What is the recommended procedure if the custodian cannot be reached after the three contact attempts?

• A. Wait and retry next shift
• B. Notify the command post to obtain custodian commander contact
• C. Escalate to local authorities
• D. Ignore the alarm

Answer: (B)

When you can’t reach the custodian after the three contact attempts, escalate through the command post to obtain the custodian commander contact. This keeps the response within the correct chain of command and lets someone with authority verify status or authorize next steps. The command post can provide alternate contact methods or reach the custodian’s supervisor, ensuring you don’t stall the response or leave the site unsecure. Waiting until the next shift would delay action and leave the area exposed. Escalating to local authorities isn’t the immediate step unless there’s a clear, urgent security threat, and ignoring the alarm is not acceptable or compliant with procedures.