Prevent False Alarms at Home

Despite advanced technology, false alarms do happen occasionally. This can be a result of faulty equipment, dead batteries, improper installation, user error, or any number of other issues. There can be fines of up to $200 associated with repeated false alarms, but proper system use and maintenance can help you avoid those hefty expenses.

Here are some tips to reduce chances of false alarms:

Arm and disarm the system properly

It’s important to arm and disarm your system properly, as improper use of the system is one of the main reasons there are false alarms to begin with. Disarming and arming systems accounted for 38 percent of all false alarms. Keep track of everyone who has the code. If you aren’t convinced you’ll remember the code, try to choose a system that comes with remote key fobs that will arm or disarm the system instead. Still, even fob holders will need to know the code as a backup in case the key fob batteries fail you.

Choose the right equipment

It’s a good idea to choose cameras that come with smart features, such as motion detection and people detection. Having those types of detectors ensures the camera won’t send you an alert because your pet was strolling across the room or a car was driving by on the street. 

Keep the area around motion sensor clear

Objects like balls rolling past sensors can set the alarm off. Balloons are notorious for causing false alarms when they float by. Keep the area free of clutter and tie down anything that could be blown around by the air conditioner.

Keep batteries fresh

Change the batteries in your home security equipment regularly. Low batteries can lead to false alarms. Typically, the equipment will notify you that the batteries are running low, but it’s not a bad idea to consult with your monitoring company to see if it recommends regular battery tests.

Keep devices well-maintained & up-to-date

It’s as important to choose the right devices as it is to maintain them. If you aren’t making sure your safety gadgets work, you won’t know when they aren’t working, either.

Educate houseguests

If you have people over, let them know how the alarm system works. You’d be surprised at how easy it is for a friend or family member to accidentally trigger the alarm, and if you aren’t readily available to tell the monitoring company that it isn’t a real emergency, you’ll end up with emergency personnel at your door.

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