Your Go-To Checklist For A Smooth, Stress-Free Security Experience
False alarms disrupt more than your day. They waste emergency resources, strain relationships with neighbors, and often result in fines from local authorities. Luckily, preventing them is easier than you think.
Use this step-by-step guide to take control of your security system and dramatically reduce false alarms. Be sure to review it with your entire family!
Know Your System Inside and Out
Start here: a properly set-up and well-understood system is your best defense against false alarms. Every feature has a purpose, so make sure you and everyone else who uses the system know how it works.
☐ Schedule a training session with a Westco Security technician. Don’t skip this! A walk-through of all available features empowers you, so you know exactly how to use your system.
☐ Read and keep your user manual. It’s worth your time, and your future self will thank you.
☐ Train all keyholders (family, dog walker, housekeeper, etc.) in arming, disarming, and canceling an alarm.
☐ Practice alarm cancellation with everyone. Make it second nature. Make sure all users on the call list know the safe word or passcode.
☐ Test your system monthly using the designated method that doesn’t trigger emergency dispatch. Call our office at (636) 519-0022 to put your account on test.
Prep Your Home
Your security system works best when your home is set up to avoid unnecessary sensor triggers. These small actions go a long way.
☐ Lock all windows and doors before arming your system.
☐ Keep pets away from motion zones or talk to us about pet-friendly sensor settings.
☐ Fix drafts from vents, fans, or leaky windows that can move plants or curtains.
☐ Stabilize décor and objects near motion sensors to prevent unintentional movements.
☐ Make sure motion sensor zones are clear of large plants or hanging objects.
Customize Settings to Match Your Routine
If your system isn’t tailored to how you actually live, false alarms are more likely. A few tweaks can make all the difference.
☐ Set a realistic exit/entry delay so you’re not rushing out the door.
☐ Install the keypad near exit points for easy access when arming/disarming.
☐ Enable your cancel signal feature if your system supports it, which will stop dispatch right after a false alarm.
☐ Contact Westco Security before or after home changes, including remodeling, new pets, or shifting furniture that can impact sensor performance.
Keep It Maintained and Updated
Like any piece of home tech, your system needs care. Routine service keeps everything in peak condition and avoids surprise false alarms.
☐ Replace your backup battery every 3–5 years, even if it still “works.”
☐ Request annual service checks to clean sensors, update software, and confirm everything’s running right.
☐ Don’t ignore random alarms. Contact Westco immediately—these might indicate deeper system issues.
Plan for Everyone Who Enters Your Home
Guests, cleaners, contractors, and other visitors can all accidentally trigger alarms if they’re not prepared.
☐ Train trusted contractors, housekeepers, or repair personnel on using your system before they enter your home.
☐ Provide clear instructions for temporary users and test their understanding before you leave them alone.
Keep False Alarms in Check Without Losing Peace of Mind
At Westco Security & Technology Systems, we believe home security should be stress-free. With custom surveillance and alarm systems, professional monitoring, and client-first training, we help homeowners stay secure without the false alarm chaos.
Need help setting up or fine-tuning your system settings? Contact our team here. We’re here to help you protect what matters.
