Nelson police have responded to 17 panic alarm activations at local businesses and banks since the beginning of August – but 16 were confirmed to be false.
The only alarm triggered by an actual threat occurred on August 6, when police responded to an alarm from a local business on Baker Street.
When officers arrived on scene, the suspect had already fled. However, police noted that the deadbolt on the back door was broken, and a chain-link fence had been pried open to allow access.
CCTV footage from the business showed a suspect repeatedly kicking at the door until it opened.
Once it did, the building’s alarm systems were activated, and the suspect fled the scene without entering the premises, leaving behind approximately $1,000 in damage to the door.
“The alarm system and security cameras were crucial in preventing further damage and theft, while also providing Nelson Police officers with evidence for the investigation,” said Special Constable Taburiaux in a press release.
Panic alarms are designed to quickly alert police to potential emergencies, such as threats or robberies.
The other 16 alarm calls police responded to this month were caused by accidental triggers, such as employees unintentionally pressing the button.
“Although these alarms turned out to be non-emergencies, each activation requires an immediate police response,” added the NPD.
“Nelson Police officers treat every alarm as a real threat to ensure the safety of staff and the public.”
As a result of these incidents, the department is reminding business owners and staff to:
- Contact police immediately if you have accidentally triggered a panic alarm and there is no emergency or threat.
- Provide refresher training to all employees on the proper use of panic alarms.
- Ensure there are no faults in your panic alarm equipment.
If you hear a panic alarm coming from a business, do not enter the premises. Instead, move a safe distance away, call 911 immediately, and provide the name and location of the business.
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