Fire alarms are designed to keep people safe and minimize property damage during a fire. These systems use different components and devices to monitor for smoke, heat, flames, and dangerous gasses. Standard fire and smoke detectors sound an audible alarm to alert people of potential dangers. In addition, some systems have pull stations that individuals can activate to trip the alarm.
Fire alarm systems can be complex and comprised of many critical electronic devices and components. And fire systems may be monitored to ensure someone is always watching over the property 24/7.
If you’re considering a fire system or are wondering about monitoring services, read on to learn about these life-saving devices.
What Is A Fire Alarm System?
Fire alarm systems are multiple components working together to detect fire dangers and notify occupants so they can escape quickly. The different parts of the system may vary depending on the setup and building type, but many of the components are the same for every system.
Fire alarms generally have four basic functions:
- Detection: Smoke detectors, heat sensors, pull stations, and other devices work to recognize the presence of fire danger.
- Alerts: These are notification devices such as audible alarms, visible strobes, and communication devices to notify a monitoring center or other parties.
- Monitoring: Fire alarm control panels can communicate with a monitoring center to notify emergency services in the event of a fire. Some systems communicate in other ways, like recalling elevators or alerting owners.
- Controlling: Many fire alarm systems, especially in commercial settings, are connected to fire suppression systems to help control a fire’s spread. These could be sprinkler systems or an HVAC shutdown feature to stop smoke from spreading throughout the building.
Fire Alarm Components and Cost
It’s important to understand the different components making up your fire alarm system. These devices are crucial to keeping building occupants safe and protecting the property from more extensive damage.
Here are some of the most common fire alarm system parts and devices:
- Control Panel
- Smoke Detectors (Ionization or photoelectric)
- Heat Detectors (Heat-increase detectors or fixed temperature heat detectors)
- Duct Detectors
- Beam Detectors
- Pull Stations
- Water Flow Switches
- Tamper Switches
- Notification Devices
- Audible Devices (Sirens, Sounding Alarms)
- Strobes
- Horns & Strobes
- Communication Devices
- Power Supply
The cost of your fire alarm system will ultimately depend on many different factors. For example, residential versus commercial systems, the size and design of your home or business, and equipment needs will all have an impact.
However, many insurance companies offer discounts for having monitored alarm systems.
Do You Need Fire Alarm Monitoring?
A fire alarm is only good if someone is around to hear it. And, since it takes less than 30 seconds for a small flame to turn into a major blaze, every second counts during a fire. So, having a dedicated monitoring service watching over your home or business 24/7 could provide added protection in an emergency.
There are many benefits of having your fire alarm system monitored. In addition to the peace of mind that comes with knowing your property is protected even when you’re not there, you’ll also benefit from monitoring even if you are around to hear the alarm sounding.
During a fire alarm event, your most important priority should be getting yourself and others safely out of the building. You shouldn’t have to spend precious seconds trying to find your phone and call 911. With alarm monitoring, you’ll know that help is already on the way the moment the fire is detected.
Plus, most fire alarm systems also monitor for other dangers like carbon monoxide, which could be deadly if everyone doesn’t evacuate timely.
Fire Alarms And Monitoring Save Lives And Reduce Property Damage
During a fire or other emergency, seconds can feel like hours. Every moment you spend worrying about who to call or what to do is wasted time you could spend getting your friends, family, or employees out of harm’s way.
Plus, your fire alarm is only effective if someone hears it. Without monitoring, your home or business is left vulnerable after hours or when you’re away on vacation.
The bottom line is that a home alarm system with monitoring services can be the difference between life and death or between a small fire and a total loss of your property.
A trusted and reputable alarm professional can help you choose the right equipment for your home or office to ensure you have the appropriate level of protection. It’s one of the easiest ways to keep your family or employees safe, whether you’re there or not.
