False Alarm Prevention For Banks

Banks can generate more false alarms than the average commercial establishment? (“Banks” include credit unions and other financial institutions.)

Talk to your alarm provider and become re-educated in the design and use of YOUR security system.
Ensure the alarm system provides identification of the device that caused the alarm.
Have equipment installed to make activation easy when needed, but safe from accidental trips.
Use internal verification procedures where, upon activation (including robbery alarms), the monitoring operator contacts the branch to obtain a codeword confirming the alarm activation prior to requesting law enforcement dispatch.
Verify your monitoring company uses Enhanced Call Verification (ECV), which means that if no contact is made at the alarm site, they call a responsible party at a second phone number prior to requesting a police dispatch.
Train all bank employees in the proper use of the equipment including how to cancel a false alarm.

Eliminate wireless $$$ clips and hold up buttons that must be reset with a key. Replace these types of devices with a dual-action hold-up button. Additionally, ensure that each device is zoned to identify to the central station dispatcher which button was activated.
Replace “Deadman’s Keyswitches” and “Blind Keyswitches” with proper central station opening/closing procedures.
Be sure all new system users are fully trained before attempting to use the system. Hold monthly training classes to ensure existing users are aware of any changes to the system, designated entry/exit doors, proper opening/closing procedures, correct pass codes and arming codes, and rehearse how to cancel accidental activations.
Make it easy for ATM and armored car providers to cancel accidental activations.
Make your central station aware of the provider company and their phone number.
Prior to dispatching officers on an ATM alarm, consider having your central station immediately contact the ATM company’s dispatcher to verify whether or not a technician is at the site. The one-time cost of phones at the ATM machine is significantly less than the on-going “hidden cost” of false alarm fines.
Consult with your local law enforcement agency on proper procedures to follow during a hold-up.