A control system for silencing an alarm signal of an alarm device comprises a sensor to receive the alarm signal, an input interface for an operator instruction to silence the alarm signal, and control logic to silence the alarm signal. The control logic determines if the alarm signal exceeds a signal threshold indicative of the proximity of the alarm device. If the signal threshold is not exceeded, the control logic prevents the silencing of the alarm device. The control system provides a silencing mechanism that allows remote actuation while requiring a user to be close enough to the alarm device.