False Dispatches Undermine GA Security

A false dispatch occurs when a home alarm unintentionally activates causing the monitoring service to contact Georgia police. The police are dispatched to the home even through the call was accidental. This can happen when a homeowner enters the wrong code or when objects or pets trip sensors. The State of Georgia will actually fine homeowners who cause false dispatches more than once or twice in a year. It is important to understand the impact of false dispatches. It is also important to understand how to prevent them.

The Impact of a False Dispatch

If a GA security system sounds an alert, the monitoring service will respond as if it is an emergency. The police are contacted. One or two officers will immediately divert from patrols or other responsibilities to come to the house and check things out. This reduces the number of officers available to respond to actual emergencies. The community is less protected while the officers attempt to figure out what is happening. This also affects municipal finances since the officers and resources are wasted on a false alarm. A false dispatch could even allow actual criminals to get away because of delayed response times.

Understand the Home Security System

Home security companies provide homeowners with documentation and support for a new system. It is important to take the time to fully understand how the security system works in order to prevent a false dispatch. Everyone who lives in the home or who will be entering the home unattended should understand the system as well. Any lingering questions should be addressed to the security company. It is never a good idea to wait until the alarm starts to sound to learn how to use the system.

Keep the Home Clean

Different GA security systems can be triggered accidentally by different things in the home. Objects rocking within range of a motion detector because of passing traffic can set off the alarm. Homeowners will want to remove any unstable items within the range of sensors. Small or hanging items should not be kept in front of vents and openings where the air could cause movement.

Accommodate Pets

Many home security companies have ways to exclude pets from sensors. Some systems use two detectors to distinguish pets from people. Others have different calibrations for sensors in homes with pets. Homeowners who have pets should take all steps necessary to ensure a pet cannot inadvertently trigger the alarm system. This might even include restricting the pet to a certain part of the property.

Fix Problems Immediately

Some false dispatches are caused by a damaged or malfunctioning alarm system. A line or sensor could be damaged by pets, children or tools. It is important to always address problems with your home security system. The first reason is that it makes the house less safe. The second is that a malfunctioning system could trigger for no apparent reason. The security company should be called if problems are detected or if an error code appears on the display.

Install Cameras

A good way to prevent false dispatches is by including cameras as part of the home security system. Home security companies that monitor the house will have access to the live camera footage. This means the monitoring agent can quickly determine whether a burglary is in progress or whether a pet simply jumped too high.