Fire Alarm Systems: What You Need to Know

A fire alarm system is a critical part of up-to-date fire protection for your business.  In this article, we will look at the most common types of fire alarm systems that businesses use.

First, let’s look at what a fire alarm panel is.  Here is a concise definition from Wikipedia:

A Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP), or Fire Alarm Control Unit (FACU), is the controlling component of a Fire Alarm System. The panel receives information from environmental sensors designed to detect changes associated with fire, monitors their operational integrity and provides for automatic control of equipment, and transmission of information necessary to prepare the facility for fire based on a predetermined sequence. The panel may also supply electrical energy to operate any associated sensor, control, transmitter, or relay.

There are two main types of fire alarm systems that are typically used in business:  conventional and addressable.

Fire Magazine’s Natasha Sabin explains that every device connected to an addressable system has its own unique address.  So, when the system detects a fire, the location of that device is communicated to the panel, making it possible for you to pinpoint the exact location of the fire quickly and efficiently.

A conventional fire alarm system, however, does not give you the precise location of the fire.  However, by wiring your system into different zones, you can get a broad idea of the location.

If you are unsure which type of fire system is right for your business, give us a call or email us at 1-800–988–2378 sales@bestsecurityproducts.com.  We specialize in Honeywell fire systems and can help you determine whether you need addressable components, conventional components or both. 

The best fire solution for your business is one which takes into account your unique needs and workplace model.  Protecting yourself, your employees, your customers and your assets is worth installing the most up-to-date and technologically advanced system.  Don’t wait until it is too late to update your fire system!