ESA Certified Alarm Technician Practice Exam

What type of alarm system allows a customer to follow an intruder's instructions while generating an alarm?

1. Holdup, Panic, Duress System

2. Motion Detector

3. Fire Alarm System

4. Environmental Monitoring System

The correct answer is: Holdup, Panic, Duress System

The type of alarm system that allows a customer to follow an intruder's instructions while still generating an alarm is a holdup, panic, or duress system. This system is specifically designed for situations where a person may be under duress or threatened by an intruder. It enables the user to discreetly signal for help without escalating the situation or endangering themselves further. When activated, these systems send an alarm signal to monitoring personnel or law enforcement while the user complies with the intruder's demands. This capability is crucial in preventing harm while ensuring that assistance is still on the way. In contrast, options like motion detectors, fire alarm systems, and environmental monitoring systems serve different purposes. Motion detectors monitor movement and do not facilitate communication or interaction with an intruder. Fire alarm systems are designed specifically to detect smoke or fire, not to manage security threats. Environmental monitoring systems focus on specific environmental parameters, such as temperature and humidity, rather than intruder situations. Thus, the design and purpose of the holdup, panic, or duress system make it the appropriate choice for the scenario described.