Fire alarm systems are composed of a number of sensors, sounders and other gadgets. Each of these has it's own role in detecting and warning when a fire is detected. A system can be connected to a central station for monitoring purposes using telephones or transmitters. A signal is sent to the station when there is an activation. A suppression system attempts to put off any fires when it is detected.
One common type of detector is usually installed in a room to detect smoke. It does this by sampling the air in the room to determine if there are any smoke particles. Simple models have a battery and a sounder built in them. They only produce a local sound when smoke is detected. More advanced sensors are normally connected to a control panel. It is this panel that supplies power and is also responsible for transmitting activation signals.
Heat detectors are used to gauge the changes in temperature within a room. Fires that burn slowly while producing little smoke cannot be easily detected by a smoke detector. Smoldering fires tend to burn intensely, without much smoke, especially when they are starting. This technology is also employed in a suppression system. Once temperature reaches a certain level, the system is activated.
Many of the control panels being used nowadays have a built in power backup system. The batteries in there are charged fully in order to store enough charge to supply power when the main electricity supply fails. These batteries have the capability to keep everything powered as usual for a number of hours. If a breakout were to happen at such a time, normal functions continue uninterrupted.
Some other necessary components in a good system are sounders. They are installed strategically in a building to provide a local alarm to warn people of possible danger. Whenever an activation occurs, people have to get out of the affected premises as soon as possible. Only after the place is ascertained to be safe should anyone be allowed back.
Sounders are only expected to be heard when there is an activation. This can be as a result of any sensor detecting a fire or a switch being activate manually. A faulty sensor can also be responsible for erroneous activations. Switches are provided for users to use in case of a fire breaking out, without the sensors picking it up. A glass pane is installed on a switch for protection against accidental use.
To ensure the system continues to deliver a long and useful service, some basic care is needed. A qualified technician should be sought to perform a periodic check up. Another important precaution is to avoid dust buildup on the detectors. The presence of dust affects their performance negatively. When repainting the premises, the sensors should be removed or covered to keep them away from paint.
Fire alarm systems consist of different detectors, switches and sounders. The ideal selection is determined by the nature of a premises and the user's preferences. A user has the freedom to employ different components for the ultimate protection of a premises. By combining different technologies, the level of protection can be improved greatly.
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