How to reduce false fire alarms

False fire alarms are disruptive to your business, cost you money and cause a nuisance to your neighbours. But most importantly, they could prevent the fire and rescue service from responding to a real fire emergency.

So, what can you do to avoid a false fire alarm?

What causes a false alarm?

Before addressing how to prevent a fire alarm system from generating a false alert, it’s helpful to understand the cause. The reasons are varied and include:

• An inappropriate fire-detection system.
• Air pollutants setting off smoke detectors.
• Extremely high temperatures setting off heat detectors.
• Faulty or poorly maintained equipment.
• System operator error.
• Accidental damage to the system.
• Malicious acts or vandalism.

So, with that in mind, here are five easy steps to reduce false fire alarms.

1. Correct installation

If you need to install or upgrade your fire alarm system, employ a certified fire alarm company to do the job. They’ll begin by looking at your fire risk assessment to enable them to design a system that’s appropriate for your premises.

2. System maintenance

Regularly servicing and maintenance of your fire alarm system will ensure it’s working correctly. Early fault identification through regular checks will reduce the likelihood of the system triggering false alarms.

You should always use a certified fire alarm company to carry out your system servicing and maintenance.

3. Staff training

Train your staff, so they understand your fire precautions and how to work the alarm system (if required as part of their job). Many false alarms are due to activities carried out near fire detectors, particularly smoke detectors. Burning toast in the office kitchen is a common cause! So, remind staff to take the same safety measures they take at home.

4. Fault identification

Any time your system does set off a false alarm, identify the cause so you can fix it and prevent further occurrences.

5. Planning ahead

If you’re planning any construction or renovation work to your premises, consider how it could impact your alarm system. For example, hot or dusty work close to smoke detectors or heat detectors could trigger an alarm as could not switching off the alarm while working on the electrics. Make contingency plans before beginning works.

If you’re having issues with your fire safety system or would like some help with a new installation, please get in touch. You can call us on 01392 368830 or please complete our contact form.

Image credit: Pixabay

admin@tamarsecurity.com

01392 368830

Tamar Security Ltd
Ulysses Park
Heron Road
Exeter
Devon
EX2 7PH