You must make sure your business is properly protected against all major threats, and that means paying attention to your fire alarm system. There are plenty of video surveillance systems and fire alarm systems available, and you need to select the right one for your company. That means understanding the basics of what your system can detect and how it works. What are some of the most important components of a strong commercial fire alarm system, but how can you make sure that you select the right one for your company?
A Smoke Detector
There are many people who believe that a smoke detector and a fire alarm are the same things. In reality, that is not the case. A smoke detector can detect smoke in the air before it starts to beep and alert people to its presence. The vast majority of smoke detectors have a small light installed in the system itself. If there is smoke in the room, it will eventually rise until it obstructs the light. The light will detect that something has passed in front of it and start beeping. Because of where you will position your smoke detectors in your office building, it is highly unlikely that anything other than smoke will block the smoke detector. When you hear the smoke detector going off, you should respond by calling 911.
A Carbon Monoxide Detector
You should also have carbon monoxide detectors as a part of your comprehensive commercial fire alarm system as well. A carbon monoxide detector has been designed to detect the presence of carbon monoxide gas, usually shortened to CO. This is a colorless, odorless gas that is toxic to people. If you inhale carbon monoxide, it can displace oxygen on your red blood cells, causing you to suffocate. Because the gas is colorless and odorless, you must have specific detectors whose job it is to watch for CO gas and notify you immediately if the gas is detected.
Comparing Your Smoke Detector To a Fire Alarm System
Ultimately, your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector are just two important components of a comprehensive fire alarm system. Even though these systems may detect the presence of smoke or carbon monoxide, they will not necessarily act on it.
As you take a look at fire alarm systems, you need a system that will not only detect the presence of flames but also take the necessary action. For example, you might be interested in a fire alarm system that will automatically notify the fire department that they are needed at your location. Or, you might be interested in a fire alarm system that will deploy sprinklers to suppress the flames. You might even want a fire alarm system that will immediately start recording video if the system is activated. Video surveillance systems can be helpful because you might need this video footage to support your claim with an insurance company. That is why you need a comprehensive fire alarm system and not just a smoke detector.
Count on an Expert To Help You Install Fire Alarm Systems
Once you have found the right system, you need an expert who can install it for you. At APC, we have a number of products and services available, and we can help you customize your commercial fire alarm system to meet your needs. Our team also has the training and experience necessary to help you take care of the system. You must make sure your business is adequately protected with a comprehensive fire alarm system (with video surveillance systems) that can not only detect fire but also suppress flames.
