Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Are there any circumstances where a dispatch should be requested to a single hit alarm?
A. Dispatch may be considered for a single hit alarm if one of the following conditions is met:
  • Glass break alarm
  • Eyewitness on scene can verify a problem
  • Video footage indicating a problem on site
  • Roof hatch sensor.
Q. What classifies as a multiple hit alarm?
A. Multiple hit alarms consist of sensors or zones in the interior or exterior of the premises that have been tripped. Multiple hits to only one zone or sensor are not considered as a multiple hit alarm. Hits to zones, has to be identified as a location, not "zone 4".
  • Example: Front door and hallway sensors.
Q. Does ECV apply to Panic, Hold-up or Distress alarms?
A. No, under the term Panic Alarm in the Bylaw it states "an alarm system signal generated by the manual activation of an alarm system that is intended to signal a life threatening situation or a crime in progress requiring an immediate response and includes a duress alarm and an holdup alarm". This means that all alarms under this term will be attended to as it is seen as a life over property situation that requires immediate attention.
Q. Will Officers attend if the Alarm Operators made two attempts to contact a premise holder or key-holder where they unsuccessfully could reach someone?
A. Dispatch may be considered if the following conditions are met:
  • There are multiple activations to zones or sensors
  • For business locations, the zones or sensors are being activated after business hours
  • Alarm Operators provide the Communication Officer with the contacts names and numbers they attempted to reach.
Q. Are there specific businesses or homes that officers will attend to without ECV protocols being met?
A. Yes. Officers will always attend to the following locations without ECV protocols being met, with exception of the location not being suspended.
  • Banks or Financial Institutions
  • Known Pharmaceutical Warehouses
  • Licensed Marijuana Distributors
  • Known firearm, ammunition, explosive or hazardous materials on the premise