What Is A Fire Alarm System and What Is It Used For?

Fire Alarm System

In relation to adding protection to your home and business, you need to factor in keeping them both safe from the damages of fire. You can not only help to keep your properties safe, but you can also keep your family and employees safe. Fire alarms and fire alarm systems are the best way to make sure that you are protected.

There are a few types of fire alarm systems and grades of fire alarm systems, including commercial fire alarm systems and systems for private homes. Understanding the different types and how they work will help you make the best decision.

 

Fire Alarm Systems

Automatic fire detection systems have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. This length of time is longer than regular fire alarms. After this amount of time, they will need to be replaced to ensure they are functioning at their highest possible capacity.

Fire alarm systems have a fire alarm control panel (FACP) that works as the system’s brain to make quick decisions. Pinpointing the specific location of the fire and alerting the authorities quickly will help to protect your property against excessive damage.
The FACP works by confirming findings with other area detectors which helps to reduce the number of false alarms based on the malfunction of one device. It may also activate a protocol with either visual or audio alert systems to instruct the building’s occupants of what to do.

The notification systems can be a loud noise, a flashing light, or a speaker that gives instructions. The noises can be programmed to be a horn, bell, gong, or other noise to grab attention. They can be specified to alert a certain floor. In some buildings, it may make more sense to alert the floor of the fire as well as the floor above and below to reduce the need to evacuate the entire building. In some situations, like a hospital or extended-care facility, the alert may only be sent to certain people who can then make decisions for the rest of the evacuation plan.

 

When to Use A Fire Alarm System

You can use fire alarm systems to discharge a fire-suppression agent in areas like computer rooms or clean rooms where a fire might be a possibility. They can also be used to activate deluge fire systems in dangerous areas like aircraft hangers or other areas that might pose a threat.

They can also be used as a notification system for other disaster situations apart from fires. They can be used to send an alert in the case of severe weather situations, terrorism, bomb threats, hazardous chemical incidents, and evacuation needs. A speaker system can provide detailed instructions on safety procedures to help people remain safe no matter what the situation. Telephones in stairwells and elevators can allow anyone trapped to communicate in order to get help.

They can also be used as a carbon-monoxide detection system which can help eliminate a serious threat to the safety of those in a building. There are many different detection possibilities to increase safety, and talking to a qualified professional can help you determine which options are best for you and your business.

 

What to Take Away

Ensuring the safety of you and your employees is paramount, that’s why making sure that you have the correct fire alarm system in place is vital. If you’d like help find out what fire alarm system is right for your business, then MAC Security can help. Get in touch today on 0121 271 0149 or email us at sales@macsecurity.co.uk. Alternatively, you can use the contact form below to get in touch.