CCTV false alarms

CCTV False Alarms: How PSM manages and reduces them

Keeping your site protected during summer

During summer, changing weather, wildlife and environmental conditions can increase CCTV false alarms. Watch our short video to see how PSM manages these activations while keeping our operators focused on genuine security events.

How we manage and reduce CCTV false alarms

During spring and summer, systems generate higher volumes of CCTV false alarms.

To maintain service quality and ensure genuine activations are prioritised, we may implement our false alarm handling measures where necessary.

These measures are designed to reduce disruption and maintain the overall effectiveness of your monitoring service.

For further information, please refer to your Course of Action form, or contact us on 01942 366 291.

The most common measures we apply are outlined below.

PSM Traces AI

Our game-changing alarm filtering technology, PSM Traces AI, uses innovative Artificial Intelligence to reduce false alarms.

Designed in-house, it’s a video analytic platform that detects people and vehicles, filtering false alarms caused by wildlife, foliage, and seasonal conditions. This means our operators deal only with genuine threats.

CCTV false alarms - double knock

Double knock

Where a detector must activate twice within a short period before an alarm is sent to operators.

CCTV false alarms - Temporary Isolation

Temporary isolation

Where a single detector is isolated automatically after multiple alarms within a one-hour period, then reinstated automatically once the number of alarms reduce below the threshold.

cctv-monitoring-solutions-white-Icons

While we actively manage false alarms on our side, your system setup is key. Keeping it well-maintained and following the guidance below helps reduce unnecessary activations, minimising the need for corrective measures.

How you can protect your system and help reduce CCTV false alarms

Taking a few preventative steps can significantly reduce unnecessary activations and keep your system running as intended.

CCTV cameras

Make sure all outdoor cameras are securely mounted, correctly positioned, and not exposed to unnecessary movement caused by wind or passing objects.

Loose items

Strong winds can move unsecured objects, which may trigger false alarms. Items such as tarpaulins, BBQ covers, garden furniture, and decorations should be secured, especially during adverse weather.

CCTV false alarms - foliage and insects

Foliage and insects

As trees and plants grow, they can trigger motion detection and obscure camera views, while warmer weather attracts insects and spider webs to lenses. Regular maintenance and gentle cleaning will help keep your system clear and performing effectively.

CCTV false alarms - Weather conditions

Weatherproof protection

Additionally consider investing in weatherproof housing for your cameras, to shield them from heavy rain, prolonged sun exposure, and potential water damage. Proper maintenance will extend the lifespan of your equipment.

Got a question about your monitored system?

Complete  the form below and a member of our team will be in touch.

Hundreds of clients trust PSM to keep their sites safe and monitoring reliable.

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Call 01942 366 291


“I couldn’t live without PSM’s service. I thought it would be intrusive at first, but it isn’t. When my daughter comes home from school and sets the system once inside, she has a security barrier around her. I know she is safe and protected.”

Mrs E | Bowden

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