The following words, terms, and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this paragraph, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
AUTOMATIC DIALER. An electrically operated instrument composed of sensory apparatus and related hardware which automatically sends a prerecorded voice alarm.
FALSE ALARM. The activation of a security and/or fire alarm system or device either by the owner, lessee, or employee of the premises where the alarm is located, or security and/or fire alarm device malfunction, where such alarm results in a response by the police or fire department and where an emergency situation does not exist. The following shall not be considered a “false alarm” for the purposes of this chapter:
(1) Alarm activations caused by electrical failure;
(2) Alarm activations caused by an Act of God;
(3) Alarm activations caused by reasons beyond the control of the owner or lessee; and
(4) Alarm activations in the event owner or lessee notifies the police or fire department prior to responding to the location of the alarm that said alarm was inadvertent and no emergency exists.
SECURITY AND/OR FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. Security and/or fire alarm system means any system, device, or mechanism for the detection and reporting of any unauthorized entry or attempted entry, fire, or property damage upon premises protected by the system that may be activated by sensors or other techniques and, when activated, automatically transmits a telephone message or emits an audible, visible, or electronic signal that can be heard, seen, or received by persons outside of the protected premises and is intended to summon police or fire assistance.
(Ord. 05-2010, passed 3-16-2010; Ord. 04-2015, passed 5-19-2015)