NEW ORLEANS—As the number of homeowners installing alarm security systems in New Orleans increases, so do the number of false alarms. Valuable time and money was being wasted on a high percentage of false alarms. According to police, in 1997 only 2 percent of the alarms that police responded to were actual attempted burglaries.
The No. 1 reason for false alarms is user error. After enacting local legislation, which combines the use of fines and enforcement, false alarms are decreasing. The next step to be taken in combating false alarms is educating the consumers and end users. With the combined efforts of the Louisiana Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (LBFAA), the New Orleans Police Department and City Council, a training program is being offered to residents and business owners.
The False Alarm User’s School is aired on the local cable access station and can also be accessed via the city’s Web site (www.new-orleans.la.us). One-hour monthly classes are offered and provide information on ways to prevent false alarms and also include a demonstration video. For more information on their effort, please contact Helen at LBFAA at (318) 237-5580.Source: NBFAA’s False Alarm Network
