False Alarms – a growing concern

What’s the problem?

False alarms are by far the most common type of calls CFA responds to*. They use a considerable amount of CFA resources, put firefighters and the public at unnecessary risk and potentially delay responses to real emergencies.

*FIRS analysis

















What causes false alarms?

Unwanted false alarms are caused by many different factors, but the most common types are those caused by the “human factor”; for example:

• dirty/dusty smoke detectors;
• old corroded wiring in ageing alarm system panels;
• problems with sprinkler systems;
• accidentally triggered by contractors/tradespeople;
• good intent;
• hoax calls;
• intentional triggers; or
• smoke/steam setting off systems.

Under section 20B of the CFA Act, an owner or occupier of a "protected premises" (monitored alarm system) can be charged for CFA’s attendance. Costs range from $140 - $343 per vehicle, per fifteen minutes.


What is CFA doing about it?

In September 2007, a revised False Alarm charging procedure (FA11010) was implemented with its main focus to charge owners/occupiers for false alarms where there was no reasonable excuse. Charging provides a strong financial incentive to owners/occupiers to ensure their alarm systems are adequately maintained and operated.

When assessing whether a charge will apply, CFA takes into account a number of different factors, including:

• what (if any) explanation there was for the alarm;
• whether the prevention was in control of the owner/occupier;
• if the system has been maintained;
• if there is a history of the premise having repeated false alarms; and
• any other factors relevant to the circumstances.

Under the procedure, owners & occupiers have the opportunity to appeal a false alarm charge; if it is not resolved, the matter may be heard by the Victorian and Civil Administrative Claims Tribunal. Some businesses that support CFA volunteers may receive a reduction from the full charged amount, depending on individual circumstances.


Is it working?

Charging for false alarms is having an impact on the number of false alarms at protected premises. However, increasing infrastructure and apartments in CFA urban areas, new office & factory developments, and older buildings with ageing alarm systems are all contributing to increased numbers of false alarms from protected premises.

CFA hopes a reduction in false alarm turnouts will provide savings in fuel and maintenance for vehicles and equipment, and increase CFA’s availability to respond to genuine emergencies. More importantly, we need to reduce the unnecessary danger false alarms present to CFA members and the public.

The new procedure can be found on CFA Online under: Business & Planning, Policies procedures & proformas, “FA11010” or you can download it here (57k) (members only).

For more information about False Alarms, contact Karen Enbom at CFA Headquarters.