“ALARM SYSTEM.” Any mechanical or electrical device or series of devices designed or used for the detection of an unauthorized entry into a building, structure or facility, or for alerting others of the commission of an unlawful act within a building, structure or facility, or both; and which emit or transmit a remote or local audible, visual or electronic signal or message when activated alarm systems include, but are not limited to, systems interconnected with a radio frequency method such as cellular or private radio signals, direct-dial telephone devices, audible alarms, and proprietor alarms. Devices which are not designed or used to register alarms that are audible, visible or perceptible outside of the protected buildings, structure or facility are not included within this definition, nor are auxiliary devices installed by the telephone company to protect telephone company systems which might be damaged or disrupted by the use of an alarm system. Alarm system does not include audible alarms installed or affixed to automobiles or on someone's person.
“ALARM USER.” Any person or business entity who uses or is in control of an alarm system located on that person's or entity's premises or who has contracted for monitoring, repair or maintenance service from an alarm company for an alarm system.
“CANCELLATION OR ALARM DISPATCH CANCELLATION.” The process by which an alarm company providing monitoring services verifies with the alarm user or responsible party that a false dispatch has occurred and communicates the verification to the responding law enforcement agency confirming that there is not an existing situation at the alarm site requiring law enforcement response.
“DURESS ALARM.” A silent alarm system signal generated by the manual activation of a device intended to signal a life threatening situation or a crime in progress requiring law enforcement response. A “DURESS ALARM SIGNAL” is generally not verified.
“FALSE ALARM.” An alarm dispatch request to a law enforcement agency when the responding officer finds no evidence of a criminal offense or attempted criminal offense after having completed an investigation of the alarm site.
(Ord. 20:2011, passed 6-13-11)