False Alarms

	*What is a False Alarm?*
	A false alarm is any alarm caused by human error or equipment problems requiring a police response, with no evidence of an actual crime having been committed or attempted.
	*Why are False Alarms a Problem?*
	Alarms were originally designed to protect lives and property. Properly installed, used and maintained, alarms are a real asset. When misused, they become a liability. The Windsor Police Service as well as the security companies, must spend a significant amount of time and money reacting to false alarms. The system users also experience the inconvenience of false alarms and the assessment of fines.
	A false alarm can endanger responding officers and the whole community. It may delay the officers from responding to a real emergency. False alarms can lead neighbours to ignore your alarm when it goes off. In effect, your security system becomes less reliable and less credible. False alarms make you reluctant to arm your system, in effect exposing your home or business to undetected theft or damage. False alarms can cost you fines, and in some instances abusers may even have police response suspended.
	*What can you do to help reduce the amount of false alarms received?*
	Make sure everyone who has a key to your home or business knows how to operate the security system. Keep the name and number of your monitoring station handy. Secure doors and windows before turning on the system. Be aware of changes in the environment (ie. New animals, design changes, seasonal decorations, plants etc.) Notify monitoring facility and Windsor Police Service of new installations, and any changes (ie. Name changes, new employees). Check your batteries regularly. Equipment should be routinely inspected and maintained by qualified personnel. Call your security company immediately if your system does not seem to be working properly. An alarm system must be installed properly, maintained properly and used properly in order to be a deterrent against crime and perform to everyone’s expectations.