What type of alarm might a safe or vault have that is not used in most other burglar alarm installations?

• A. Capacitance or Proximity alarm that detects near or touching a metal safe.
• B. Infrared motion detector for general area.
• C. Glass-break sensor.
• D. Audible alarm only.

Answer: (A)

Capacitance or proximity detection around a metal safe is used to sense when a hand or tool is near or touching the safe’s surface. This specialized sensor creates a detection zone on and around the metal enclosure, so tampering attempts—like reaching in or prying at the safe—trigger an alarm even if other parts of the room don’t show movement. It’s not common in most burglar alarm installs because those systems typically rely on door/window contacts and general motion detectors to cover an entire space; they don’t provide the targeted tamper-detection needed specifically for a safe. This proximity approach adds a dedicated layer of security for safes that regular perimeter sensors don’t address, making it the best-fit choice for protecting a vault or safe.