How do I test my alarm system?
Goal: Ensure devices are detecting and alarm signals are being received at the Monitoring Station.
1. Contact our
Rapid Response Monitoring Station (call 306.653.3200) to let us know you are testing the system.
You will require your account number or password.
2. Make sure the “Ready” light is on.
TO TEST THE SIREN & BATTERY
3. From an LED keypad, Enter [*][6][Master Code][4] then press [#] to return to the Ready state. From an LCD keypad, press [*} to enter the functions list. Use the arrow (<>) keys to scroll to find the “User Functions” and press [*] to select. Enter your Master Code and scroll to find the following message “Select Option System Test”. Once this message appears press [*] to perform the test. Press [#] to return to the Ready state.
TO TEST DETECTION DEVICES AND FOR COMMUNICATION WITH THE MONITORING STATION:
4. Turn the system on by typing in your four digit user code or by holding in the AWAY button for three seconds. Exit as you normally would until the Exit delay expires. After the delay has expired, re-enter your premises (do not turn the alarm OFF) and begin testing each sensor.
5. Activate each sensor in turn (e.g. open a door/window or walk in areas covered by motion detectors). Note: The siren will be activated when you set off the alarm.
6. Turn the alarm system OFF by typing in your four digit user code.
7. Contact our
Rapid Response Monitoring Station to verify that alarm signals were received. You will require your account number or password.
NOTE: Testing based on DSC Power 632, Power 832, Power 864 and Envoy alarm panels. Some features may be disabled.
I set of my alarm by accident and no one called me. Why not?
If you set off your alarm by mistake and enter the correct user code within two minutes, our
Rapid Response Monitoring Station will automatically cancel your alarm signal. No phone call is made to the premises.
What are typical response times?
The dispatch time is how long it takes our
Rapid Response Monitoring Station to notify a contact after an alarm signal is received. The industry average is 200 seconds and we routinely beat the average. The response time refers to how long it takes for the proper authorities to arrive at your premises. This will vary depending on who is doing the responding - police versus private guard response, the number of available responders, traffic and weather conditions, the signal type, and the total amount of overall alarm activity within the city. Typical response times range between five and 30 minutes.
What causes false alarms?
Most false alarms are caused by user error. False alarms can also be caused by improperly installed or malfunctioning equipment, insects, pets, and moving curtains or debris (caused by heating or air conditioning ducts and open windows).
False Alarm Reduction Tips:
- Make sure everyone with access to your home/business knows how to use your security system. This includes children, neighbors, friends, relatives, employees, cleaners, and guests.
- Let all users of your security system practice shutting off the system. Please call the Monitoring Station (call 306.653.3200) to inform us you are teaching someone how to use your system.
- If you accidentally set off your alarm…don't panic! Simply call and let us know it's a false alarm. Also, make sure everyone knows their current password.
- Check for drafts that may cause curtains, plants or decorations to set off motion detectors. Drafts may be caused by open windows, fans or air conditioning.
- Areas around sensor should be checked for dust, cobwebs, and insects.
- When you leave ensure all doors and windows are closed tightly and securely. Loose fitting doors or windows may set off contacts.
- Let us know if you are getting a pet, or renovating your home.
- Keep your key-holder list up to date.
- Test your system regularly.
If the power goes out will my alarm system still work?
Yes. Your system has a rechargeable back-up battery. When the power goes out the "trouble light" will appear and the alarm panel automatically switches to the back-up battery. When the power turns back on the battery recharges itself. Note: The battery must be replaced from time to time and is not covered under warranty.
How do I clear my "trouble light" after the power has gone out?
When the power is back on, press * 2 # and the trouble light should go out. If it doesn't,
contact us immediately.
What does it mean if the "memory light" is on?
The "memory light" indicates there has been an alarm. Arm and disarm the system to clear the light. Press * 3 to view which zone had the alarm and then press the # key twice to clear.
If I'm going on holidays, should I update my contact information?
Yes. Advise our
Rapid Response Monitoring Station you will be away and update your key-holder information. Make sure all key-holders have received proper instruction on the alarm system, have a valid user code, and have a valid password.
Will my system still work if I get a pet?
You may need to upgrade your motion detectors. If your not sure if you have "pet-friendly" motion detectors please
contact our office.