Preventing False Alarms: New Jersey Home Security Tips

A well-honed security system might be the only thing standing in the way of a thief and a family's treasured possessions. Safety, too, is an important benefit granted by an alarm system; however, an extraordinary number of false alarms occur each year due to lack of knowledge and proper maintenance of the home's security system. With the financial strain under which many cities are operating, it's essential that homeowners reduce the chances of a false alarm from their New Jersey home security system and an unnecessary visit from local police.

Why False Alarms Occur

One of the most common reasons why a false alarm may happen is because the batteries in a system have started to fail. Just about everyone has been woken up in the middle of the night from the noise of a fire alarm because the batteries inside the small machine have started to fail. Just as the batteries in the fire alarm must be checked on a yearly basis, any other battery-operated or battery-dependent systems in the home must also be checked including your alarm system.

Another common reason why a New Jersey home security system might go off unintentionally is because a child, domestic worker, or a neighbor accidentally set off the system. Anyone who might come into contact with a part of the system should know how to use it. For example, if the family hires a babysitter to take care of the kids while the parents go out for dinner, the babysitter should receive some instruction on how to work the system.

There are also environmental causes for false alarms of which homeowners should be aware. Home security providers may install a state-of-the-art system; however, it is up to the homeowner to ensure that the system remains in good condition. An inspection of major facets of the system, such as batteries and switches is a vital annual project. Calling the security provider if a problem is found is necessary to reduce the chance that the system is accidentally activated.

Preventing False Alarms

Home security providers will always provide instructions on how to operate the system, and there is a variety of printed materials available for reference for the care and maintenance of the security devices. The best defense against false alarms is an understanding on how to operate the system, shut it off and activate it. Additionally, upgrading the system over time is a simple way to take advantage of better equipment and to ensure that the system is in the best working condition.

Additionally, areas of the home that are connected to the security system, such as the phone system, which is essential for communications between the security company and the home owner, should be tested regularly to indicate old lines or faulty equipment.

Keeping an alarm system in good working condition is the best way to keep everyone in the family as safe as possible with a system that can save lives and keep the home and its possessions protected.