The Different Types of Fire Alarms

If a fire breaks out on your property, early detection is vital if it is to be tackled effectively. If a blaze is left unattended, the risk of destruction to your premises and harm to human life grows exponentially. 

The best way to keep your building safe and able to detect a fire should it break out is to have quality fire alarms installed. 

Fire alarms will be triggered as soon as a fire is detected, assisting with a swift and safe evacuation that keeps people and property safe. 

At Millennium Fire Protection, we have years of experience in providing commercial, industrial and residential settings with a wide range of fire alarms that keep properties protected.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of fire alarms available, and the importance of having the correct kind installed.   

fire alarm wiring

The different types of fire alarms 

With so many different types of fire alarms available, it can be difficult to know which variation is right for you. 

Take a look below at some of the most common types on the market, to get a better idea of what might be suitable for your property: 

  • Ionisation alarms

One of the most standardised smoke detector systems on the market, ionisation alarms detect particles of smoke from fast flaming fires. This smoke alarm works by using a radioactive sensor that detects smoke and sounds an alarm to alert people of its presence. These alarms are extremely sensitive and so should not be situated in kitchens as they can be prone to false alarms from cooking.    

  • Optical alarms

This type of smoke alarm is excellent at detecting slow, smouldering fires. Usually, these types of fires are not as aggressive, and can take longer to be detected. However, if not properly dealt with, they can still be destructive. Optical alarms will detect this kind of blaze and raise the alarm.  

  • Heat alarms

While lots of fire alarms detect smoke, heat alarms monitor the temperature of the environment in which they’re installed. When the temperature increases to an unsafe level, they’re activated, triggering people to take appropriate action. This type of alarm is excellent in commercial kitchens and garage environments where fumes and cooking steam will not cause them to false alarm. 

  • Teledata One alarms

One of the most sophisticated fire alarms you can install is the Teledata One system. A completely wireless system, it’s extremely easy to install and is famous for being able to blend into the aesthetic of any environment. Plus, it’s completely monitored. More than 128 panels and 250,000 individual devices can be monitored at any one time. This means that your entire property will be completely monitored via these systems, so if any issues happen when you’re not present the authorities can be alerted.    

How often should fire alarms be tested?

According to The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, it’s a legal requirement for all property owners to ensure their premises meet required fire safety standards. This includes ensuring that all businesses have an ‘appropriate fire detection system’ in place.

Often, this takes the form of fire alarms. And it’s not enough simply to have them installed. When a fire breaks out, they must be fully functional, so it’s important they’re properly maintained and tested.

Fire alarms should be tested weekly by someone within your organisation and undergo six monthly inspections and maintenance checks by a professional to ensure they’re in good working order. 

This is something the team at Millennium Fire Protection can assist with.  

What type of fire alarm do I need?

The type of fire alarm that is appropriate for you really depends on the unique specifications of your premises and their operations. 

Whether you need sophisticated interlinked fire alarms or something more simplistic, the team at Millennium Fire Protection is on hand to help. We have a broad spectrum of fire alarm systems that you can choose from, and our team of expert technicians is always available to talk through your requirements, ensuring you’re left with something that suits your needs. 

 

Get in touch with the Millennium Fire Protection today to find out more. We work across Ealing, Harrow, Watford and the surrounding areas. Give us a call or complete our online form and we’ll be in touch.