There’s always a chance of a false alarm, either due to sensor malfunction or accidental alarm triggering. False alarms can waste precious resources for emergency responders—when police have to check in on a false alarm, they’re not available to handle real emergencies. As a result, some municipalities will fine homeowners who have multiple false alarms within a given period.
In order to reduce instances of unnecessary police dispatch, many security companies use audio and video technology to verify if a break-in is in progress or if it was a false alarm. This ensures police have the most accurate information.
There are also a few things you can do to reduce the chance of a false alarm. Keep your system well-maintained, replace any batteries or sensors that are malfunctioning, and make sure everyone in your household knows how to activate and deactivate the alarm and access the control panel. Keep motion detectors away from windows, fireplaces, and air vents, and use a strong adhesive when installing door and window sensors. You may also be able to reduce the chances of a break-in by following home safety best practices.
If you want a police response feature for your home security, opt for a professionally monitored system. We’ve outlined the Best Home Security Systems, so check those out before picking a provider.