4 Steps You Can Take To Avoid False Alarms

False alarms on home security systems can cause more issues than just a brief moment of fear for the homeowner. When an alarm gets sounded, multiple parties such as local police authorities must get involved. When authorities report on behalf of a false alarm, it means wasted resources. And what’s worse: pulling personnel away from where actual emergencies are taking place.

Cities such as Conway, Arkansas are battling false alarms by fining residents up to $5o per responding agency for false alarms that occur more than three times in one year. Mobile, Alabama is requiring residents and business owners who get an alarm system to register with the city. The reason, according to WKRG News in Mobile, is to allow authorities to better determine who is causing false alarms.

As unfortunate as false alarms might be, they are avoidable when residents take the proper steps and precautions. There are some ways that you can help combat false alarms in your own home.

1. Ensure that everyone knows how to operate the system.

One of the biggest contributing factors toward false alarms is simply mismanagement of the alarm system. It’s important for everyone in the household to know how to use the control panel, which access code to put in before entering the home, and especially know that the home security system is armed in the first place.

2. Check your batteries.

ADT home security systems come with a backup battery system that allows your system to stay up and running, even in the event of something like a power outage. While backup batteries are a critical part of a system, failure for a backup battery to activate can lead to a false alarm.

Be sure to consult with either ADT customer service or your instructions on how to test for battery power.

3. Put pet-sensitive sensors to use.

If you already have an ADT Home Security System, then you already have access to pet-sensitive technology. These sensors are put in place to avoid false alarms, and if you have a pet, then you should be putting them to use.

All ADT-monitored security packages feature pet-sensitive motion sensors, and are able to distinguish between small animals and humans.

4. Be aware of when windows and doors are open/closed.

Depending on where you place your sensors, opening a window or a door can set off a false alarm. Making sure that everyone in the home knows which doors and windows have a sensor is essential for an effective home security system.

If you alarm system is armed while inside, make sure that all windows and doors are shut and secured, and make it clear that no one is to open them while the system is armed. This is a common reason for false alarms, and can lead to an avoidable headache.


A home security system is meant to provide you with ease-of-mind, not more stress. As long as you know what can potentially cause a false alarm, and keep a keen awareness of the causes in and around your home, then it’s nothing that you’ll have to worry about. Keep everyone in your family educated about the causes of false alarms, the consequences of them, and ensure that everyone is practicing good home security habits.



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