A method for determining a triggering time for the issuance of an alarm by an alarm device. A measured value is sensed at a measuring time, and the measured value is indicative of a hazard potential within a monitoring range. A waiting time is identified by way of a function which respectively indicates an assigned waiting time for a plurality of different measured values and which has a continuous profile. The triggering time is determined on the basis of the measuring time and the identified waiting time. In addition, an alarm device having a detection device for sensing a measured value and having an evaluation device which is configured to carry out said method is described. In addition, a program element for determining a triggering time for the issuance of an alarm by an alarm device is described, wherein the program element can be loaded into an evaluation unit of the alarm device and can cause the abovementioned method to be carried out.