Reducing False Alarms

False alarms can drain time, resources, and trust in your security system. At YourSix, we believe a smarter video monitoring solution should help you focus on real threats—not false triggers caused by shadows, weather, wildlife, etc.

On this page, you’ll find proven strategies, best practices, and guidance to drastically reduce false alarms using the YourSixOS platform and Axis Communications devices. Whether you’re managing a single location or a nationwide deployment, these tools and insights will help you enhance accuracy, reduce unnecessary alerts, and improve response times across your security operations.

Explore the content below to strengthen your system—and your peace of mind.

1. 1. Use Modern Analytics 
      Avoid generic motion detection. Advanced platforms like YourSixOS use intelligent analytics to distinguish between people, vehicles, and environmental motion such as wind-blown trees or shifting shadows. For optimal accuracy, leverage Axis Object Analytics to trigger notifications based on human or vehicle detection.
   2. Define Include and Exclude Zones
      Set up regions of interest so only activity in key areas triggers alerts. For example, monitor the entrance door but ignore the parking lot tree line.
      • • Setting up Include and Exclude Areas for AOA
   3. Utilize Time-Based Rules and Alert States (Device Groups)
      Configure notifications to align with specific timeframes when detection is necessary. This helps eliminate alerts during routine business operations and ensures alarms are only triggered by unexpected activity—such as after hours. Additionally, take advantage of device groups within the platform to arm or disarm sections of your system as needed. By combining schedules with device grouping, you ensure alerts are sent only when truly relevant.
      1. • Alert state and Device Groups
   4. Use Modern Cameras and Devices
      Cheap or old cameras often lack intelligent analytics and produce low-quality video that’s hard to interpret. Use modern cameras with onboard analytics and true WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) to handle difficult lighting.
      • • Why Modern Devices are Necessary 
   5. Keep Cameras Clean & Positioned Correctly
      Dust, spider webs, poor angles, or glare can all trigger false events. Make sure your cameras are:
      • • Mounted at correct height and angle
        • Not facing direct light or glass
        • Clean and regularly maintained
   6. Adjust Sensitivity Based on Environment
      Every scene is unique. Tweak motion sensitivity, duration of movement, and object size thresholds to match your environment.
      • • Tuning Axis Object Analytics
   7. Test & Audit Your System Regularly
      Run periodic tests and audits. Review recent alerts to see if any were false, and adjust zones, rules, or camera placement accordingly. Continuous improvement is key.