§ 8-4-1. Alarm System Definitions.

Fire alarm system. A functionally related group of devices that when either automatically or manually activated will sound audio and visual warning devices on or off the protected premises.

Digital encoder alarms. Digital encoder alarms are those alarm systems which automatically seize a telephone line and dial a specified number signaling the fire alarm system by means of sequential toning.

Direct dialer tape alarms. Direct dialer tape alarms are those alarm systems which automatically seize a telephone line connected to Capital Area Mutual Aid Fire Dispatch and reproduce a prerecorded voice message indicating the existence of the emergency situation the alarm is designed to detect.

False alarm. False alarm means the activation of an alarm system through mechanical failure, accidental tripping, misoperation, malfunction, misuse, or the neglect of the owner or lessee of an alarm system, or of his employees or agents. Upon failure of the Fire Department to find any evidence of legitimate case for the alarm activation, a conclusive presumption of false alarm will be made. False alarm shall not include alarms caused by earthquakes, violent winds, or external causes beyond the control of the owner or lessee of the alarm system.

(Ord. No. 1990, § 3, 5-11-92)