Enhancing security for your home or business is a priority and you need to do what it takes to boost this security. Many people choose to install alarms as they help to deter criminals trying to access the property, while also acting as a call to emergency responders. While it helps to have an alarm system, sometimes this can prove to be problematic. The best intentions can be quite inconvenient when the alarm keeps going off, sometimes without reason! Many business owners install the best security systems only to end up with numerous incidences of false alarms.
A false alarm is not just an inconvenience or nuisance; this can also lead to penalties. Any time emergency responders arrive at the scene only to find it was a false alarm, it can cause problems for the home or business owner. In some cities, this can result in fines and it can be a problem when the responders are reluctant to get to a location because of the frequent false alarms. Everyone knows about the boy who cried “wolf” one too many times! Fortunately, there are some tips that will help to reduce incidences of false alarms.
1. Choosing the right alarm
The first thing that you should do is to ensure that you invest in a good quality alarm. By investing in the best equipment, you can reduce chances of the alarm going off without good reason. Some of the equipment in the market tends to go off very easily, which can be a huge problem. Talk to a security expert about the best equipment for your situation and remember that to get quality you will have to pay more. Make sure that the alarm is installed by a security expert to avoid problems and to ensure that it functions properly.
2. Train all users adequately
When an alarm system is installed, you have to make sure that all the users know how to use it. One of the easiest ways to avoid the issue of false alarms is by ensuring that all authorized users are properly trained on using the system. This is especially important in a company setting or when dealing with commercial security systems. All the users must know the correct codes to arm and disarm the system. Regular practice sessions will allow you to review the correct use of the security system, and it will also help to ensure that the equipment is functioning well. Get a security expert to conduct the training.
3. Educating young children
If you have young children, you need to help them to understand that the system is not a toy and there are consequences to touching the keypad or pulling the fire alarm system. Most keypads are installed out of the reach of small hands but kids can get very creative! It is important to ensure that you are not the only person in the home who knows how to use the system. You have to remember that something might happen in your absence. Make sure that you demonstrate how to use the system and leave written instructions including the code.
4. Dealing with animal intrusion
If you have pets in the home or wild animals are a problem in your area, make sure that you talk to the security expert about this. Some indoor and outdoor sensors are very sensitive and they can detect or pick up animal movement. Poor placement of the sensors can also be a problem and movement of raccoons and squirrels on your property can trigger a false alarm. Talk to the security expert about proper placement of the equipment. You should also talk to animal control experts to get rid of the wild animals. Remember that the authorities will stop responding promptly after several false alarms.
5. Inspect your surroundings
Many things can trigger a false alarm and they range from heavy winds against open windows to hangings objects getting close to the sensors. Make sure that all the doors and windows are firmly shut and locked before you set the alarm. Secure any loose windows and remove any items that may be too close to the sensors as they could fall, triggering an alarm. Check for external triggers that could cause the alarm to go off especially if the weather is particularly windy. This is a simple and yet often overlooked tip to reduce false alarms.
6. Maintaining the equipment
One of the best ways to reduce false alarms will also help to ensure that your system works effectively when you want it to. Regular maintenance will help to ensure that the system works perfectly at all times. Make sure that you check the system and all its components on a regular basis to ensure they work properly. Test and replace battery back-ups if necessary, and make sure that the sensors are clean. Periodic alarm tests are necessary but you must alert the security service before the testing.
All in all, make sure that you work with a reputable security company so that you can enjoy the best service and protection.
