False alarms can be a major problem in South Africa, more so since the implementation of load shedding across the country.

Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of marketing & communications of Fidelity ADT says since false alarms are so prevalent, the resources security companies have available to respond to emergencies are placed under pressure.

“The six most common causes of false alarms are: faulty equipment; human error; low batteries due to load shedding; doors and windows not secured correctly; incorrect installation and pets, rodents or insects triggering the alarm,” she points out.

“Most of these causes can be addressed so I urge residents and business owners to speak to their security provider and assist in the reduction of false alarms. Residents definitely need to become more conscious about the impact of false alarms.”

Hattingh says getting the right security system and learning how to use it correctly is essential. She also says that appropriately training for all 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 cannot be determined, you should monitor the situation and ascertain a pattern such as weather conditions, the same time of day etc,” he 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.”

Hattingh offers the following tips on how to further 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.
• Inform your security provider if you expect to be away from home for an extended period of time.

“Your security system’s keypad can provide you with information about any problems that need technical intervention. Search on the internet for a copy of the system’s user guide or ask your monitoring company to send you a copy.”

Hattingh says UPS backup systems are also useful to add to any home system, even if they are costly. They can play a part in keeping you and your property safe if they are connected properly and used in the way they were intended to be used.

“If you have any questions about your home security system and its battery backups, please contact your armed response company as soon as possible. They will help you test to see if any technical problems need urgent attention.”