What characterizes a local alarm system?

A local alarm system is specifically designed to alert individuals within a building when an emergency occurs, such as a fire. Its defining characteristic is that it sounds an alarm only in the building where the activation occurs, allowing for immediate awareness and response by those present. This type of system does not connect to or communicate with a central monitoring system or alert local emergency services automatically, making it effective primarily for localized notification.

The other options describe characteristics that apply to different types of alarm systems. For instance, systems that alert local authorities automatically or utilize central monitoring stations are typically classified as monitored alarm systems. These systems provide broader coverage and can notify responders outside the immediate area of the incident, unlike local systems that focus strictly on building occupants.