Types of Fire Alarm Systems and Safety Tips

Types of Fire Alarm Systems and Safety Tips

Fires are even more dangerous than thieves. A fire can devour an entire house, even communities, whereas thieves often just take what they want. Because your home is one of your biggest investments, it’s important to protect this not only from burglars, but also fires.

Fire Alarm Systems

Different types exist. There are manual systems, wireless and radio alarms, as well as thermal, photoelectric and ionization systems.

Manual or M Fire Alarm Systems

 These types of systems have to be turned on manually or activated by hand. When someone notices fire or smoke, he can pull a lever or push a button to trigger the distress siren which also sets off other fire alarm devices linked to it. Distress signals allow people to evacuate a property. Manual alarm devices can be found near escape routes for easy access. Because there are practical jokers who turn on fire alarms even when there’s no fire, some manual alarms also release a type of colored stain that aids firemen and authorities to readily identify the person who turned on the device.

Wireless and Radio Fire Alarm Systems

Both types of systems are cheaper and often easier to install. Here, there are no fire-resistant wires or cables to be installed. Wireless gadgets “communicate” with each other through radio frequency signals, which all go through a central control board. This primary panel interprets signals and when a disturbance is detected, the main panel will alert all devices and systems linked to it. These systems are great options for buildings with no pre-wiring systems or older houses wherein the installation of cables and wires could do irreparable structural damage.

Thermal Systems

These detect heat. Such systems have sensors that possess the capability to assess the level of heat within a certain place. When a specified level is exceeded, the sensors will activate the alarms to warn people that there may be a fire.

Photoelectric and Ionization Systems

These systems are usually classified as smoke detectors. The main difference is that ionization systems are promptly activated when there’s little smoke, while photoelectric systems are triggered by fire or intense smoke. In an ionization system, smoke interrupts the flow of ions between two electrically-charged plates. When this happens, alarm bells are emitted by the device. Photoelectric systems are triggered when its light sensors are disturbed. This typically happens when there’s already a lot of smoke. So, it’s best to mount such gadgets in areas that contain a lot of combustible materials like plastic, rubber, paper or foam.

Escaping Fires

It is also crucial to know what to do in case there is a fire. Remember that it’s better to be prepared for the worst that could happen. Here are some safety tips:

1. Leave ASAP. Once fire is detected in a certain location, leave the area immediately. Don’t waste time gathering belongings. Remember that things can be replaced; lives cannot.

2. Crawl low. When there’s already a lot of smoke, crawl low. Smoke is very light and will often travel upwards. By keeping yourself low, you avoid inhaling too much smoke, which can be damaging to the respiratory system.

3. Feel doorknobs. Don’t open warm or hot doorknobs as this can indicate that there’s already a raging fire on the other side. When you feel a cooler doorknob, slowly and cautiously open this. If you see fire and smoke, close the door and look for another way out.

4. Know escape routes. At home, designate a fire exit and make sure that all members of your household are aware of this. In the office, be aware of your company’s escape plan. Make sure that you know where to go in case there’s a fire emergency.

5. Call the fire department. Though fire alarm systems may be hooked to a central monitoring system that can inform fire departments of ongoing fires, it’s still best to be sure. Call the fire department or 911.

6. Stay calm. Calmly make your exit. If trapped, prevent smoke from coming inside the room. Insert fabric, scarves or any type of cloth into cracks or spaces where smoke can get through. Try to put a sign to direct or alert firemen of your presence. A symbol on a glass window can be an effective method to notify others that you’re trapped. If you’re mobile phone is working or if phone lines are still active, make use of these to call 911 or the fire department and inform them of your situation.

Claire Murphy is the owner and manager of a respected Georgia security company. She is knowledgeable and updated about modern devices used in Cummings wireless security systems and she has helped private citizens and large companies in the installation and management of such systems.