The number of false alarm reports dropped to a record low of 10 251 in 2017. The figure showed a substantial decrease of 1 385, or 12 per cent, as compared with 2016.

To commend security companies for their support, the Crime Prevention Bureau (CPB) held a presentation ceremony on the "Prevention of False Alarm Awards 2017" at the Police Headquarters on April 19. Chairperson of the Security and Guarding Services Industry Authority (SGSIA) Ms Jane Curzon Lo and SGSIA members were invited to officiate at the ceremony, with nine security companies receiving gold, silver and bronze awards in three categories.

The Intruder Alarm Inspection Unit of CPB launched a Reducing False Alarm Project in mid-2016. The project covered seminars for frontline operators of Regional Command and Control Centres and Central Alarm Monitoring Stations to share the best practices, as well as visits to security companies and security associations to enhance rapport with practitioners.

The second phase of the project commenced earlier this year to optimise the computer software in handling the Police Phased Response Scheme. This would strengthen the analysis of false alarm reports, step up inspection of unreliable alarm systems and raise subscribers' awareness of system operation. Officers would also offer professional advice and support to stakeholders on the design, installation and maintenance of alarm systems. This phase has shown initial success. In the first quarter of 2018, 1 820 false alarm reports were recorded, which was 874, or 32 per cent, lower than the same period in 2017.