Around 98% of all conventional security alarms that are triggered are actually false alarms. The majority of these activations stem from door and window contact alarms, and conventional motion sensors. Most police departments across North America, will not respond to unverified systems and alarms, or will even levy a fine. They simply do not have the valuable resources to respond to what has proven to be a waste of time.
The fine is sometimes referred to as a Cost Recovery Fee and it can be several hundred dollars for the first offense. Police departments need to reduce false alarm rates, and ensure front line officers are responding to real security calls and threats.
The biggest issue is with commercial properties, warehouses and other businesses, which experience around 3 times higher false alarm triggers than residential systems. This is partly because of the volume of people who need access, from cleaners, repairmen, security, employees and more, causing alarms to be accidentally triggered more frequently.
Owners of these businesses and properties need to take responsibility for their security systems, and understand the issue of triggering a false alarm, both from placing an unnecessary drain on limited police resources, and because of the penalties involved.
The implementation of fines for false alarms is one of many methods police have put in place to mitigate false alarms, but unfortunately many commercial system are old-school (outdated and unverified).
The best way to reduce your risk of triggering a false alarm is by using a Sonitrol Verified Alarm system.
Unlike conventional alarms, verified, customized audio and video security solutions, are monitored by operators, so they can hear and see what is actually happening in your business, in real-time, as soon as the criminal activity starts - whether breaking a fence, door, or window. We’ve even caught criminals coming in through the roof!
When the alarm is triggered in our monitoring station, Sonitrol security specialists will confirm the source of the alarm before calling the authorities. Law enforcement is well aware of our verified commercial security systems, and they respond to the scene immediately. While they are enroute, we can provide real-time updates, pinpointing locations and activities. Our central control room can supply video or audio footage directly to the police.
Sonitrol alarms have apprehended over 175,000 criminals since 1977. We are proud to have the highest documented criminal apprehension rate and lowest security false alarm rate in the industry, and importantly, criminals and law enforcement recognize the Sonitrol brand.
