Burglar Alarm Information

Burglar alarms can make our homes and businesses more secure and assist police in apprehending lawbreakers.

However, 98 percent of the burglar alarms that police respond to turn out to be false alarms. This is costly to the City of Edgewood and takes police officers away from important calls for service.We want to reduce the number of false alarms and allow our officers to use their time more productively in activities that effectively promote safer communities.

Alarm companies are cooperating in an effort to reduce false alarms. We are asking for your help also. Causes of false alarms can be identified, and steps can be taken to minimize the chances of reoccurrence. This information was developed to offer some suggestions about what you can do to help reduce false alarms.

Tips to Reduce False Alarms

• If you accidentally set off your alarm, let your alarm company know. Remember your passcode and/or password.
• Make sure that all alarm users and key holders to the building or home are trained to use the system and know the codes to arm and disarm the system, including how to cancel a false alarm.
• Do not call 911 to cancel a false alarm. You should call your alarm company.
• You may arrange to have your alarm company call you or another designated person first, instead of the police, when your alarm is activated. This is known as verification.
• If you expect workers, real estate agents, delivery persons, etc., you should not set your alarm; if you must set your alarm, meet with the people at your site to deactivate the alarm.
• If your system sends a duress signal when an incorrect code is entered, you might consider having that feature disconnected. Often in a rush to arm or disarm the alarm, an incorrect code is entered, and the police are dispatched.
• Be sure that doors and windows are tight-fitting. Adjust hinges and strike plates, so the door only moves about 1/4 inch when pulled or pushed on. Have an alarming delay of at least 45 seconds on all doors.