False CCTV alarms can not only be frustrating, but they can also be detrimental to a business’s productivity and day-to-day operations. Not to mention the unnecessary call on the emergency services that result in their valuable time being wasted.
False alarms can occur for a number of reasons. From wild animals activating sensors, the weather triggering detectors, to individuals putting in the wrong security codes, false CCTV alarms are a common occurrence to businesses. In fact, it’s been reported that 93% of UK businesses believe to be experiencing an excess of CCTV false alarms.
However, it doesn’t have to be like this! There are in fact numerous ways in which you can prevent false CCTV alarms. Take note of our 6 tips on how to prevent false CCTV alarms below.
6 Tips on How to Prevent False CCTV Alarms
Keep Animals Out
Wild animals and insects are a common cause of false CCTV alarms being triggered, especially within outdoor areas and sites. If possible, make sure your premises are closed off to wild animals, such as foxes and deer. Alternatively, use volumetric sensors that only activate when they detect objects of 15kg or more. This, therefore, eliminates small animals and insects and should significantly reduce the amount of false CCTV alarms caused by animals.
Train New Employees
It’s important for any new employee who has access to the CCTV system to understand it and know how to work the system properly. They will need to know where all the sensors are, any upkeep that needs to take place, as well as how to properly arm and disarm the cameras. Simple user mistakes are a common cause of false CCTV alarms being triggered.
Regularly Clean Cameras
Did you know that dust, dirt or cobwebs on CCTV cameras and their lenses can cause false alarms? Make sure all cameras are regularly cleaned and are free of any screen obstructions in order to prevent false CCTV alarms.
Trim Back Nearby Trees
Many businesses don’t realise that nearby trees and bushes can cause a false CCTV trigger before it’s too late. Keep on top of nearby foliage and other obstructions that could start to enter a CCTV’s sensor zone. It’s also important to consider the impact of the weather and how factors such as wind could cause a tree to be blown into a CCTV’s sensor.
Carry Out Regular System Maintenance
It could be that a system fault is causing your CCTV system to trigger false alarms. By having a regular maintenance plan in place, any system faults will be able to be identified and resolved, saving you time and money in the aftermath of a false alarm.
Outsource CCTV Monitoring
CCTV monitoring is whereby a third party ARC monitor an entire CCTV system. As well as remotely identifying faults in the system, monitoring operatives will also be able to quickly and effectively identify and confirm false alarms. The main benefit of having CCTV monitoring in place is that if a CCTV alarm proves to be true, they will be able to action the most appropriate emergency response, however, if it turns out to be false, they can turn off the alarm and save the emergency services a visit.
Preventing False CCTV Alarms with RMS
RMS can help prevent false CCTV alarms on business sites and premises. Find out more about CCTV monitoring and receive a FREE quote by getting in touch online or by calling 0330 002 1149.
Make sure to check our blog on how CCTV works to learn more.
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