A false alarm occurs when an alarm system is set off , the police are called and there is no intruder or emergency situation.

 When leaving your premise, ensure that all doors and windows are locked. If you have pets , be sure they are in an area not covered by motion sensors .Correct all drafts that may move plants and curtains ,etc.

 Replace the main backup battery every 3-5 years. Perform a test monthly . Insist that your system can transmit a cancel signal code if immediately after an alarm a correct code is keyed in. Insist on a service call as soon as possible after any unexplained false alarm. Have your system inspected yearly by a licensed alarm company. After any household changes ( remodeling, pets etc..) Contact the alarm company to be sure alterations do not affect the system .

 Ensure that all key holders are trained in the proper use of the system instruct domestic or repair persons on how to fully operate your system .Never provide a key to someone who is not familiar with the system.

How can I test doors and windows for potential false alarms?  This can be done several ways. Many newer systems have a "chime" feature. This feature chimes when a door or window is opened. Put your alarm system on chime. Go to "all" perimeter doors and windows and attempt to open without unlatching the lock. Be sure to open the door or window as far as you can. If you hear a "beep" then your alarm system would have gone into alarm. If an alarm system has no chime feature. Have a friend or family member view the keypad status while doing the above. If the ready light goes out then you have a potential false alarm problem. If you are alone, contact your monitoring company and put your system in test. Arm the alarm system in the "stay" mode. Then follow the aforementioned instructions. If the alarm goes into alarm. Then you have the potential for a false activation.

 This varies depending on geographical location. Also depends if the alarm system is subject to power outages. The industry widely believes that batteries need to be replaced every three to five years.

 Alarm systems should be walk-tested every month. This ensures the alarm user that the system works properly. If a problem is found , the test allows the user to contact a service provider to fix the problem before false alarms are generated.

How often should I have my system inspected by a qualified alarm company?  This should be done every year. There are many cities that require annual inspections of alarm systems. This is due to the fact that inspections not only assist the alarm users in maintaining a properly working alarm system, the inspection also reduces false alarm problems.

 Maintenance agreements are designed to assist home/business owners from experiencing false alarm problems. These agreements usually include parts, labor, and annual inspections. We recommend that you consider these agreements if you are monitored most importantly, have your alarm system serviced when the alarm system generates a false alarm.

 Monitoring is very important. If a fire breaks out and renders the family unconscious. the authorities will be sent by the central station. Likewise, if the alarm system is tripped, while you are away or out of town, due to a break-in, police will be dispatched. Statistics show that monitored alarms reduces loss to the victims. Meaning that the losses suffered are minimal compared to those that are not monitored. Monitoring also provides the alarm owner to be proactive in preventing false alarms. When alarm systems have trouble conditions, it sends a trouble signal to the central station. The central station will then contact the home owner regarding the signal.