The Cost of False Alarms - A security system can greatly reduce the chance of having an unwanted intruder in your home, and loss of property. Remember, the system is only as good as the quality of the components and installation. 99.9% of the alarms reported to the Orlando Police Department are false! Each one must be handled as a real threat until it is determined otherwise. False alarms add unnecessary risk to the responding officers and the public in general.
False alarms are very expensive to the tax payers of Orlando. The following table illustrates why each security system owner should strive to eliminate false alarms:
FALSE ALARMS IN ORLANDO in 1996
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Valid Alarms 256
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False Alarms 28,448
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Work Hours Responding to False Alarms 20,704
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Cost of False Alarms $216,000
Because of the high cost and risk incurred by responding to false alarm calls, the city of Orlando has enacted a False Alarm Ordinance. The intent of this ordinance is, simply, to reduce the number of false alarms received by the Orlando Police and Fire Departments.
HOW TO REDUCE FALSE ALARMS
- Have all loose fitting doors and windows with sensors tightened. A loose fit may break the sensor contact, even without opening the door/window.
- Insure everyone who has access to your house, has the code and knows how to arm and disarm your security system.
- Have your alarm company check and service your alarm system regularly. Notify them immediately if you think the system is not working properly.
- If the alarm goes off accidentally, notify the alarm company and/or your local law enforcement agency immediately. In Orlando just dial 9-1-1.
BEFORE YOU LEAVE HOME
- Close and lock all doors and windows tightly
- Keep pets, balloons, fans and heaters away from motion sensor areas.
- After activating your system, wait a few moments to insure your security system armed itself properly.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
