For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ALARM SYSTEM. Any assembly of equipment or devices, either mechanically or electrically operated, which signals, either audibly or in any other manner so as to be seen, heard or otherwise detected outside the protected area, through the use of a local annunciator, a direct public safety answering point connection, central station monitoring or other method, for the purpose of summoning a response by public safety personnel.
ALARM USER. A person, firm, partnership, association, corporation, company, school, park district or organization of any kind, not directly under the management of the corporate authority of the city, who is in control of any building, residence, structure, trailer or facility where an alarm system is maintained.
AUTOMATIC DIRECT DIALING DEVICE. Any police, fire or other emergency alarm system which consists of a telephone device or telephone attachment that automatically or electronically sends over a telephone line a pre-recorded message or code signal when an alarm system is activated.
FALSE ALARM. An alarm signal eliciting a response by public safety personnel when a situation requiring a response does not, in fact, exist and which is caused by the activation of the alarm system through mechanical failure, alarm malfunction, improper installation or the inadvertence of the alarm user, or of employees or agents of the alarm user. The term does not include an alarm caused by climatic conditions, utility line mishaps or other conditions determined to be beyond the control of the alarm manufacturer, installer or user.
PUBLIC SAFETY RESPONSE. The arrival of a city police officer, firefighter or other public safety employee or designee at the location of the false alarm in response to an alarm.
(Ord. 94-21, passed 5-10-1994)