What is the primary purpose of detection devices in physical security?

Detection devices in physical security are primarily intended to alert personnel to incidents as they occur. Their main function is to identify unauthorized access, breaches, or other security-related events immediately so that appropriate responses can be initiated. By enabling real-time alerts, these devices play a crucial role in mitigating potential damage, minimizing response time, and ensuring that security teams can act promptly.

While prevention is an important aspect of overall security strategies, the specific role of detection devices is not to stop incidents before they happen but rather to recognize and report them as they unfold. Also, while reinforcement of physical barriers and legal documentation are valuable components of a security system, they do not capture the immediate reactive purpose that detection devices serve. This focus on immediate awareness and response is what distinguishes the function of detection devices from other security measures.