In the above configuration, when the alerts "Tornado Warning" AND "Tornado Watch" are detected, the DTMF macro `*123*456*789` will be executed. However, when there are no longer ANY alerts matching "Tornado Warning" OR "Tornado Watch", the DTMF macro `*987*654*321` will be executed.
### Usage Note:
While `ClearCommands` enhances `AlertScript`'s functionality, it's important to exercise caution when using them with wildcard-based mappings (`*`). This is because such mappings may not behave as expected with `ClearCommands`, especially in complex alert scenarios where multiple alerts might be active simultaneously.
### Why Caution with Wildcards?
Wildcards offer broad matching capabilities, activating `Commands` for a wide range of alerts. However, when it comes to alert clearance (`ClearCommands`), the broad nature of wildcards can lead to unintended behaviors:
- **Non-Specific Clearance**: Wildcards do not specify a single alert clearance that should trigger `ClearCommands`, potentially causing them to execute in unintended scenarios.
- **Overlap and Confusion**: In situations with multiple active alerts covered by a single wildcard trigger, identifying the precise moment for `ClearCommands` execution can become ambiguous and may not function as intended.
### Best Practice:
It's recommended to use specific mappings for `ClearCommands` to ensure precise and predictable behavior upon alert clearance. If using wildcards, be prepared for `ClearCommands` to potentially execute in broader circumstances than anticipated, and consider the overall context of your alert management strategy.
## Transition-Based Commands
`AlertScript` includes the capability to execute specific BASH or DTMF commands based on transitions in overall state of alert activity.
### ActiveCommands
`ActiveCommands` are designed to be executed when the system transitions from a state of having zero active weather alerts to a state where one or more alerts become active. This feature is particularly useful for signaling the onset of weather-related activities or conditions that warrant immediate attention or action.
#### Configuration Example for ActiveCommands:
```yaml
ActiveCommands:
- Type: BASH
Commands:
- 'echo "THE NUMBER OF ACTIVE ALERTS JUST CHANGED FROM ZERO TO NON-ZERO"'
```
In this example, a message is echoed whenever the system detects the first active weather alert after a period of no alerts. This could be adapted to activate lights, sounds, or other notification systems to alert of changing conditions.
### InactiveCommands
Conversely, `InactiveCommands` are triggered when the number of active weather alerts changes from one or more to zero. This transition indicates a return to a state of no immediate weather threats, and commands under this category can be used to deactivate alerts, reset systems, or notify personnel of the all-clear status.
#### Configuration Example for InactiveCommands:
```yaml
InactiveCommands:
- Type: BASH
Commands:
- 'echo "THE NUMBER OF ACTIVE ALERTS JUST CHANGED FROM NON-ZERO TO ZERO"'
```
This example would output a message signaling that all active weather alerts have been cleared. Similar to `ActiveCommands`, `InactiveCommands` can be customized to perform a wide range of actions, such as turning off alerting systems or sending an all-clear message through your communication channels.
### Implementing Transition-Based Commands
To utilize these new command types, simply add `ActiveCommands` and/or `InactiveCommands` to your `AlertScript` configuration in the `config.yaml` file, following the same format as other AlertScript mappings. This allows for both BASH and DTMF commands to be executed in response to changes in the alert status landscape, providing a dynamic and responsive alert management system.
## The Power of YOU
`AlertScript` derives its power from its versatility and extensibility. By providing the capacity to directly interface with your node's functionality through DTMF commands or bash scripts, you can effectively program the node to do virtually anything in response to a specific weather alert.
Mason10198
2 years ago