False Alarms

How can I prevent false alarms?

The best news about false alarms is that there are so many things a system user can do to prevent them. We've identified the most important ones.

• Know how to turn your alarm system off.
• Know your security code so it's easy to cancel an alarm.
• Program your own four digit code number into the system. That way you can choose a number you already know, such as your ATM number, the year you were born, the year you were married or a former address you will never forget. Make sure other family members can choose access code numbers easy for them to remember.
• Have the company who monitors your alarm system call the residence before dispatching authorities. Calling first gives you the opportunity to identify yourself and cancel a false alarm.

How can I prevent false alarms?

• Program your system with a delay time that is sufficient for you to enter your home and disarm it at the nearest touchpad. There is no point in having to rush. When determining the delay time, consider normal interruptions that may slow your pace, such as setting down groceries, the phone ringing or a child tugging at your clothing.
• Make sure everyone in your home understands how the buttons operate. Some alarm systems have dual emergency buttons mounted side by side. Both must be pushed simultaneously before an alarm will occur. This is a very effective way to minimize false alarms because pushing two buttons at exactly the same time by accident is highly improbable.
• There is no reason why you cannot have a well functioning alarm system when you have pets in your home; however, pets pose a challenge that must be considered when designing your security system. Systems installed without consideration for movement of pets create many nuisance false alarms.
• Interior passive infrared sensors can be equipped with a pet alley lens. This lens provides a safe area at the floor level while still detecting people walking at normal height. Tell your security consultant if you have a pet or plan to purchase one in the future.

How can I prevent false alarms?

• Cats present a more difficult challenge for interior protection. Because cats climb, it isn't unusual for a cat to reach the same heights as standing humans. A seasoned security consultant may be able to find a way for the cat and an infra-red motion detector to co-exist, but it's usually safer not to use a motion detector when cats are present.
• Birds and flying pets, if confined to their cages, present few challenges. However, make sure the infrared motion detector is not aiming right at the bird cage.
• Infrared motion sensors should not be installed pointing toward a window. Nor should they be pointed toward a fireplace or any other heat-producing object.
• As long as your system is monitored by a professional monitoring company, accidental trips of your burglar alarm system are basically just a test of your system. You'll receive a phone call from the monitoring center, and as long as you can identify yourself with your correct code number, police will not be called.

How can I prevent false alarms?

• Buy high quality equipment. And buy enough of it. You're not doing yourself or your family much of a favor if you install a system that is unreliable or causes false alarms. Cheap unreliable equipment is a headache.
• Have your system installed by the best company you can find. Poorly installed alarm systems false alarm more than professionally installed systems.
• Know how to cancel an alarm, and take the time to cancel an accidentally caused alarm. And if you can't cancel the alarm in time, be considerate of the police and fire officials who have to race across town to get to your home when they receive your alarm. Make everyone in your home-and everyone who uses your home-take responsibility for the proper use of the security alarm system.