An influx in false home alarms has RCMP in the Upper Fraser Valley making response changes.
Starting September 1st, all property alarms must be verified before police will take any action.
“From the beginning of 2015, police have responded to over 1,400 false alarm complaints in the Upper Fraser Valley Regional District, taking us away from higher priority investigations” said Cpl. Mike Rail.
This includes the communities of Chilliwack, Hope, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, and Boston Bar.
Cpl. Rail says the policy change will place onus on alarm owners to ensure their systems are maintained and operating efficiently.
A ‘verified alarm’ is one that has been confirmed by a property representative, key holder, witness or verification by two-way voice communication, video monitoring, or glass break activation.
Officers will still respond to all monitored panic and medical alarms.
To avoid a false alarm, police suggest getting your alarm tested and serviced on a regular basis, have your alarm monitored by video or voice, know how to operate your alarm system, and ensure property representatives are available.
