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Submitted by Steve Sink
Before a situation occurs that might require you to take action, we suggest that all citizens who have a security alarm discuss with trusted neighbors some important information that could be helpful before, during and after an alarm sounds. Trusted neighbors should know general schedules, what kind of vehicles driven, who belongs in the home as well as planned extended trips. You should share with these neighbors when and why you might have visitors or work being done on your property. It is also advisable that neighbors exchange phone numbers in case of an emergency. Advising each other of these basic pieces of information can help determine if there is a false alarm. Each homeowner with an alarm should also register with the Albuquerque Police Departments False Alarm Reduction Unit at 505-768-2059. The City of Albuquerque has enacted an Alarm System Ordinance that requires all residential and commercial alarms be registered. Registering your alarm could prevent you from being fined for false alarms.
Once the previous steps have been taken and an alarm sounds, we recommend all neighbors inspect the area from a safe and secure location within your home to detect possible suspicious activity or behavior. Making yourself aware of the surroundings can begin the process of detection and reporting. It’s important that all neighbors who have line-of-sight provide surveillance from a variety of directions. You should look for unfamiliar vehicles or persons, damaged windows and doors or any thing that does not appear to be normal. After an initial inspection that does not detect activity, you should attempt to contact your neighbor by phone. If the alarm continues to sound and there is no apparent activity, vehicles or persons, you should call the non-emergency number at 505-242-COPS (2677). If you detect suspicious persons entering, leaving or hanging out, call 911 immediately. If you have to call the police, please do so from a safe place and provide as much information as possible. Provide a good description of the person, including physical characteristics, clothing and direction of travel. If the person leaves in a vehicle, provide similar information that would include type of vehicle, color, body damage, if any, license plate and direction of travel.
Working together can establish a safe and secure environment for you and your neighbors. If you have an alarm, take some basic precautions. If you hear an alarm, be a good neighbor and look out for each other by observing and being prepared to call the police.
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