May 2023
In essence, yes - fire detectors save lives. However, it is often overlooked as an annoying alarm which people either tend to remove the batteries or forget to test. Many of us have been in a situation where we are having a great morning while cooking breakfast and the alarm starts to go off and scares everyone at home, right? It is understandably frustrating to have to step away from cooking just to turn the fire alarm off, but it is important to keep in mind that this small device on your ceiling is just trying to protect your lives! That burnt slice of toast could well have been an unexpected fire.
In this article, we explain what fire detectors are, how they work, and we also outline the importance of how these small alarm systems save lives every day.
What are Fire Detectors?
Fire detectors are small electronic devices that can detect and alert us to the presence of a fire. Despite their small size, these devices have an enormous impact on our lives. They offer vital protection against the destruction and danger caused by fires, and they can help save lives by providing early warning signals that can protect people and properties.
How and Where are Fire Detectors Used?
Fire detectors, also known as fire alarms, are installed in buildings to detect the presence of a fire. A typical fire detector has an alarm that alerts occupants to the danger, giving them time to evacuate the building before it becomes too late. Additionally, fire detectors can alert emergency services, ensuring that the fire is dealt with as quickly as possible.
At the heart of every fire detector is a sensor that can detect smoke or heat. These sensors are designed to be sensitive enough to detect a fire in its early stages, which is essential since fires can spread quickly and can cause significant damage in a matter of seconds. Once the sensor detects the presence of smoke or an escalation in heat, the alarm is triggered, and the occupant is alerted to the danger.
In most household settings, fire alarms are usually single devices that are battery operated, purchasable over the counter and easy to install and test yourself. Wired, mains powered versions also exist. However, these are more commonly found in a commercial setting.
Commercial buildings require professional assessment for fire alarms to be installed to ensure that the building is adequately covered. A Fire Risk Assessment will define the Category of system required (for more information on system categories click here). Here at Lynx Fire & Security our team can design, install, and maintain bespoke fire alarm systems to your specified category to ensure all areas are covered.
How Fire Detectors Save Lives
Fire detectors are responsible for saving countless lives every year. According to statistics, people are four times more likely to die in fires in homes without smoke detectors. This fact highlights the importance of fire detectors in our lives.
It is imperative that such things are not overlooked. When it comes to fire safety, prevention is always the best course of action. Installing fire detectors in your home is a simple and effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones. The cost of purchasing and installing a fire detector is a small price to pay when compared to the cost of losing your home or, worse, your life. More information on the importance of fire alarm systems could be found in our previous articles here, in which we discuss the importance of fire alarm systems in commercial buildings. Workplaces may not be complying with their Insurance Policy terms and conditions without the correct fire coverage. No fire alarm, or one with insufficient coverage, can leave staff and visitors vulnerable, as well as increasing the risk of extreme asset or property damage.
Top Tip: Remember to test your fire alarm regularly and ensure you follow the manufacturer’s guidance on the expiry and replacement of devices.
In conclusion, fire detectors really do save lives. They provide a vital early warning signal that can protect occupants from the danger of fires. Installing fire detectors or systems in your home or place of work is an essential step in ensuring the safety of yourself, your loved ones and your staff. So, if you haven't done so already, make sure to purchase and install fire detectors in your home or enquire with a local installation company. It may just save your life.
Here at Lynx, your safety is our highest priority! If you are looking to have a professionally installed fire alarm system for your commercial building to ensure that your building, staff and visitors are protected, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us via phone 0800 998 1303 or you can email us [email protected] to discuss your requirements and fire alarm installation options. Alternatively, you can contact us via our form.
Looking for a commercial fire alarm quotation? We offer free of charge Surveyor visits for commercial buildings across Northamptonshire and the surrounding counties.