a collateral audit report
                      prepared by a public accounting firm chosen by the Bank
                      and the report must be satisfactory to the Bank in its
                      sole discretion;
                      and not more than $10 million may be borrowed ($12.5
                      million if the Available Commitment has been increased to
                      $25 million) until the Guarantor or Borrower has completed
                      a sale of newly issued common shares and received at least
                      $10 million in net proceeds - such an equity contribution
                      is to be received no later than October 31, 1996.

Documentation:        The credit facility will be subject to the negotiation,
                      execution and exchange of loan documentation satisfactory
                      to all parties thereto. Such documentation to incorporate
                      standard representations and warranties, increased cost
                      and capital adequacy provisions, covenants, and events of
                      default including, without limitation:

Financial Covenants:  Customary in credit agreements for this type of
                      transaction including, without limitation, the amounts and
                      ratios that appear below. Financial covenants will be
                      tested at closing and at the end of each fiscal quarter
                      for the consolidated Guarantor.


<PAGE>

                      Maximum Leverage
                      Total Consolidated Debt/Annualized Quarterly EBITDA

                      1996:           1.75x                1999:          1.00x
                      1997:           1.50x                2000:          l.00x
                      1998:           1.30x                2001:          1.00x

                      Total Consolidated Debt / (Annualized Quarterly EBITDA - 
                      Capital Expenditures)

                      1996:               -                1999:          2.00x
                      1997:           3.00x                2000:          1.50x
                      1998:           2.50x                2001:          1.25x


                      Maximum Total Debt / RMR: 20.0x

                      Maximum Attrition: 12% per annum beginning on July 1, 1997
                      (reported monthly, tested semi-annually).

                      Minimum Interest Coverage
                      Annualized Quarterly EBITDA / Interest Expense

                      Remain at 4.0x at all times.

                      Minimum Net Worth: Remain above $45,000,000 at all times;
                      increases by the amount of the net proceeds of the public
                      offering required under Conditions Precedent.

                      Minimum Debt Service

                      Annualized Quarterly EBITDA / (Annualized Interest Expense
                      + Scheduled Debt Amortization for the next twelve months)
                      Must remain at a minimum of 1.15x after Conversion Date

                      Maximum Capital Expenditures

                      1996:      $12,000,000         2000:        $ 9,000,000
                      1997:      $ 8,500,000         2001:        $ 9,500,000
                      1998:      $ 8,500,000         2002:        $ 9,500,000
                      1999:      $ 8,500,000         2003:        $10,000,000
<PAGE>


Other Permitted Indebtedness:

                      1) The terms of any additional indebtedness must be
                         satisfactory to the bank.

                      2) The Borrower will be permitted to issue up to
                         $10,000,000 in subordinated unsecured notes for the
                         purpose of making acquisitions.

                      3) The Borrower will be permitted to incur up to
                         $2,000,000 in liabilities for capital leases for
                         equipment.

                      4) The Borrower will be permitted to incur up to
                         $1,000,000 in secured debt for acquired real property
                         and other purchase money mortgages.

                      5) If the Bank consents to allow any additional
                         indebtedness other than #2, #3 or #4 in this section,
                         then the Availability under the Bank Revolver will be
                         reduced by an amount equal to any such debt that is
                         permitted by the Bank.

Acquisition Adjustments:

                      For purposes of financial covenant compliance, the EBITDA
                      contributed by an acquisition will be accounted for on a
                      pro-forma basis for the quarter during which the
                      acquisition was effected.

Negative Covenants:
                      Customary in credit agreements for this type of
                      transaction including for the Borrower, without
                      limitation, the prohibition on additional indebtedness,
                      limitations on distributions and dividends, acquisitions,
                      investments, mergers and sales of assets, creation of
                      liens and encumbrances, guarantees, issuance of capital
                      stock, and operating lease payments. In addition:

                      i)    Neither the Borrower, Guarantor, nor any
                            subsidiaries shall pay any cash dividends or make
                            any other cash distributions to investors, except
                            mandatory payments made with respect to the Credit
                            Facility and Other Permitted Indebtedness;

                      ii)   Neither the Borrower, Guarantor, nor any
                            subsidiaries shall incur any Indebtedness other than
                            the Facility and Other Permitted Indebtedness (to
                            be defined);

                      iii)  Limitation on transactions with affiliates.

Affirmative Covenants:
                      Customary in credit agreements for this type of
                      transaction including, without limitation, compliance with
                      laws, maintenance of insurance, maintenance of properties,
                      preservation of corporate existence, payment of taxes,
                      notices of litigation, defaults, and other information,
                      submission of annual budget, and submission of monthly,
                      quarterly, and annual financial statements and operating
                      data on a timely basis in form and substance satisfactory
                      to the Bank.


<PAGE>

Key Man Life Insurance:
                      $2 million for George Flagg


Events of Default:    Customary in credit agreements of this type including,
                      without limitation, payment default, covenant default,
                      loss of material franchise, bankruptcy or insolvency,
                      change of management (to be defined), untrue
                      representations, unsatisfied judgements, material adverse
                      change, and change of control (to be defined).

Governing Law:        State of New York

Expenses:             All legal and reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses
                      incurred by the Bank, including but not limited to travel
                      and other expenses of the Bank, fees and expenses of
                      counsel to the Bank, any engineers or consultants
                      appointed by the Bank in accordance with the terms hereof,
                      and any stamp or other taxes or recording charges etc., in
                      connection with the preparation, review, administration
                      and enforcement of this letter and the relevant legal
                      documents will be for the account of the Borrower whether
                      or not the transaction contemplated hereby is consummated.
                      The provisions of this paragraph shall survive any
                      termination of this letter.

The Borrower agrees to indemnify the Bank and its officers, directors,
employees, agents, successors and assignors (collectively the "Indemnified
Parties") against, and agrees to hold the Indemnified Parties harmless from, any
and all losses, claims, damages and liabilities, actions, suits, judgments and
related expenses (including counsel fees) incurred by the Indemnified Parties
arising out of, or in connection with, or as a result of: (i) the use of any of
the proceeds of the Credit Facility, (ii) the execution and delivery of this
commitment letter, the Credit Facility or any other document contemplated hereby
or thereby by the parties hereto or the performance of their respective
obligations hereunder or thereunder; or (iii) any claim, litigation,
investigation or proceeding relating to any of the foregoing, whether or not the
Indemnified Party is a party hereto. The provisions of this paragraph shall
survive any termination of this letter.

This commitment letter is solely for the benefit of the Bank and you and nothing
contained herein shall be deemed to confer upon anyone other than the Bank and
you and our respective successors and assigns any right to insist on or to
enforce the performance or observance of any of the obligations contained
herein. All conditions to the obligations of the Bank to make the loan
contemplated hereunder are imposed solely and exclusively for the benefit of the
Bank.

The term and conditions of our commitment to be set forth in the Credit Facility
and related loan documents are not, and shall not be, limited to the terms and
conditions set forth above and you acknowledge that the due diligence of the
Bank with respect to the transaction outlined above has not been completed.


The Bank's willingness to provide the Credit Facility is subject to (i) our
satisfaction with the results of our continuing due diligence; (ii) the
negotiation and execution of the Credit Facility and legal documents in form

<PAGE>


and substance satisfactory to us and our counsel and (iii) the absence of any
material adverse change in the business, assets, prospects or condition
(financial or otherwise) of the Borrower since March 31, 1996. Nothing herein is
intended to indicate approval by the Bank of the documents referred to herein or
previously furnished to the Bank. This letter may be modified only by an
instrument in writing signed by the party against whom enforcement of the
modification is sought. This letter supersedes any prior commitments,
communications or letters from the Bank with respect to the subject matter
hereof.

If the foregoing is acceptable to you, please so indicate by signing and
returning to us the enclosed copy of this letter on or before July 15, 1996, the
date on which this letter will otherwise expire.



Very truly yours,
Merita Bank Ltd



/s/  Charles J. Lansdown                   /s/   Eric I. Mann 
- -------------------------------            -------------------------------
Charles J. Lansdown                        Eric I. Mann
Vice President                             Vice President




ACCEPTED AND AGREED:

Holmes Protection Group, Inc.






By       /s/ George V. Flagg 
        -------------------------------------------

Title    President & CEO
        -------------------------------------------

Date     7/8/96
        -------------------------------------------



<PAGE>

                                                                 EXHIBIT 10.34

LOGO    BANK OF BOSTON
        ==============
           CONNECTICUT


                                 July 22, 1996



George V. Flagg
President
Holmes Protection Group, Inc.
440 Ninth Avenue
New York, NY 10001

Re:  $10,000,000 Credit Facility Participation

Dear Mr. Flagg:

        We are pleased to advise you that, subject to the terms and conditions
set forth herein, Bank of Boston Connecticut (the "Bank") has committed to
participate in the $25,000,000 credit facility (the "Credit Facility") to be
provided by Merita Bank acting through its New York branch ("Merita") to Holmes
Protection Group, Inc. (the "Borrower"). This letter sets forth the terms and
conditions on which the Bank is willing to participate in the Credit Facility.

        1. STRUCTURE. The Bank shall participate in the Credit Facility as a
direct lender to Borrower.

        2. COMMITMENT AMOUNT. The Bank shall participate in the Credit Facility
in the principal amount of $10,000,000 (the "Commitment Amount"); provided,
however, that the Bank shall have no obligation to advance more than $5,000,000
until the Borrower successfully completes a sale of capital stock resulting in
net proceeds of at least $10,000,000 to the Borrower (which sale must be
completed on or before October 31, 1996).

        3. COMMITMENT PERCENTAGE. The Bank's percentage of the aggregate
commitments of all lenders participating in the Credit Facility shall be 40%
(the "Commitment Percentage").

        4. PAYMENTS OF PRINCIPAL. The Bank shall share in any payments or
principal, including prepayments, made or required to be made by the Borrower
under the Credit Facility in accordance with its Commitment Percentage.
<PAGE>

LOGO    BANK OF BOSTON
        ==============
           CONNECTICUT

George V. Flagg
President
July 22, 1996
Page 2

        5. PAYMENTS OF INTEREST. The Bank shall share in any payments of
interest made or required to be made by the Borrower under the Credit Facility
in accordance with its Commitment Percentage.

        6. FEES. The Bank shall share in any fees, commissions or other amounts
paid by or required to be paid by the Borrower under the Credit Facility or the
Merita Commitment (as hereinafter defined) in accordance with its Commitment
Percentage, including any fees, commissions or other amounts paid in connection
with any letters of credit, with the exception of any fees paid to Merita in its
capacity as agent for the lenders.

        7. COLLATERAL. The Bank shall share in (i) any collateral now or
hereafter provided by the Borrower to secure the payment and performance of its
obligations under the Credit Facility, (ii) any guarantees now or hereafter
provided with respect to the obligations of the Borrower under the Credit
Facility and (iii) any collateral now or hereafter provided to secure any of
such guarantees in accordance with the Commitment Percentage.

        8. YIELD ENHANCEMENT. On the closing date, the Borrower shall issue to
the Bank or, if reqested, an affiliate of the Bank, a warrant exercisable into
66,666 shares of the Borrower's capital stock at an exercise price equal to the
lesser of 105% of the closing price on the date of issuance of the Merita
Commitment or $9.75 per share (the "Warrant"). The Warrant shall be exercisable
for the later of a term of six (6) years after issuance or one (1) year after
the repayment in full of the Credit Facility and shall contain terms,
conditions, rights and preferences customarily required by the Bank, including
but not being limited to, price and other dilution protection and one demand and
unlimited piggyback registration rights, and otherwise be satisfactory to the
Bank and its legal counsel.

        9. GENERAL CONDITIONS. The commitment set forth herein is subject to the
following general terms and conditions:

        a. The satisfactory review of the documents, agreements and instruments
           evidencing and securing the Credit Facility (collectively, the
           "Credit Documents") by the Bank and its legal counsel, including, but
           not being limited to, the terms and conditions of the Credit
           Documents setting forth Merita's rights and obligations as agent
           under the Credit Facility and the voting rights of the Bank as a
           lender thereunder.

        b. The negotiation, execution and delivery of definitive documentation
           to evidence the Bank's participation in the Credit Facility,
           including a separate promissory note evidencing the Bank's pro rata
           share of the Credit Facility, and the Warrant, such documentation to
           be in a form acceptable to the Bank and its legal counsel.
<PAGE>

LOGO    BANK OF BOSTON
        ==============
           CONNECTICUT

George V. Flagg,
President
July 22, 1996
Page 3

        c. The terms and conditions set forth within the commitment letter dated
           July 3, 1996 issued by Merita in connection with the Credit Facility
           (the "Merita Commitment"), the terms and conditions of which are
           incorporated herein by this reference.

        d. The compliance by the Borrower, the Bank and/or Merita with any and
           all applicable legal requirements relating to the Credit Facility and
           the making of loans and advances thereunder and the issuance of the
           Warrant.

        e. The satisfaction by the Borrower of such other conditions as may be
           required by the Bank or its legal counsel and which are customary for
           transactions similar to the transactions contemplated by this
           commitment including the delivery of evidence of corporate power and
           authority to enter into the transactions contemplated by this
           commitment, the delivery of appropriate legal opinions, the valid,
           binding and legal effect of all documentation required by this
           commitment, the absence of any violation of Federal, state or local
           law and the filing and recording of security documents.

       10. INDEMNITY. The Borrower agrees to indemnify and hold the Bank and its
respective shareholders, directors, agents, officers, employees, subsidiaries
and affiliates harmless from and against any and all damages, losses,
obligations, payments, liabilities, claims, actions or causes of action, fees or
expenses (including legal fees) and other matters incurred, sustained or paid by
the Bank in connection with or as a result of the transactions contemplated by
this commitment, except to the extent that any of the foregoing matters result
from the gross negligence or wilful misconduct of the Bank or any other
indemnified party.

       11. ASSIGNMENT. The Borrower may not assign this commitment, and any
attempted assignment by the Borrower shall be null and void and without legal
effect.

       12. AMENDMENTS. Amendments to this commitment, which shall be deemed to
include any amendments to the Merita Commitment, must be in writing and signed
as to acceptance by the Bank.

       13. NO WAIVER. No delays on the part of the Bank in exercising any of its
right under this commitment shall operate as a waiver thereof.

       14. FEES AND EXPENSES. The Borrower shall pay all fees and expenses
incurred by the Bank in connection with the closing of the Credit Facility and
the issuance of the Warrant, including the fees and expenses of the Bank's
auditors, credit examiners and legal counsel, Updike, Kelly & Spellacy, P.C.,
without regard to whether a closing occurs.
<PAGE>

LOGO    BANK OF BOSTON
        ==============
           CONNECTICUT

George V. Flagg
President
July 22, 1996
Page 4

       15. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This commitment constitutes the entire obligation
of the Bank, and no covenant, promise, agreement, waiver, representation or
undertaking of any kind, whether written or oral not specifically set forth
herein shall be binding upon the Bank.

       16. TERMINATION. This commitment shall automatically terminate at the
Bank's option and the Bank shall not be obligated to participate in the Credit
Facility if:

       a.  The Borrower shall fail to accept this commitment by July 24, 1996.

       b.  The Bank should discover that any representation or warranty made by
           the Borrower in any statement or information submitted to the Bank in
           connection with preparation of this commitment should be false,
           incomplete, or incorrect in any material respect.

       c.  There should be a material adverse change in the business operations
           or financial condition of the Borrower or if the Borrower should
           default under the Credit Facility.

       d.  Merita shall terminate or be unable to fulfill its commitment to
           provide the Credit Facility for any reason.

       e.  Any of the terms and conditions set forth in this commitment or the
           Merita Commitment, including but not being limited to, the receipt of
           the collateral audit report, shall not be fulfilled or satisfied to
           the satisfaction of the Bank or its legal counsel.

       f.  The Borrower shall fail to close the Credit Facility for any reason
           on or before August 31, 1996.


                                           Very truly yours,

                                           BANK OF BOSTON CONNECTICUT

                                           By: /s/ Roger J. Roche
                                               ------------------------------
                                               Roger J. Roche
                                               Director

The foregoing is accepted and
agreed to as of this 23rd day of July, 1996.

HOLMES PROTECTION GROUP, INC.



By: /s/ George V. Flagg
   --------------------------------
   Name:   George V. Flagg
   Title:  President and CEO


<PAGE>

                                                                  EXHIBIT 23.1


                   CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS



As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the use of our report
(and to all references to our Firm) included in or made a part of this
registration statement on Form S-1.


                                        /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP
                                        -------------------------------

New York, New York
July 26, 1996



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