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How to Reduce False Alarms With a Smart Security System
How to Reduce False Alarms With a Smart Security System
When it comes to designing a smart security system, you want it to be proactive enough to let you know about emergencies before they happen. This focus on being proactive has created a thin line in the security industry between being alert and creating situations primed for false alarms. According to Security Sales and Integration, false alarms have risen by 10 percent each year since 2012. This results in wasted resources and can come with a hefty price; in Edina, MN the penalty for a residential false alarm is $300. In this blog we highlight some ways you can optimize your system to avoid false alarms:
SEE MORE: 4 Ways Smart Sensors Boost Your Home Security
Secure All Doors Before Setting Your Alarm
One of the main causes of false alarms is that doors are not properly secured. To eliminate this, create an “Away” scene in your smart security system that simultaneously locks all doors and sets the alarm when you leave. If doors are not secured, the system believes there’s a breach which can set off an alarm. Securing all doors also reduces false alarms caused by quick reentry. Often homeowners will arm the system and a few minutes later realize they forgot something and run back in. If doors are locked, they’re more likely to remember to deactivate the alarm when going inside.
Let People into Your Home Remotely
Visitors also commonly set off false alarms since they’re not familiar with the system. Even if you provide them with a unique code and give them instructions on how to disarm it, it’s easy for them to forget and set off the alarm. Instead, receive a notification on your security app letting you know someone is at the front door. You can then unlock the door and disarm the system remotely to let them in. By limiting the number of people interacting with your security system, you reduce the likelihood of human error.
Install Pet-Friendly Motion Detectors
One of the coolest aspects of a smart security system is using motion sensors to recognize unusual activity and react accordingly. This is a great feature, but it can often backfire if not used correctly. Make sure that motion detectors are raised high enough so they’re not set off by pets throughout the day. You can also avoid false alarms by not installing motion sensors in rooms where your dog likes to hang out when you’re not home.
Use Notifications and Live Surveillance Feeds
You can program your smart security system to send you a notification instead of setting off your alarm in situations that are prone to false alarms. Receive an alert on your smartphone via push notifications or email to let you know what happened: a door was opened, a sensor went off, etc. You can then pull up your app to look at live surveillance footage to see what is happening. If you notice something is wrong, you can then activate the alarm and contact the necessary authorities.
Give Your System the Proper Maintenance
Though most false alarms are due to human error, sometimes they can be caused by faulty equipment. Make sure the company that installs your smart security system offers ongoing monitoring services. They should be willing to test your gear regularly—whether in person or remotely—to make sure it’s still working properly.
It’s time to invest in a smart security system that can reduce the number of false alarms in your home, so you’re not wasting valuable resources. Set up a consultation with Lelch AV to see which security solution makes the most sense for you.