A method for providing an electronic monitoring device with the ability to detect the status of a controlled condition of a monitored environment, and, based on this status, to automatically self-adjust monitoring parameters in accordance with pre-defined parameter settings so as to properly monitor the controlled condition of the monitored environment. The monitoring device includes a microcontroller, a sensor to detect the status of the controlled condition of the monitored environment, switches to allow for user interaction and audible and visual annunciation devices as well as remote annunciation devices such as relays, all of these devices combined in a system to alert personnel when controlled conditions are abnormal.