FALSE ALARM AND FALSE DISPATCH PREVENTION

False Alarms

Also called “nuisance alarms”, because they cause unnecessary panic or alarm to the owner, authorities and the general community. In the security system business an alarm signal is considered false when it is:

    •  Not caused by an actual burglar, intruder or attack in the premises.

    •  Not triggered by fire or heavy smoke (for Fire Alarm Systems)

    •  Not manually set off during a real emergency (for Manually Initiated Devices)

What Causes FALSE ALARMS?

Most false alarms are caused in one way or another, by user error. Unaware or uneducated personnel or users are very prone to make a mistake in using the alarm system.

Other Common Causes of False Alarms are:

    •  Weak system batteries

    •  Open, unlocked, or loose fitting doors and windows

    •  Air currents that move blinds or curtains

    •  Wandering pets

Why are FALSE ALARMS your problem?

    •  They create false dispatches. They could steal the time of police and fire personnel away from         real emergencies.

    •  They can cause unnecessary panic to the owner, the community and in a few times with the         authorities. They become a nuisance to the neighbors. This might lead them to ignore alarms         when they go off for real.

    •  They may make your security system appear less reliable. This could make you reluctant to use         your security system and expose you to real dangers.

    •  They can cost you money. Many cities and towns assess costly fines for excessive false alarms.

What to do during FALSE ALARMS?

If your alarm is accidentally activated:

    •  DON'T PANIC!

    •  Carefully, disarm your system following instructions from the User's Manual

    •  Wait for the call from the Central Monitoring Station (CMS) Operator to verify the alarm status. Be         ready with your password.

    •  Don't leave your home or business until you've spoken to the CMS Operator and assured them         that there is no emergency.

What can you do to avoid FALSE ALARMS?

    •  Ensure that users are well oriented and trained on how the alarm system works

    •  Make sure that all zones (doors and windows) are locked before arming the system

    •  Clear the line of sight of all sensors

    •  Submit your system to regular check-up and cleaning

    •  Conduct regular testing of your system

    •  Always notify the CMS if you perceive that your system has a problem

    •  Always inform the CMS if have a pet, or will make renovations or alterations in your house/ office.