Canton Program Aims To Reduce Police Response To False Alarms

CANTON, GA — A new program in Canton aimed at reducing police response to false alarm activations is now live.

The city said it has updated its alarm ordinance and collaborated with PM AM Corporation to implement and administer its False Alarm Reduction Program. The partnership will also provide educational training for Canton residents.

PM AM is a national company with expertise in this area and will be responsible for the city's alarm permit registrations, false alarm billings and educational material, according to the city.

As of Tuesday, a False Alarm Management System (FAMS) website has been established to assist Canton customers at www.FAMSpermit.com/Canton.

The goal of the ordinance and the city’s partnership with PM AM is to reduce the number of false alarm activations requiring a response by the Canton Police Department.

“This will free up police resources and reduce the fines levied on alarm customers by having a company who can reach out to the citizens of our city who may have alarm malfunctions. With this type of partnership, the alarm owner should be notified quickly of any false alarms so they can correct the malfunction," Chief Stephen Merrifield said in a news release.

With fewer false alarm activations the officers will be able to respond to more urgent calls.

For current alarm permit holders, there is nothing that will need to be done. All account and transaction history will be uploaded to the new system.

As of Tuesday, March 29, 2022, users will be able to visit the citizen web portal and they will be able to request a user name and password.

Once the user validates their information, the system will email back their user name and password. For those citizens who are unable to complete the new account setup, you may contact PM AM at 1-855-996-5443 and a customer service representative will be able to assist you.

Initial Alarm Registration: The City of Canton Alarm Ordinance requires all residences and businesses to apply for an alarm permit by completing an alarm permit application available at www.FAMSpermit.com/Canton. Alternatively, citizens can also complete the application by hand and send it to:

City of Canton False Alarm Program, P.O. Box 143517, Irving TX 75014

Failure to register your alarm will result in additional fees or fines, the city said.

For any questions related to the City of Canton Alarm Reduction Program, call PM AM at
1-855-996-5443, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.