Lethbridge residents must register alarm systems, police say

Because of a high rate of false alarms, Lethbridge police are warning residents they will selectively respond to alerts unless the alarm systems are registered with the city.

Last year, Lethbridge police responded to 1,339 false alarms and only 36 genuine alarms.

"Responding to these false alarms has a significant impact on resources and takes police time away from other calls for service," police said in a statement.

False alarms oftenarise from testing, faulty equipment, user error, power failure or excessive vibrations, police said.

"For anyone who fails to acquire a permit and register their alarm, police will not attend the alarm site unless it is determined to be an actual emergency," they said.

Alarm owners - both commercialand residential- have until July 1 to register for the free permit.

Under Lethbridge Bylaw 5078, fines can be applied if there are three or more false alarms within a one-year period. The fines are $75 for homes and $150 for commercial premises.

The move comes a week after Calgary police said they would start charging fees for alarm system permits and stop responding to homes and businesses that don't have a valid one.

Beginning May 15, when an alarm is triggered, alarm companies must attempt to contact at least two key holders before calling Calgary police to the scene.

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