Preventing False Alarms in Vancouver Security Systems

False Alarms Are a Nuisance

If your home security system sets off unnecessary alarms, it can be more than embarrassing. More than just a nuisance, alarms that go off repeatedly for no good reason can end up costing you a fine, and slow down the police when they’re trying to respond to real emergencies. Eventually, your security system can even be banned over false alerts, and then the police won’t come if you have a real emergency.

Does Your Security Company Pay for Spurious Alarms?

Sometimes, your security system will have a malfunction. If that’s what’s causing faulty alarming, your home security company may cover any fee you incur from the police department, and fix the issue. Not every security company does, though, which is why it’s important to work with a registered, licensed, reputable company, and thoroughly read your contract. If it’s user error that’s causing repeated false alarms, though, you will probably be liable for paying the fee.

What Causes False Alarms?

Sometimes, an alarm can go off because of a malfunction in the system. It could be that the security system was designed or installed poorly. Maybe it’s a matter of bad wiring, old batteries, or loose sensors. It could also be that you have smoke detectors placed too close to heat sources or bathrooms, or that the security company didn’t consider your pets when installing your motion detectors. Human error can also cause false alarms, often because the system is being used by someone unfamiliar with it or not trained to use it. Children, house or baby sitters, or visiting friends or family are likely culprits in triggering false alarms. Additionally, if you fail to properly maintain your system, or are using an outdated security system, you are more likely to experience faulty alarming.

Preventing False Alarms

How can you keep your system from going rogue?
Hire a professional security company to install your system.
Make sure the company you choose is licensed, registered, and has a good reputation.
If you have pets, make sure your system is pet friendly.
Close and lock all doors and windows at night, to keep from triggering false alarms.
Take the time to familiarize yourself with the system.
Perform regular home security maintenance, dusting and cleaning the panel and sensors and replacing batteries as needed.
Choose a system with two-way communication, so that you can quickly communicate with the dispatcher in case of a false alarm.

Trust Accurate Security for Your Home Security System

Since 1968, Accurate Security has served homes and businesses in the Lower Mainland, and we’re the Greater Vancouver area’s premier choice for safety and security. One of the few family businesses left in the industry, Accurate Security was founded by Mark Oljaca and is now led by his son, Tony Oljaca. From our beginnings as a single locksmith store, we have expanded to seven different locations, offering a wide range of product and services beyond and including locksmithing. Our nearly 70 employees have vast knowledge and expertise, and we are committed to the safety and security of our customers. Providing a complete range of safety and security systems, various products, and state of the art services, we provide prompt and professional services that ensure you never have to feel unsafe in your home or workplace again. For a free security screening or to learn more about all we have to offer, get in touch with our seasoned team by calling 604.777.3888 or contacting us through our website.