01/04/2006 - Features
Part 5: Avoiding false alarms
Equipment
> Damage to alarm equipment - Sensors/cables prone to damage by moving vehicles/objects should be protected by cages or cable conduit.
> Sensors loose - All detection devices should be securely mounted.
> Dirty movement sensors - Sensors should be kept clean, as dirt both impairs detection ability and encourages spiders and other insects to reside in, on and about them.
> Doors/windows - Poorly maintained or loose windows and doors may move and trip sensors.
> Changed environments - Installation of new doors, windows, heaters or plant can create heat sources that may trip movement sensors.
> Sensors obscured - Installing new signs, racking or partitions may reduce sensor range and create false alarms.
> Inappropriate sensors installed - Sensors need to be carefully selected e.g. installing vibration sensors on windows/doors adjacent to a busy road is very likely to result in false alarms.
Users
> Training - To operate an alarm system properly users need to understand how the system works and in particular how to deal with any problems encountered. Formal refresher training is advisable.
> User codes - The use of individual, rather than shared, codes by alarm users allows those who create problems to be identified and retrained.
> Walk testing movement sensors - Movement sensors contain indicator lights, enabling users to walk through the area of coverage to check they are operating correctly. This should be done regularly.
> Locking up procedure - Before setting the alarm the premises should be checked to ensure that no one is inside, any movement sensors are unobstructed and all doors and windows are closed and secure.
> Keys to the premises - Only trained alarm users should have keys to the premises.
> Exit/entry route - Keep to a minimum the number of alarm setting/unsetting points.
> Opening up - Ensure nobody enters the rest of premises until the alarm is fully un-set.
> Access to telephones - Should users need to urgently contact the ARC e.g. to cancel a false alarm, they need access to a phone by the alarm control panel or keypad.
Key Action Steps
> Check your current false alarm record and police response status.
> Adopt measures to avoid false alarms and ensure that if they do occur thorough steps are taken to resolve any problem.
> Ensure alarm users understand the need to properly secure and check premises for potential problems before leaving.
> Ensure alarm users understand the correct operation of the alarm system.
Finally, where insurance cover is conditional upon an alarm receiving police response, ensure that insurers are notified of response being downgraded or lost. It is likely that they will wish to discuss and agree any proposed changes to your alarm system and also any proposed temporary or longer term alternative security measures.