As of January 1, 2024, the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) has launched a Verified Security Alarm Response Program (VSARP). Under this program, alarm monitoring companies - and home or business owners - must verify an alarm before police are contacted.

The goal is to improve service to residents and businesses while reducing the number of false‑alarm calls so police resources can be deployed more effectively.

What Counts as a Verified Alarm?

To request police dispatch, alarm monitoring services must confirm that a criminal offence is occurring or that there is an imminent threat to personal safety, fire, or medical emergency. Verification may include:

  • Audio - sounds confirming criminal activity
  • Video - images showing criminal activity
  • On‑scene witnesses – someone confirming suspicious or criminal behaviour
  • Multiple activation points – at least two different sensors triggered in a pattern suggesting criminal activity

GSPS will not dispatch officers to unverified alarms or alarms sent by automatic dialing devices.

Exceptions

The following alarms do not require verification and will always receive a police response:

  • Panic alarms
  • Hold‑up alarms
  • Duress alarms

Verified alarms are treated as high‑priority calls. Actual response time depends on overall call volume, available officers, and priority levels at the time.

Billing Changes

As of January 1, 2024:

  • GSPS bills alarm monitoring services, not property owners.
  • A fee applies when an alarm call is cancelled after officers are dispatched but before arrival.

Please ensure your contact information is up to date with your alarm monitoring provider.

Fee Schedule

  • False Alarm: $160 + HST
  • Cancelled Accepted False Alarm: $80 + HST

(There is no longer an annual alarm registration fee.)

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a False Alarm?
A false alarm is any alarm call that results in a request for police but is later determined not to involve criminal activity, an imminent threat to someone’s safety, or a medical or fire emergency. In other words, the alarm was triggered by something other than an actual emergency.

How Can I Prevent a False Alarm?

You can reduce false alarms by keeping your system well‑maintained and ensuring everyone using it knows how it works.


Before Arming Your System
  • Make sure all protected doors and windows are fully closed and secured.
  • Keep pets, balloons, heaters, fans, curtains, plants, and decorations away from motion sensors.
Educate All Users
  • Ensure everyone who uses your alarm system knows how to operate it and how to cancel an accidental alarm.
  • Update your alarm monitoring service if you hire domestic help, get a new pet, or sell your home.
Maintain Your System
  • Have your alarm monitoring service test and service your system regularly.
  • Test your system monthly, and always contact your provider before testing.
  • Replace outdated equipment with newer, more secure technology.
Notify Your Alarm Provider When Things Change
  • Inform them if your system isn’t working properly.
  • Let them know about renovations, phone or intercom changes, wiring work, or changes in household needs (such as someone with special needs moving in).
  • Update them if your phone number or account information changes.
Important Note

Alarm monitoring services should not request police dispatch for:

  • Power outages
  • Low battery alerts
  • Loss of phone connection

Why Do False Alarms Occur?

False alarms can happen for many reasons, including:

  • Unnecessary or improper activation of the alarm system, or using it for purposes other than intended.
  • Testing the alarm system without notifying the alarm monitoring service in advance.
  • No evidence of criminal activity or an immediate safety threat when the alarm is triggered.
  • Mechanical issues, such as equipment failure, malfunction, or faulty components.
  • Human error, including negligence or carelessness.
  • Environmental factors, such as weather conditions, strong vibrations, or power outages.

Will I still be able to register my alarm with GSPS?
No. Alarm registration with GSPS ended on January 1, 2023.

I paid to register my alarm until March 31, 2024. Can I get a refund?

 

Premises registered for periods ending before December 31, 2022 may be eligible for a partial refund. Refund amounts are based on the registration period and the number of false‑alarm responses at that location.

To request reimbursement, please contact the Alarm Coordinator at: alarms@gsps.ca 

As a client of an alarm monitoring service, what should I do now?
Contact your alarm monitoring service to discuss the new VSARP requirements. They can explain how the changes affect your alarm settings, verification process, and available response options.