The city of Bellaire has launched a new system to improve emergency response and reduce false alarms, according to a Sept. 30 news release.

What you need to know

The new system started Oct. 1 and will track false alarm activations from security systems across Bellaire. The goal of the new system is to encourage responsible alarm use while ensuring the police and fire departments are available for true emergencies.

“False alarms place a significant burden on public safety resources,” said Bellaire Police Chief Onesimo Lopez. “This system allows us to better manage those calls, improve response times and promote accountability among alarm users.”

As part of the system, a tiered fee schedule will apply after a set number of false alarms within 12 months. Fees will be due within 30 days from the invoice date, including:

• No fee: First, second and third false alarm
• $50 each: Fourth and fifth false alarm
• $75: Sixth and seventh false alarm
• $100 each: Eighth false alarm or more

According to the news release, all residential and commercial alarm users must register their systems through the PM/AM portal. The city also implemented an annual system permit requirement Oct. 1. Anyone who has purchased an alarm permit within the past year must contact PM/AM at 1-866-552-9032 to inform them and avoid being charged an additional permit fee.

Keep in mind

The city recommends preventing any false alarms through best practices, such as:

• Before activating the system, lock all protected doors and windows. Keep pets, fans, heaters, plants or curtains away from motion sensor areas. Know how to cancel the alarm if the system activates.
• Have the security company check and service the system regularly. Routine maintenance can help prevent many false alarms.
• Replace monitoring equipment with newer, high-security monitoring technology. Dirty or wet phone lines, telephone repairmen and service interruptions do not require police response.