Why are false alarms a problem?  False alarms have a cost. They waste fuel, increase the risk of accidents, cause wear and tear on equipment, reduce police service to areas with a greater need for officer presence, etc. 

In order to help us better serve our citizens, we are urging you to do everything possible to prevent false alarms. 

If you accidentally set off your alarm, let your alarm company know, IMMEDIATELY. Remember your pass code and/or password.

Make sure that all alarm users and key holders to the building or home are trained to use the system and know the codes to arm and disarm the system including how to cancel a false alarm.

Do not call 911 to cancel a false alarm. You should call your alarm company.

You may arrange to have your alarm company call you or another designated person first, instead of the police, when your alarm is activated. This is known as verification.

If you expect workers, real estate agents, delivery persons, etc., you should not set your alarm, if you must set your alarm, meet with the people at your site to deactivate the alarm.

Be sure that doors and windows are tight fitting. Adjust hinges and strike plates so the door only moves about ¼ inch when pulled or pushed on. Have an alarming delay of at least 45 seconds on all doors.

It is a requirement that everyone utilizing an alarm or other sounding device capable of notifying Emergency Services -- have a representative available 24 hours a day to respond. Officers and or Fire personnel must have access to your home or business.

Ensure that employees (especially new employees) and family members are thoroughly knowledgeable in the proper use of your system. EVERYONE should know the location of sensors and whether the sensor is a motion or heat detection type. Ask your alarm company to provide training and manuals for your employees.

Placement of advertisements and other items that may blow or be moved when air circulators are active can cause false alarms.

Have a legend available to find alarm points.

Someone should be designated and then HELD RESPONSIBLE for the training. Each shift or group should have a primary and secondary employee who is responsible to see that the alarm is set PROPERLY!

The time an officer spends responding to a false alarm, is time they could be arresting an intoxicated driver, or responding to a real emergency!