Barrie False Alarm Policy

The purpose of the false alarm policy is to eliminate the attendance of police officers at locations where there are chronic problems with the alarm system. Our statistics show that approximately 1,500 false alarm calls are received each year. In each instance, two officers must be dispatched to the scene on a high priority basis.

On January 1, 1997 the current false alarm policy came into effect. The following details will help you understand how the policy works.

"Alarm" is defined as a device intended to detect the unauthorized entry into a building. It does not include an automatic calling device.

1. "False alarm" includes an alarm resulting in a police response, and it includes testing, malfunction or an accidental activation.
2. Audible alarms which last more than 15 minutes are not permitted.
3. If there is a police response to a false alarm, a notice will be issued to the occupier of the location after the first incident.
4. After the second incident in a calendar year, a notice of suspension of service will be issued, but the person will be allowed to be reinstated if the following conditions are met:
   1. a fee of $100.00 is paid to the Barrie Police Service; and
   2. a letter is received stating that measures have been taken to prevent false alarms in the future.
5. After the third incident in a calendar year, a notice of suspension of service will be issued, but the person will be allowed to be reinstated if the following conditions are met:
   1. a fee of $200.00 is paid to the Barrie Police Service; and
   2. a letter is received stating that measures have been taken to prevent false alarms in the future.
6. After the fourth incident in a calendar year, a notice of suspension of service will be issued, but the person will be allowed to be reinstated if the following conditions are met:
   1. a fee of $300.00 is paid to the Barrie Police Service; and
   2. a letter is received stating that measures have been taken to prevent false alarms in the future.
7. After the fifth incident in a calendar year, a notice of suspension of service will be issued, and response to that location will not be provided until the beginning of the new calendar year and upon payment of any outstanding fees.

It is the responsibility of occupiers of premises to ensure that intrusion alarm systems are in good working order and employees/users of the premises are familiar with proper operation of any system.

This policy is not applicable to instances where the alarm was caused by an illegal entry or any attempt to unlawfully gain entry to the premises.

For additional information, please contact the Barrie Police False Alarm Coordinator at 725-7025, ext. 2207.