Did you know that 95% of alarms that police are called to are false alarms. As a result most communities now have security bylaws in place, and Kelowna is no expection. Since 2005, the False Alarm Reduction Program has been in place. All residential and business alarms, monitored or not, must be registered with the Regional District of the Central Okanagan. The registeration must be renewed annually and ensures that someone is accountable and responsible for maintaining a well functioning alarm system. Failure to do so or even having more than 2 false alarms in a 1 year period, can result in costly false alarm fees.
So how can the user help prevent false alarms?
1. Train all authorized users how to use the security system. If they have a key to the premises, they need to have a code to the alarm and can turn it off/ on and can cancel accidental alarms. Anyone who cannot operate the system properly increases the rick of a false alarm. The installer is there to help, if anyone is uncertain how to use the system after training, please ask for more training, that’s their job!
2. If your system is monitored, each authorized user also needs to have a password to indenitfy themselves to the monitoring station. It also important to keep the call list with the monitoring station up to date, please advise of any user or phone number changes.
Proper installation is important. Having a properly trained professional install your alarm system, with quality components, installed to manufactures specification, will reduce the likely hood of false alarms. Have entry and exit doors set with a proper delay before they activate.
3. Properly secure the premises. Lock all your windows and doors. Be aware that blowing curtains, balloons or other hanging objects can set off a motion detectors. Pets can also be a cause of false alarms. Pet safe motion detectors are available.
Let your alarm company know if your system isn’t working properly, such as the trouble light on the keypad comes on, or a window or door contact has come loose. Like all batteries, the alarm panel battery only lasts 4-5 years. It is also advisable to test your system regularly
Following these above tips can help reduce false alarms and save you unnecessary fees. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to give us a call, we are here to help!
Contact us for a free security evaluation of your home or office in order to determine which system would be best in your location.