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 FALSE ALARMS ARE COSTLY TO EVERYONE |
False alarms take police away from real emergencies.
They can endanger responding authorities and your whole community. Setting off a false alarm is like dialing 9-1-1; the police will respond thinking there is a real problem. False alarms can lead neighbors to ignore your alarm if it goes off repeatedly. It's like "crying wolf" and can, in effect, make your security system seem less credible. False alarms may make you reluctant to arm your system - exposing your home or business to undetected breaches of security.
False alarms are generally caused by user error.
Many cities charge fines for excessive false alarms, so it is important for customers
to understand the operation of their security systems. |
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| COMMON CAUSES OF FALSE ALARMS |
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- Pets
Security systems can be designed to accommodate indoor pets. However,
if you acquire a pet after installation, you may need to have your system modified so pets will not trip indoor motion detectors or pressure pads.
- Remodeling
Your system was designed according to the original configuration of your home. False alarms may be caused by significant changes to that layout, even such interior changes as replacing window shutters with drapes, moving large furniture, and installation of fans or air conditioners. Further,
it is recommended that a review of your security system design take place
to ensure comprehensive protection after a remodel.
- Visitors
Train all trusted individuals who may visit your home (housekeepers, guests, maintenance) on your security system's operation.
- Moving objects
Balloons, large plants and objects that may fall are common causes of false alarms. Before arming your system, place these objects in a room where they may not trip a motion detector.
- Doors and windows
Be sure to close doors and windows securely, as they may trigger an alarm if blown open. Install appropriate locks to help secure them from wind, pets
or intruders in your home.
- Bugs, pests or dust on a sensor lens
Smoke detectors and motion sensors should be cleaned regularly. Helpful maintenance hints are provided in the SAFE Residential Manual.
- Circuit breakers that are turned off
Alarm equipment must always be powered. Circuit breakers that are not powered can trigger a false alarm.
- Malfunctioning equipment
Alarm activations for no apparent reasons may be an indication of faulty equipment.
- False alarms should not be caused by storms or severe weather conditions.
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If you cannot determine the source of a false alarm, contact SAFE Service at
800-669-7779 as soon as possible. |
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