B - ALARM ASSESSMENT

Alarms must be assessed to determine the cause of the alarm and what response action is required. Some information on cause can be derived through proper application and processing of sensor inputs. The final determination of cause and the initiation of required response is derived, however, from observation of the alarm area by a security system operator. This can be done directly (manned guard towers on the perimeter) or remotely (closed circuit television), and real-time (coincident with the alarm) or delayed (post event analysis). Methods to perform assessment are discussed, and the application of these methods in an installed site are detailed.