What is a false alarm?

When a police officer responds to an alarm activation and, after investigation, finds no evidence of criminal activity, the officer will designate the alarm signal as a false alarm.

False alarms delay police from responding to actual calls for police service. False alarms are a nuisance to you and your neighbors, make your security system less reliable, and make you reluctant to use your system.

How big is the problem?

Each year, the Westport Police Department responds to thousands of alarm calls. 99% of all alarm calls turn out to be false alarms.

False alarms amount to nearly 15% of all calls for service which is roughly equivalent to having three police officers responding to only false alarm calls exclusively for a year.

False alarms are costly and dangerous. They can divert police officers from proactive patrol, crime prevention, and traffic enforcement efforts. They also delay response to calls that may be true emergencies.

What are some of the major causes of false alarms?

• Mistakes by property owners (i.e., incorrect codes, unfamiliarity with the system)
• Door(s) not closed properly
• Kids, neighbors, relatives, visitors, repair workers
• Cleaning crews
• Pets
• Equipment malfunctions

How can I prevent false alarms?

• Know and understand how your system works
• Keep motion detectors clear
• Check your alarm system batteries and schedule replacement regularly
• Make sure doors and windows are shut before you turn your system on

Forms

Town of Westport Alarm Ordinance

Alarm Registration Form

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