Statistics often report that upwards of 90% of alarms are false. this is not necessarily accurate. Consider the following scenario: Somebody attempts to open your window.; The shock sensor picks up on this and the alarms sounds. The intruder runs off. The alarm has worked well. The police are dispatched and when they arrive can find no evidence of a break in. Their report? Obviously a false alarm.

Many (if not most) Police Departments and municipalities have passed by-laws aimed at reducing false alarms. True Steel supports the concept of False Alarm Reduction. There are as many by-laws as there are municipalities. Follow the links on your left to find out more about False Alarm reduction by-laws in your community.

What the real rate of false alarms is we don't know. What we do know is that it is too high! What we also know is that most of them are user error! Study after study have confirmed this. If user error is the number one cause of false alarms, then the responsibility falls back on the alarm companies. It is the responsibility of your alarm dealer to make certain your system is working properly, and that you know how to properly work your system!

What Causes False Alarms?

Poor quality equipment

Good quality equipment used in the wrong application

Good quality equipment installed improperly.

Poorly Trained Users ( user error )

Lack of dispatch verification from the monitoring station

You usually get what you pay for. Some equipment is not reliable and will give false alarms for no apparent reason. Make certain you get reliable equipment. You do not have to pay premium dollars for it. Hardware is very reasonably priced in the current market.

Ask if the company you are considering dealing with has an active false alarm reduction plan. Also make certain the alarm monitoring station attempts to verify all signals prior to dispatching authorities.

False alarms do not have to be a problem with your system. there are alarm companies that have very low false alarm rates because they use the right equipment in the right application, installed properly, supported by the proper alarm dealer , and monitored in the right station. It sounds like a lot of variables, but it really is not. Make certain you ask all the questions before you make your decision.

Two-Way Voice Alarm Verification
In the event that your monitoring station receives an alarm signal, with “Two Way Voice” the station operator will have an instant two-way audio connection to your home or business. False alarm dispatches to police, fire or ambulance services can be avoided easily and the very best emergency response can be sent if the situation warrants it. It's no wonder that a growing number of response authorities are now requesting that these types of systems be installed.

How To Reduce False Alarms:

• Choose a professional alarm company to install your system.
• Make certain your alarm is monitored by a ULC listed monitoring station.
• Choosing the cheapest system may result in higher long term costs.
• Use quality equipment.
• Use the right equipment for the right application.
• Ensure equipment is installed properly.
• Install one device per zone.
• Ensure you get sufficient training to operate your alarm.
• Ask for a “no dispatch” start up period.
• Make certain you follow up with your alarm company after every alarm.
• Do not use silent alarms.
• Do not install outside sirens which will result in neighbours calling police.
• Have your alarm inspected annually.

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