Fire alarms are installed in homes and businesses to alert people of a fire. It’s critical that you have confidence in your fire alarm system‘s ability to function effectively when you need it most.
The Fire Marshal’s Office recommends that you have your fire alarm system annual inspection to ensure that it is in good operating order. This ensures that you are aware of any system issues and may take action to resolve them before they become a problem.
Fire alarm system annual inspection
You may check if your fire alarm system is up to code by following these steps:
- Step 1
Know what type of fire alarm system you have. Most newer home fire alarms use ionization sensors, which detect fires using smoke particles. Older systems use thermistors, which detect temperature changes. Both types of detectors are effective and should be used together in your home or business.
- Step 2
Check the battery backup on all smoke detectors in your home or business. This will ensure that they won’t stop working during a power outage or other emergency. Many manufacturers recommend changing the batteries twice a year to ensure they work during a power outage.
- Step 3
Check the expiration date on all smoke detectors in your home or business. The batteries should be replaced at least once every ten years, whether used or not.
The Importance of a Commercial Fire Alarm System
Any municipality’s fire service is in charge of implementing fire prevention codes. Most of Florida’s fire departments follow the Life Safety Code, NFPA 101. All commercial buildings must comply with this law, which mandates the installation of an automatic fire alarm system.
The alarm system must be monitored twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, by a central station staffed by trained personnel. The responsibility for ensuring that the building owner meets these requirements and that the equipment installed is within specifications lies with the licensed, certified fire alarm contractor.
When was the last time you had your fire alarm system inspected in Florida? It is required by law that you have your fire system inspected annually by a state-certified fire alarm technician. If your alarm system has been neglected for quite some time, you could be in violation of the law, and a fine can be issued to you.
The trouble with your fire alarm system does not have to be a significant problem as long as it is addressed immediately. There are several things that an experienced technician can do to help with any issue that may occur with your fire alarm system, from fire alarm system repairs to replacing sensors and other parts.
The longer you wait to address a problem that may occur, the more money it will cost you in the end! A fire alarm system annual inspection will provide many benefits for your fire security system.
There are several reasons why an annual fire alarm service is important. You can prevent loss of life, protect property, and keep your family safe! The longer you wait, the more likely someone could get hurt or property damaged.
All new residential structures in Florida are required to have a fire alarm system. Fire alarm systems must be tested once a year by a Florida-certified electrician, and the county in which they are installed must issue a fire alarm permit. The building owner must keep the permit copy on the premises until sold.
The Florida Fire Alarm Requirements are as follows:
- A smoke detector must be installed in every bedroom, hallways leading to bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, family rooms, kitchens, and attached garages.
- Smoke detectors must be installed on every level of your home, including basements and attics, as well as an attached garage or semi-attached structure.
- Smoke detectors should be placed at least 10 feet from heat-producing appliances such as stoves, dryers, and water heaters.
- Fire Alarm System Design: Fire alarm systems must be designed by a licensed engineer or architect, who must also approve installation plans and any changes made during construction.
Whether it’s a new or an older structure, nearly all commercial buildings require fire alarm systems. A fire alarm system will alert people to a fire in the building, which can help keep people safe if there is a fire. Then, it makes sense to make sure that your business’s fire alarm system is up to code.