Workable Solutions to Prevent False Alarms

We at ATS enjoy working with our customers to prevent false alarms - we have designed this document to further educate our customers on the causes of false alarms, some of the effects they have, and some solutions and guidelines to follow if you do happen to set of your ATS alarm system by accident.

What are some causes of false alarms?

• Unlocked or loose doors
• Children, Neighbours, Relatives, Visitors, Repairmen, etc. who lack proper instruction to utilize the alarm system
• Wandering pets
• Errors by the end user

What to do if you set off your alarm system by accident?

• Don't panic!  Enter your code into the alarm system to reset it.  Remember, if there was a burglar in the house, they would not know your code!
• Wait for our Monitoring Station to contact you - we will always attempt to verify any alarm transmitted by calling your premises first.  Do not leave your premises until you have spoken with an ATS Alarms representative.
• Make sure that all persons that have a key to your premises know how to operate the alarm system!  These are people such as contractors, house cleaners, employees, friends, relatives, and others.

And finally, other miscellaneous tips to prevent false alarms

• Have all users practice cancelling an accidental alarm. Call ahead to tell us you are practicing.
• Be very careful when entering the last number of your code. In some systems, if entered incorrectly, it can send a silent panic signal.
• Don't try to beat the system. If you need to re-enter after arming your system, disarm and rearm again. Don't rely on the exit delay to give you enough time to get in and out again.
• Keep motion detectors clear of insects and spider webs.
• Check for drafts that can move plants, curtains, signs, holiday decorations, helium balloons and other things in motion sensor areas. Fans, heaters, air conditioners, open windows, etc. can all cause drafts.
• Supervise or confine pets to areas without motion sensors. (Remember this when you are pet sitting.)
• Check to make sure protected doors fit and latch -- securely. Loose-fitting doors can cause false alarms.
• Before you activate your alarm system, make sure you have locked all protected windows and doors.
• When you leave, make sure the door is tightly closed.
• Call our office if you are planning any remodelling projects, changing phone systems, installing skylights or ceiling fans, or even spray painting or fumigating.
• Let us know if you get a pet, hire any domestic help, or put your house up for sale.
• Keep your call list current; give us phone number changes of anyone on your list.
• Call us when you want to test your system. This should be done about once a month.
• Replace the main control panel battery every three to five years.
• Have us check your security system once a year. There is no additional charge if you have a service contract.
• Upgrade aging or outdated equipment. Older systems are more prone to false alarms.
• If your keypad code doesn't seem to work, wait five seconds and try again carefully.
• One unexplained false alarm a year is too many. Call us to discuss possible problems.