What is the Alarm By-Law?

In 2023 the City of Selkirk introduced the Alarm By-Law (5382) in response to a rising number of false alarm calls from monitored alarm systems.

A monitored alarm system is a system that, when activated, sends a message to a service provider, when then dispatches emergency service personnel.

A false alarm can occur for various reasons, with the most common causes including:

  • Poor or inadequate alarm system maintenance.
  • Construction activities, such as drywall sanding near an unprotected alarm.
  • Improper alarm placement, such as being too close to a shower, leading to humidity-triggered alarms.
  • Lack of emergency contacts listed with the alarm company or not knowing how to deactivate the system after an accidental trigger.

What Happens When a False Alarm Occurs?

When the city’s emergency services personnel receive a call for an alarm notification, they are dispatched to respond. Responding to a false alarm can divert resources from real emergencies.

The Selkirk Fire Department is a volunteer based service which means those responding to emergencies must leave work or time with their family and friends to respond – making it important to take precautions to reduce false alarms in your residence or business.

To help reduce false alarms, residents and businesses should take precautions, such as:

  • Installing alarm systems in appropriate locations.
  • Ensuring the alarm company has at least two emergency contacts on file.
  • Knowing how to deactivate the alarm in case of an accidental trigger.
  • Taking precautions during construction projects, such as notifying the alarm company in advance and covering alarms as needed.
  • Educating children about kitchen and cooking safety.

What Happens if a Building Experiences False Alarms?

Depending on the circumstances, false alarms may result in a verbal warning or a penalty issued by the City. The City’s Administrative Penalties By-Law (5383) outlines the penalties that are available to be issued under the Alarm By-law.

For any questions about the Alarm By-Law please contact our Citizen Support Representatives at 204-785-4900 or via email at [email protected].