Not only are false alarms quite irritating, but they can cost you hundreds of dollars in alarm fees. Also, false alarms are annoying to your neighbors and may startle your pets. Even worse, if the issue continues, you may become hesitant even to use your home security system, which is just what burglars are hoping for.
The good news is, there are a few tips that can help you save law enforcement resources and keep your money in your pocket. Use the tips here to help reduce the number of false alarms at your house.
Know Your Codes
Far too many false alarms are caused by the homeowner entering an incorrect code into the keypad. If you want to prevent false alarms, use a code that each member of your family can easily remember. However, make sure not to use a code that a burglar may guess, such as your house number. If you change the code, make sure everyone knows what the new one is.
Install Pet Immune Sensors
Do your pets wander through your home during the day? If so, they may inadvertently set off motion detectors that activate your alarm system. Instead of eliminating these sensors altogether, replace traditional ones with “pet immune” or “pet-friendly” sensors. These are designed to ignore a pet’s presence up to a certain size or weight. They are extremely affordable and available from most security providers.
Secure All Doors and Windows
Not only is keeping all doors and windows shut a smart security practice, but it can also help to reduce the potential of a false alarm. Before you activate your home security system, make sure your doors and windows are shut tight. Before you open these doors or windows, disarm the system.
Alert Your House Guests
To help reduce the chances of a false alarm, make sure your visitors know when the home security system is armed. If your guest is going to be staying with you for an extended amount of time, make sure they can arm and disarm the system. Don’t forget about training your dog walker, house cleaner or babysitter. You want to ensure everyone can use the system properly, which will help prevent cases of false alarms.
Move Stray Objects Near Motion Sensors
While your pets can activate a false alarm, so can stray objects. If you have received a false alarm because of a motion sensor activation, look closely at the items that may be close to the sensor. For example, when the heating or cooling system in your home kicks on, are curtains or leaves being blown in front of the detectors? Make sure to move any object that may cause a false alarm.
As you can see, preventing false alarms isn’t that difficult. While you will need to take some time to evaluate your current system and make sure none of the issues here are present, once you do, false alarms should be a concern of the past.
If you need additional help with your alarm system or want to have one installed, contact the professionals from Teague Security today.