What action qualifies as tampering with a fire alarm?

Tampering with a fire alarm typically involves actions that interfere with its proper functioning or its intended purpose of alerting individuals to a fire or emergency situation. Opening a signal box without authority is considered tampering because it alters the system's operations or maintenance. This can prevent the alarm from functioning correctly, potentially putting lives at risk, as unauthorized access may lead to the disabling or misconfiguration of the alarm system.

In contrast, silencing a fire alarm during an emergency could pose significant dangers, but it is more of a misuse rather than a technical tampering with the physical equipment or system. Ignoring alarm signals does not constitute tampering with the device itself, as it involves a personal choice rather than an act against the functionality of the alarm system. Reporting false alarms regularly could be seen as a misuse of emergency systems or resources but does not directly relate to tampering with the alarm hardware or its operational integrity. Hence, unauthorized access to or manipulation of alarm systems predominates as the clear example of tampering.