FRISCO, Texas — New training materials developed by the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC) will help alarm companies and central stations decrease the number of false alarm dispatches due to customer error.
"Human error remains a major issue that we need to address," SIAC Executive Director Stan Martin says. "The industry must own our share of the responsibility to properly train the alarm users, and this must start at the level of the alarm installer. It provides a better experience for our customers and improves our relationship with law enforcement across the country."
Developed by SIAC Director Ron Walters, the free program is based on alarm schools that law enforcement agencies are currently using as part of their alarm reduction programs, according to a press release. A PowerPoint presentation includes checklists, user tip sheets and other materials to help companies educate customers in reducing false alarms.
"It is very important that we take the time to educate customers about how their alarm system works," SIAC Executive Director Stan Martin says. "This includes using plain language rather than industry jargon and allowing the customer some hands-on training and experience with the system."
Companies also can modify the tools to meet their specific needs.
"We encourage the alarm companies to take the materials and rebrand them," Walters says. "We hope this rebranding will further encourage alarm companies to buy into and own the program."
SIAC maintains that customer error has caused roughly 77% of all police dispatches. Thus, the group plans to promote other materials to reduce false alarm dispatches and user error in 2012, Walters says.
"By providing expert training so employees have quality information, we can help the industry make a significant improvement in this area," he says.
To download the tools, click here.
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