Security companies have invested large sums of money into high tech monitoring systems to benefit their customers. These systems operate best when customers make a conscious effort to regularly test these alarm systems.

“We experience a large number of false alarms which unfortunately means our resources are deployed away from where it might be needed more. Most of these false alarm causes can be addressed through regular system testing and maintenance,” explains Fidelity ADT’s Regional Executive Agnieszka Gryn.

The six most common causes of false alarms, Gryn says, are faulty equipment, human error, low batteries, doors and windows not secured correctly, incorrect installation, and pets, rodents or insects triggering the alarm.

“I urge residents and business owners to speak to their security provider on a regular basis in order to assist with the reduction of false alarms.”

Gryn says getting the right security system and learning how to use it correctly is essential. She also says that appropriately training those with access to the system will greatly reduce the chances of regular false alarms.

“After a false alarm occurs, it is important to take the time to determine what triggered the alarm and to implement measures to ensure that the action is avoided in future. If the false alarm cause cannot be determined, you should monitor the situation and ascertain patterns such as weather conditions, time of day etc,” she says.

“It is also important to regularly test your alarm system and all its components. Contact your security provider to have old and faulty equipment replaced.”

Gryn offers the following tips on how to reduce the chances of false alarms:

• Ensure all windows and doors are secure before setting the alarm.
• Spray insect repellent around sensors and detectors frequently.
• Periodically test the home security system to ensure equipment is working appropriately.
• Ensure that panic buttons or other emergency activation features are out of reach of children.
• Check the batteries of any wireless devices and the backup power to the primary keypad.
• Make sure to read and familiarise yourself with the alarm user manual. Store this in a place where you can access it at any time.
• Be mindful of environmental changes (new pets, plants, decorations etc.) that may affect the system or its sensors. For example, when last did you trim tree branches that might now obstruct your outside passive sensors?
• Inform your security provider if you expect to be away from home for an extended period.

“It is entirely understandable that false alarms will happen from time to time. If it does happen to you, please contact your monitoring centre immediately to avoid dispatching an armed response vehicle unnecessarily.

“Ultimately you want to get to the root of the problem. Please remember that you would want the fastest reaction time in the event of an emergency. Help us provide this by reducing false alarms and ensuring our resources are deployed where they are needed most – to emergencies,” she concludes.

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Issued on behalf of Fidelity ADT Security by Cathy Findley Public Relations, for media queries contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 011 463 6372