On a daily basis, Signal Reception Centers receive many thousands of alarm signals from their subscribers, but only a few of them correspond to real events. The phenomenon of “false alarms”, as they are called, is something that has always been a “headache” for security companies and although in recent years there has been a clear improvement in the frequency with which they appear, they do not cease to cause “hoarseness” for smooth operation of security service companies, as well as for the integrity of the subscribers themselves.
Where do false alarms come from?
There are many factors that can trigger a false alarm, most of which are related to the human factor. The most common reasons related to the user’s fault, relate to incorrect password entry, to arming the system, while other people are inside the protected area, to not arm certain zones, to improperly train other users for the correct use of the alarm system etc. In addition, the negligence of the maintenance of the security system according to the instructions of the manufacturer and / or the professional installer, is one of the main causes for the phenomenon of false alarms.
As far as the system itself is concerned, the choice of reliable equipment that meets specific specifications is a basic condition – not only to avoid phenomena such as false alarms – but as a whole to ensure the maximum possible efficiency and quality. Equally important is the installation process, starting with the selection of a professional security technician. Draft or amateur installations and incorrect wiring, are the most common causes of problems in security systems, with false alarms being just one of the many “defective” functions.
What is the impact of false alarms?
Activating an alarm and sending a signal to the connected Signal Reception Center involves a sequence of actions. From the response of the security company to the notification of the police authorities. It goes without saying that in the event of a false alarm, ie when there is no real threat to the guarded space or to a person, the whole process moves unnecessarily. This results in great inconvenience, both for the user himself and for the authorities involved, but also for a significant increase in costs.
How can you eliminate false alarms?
Rational use of the security system is a prerequisite for limiting false alarms. Even in case of incorrect activation of the system, the user himself should know what to do and inform about it, so as not to unnecessarily mobilize the mechanism for further actions.
Among other things, as mentioned above, the choice of reliable and quality systems is crucial. Moreover, modern alarm systems have intelligent functions and appropriate features, so as not to fall into malfunctions, such as the activation of false alarms.
To achieve all of the above, the role of the professional installer is catalytic. On the one hand with the correct study of the needs, the appropriate choice of materials and the correct placement and configuration of the system, on the other hand with the training of the users for the correct operation of their alarm and finally with the periodic maintenance or upgrade – if necessary – of the system and individual materials.
