What is a key characteristic of an alarm signal compared to other signals?

A key characteristic of an alarm signal is that it typically requires immediate dispatch. Alarm signals are designed to alert individuals or monitoring services about an incident that may require urgent attention, such as a break-in, fire, or emergency situation. These signals prompt a quick response, often triggering predetermined protocols, such as notifying law enforcement or emergency services, to ensure safety and minimize potential damage or harm.

In contrast to other types of signals that may serve informational or non-urgent purposes, alarm signals stand out because their primary function is to indicate an immediate need for action. This contrasts with signals that might convey status updates or routine alerts that do not necessitate immediate intervention. The nature of alarm signals is inherently tied to their purpose: to prompt quick reaction and response to threats or emergencies.