Cactus Village Community

DON’T CRY WOLF!

Aug 15, 2003

According to the most recent statistics, false alarms, or accidental alarms, account for a whopping 98% of the burglar alarm calls responded to by the Phoenix Police Department. Response is not limited to uniform beat officers, as police air support (helicopters) and K-9 teams provide coverage as well. You can imagine how expensive in terms of both time and dollars this can be, not to mention the fact that these resources are then taken away from valid alarm calls.

In some cities, Las Vegas and Salt Lake City to name a couple, the false alarm problem has become so bad that ordinances have been adopted requiring alarm subscribers to hire a private security guard to check out an alarm activation at their business or residence BEFORE the alarm company can call the police department. Let?’s not let Phoenix get to that point. Here are some ways you can help not only cut down the Phoenix false alarm rate, but prevent an assessment fee for yourself (an $85 charge for the third (and subsequent) false alarm in a 365 day period!):
*Make sure the alarm panel transformer is plugged into a 24-hour outlet.

*Check the batteries regularly.
*Adjust your doors so they are tight. If shaking a door
can set off your alarm, so can a strong monsoon wind.
*Test your system after any telephone work has been completed.

*Make sure all the doors and windows are closed and locked before arming your system. If an unlocked door is opened by wind, a dog, or person and your alarm activates, and the police respond, you will be charged with a false alarm.
*Be sure that every person who uses the system knows their password or ID code for verification with the central station, the phone number for the central station, and cancellation procedures. If proper procedures are followed, the alarm company can cancel the police request or, in some cases, stop the call before the police have been summoned.

*Make sure your alarm company has a current list of individuals (and their current phone numbers) you designated on your call list. It?’s wise for the alarm company to have at least three individuals, other than the owner, in the event your alarm system activates. Did you know that the response of a responsible party is a requirement of the Phoenix City Code? Even in the wee hours of the morning?

For more information or assistance, you can contact the Phoenix Police Department Alarm Unit at 602-534-0322. . . ☻