4 Components of a Commercial Fire Alarm System

What Are the Key Elements of Commercial Fire Alarm Installations?

Fires in commercial spaces can spark without warning and spread quickly throughout the area. Ensuring the safety of your employees and customers is paramount, and proper evacuation requires a comprehensive fire alarm installation. With proper alarms and signals, you can help everyone get to safety and prevent injuries. Below are several parts of this system to help you familiarize yourself with it:


1. Detection Devices


Detection devices are the first line of defense, and there are several varieties. The most common are smoke detectors, and they activate when they detect carbon dioxide, which is a byproduct of fire. Your system may also include sensors that detect extreme heat changes. The fire alarm installation will also have manual alarms, which a person can pull to activate the entire system and begin the evacuation process. These devices are placed in each room of the building, as well as hallways, lobbies, and storage areas.


2. Notification Devices


When a detection device notices a fire, it triggers the notification devices. These include loud horns and chimes that alert everyone of a fire. They also use stroking, wall-mounted lights to alert people who may have hearing issues, letting them know that they should leave the building. Some systems may include built-in WiFi alerts that send a notification to smart devices alerting the user of a fire.


3. Control Systems


Control systems are usually panels mounted throughout the building. Here, authorized personnel can monitor the system's activity and receive alerts whenever the system needs maintenance. This helps you stay on top of regular inspections and repairs, ensuring the system works properly. Users can also activate each alarm component throughout the building, which is helpful when testing the system.


4. Backup Power


Severe weather and other events can disrupt the building's electrical system. Fires are common during large storms, and to ensure the fire alarms remain active, many systems include a backup power supply. This alternative source activates when it detects an electrical outage, preventing any downtime. The control panel will then run on this battery source. The runtime depends on the battery your system uses.


When you need a reliable, comprehensive fire alarm installation, contact American Total Protection in Hamden, CT.  We handle everything from security camera installation to commercial alarm systems. For more information,  call 844-287-2576 to speak with a team member.

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