Tips To Prevent False Alarms At Home

May 17th, 2023

Despite the advancement of technology, false alarms still occur. Finding out that there is no real threat may give you peace of mind, but sometimes, these incidences can have a negative impact on you and your home. They may also affect your security provider and your community.

Common Causes

False alarms are something that you want to avoid. You may end up with hundreds or thousands of dollars’ worth of fines, and it can also cost a lot for responders in NY. The approximate time for police officers to respond is 20 minutes. Not only does this waste work hours, but it also utilizes equipment and other resources unnecessarily.

As much as possible, you need to make sure that your home security system is not vulnerable to false alarms. To help you get started, here are some of the common causes of false alarms that you need to avoid:

• Inputting the wrong keypad codes
• Failure to properly train the users of the security system
• Failure to secure the windows and doors while the alarm is on
• Wandering pets
• Going back inside without disarming, thinking that you have enough time before the alarm system goes off
• Hanging objects near motion detectors
• Low batteries
• Faulty equipment
• Acts of nature such as electrical storms and strong winds

Minimizing Risks

Millions of alarm activations cause law enforcement officers to respond to homes or businesses. However, not all of them are legitimate concerns. Around 10% to 25% of police calls around the country account for false alarms.

Preventing this from happening in your NY home helps law enforcement agencies focus on addressing real emergencies. At the same time, it ensures that your family is well protected. Here are some measures that you can take to minimize the risk of a false alarm:

• Memorize the code and practice entering it to avoid triggering the alarm. Make sure all authorized individuals know the code by heart.
• If you have pets, invest in a special motion sensor that allows the home security system to ignore pet movements.
• Make sure the batteries are fresh. Change them regularly. Usually, the alarm equipment will notify you if the batteries are running low. If you want to be sure, you can consult the monitoring company for battery test recommendations.
• Clear the surrounding area. Make sure there are no stray or hanging objects that may trigger a motion detector. Declutter space, and store away items that the air conditioner may blow around.
• Always close windows and doors properly. Make sure they are well secured.
• Inspect your home security equipment regularly. Check if it is in good shape as faulty equipment can trigger the alarm. It may also help to conduct regular maintenance.

Getting Expert Help

Another way to prevent false alarms is to hire a trustworthy service provider for your NY home. Invest in high-quality products, and leave the installation to the experts. For a more effective home security system, talk to our team today. We offer customizable solutions that will suit your needs and lifestyle.