Steps To Preventing False Alarms

False alarms are not only annoying, but in many parts of the country, they have become illegal. As a security system owner, you have a responsibility to prevent false alarms. The keys are to work with your security system provider and to check your system regularly to ensure proper functioning. Here are seven steps to guide you:

• Instruct all authorized users, both permanent and temporary, on the proper operation of your security system. Call your security system provider and let them know you are testing your system to provide all users with hands-on practice.

• Ensure that each security system user has a confidential password or pass number for proper identification when communicating with your provider. Make sure that you keep your dispatch instructions current, and that you notify your security system company in writing of any change to authorized users and contacts.

• A cancel code allows you to disarm your security system with a confidential code immediately after setting off a false alarm. If your system is programmed with a cancel code, use it to cancel false burglary alarms. The security system will automatically signal your provider that an authorized user is at the premises, the alarm is false and no further action is required.

• If your security system does not have a cancel code, instruct all authorized users to call the your provider immediately if they have set off a false alarm. All authorized users should provide your monitoring service with their names and confidential passwords or pass numbers to cancel an alarm.

• Test your security system regularly to ensure that it is working properly – ideally monthly. Before testing your system, call your provider to inform them you want to perform a system test. Have your name and confidential password or pass number to establish your identity.

• If your alarm system is malfunctioning, call your monitoring service immediately. Don’t arm your security system until it has been repaired.

• Make sure you are aware of the police false alarm program and regulations in your jurisdiction.