During a recent Florida hurricane, several Sonitrol dealers found that their alarm systems’ audio capabilities helped them ascertain the validity of their customers’ alarms.
Because heavy storms often can activate alarm systems, it can be difficult for central station operators to distinguish a real intrusion from a false one. But during a recent Florida hurricane, two Sonitrol dealers, Sonitrol of Miami and Sonitrol of Orlando Inc., found that their alarm systems’ audio capabilities helped them ascertain the validity of their customers’ alarms.

Top Audio USA, Tallahassee, Fla., Sept. 4, 5:28 p.m.

Audio activations and glass break alarms were heard during extensive wind gusts and rain. Police apprehended three individuals attempting to enter through a fresh hole in the wall.

Carol Mart Flea Market, Tallahassee, Fla., Sept. 4, 11:26 p.m.

An overhead door alarm was activated and male voices were heard. Police found the rear overhead door forced open and apprehended two individuals illegally shopping after hours.

Sacks Grocery Outlet, Orlando, Fla., Sept. 5, 7:40 a.m.

Police were reluctant to respond to banging noises until voices and a chainsaw were heard. Three males were arrested who had broken a window and tried to open a safe using a concrete saw.

Bootie’s Pawn and Auto, Orlando, Fla., Sept. 5, 11:33 p.m.

A verified alarm activation and suspicious sounds sent police with dogs to a pawnshop containing firearms. Two suspects who had broken into the facility through the ceiling and loft, smashed through sheet rock and two fences, and destroyed the power box to the building were apprehended.