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Home > Support > What is
a False Alarm |
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FALSE ALARMS ARE COSTLY TO EVERYONE
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| False alarms take police
away from real emergencies. |
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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.
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| False alarms are
generally caused by user error. |
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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.
- 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 Protection24hour Service at
1-877-900-8220 as soon as possible. |
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