Physical Security Professional Certification Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive Prep Guide

Edwin Holmes is recognized as the individual who provided the first burglar alarm service for citizens. In the 1850s, he developed and installed the first electrical burglar alarm system in New York City, which significantly advanced the field of security technology. His invention utilized telegraph technology to create a system that would alert individuals and the police of unauthorized entries.

This innovation not only marked a turning point in physical security by enabling faster responses to potential break-ins but also helped to popularize the concept of using alarm systems as a means of protecting property. Holmes' work laid the foundation for the development of modern alarm systems, emphasizing the importance of rapid communication in security efforts. Moreover, he played a key role in commercializing these systems, providing peace of mind to many citizens by creating a service that was accessible and relatively user-friendly for that era.

Holmes' contributions to security highlight a significant evolution in how physical security measures were implemented, directly influencing the practices that are standard in the industry today.