What is often the first step in responding to an alarm system alert?

Responding effectively to an alarm system alert often begins with contacting the authorities. This action is crucial because it ensures that professional help is dispatched to the site in case of a genuine emergency, such as a burglary or fire. The authorities are trained to handle such situations safely and can assess the circumstances better than an individual may be able to on their own.

While reviewing surveillance footage or disarming the system may be important steps in the overall response process, they typically come after the necessary security measures have been implemented through the involvement of law enforcement. Accessing the control panel is also a typical part of the procedure, but doing so without first notifying the authorities can compromise safety, particularly if an intruder is still present. Therefore, the priority should always be to ensure that help is on the way before delving into other assessments or actions.