posted on Monday, March 31, 2008 11:12 AM
by
klehan
South Londonderry, in PA, to Fine for False Alarms
Police and firefighters will spend less time responding to false alarms if a new South Londonderry Twp. ordinance does what it's intended to.
Repeated false alarms will draw fines, as will failure to register an alarm system with the township after being notified to do so.
"We want to keep the firefighters in bed at 3 a.m.," said Tom Ernharth, township manager.
Last year police responded to 74 false alarms, and firefighters to eight last month.
Initially, alarm systems will be registered as properties are sold and when false alarms occur, Ernharth said. Installers often inquire with the township as to whether a permit is required, and they will be registered when they do.
Owners will have seven days after notification in which to register with the township. Those who don't face a $25 fine.
The first three false alarms don't draw a fine, but the fourth to the sixth will bring a $50 charge. After that, the fine is $100 per false alarm for that year.