By now I'm sure you've heard a horror story, or two, of friends or others who have accidentally had their home alarm system go off.  The police were dispatched and the neighbors came out.  Of course a false alarm can be embarrassing and can even discourage you from using your alarm system, but have no worries; there are many ways to prevent a false alarm.

          According to police, most home security false alarms are attributed to user error or user apathy.  The second leading cause is technological problems.  Let's focus first on user error.  If your alarm goes off and you have checked to make sure that no one is in the house and there's not a fire, then there is no reason to panic.  This is when you should remember your code and password and enter them in to the system.  You would be surprised how many times people forget the numbers or even the act of entering the numbers.

          Secondly, there are technical problems when it comes to false alarms.  To avoid this it's best to have routine checks to make sure your system is working properly.  Also, this might seem obvious but many people don't consider that the batteries in their home security systems can go dead.  You should change your batteries every six months.  If your system indicates that you have low battery power, and then do not arm your system until you are able to replace the batteries.

          What causes false alarms?  Of course user error and equipment malfunction are on the list and so is unlocked or loose doors, open windows, wandering pets, and items such as balloons or curtains moving in front of motion detectors.

          To avoid false alarms there is also the option to upgrade your motion detectors from what is called passive infrared to a TriTech-passive infrared and microwave combination unit. The TriTech combination provides immunity to false alarms caused by pets.  Either infrared you pick it's a smart idea to consider where to place your sensors.  The infrared works off of heat; therefore you should place the sensor where it will not receive inordinate amounts of heat or cold.  The sensor should not face open windows because sunlight will affect its operation.

          And finally, it's really important that you pick out an alarm system that is best for you and that you feel most comfortable with.  The features are also very important.  The KIT447 – 1 CP01 – DSC Power Series 9047 Wireless Alarm Kit may be for you and here's why.  First and foremost it has numerous false alarm reduction features including the SIA CP-01, which is a control panel.  The SIA CP-01 takes aim at user error modifications including 60 seconds as the default and 45 seconds as the minimum.  The alarm system includes other false alarm features as well.  In addition, the Power Series 9047 is wireless and easy to connect.  It secures up to 32 zones and accommodates up to 16 wireless keys.  You can also program up to 17 individual codes.  And if you're into looks this one is really for you.  The system features bold, contoured lines and enlarged keypad buttons.  Also, despite occupying the smallest footprint (5.4”H x 8.07”W x 1.53”D) of any alarm system of its kind, The Power Series 9047 is equipped with the industry's largest, full message LCD display.   

          Remember, responding to false alarms can cause major delays that take away from the police responding to real emergencies.  And having too many false alarms is embarrassing and can cost you money in fines.  Avoid all this by taking precaution and picking the system that is best for you.