Avoiding False Burglar Alarms

False burglar alarms have been a growing problem in communities across the nation. Many people prefer the added security that that a burglar alarm provides. Under many new ordinances consumers must take into account the increasing unnecessary disruption it is causing law enforcement agencies. Once you receive the first false burglar alarm warning letter, for a residential or a commercial area, you should immediately contact your alarm company to discuss and adjust what has happened in order to ensure it does not happen again.

One of the most important things is to make sure your alarm company is reputable, certified, and licensed. If they are unable or refuse to show you a copy of their license then find another company to do business with. Having properly working alarm system equipment is imperative. Such things as faulty door contacts can trigger alarms. If a door or window is not tight and shakes easily, then these contacts can cause an alarm when the wind blows or it gets rattled by a burst of thunder. Make sure to ask your company what type of door contacts they use and just how sensitive they are. When it comes to motion sensors work with your installer to ensure that pets don’t come into the line of motion. Keep in mind that even if you install the motion detectors several feet above the floor, some animals could jump into the motion detectors’ path, which could set off your alarm. Unless you or your installer can make sure that your pet will not sound off the alarm, it may be best to just go without a motion sensor. Besides pets and bad weather, operator error is one of the primary reasons for false alarms.

Everyone is your household using the system should have a fundamental working knowledge of alarm operation. Its extremely important to work with your installer to ensure that there is enough time to activate and deactivate the alarm before it sends a signal. Additionally, learn how to cancel a false alarm and always keep your equipment up to date and serviced. Check that your windows and doors are secure before you turn the alarm on.

Always make sure that everyone who uses the system knows the identifier number or password. Now if your alarm still some how manages to go off, in most communities you can appeal the alarm, assuming you feel that it was a justifiable and not a false alarm. If you choose to appeal, it must typically be done in writing, you must send a copy of the false alarm notification letter, a copy of the invoice if available, a letter of explanation as to why you think it’s unjust, and lastly your name, address, and contact information. In most cities across the nation the fact is that well over 50% of burglar alarms turn out to be false. Those alarms take officers away from real emergencies not to mention the time and money that is wasted.