What Makes Monitored Fire Alarms Different?
Non-monitored fire detection devices rely on the presence of an employee or passerby to hear the alert and take action. On the other hand, monitored fire alarm systems feature off-premise signaling, meaning they are directly connected to off-premise emergency assistance. These include public agencies’ communications centers, fire or police stations, or a private company such as Guardian Protection, which owns and operates its own 24-hour central stations (also known as monitoring centers). When notified, these safety specialists communicate directly with 911 centers, AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction), and first responders. In all cases, a monitored fire alarm system continuously tracks smoke and/or heat, sending instant notifications to trained response teams the moment a potential threat is detected.
A well-designed monitored fire alarm system takes into account many factors. “It is critically important to know the number of occupants, the type of business, any hazardous materials the business may have onsite, and if the property has a sprinkler system in place,” says Dave Errera, director of commercial/national sales at Guardian Protection. He adds, “Equally important is that a thorough site visit be performed to identify any unique applications that are present or that need to be taken into consideration for the final monitored fire alarm system design.”
How Monitoring Itself May Differ Among Fire Alarm Systems
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the purpose of off-premise alarm signaling is to provide dedicated 24-hour monitoring for your fire alarm system and to initiate the appropriate response. Depending on size and location, businesses and institutions can often choose from different types of off-premise monitoring. It can be done through a type known as a Public Emergency Alarm Reporting System, which communicates with a public agency’s communications center, or through a full-service Supervising Station Alarm System, such as Guardian’s central station. Other types of Supervising Stations include Proprietary and Remote. Proprietary types are often found on-site at large airports, hospitals, and college campuses. Remote types provide monitoring but few other services. Whether it’s 2 p.m. during a busy workday or 3 a.m. after everyone has gone home, a monitored fire alarm ensures rapid response, reducing the risk of damage and keeping people safe.
The Advantages of a Supervised Central Station Fire Alarm System
Businesses that have Supervised Central Station Fire Alarm Service, such as the type provided by Guardian Protection, also enjoy the strength and reliability of certification from Underwriters Laboratories (U.L.). This certification may be required by code in the municipality and/or by the business’s insurance company. Having a supervised central station fire alarm system also affords a business additional services within a single contract. This includes fire alarm inspection, fire alarm testing, fire alarm maintenance, and other services.
The Proactive Approach to Fire Protection
When a monitored fire device — including detectors, pull stations, elevator relays, temp sensing devices, sprinkler systems and/or other related components — signals an emergency condition, the central station/monitoring team springs into action. Safety specialists can confirm the fire alarm signal, notify emergency responders, alert the business’s pre-designated contacts, and even provide guidance to help mitigate damage until help arrives. This proactive approach minimizes property loss, protects inventory, and, most importantly, keeps employees, customers, and visitors out of harm’s way.
Ensuring Your Business Gets Optimal Performance from a Monitored Fire Alarm System
There are many factors to take into consideration. Here are five of the most important:
Design
A commercial monitored fire alarm system should meet the requirements of NFPA72 and/or National Electrical Code (NEC), and of course, local ordinances. It should be designed by NICET-certified experts. NICET, which stands for the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies, is an organization that provides nationally recognized certification for engineering technicians and technologists. The organization certifies individuals in several broad program areas, including Fire Protection, Construction Materials Testing, and Electrical and Mechanical Systems.
According to Errera, Guardian’s emphasis is on proper adherence to NFPA 72 and working closely with the business end user(s) to educate what the code is trying to accomplish. He believes this methodology, along with diligence in equipment selection, is always in the best interests of protecting employees and assets.
“Guardian only works with nonproprietary equipment. We have our own NICET IV engineers who review every fire system before it goes out to the field, and work closely with the AHJs for compliance. Guardian also creates new, updated drawings for all fire system reviews,” states Errera.
Communication
It’s important to note whether your monitored fire alarm system is currently operating on a traditional phone line. If it is, be aware that if you update it, your cellular options must meet NFPA standards to continue to support your fire alarm monitoring.
Testing and Inspection
Testing your commercial fire alarm system is a best practice to ensure it is operating properly. New security technology, fewer landlines, the use of internet protocols, and cellular communication have reduced the need for testing. However, it has not eliminated it. Businesses that regularly have their fire alarm systems tested include most commercial buildings, such as hospitals, schools, office buildings, retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and industrial facilities. While requirements vary by location, compliance with national standards like NFPA72 is a common and strict requirement. This mandates regular visual inspections, functional tests, and annual professional maintenance for these types of businesses to ensure occupant safety.
Support
Before installing a monitored fire alarm system, make sure you are going to receive ongoing customer support. Jody Davis, manager of commercial customer care at Guardian, gives one reason why this is important: “Make sure your customer support team is knowledgeable about NFPA guidelines. For example, a commercial fire system that has gone into alarm can be temporarily silenced but cannot be powered down, even if there is no active fire. This may make it difficult for the business owner, but there is always a risk that the fire can spread, and safety is our first priority. Guardian’s care team will seek emergency service via their on-call technician team or the fire valet, which is a security guard hired to watch the system.”
Compliance and Insurance
Many industries are required by building codes to have monitored fire protection in place. Installing a monitored system ensures compliance with these legal standards, avoiding potential fines or penalties. Furthermore, insurance providers often offer lower premiums — or may even require coverage — when businesses have monitored fire alarm systems installed. This not only provides financial incentives but also demonstrates a proactive commitment to safety. This can improve trust among clients, employees, and partners.
Protecting People and Assets
By integrating a monitored fire alarm system into your business, you’re not just meeting safety requirements. These systems also allow you to invest in peace of mind. With a monitored system, someone is always watching over your property and people, and ready to respond to emergencies. Every second matters in a fire, and monitored alarms bridge the gap between detection and action.
Peace of Mind Around the Clock
You can’t be everywhere at once, but with a monitored system, someone is always watching out for your business. That confidence allows you to focus on growth, operations, and customer service, knowing your fire protection plan is working behind the scenes.
Call us at 1.800.PROTECT (1.800.776.8328) to talk about adding monitored smoke detection to your Guardian Protection business security system.