A fire detection system plays an important role in protecting businesses, employees, and first responders. These systems are designed to detect fires early, sending notifications that alert first responders and signal people to evacuate, along with activating sprinkler or suppression systems which help contain the fires.

Early Detection is Crucial

In addition to offering safety, a fire detection and monitoring system helps business owners protect their property. Bottom line, when these systems are properly installed in conjunction with fire alarms and notification systems, danger and loss are significantly reduced.

Besides the fact that businesses are required by law to have fire detection systems installed, the safety that they offer is undeniable. Fire and smoke can cause thousands of dollars in damage in a very short amount of time. With early detection the severity is greatly reduced, lives protected, and injuries avoided. So how does a fire detection system operate?

How a Fire Detection System Operates

A fire detection system is made up of several different components designed to work together to set off an evacuation alarm, call for help, and suppress the fire.

The first line of defense is having heat sensors and smoke detectors installed. These devices offer early detection and the built-in alarms alert people to evaluate the problem and seek safety. Most businesses are required to have a sprinkler system as well. Once activated, a sprinkler system will disperse water, effectively helping reduce the spread of or extinguish the fire.

In addition to the traditional wet sprinkler system, there are also dry, foam, deluge, and pre-action sprinkler systems. Then comes the notification aspects of the system, which is any visual or audible device that is triggered to alert occupants. Each individual system communicates with the fire alarm system, which is the control center of the entire network of devices installed.

The fire alarm system control panel is programmed to initiate everything from alarms, alerting the fire department, to activating sprinkler or suppression systems. These systems should be routinely checked and inspected to ensure everything is functioning properly. Should any malfunction occur due to power outages, battery issues, or phone service connectivity problems, lights on the fire alarm control panel will generally flash red or yellow.

Components of a Fire Detection System

With so many different systems available on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your business. For instance, a warehouse, hotel, or factory will need an entirely different setup than a nursing home, daycare, or hospital. It all begins with conducting a risk assessment specific to your industry, or consulting an expert.

Following is a list of primary components found in most fire alarm and detection systems.

Fire Alarm Initiating Devices

This essentially acts as the “brain” of any system, used to activate an alarm when smoke or fire is detected.

• Manual Pull Device:Manually activated by an individual when an issue arises.
• Automatic Device:This initiates an alarm automatically once it is triggered by another component such as a heat, smoke, or flame detection system. Automatic devices are available in the form of strobe light signals, tone alarms, or bells.

Heat and Smoke Detectors

• Heat Sensors:Designed to register temperatures and signal the notification systems when those temperatures exceed a safe zone. There are a variety of heat detection devices, including Linear Heat detectors, fixed temperature heat detectors, and Rate-of-Rise heat detection systems.
• Smoke Detectors:Smoke detectors are traditionally found in homes and businesses, designed to detect smoke.
• Flame Detectors:Using an advanced optical technology, flame detectors are capable of detecting a wide-range of industrial fuels including diesel, gas, hydrogen, paper, alcohols, solvents, and more.

Sprinkler Systems

A sprinkler system is triggered by a fire alarm initiating device and can drastically reduce the spread of fire. Options range from the common wet sprinkler system to dry, foam, and deluge versions depending on the type of flame involved.

Why Choose a Linear Heat Detection System?

While all fire detection systems protect, a linear heat detection system is capable of sensing fire and increased temperatures across long distances, making it especially ideal for large buildings. With a traditional system, you’re relying on the various devices to detect fire, smoke, or heat within a certain proximity.

In contrast, the linear heat detectors are capable of detecting heat throughout an area based on installation. Linear heat detection is available in three primary forms:

• Standard Digital Cable, which is equipped with heat sensors throughout and capable of detecting temperature fluctuations over a set point.
• Fiber Optic Cable designed with heat sensing fibers that constantly communicate with a programmable unit.
• Confirmed Temperature initiation system consistsof insulated, heat sensitive conductors that short out should it exceed a certain temperature range.

With the right combination of devices, your business will be able to detect a fire, protect occupants, control damage, and get the fire out as quickly and efficiently as possible.