How to Register a Security System with the Police Department

A security system is a great tool to have installed in your home; it offers an extra line of defense against intruders and acts as a preliminary warning system for any otherwise-oblivious loved ones inside. But as the sensitivity of the technology continues to advance, the false alarms that are triggered by accident continue to rise. To combat this problem, many homeowners are beginning to register their security systems with the police. In fact, some counties and states have enacted legislation that requires you to register your active security system to help reduce false alarms and increase the protection the systems offer.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Contact your local police department for an application form to be sent to you. You can also visit the police station in person to obtain it. Provide your security provider's name and direct customer service number, along with the information about your system, including what type of system you have. Return the completed form to the station. You will also need to pay a filing fee, which averages about $25. Once your application is accepted and approved, you will receive a permit in the mail.

2. Contact your security provider and supply it with the permit number. You may also be asked to send it a copy of the permit; be sure to provide a copy and not the original, because you need to retain this for your personal records. Your security provider will provide you with confirmation that your system is registered, which you must then furnish a copy of to the police department. Once finished, you will receive notice from the police that your registration has been completed and is active.

3. Register for enhanced call verification, also known as ECV, if your local police station offers it. ECV is a widely used call system that reduces the amount of officer responses made to false alarms. The system employs the use of emergency contacts, which allows them to bypass contacting your security provider when your alarm is tripped. Instead, an officer will attempt to call at least two of the emergency contacts for the residence. If the officer is able to reach one of the contacts, he can then determine if the alarm was sounded erroneously or if there is a legitimate emergency. If the officer is unable to reach any of the emergency contacts within a reasonable time frame, an emergency situation is presumed and law enforcement is then dispatched to the residence.

4. Renew and update your security system registration on a regular basis. Many stations require you to renew your registration once a year or every two years, and you may be required to pay a renewal fee each time. You can obtain a renewal form from the police station. If your county or state has laws requiring that security systems must be registered, you may incur a fine for allowing it to lapse. Also update your registration whenever your home or emergency contact numbers expire, when upgrades, downgrades or reinstallations are made to your system, or when you move.

Tips & Warnings

• Once your system is registered, you must notify the police whenever you plan to test or deactivate your system. Make notification at least 48 hours before the testing and/or deactivation, unless your station has a different policy. Failing to notify the police can trigger a false alarm and response, which can result in fines or citations, depending on your local laws. Contact your homeowner's insurance and report your registered security system if you haven't already. A security system usually qualifies you for a discount on your premiums. You may also be entitled to additional discounts after your system is registered with the police department.

References

• False Alarm Reduction Association
• Alarm System Registration & False Alarm Reduction
• Alarm Registration