Security systems are designed to keep your home and family safe, but the smallest movements can sometimes set off the alarm or generate an emergency response. While this is undeniably beneficial in the event of a break-in or other emergency, it can also be inconvenient when it’s just a child or a pet passing the alarm sensor. To better avoid these false alarms, follow these three tips.
How to Avoid False Alarms With a Security System
1. Educate Your Family on How to Disarm the System
Adults and older children should know the proper steps to disarm the alarm. Most security systems provide a brief window of time between the triggering of the sensor and the actual alarm sound or alerting of authorities. Educate your household on the codes they need to know to deactivate the system and provide them with the number of the security company in case they encounter issues or need to report a false alarm.
2. Keep Up With System Maintenance
Security systems require routine maintenance to keep working as they should. Improperly maintained systems can sometimes cause issues that trigger the alarm. Most batteries need to be changed every three to five years; if your system is frequently activated, you may need to change batteries more often. Every few months, you should run a diagnostic test by accessing the control panel and choosing the “test” function. Check that all exterior lights and security cameras are in good working order and keep sensors free of dust and dirt. These small particles can trigger the alarm if they are allowed to build up on or around the surface of the system. Schedule annual inspections with your system provider.
3. Install Pet-Proof Motion Sensors
Pets and other small animals outdoors are one of the main reasons for security system false alarms. Their smaller stature and stealthy movements activate the sensor. Fortunately, you can install pet-friendly motion sensors that have adjustable settings to correspond to the activity levels of your pets. These sensors are designed to ignore pet movements and preserve the integrity of your system.
I like your security tips. I need to get new cameras. I’ll have to consider getting a security system.