New Haven is cracking down on people and businesses whose security alarms go off for no reason.
When security systems malfunction at homes or local businesses, New Haven Police end up using a lot of resources to respond.
“Responding to false alarms is a big issue for the police department. It eats up about the equivalent of eight officers per year,” said Rob Smuts, Chief Administrative Officer for New Haven.
With about 5,500 false alarms last year, it equates to more than $500,000 in response costs. The City is looking to substantially decrease that number. It will be enforcing its alarm ordinance by bringing in a company to administer fines for false alarms. The first false alarm may be free, but the second will cost you $75, the third $150 and the fourth $250.
“This company Cry Wolf takes a portion of the fees to administer the program. They'll actually do a much better job than we could reaching out and educating customers, and getting the word out about what you need to do to fix your alarm,” said Smuts.
The city will see about 70 percent of the money collected and says its goal is to have people make sure their alarms are in working order.
However, not all residents think fines are the way to go.
Leroy Harris says the City should instead work with homeowners and businesses.
“They could warn them and give them time, because most people want their alarm to be up and running,” said Harris.
People also have to register their alarms or risk a $99 fine. You can register online at https://www.crywolf.us/oss/newhavenct/
