Tips to Prevent False Alarms
When your alarm system is triggered, sometimes it can be just a false alarm. False alarms can be triggered for a variety of reasons, but they often are due to user error. While ABC Fire and Burglar Alarm does not penalize our customers for false alarms, in some parishes, like Orleans Parish, there is a False Alarm Ordinance. It is important to try to reduce the number of false alarm incidents so our local first responders are not overwhelmed by non-emergencies and can quickly respond to true emergencies. Here are some tips to help you reduce or even prevent false alarms.
Memorize Passcodes and Passwords
When you sign up with alarm monitoring companies, you will be asked to set up a 4 digit passcode for your keypad and a numeric or verbal central station passcode for verification in the event of a false alarm. If the wrong 4 digit passcode is entered on the keypad the alarm will trigger. Once your alarm system is triggered, the alarm monitoring station will call to ask for the numeric or verbal central station passcode. The monitoring station may even ask for the spelling of your verbal password. If the wrong password is given, local authorities will be dispatched to the property. Make sure when you are creating your passcodes and passwords that they are easy for you to remember, but not easy enough for intruders to guess.
Always Enter through the Delay Door
When having your security system professionally installed, the entry/exit delay door is the door you will designate as the main entrance to your home. Entering through any other door will immediately trigger your alarm system. When the delay door is opened, you will have a few seconds to enter your passcode on the keypad before the alarm system is triggered. Your keypad should be installed near your designated delay door to give you time to enter your code. When giving visitors instructions on how to enter your home and disarm your alarm, be sure you tell them to only enter through the delay door.
Answer the Alarm Monitoring Station’s Call
It is important that in the event of a false alarm you answer when the alarm monitoring station calls. We know that it is tempting to ignore calls from numbers we do not recognize. We recommend that you and everyone on your emergency contact list save the alarm monitoring station’s number as a contact in your phone named “ABC Monitoring”, so you know to answer the call every time.
- ABC Office (504)889-9795
- ABC Monitoring Station (800)-633-2677
With alarm monitoring from ABC Fire and Burglar Alarm, you can be at ease knowing your home or business is protected. If you are interested in installing a residential or commercial security system, contact us to schedule a free consultation.
