Category: commercial fire protection systems

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Steps To Ensure Your Commercial Fire Alarm System Continues To Function Properly

When you have spent the money it costs to have a commercial fire alarm system installed in your commercial space – you want to make sure that it is in proper working order each and every day. The only way to do this is to have it properly maintained, inspected and tested on a regular basis.

Be sure to talk to your insurance carrier once you decide on having a commercial fire alarm system installed. Many insurance companies offer a significant savings when your building is equipped with a commercial fire alarm system – on the other hand, may not fully insure you if you don’t have one.

Inspection of your commercial fire alarm system

To start out – your commercial fire alarm system should be inspected when it is installed and then at periodic and regular intervals as long as you have the system. Depending on the type of business you have, some systems are required to be inspected. The instructions given by the manufacturer should be followed to the letter in order to make sure everything is in working order.

Testing your commercial fire alarm system

Inspection and testing are two different things. Just as you test your home fire alarm system, you will want to test a commercial fire alarm system. Make sure you notify your employees or others in the building that you are going to test the system. It’s a good idea to have a test plan documented so that individuals in the building understand the plan of action if there is indeed a fire. This will help to avoid confusion during a test as well as in an actual emergency.

Maintaining your commercial fire alarm system

A commercial fire alarm system that is under five years old should not require much maintenance. Make sure the units are dust-free and check them for corrosion.

When you ask individuals, who are not experienced maintenance technicians, to look over your fire alarm system, they may overlook important details because nothing looks broken. It takes knowledgeable and qualified service people to maintain your commercial fire alarm system in a way that will protect your employees and building assets. Don’t leave this important job to a building supervisor or maintenance crew. Instead, contact the commercial fire alarm system professionals at 1st Alarm.

Follow the guidelines

At least one full-on inspection and test are recommended by most commercial fire alarm system manufacturers right after the system has been installed. Many insurance companies will not pay out in case of a fire if the fire alarm system has not been properly installed, tested and maintained.

One of the most important aspects of having a commercial fire alarm system is for you to fully understand your system. When the system is installed – make sure every detail is fully explained. You don’t want to overlook any of the features of the system, no matter how simple they may look. Make testing and maintenance part of your regular routine and your fire alarm systems will last for years and remain in good working order to help protect your commercial building.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, San Angelo and Oklahoma City. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well.  We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs.  To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.

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Routine Inspection, Testing And Maintenance On Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Reduces Failure Rates

Routine inspection, testing, and maintenance of commercial fire alarm systems is essential for keeping them operational. When commercial fire alarm systems are not properly maintained, they become prone to failures that can cost lives and increase the amount of damage a property can sustain. When it comes to fire alarm operation, an ounce of prevention is most definitely easier to swallow than the pound of cure. Some of the most common causes of commercial fire alarm systems failures are also some of the easiest to identify and correct.

Dirt and dust are commercial fire alarm systems worst enemies

Dirty smoke detectors and clogged sensors are responsible for a significant number of commercial fire alarm systems failures. Dirt, dust, insect remains, and lint can build up within the smoke detector thus negatively impacting the sensitivity of the unit. It can lead to false alarms that go off without warning, or when a fire erupts, the clogged sensor chamber can slow response time or lead to a total system failure.

Commercial fire alarm systems versus high ceilings

Another common maintenance problem with commercial fire alarm systems involves the high ceilings that most systems have to contend with. Whether in a warehouse or retail space, high ceilings create the space needed to do business. However, the height of these rooms can create significant time for air to cool before it reaches the smoke and heat sensors. This means that a fire can burn and smolder for a longer time before it is detected which increases the likelihood of catastrophic damage. Regular maintenance and inspections ensure that the sensors are properly placed and remain set to the proper sensitivity to account for the height of the rooms they are supposed to protect.

The right tool for the job

It is also common to find the wrong detector installed within various rooms. While many commercial operations stay the same from the day they open until the day they close, this is not the case for all businesses. If the function of a room or the materials present within the room change, it’s also necessary to make sure the fire alarm and sensors are changed to address any potential threats that may have been created. Aligning the system with the threat goes a long way towards keeping property and employees safe from danger.

Common commercial fire alarm systems problems

Other common commercial fire alarm systems problems include dead batteries, an insufficient number of smoke and heat detectors, improper programming of control panels, and electrical faults. In some cases, the annunciator may be damaged and won’t be able to convey a loud and clear message, or zoning can require changes that match the evolution of the business. Regular maintenance catches these problems before they can burn the business down. In most cases, the problems that are discovered are easily repaired by a trained technician equipped with the proper knowledge and tools to identify and repair everything from minor issues to major headaches.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, and San Angelo. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well.  We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs.  To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.

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NFPA Testing And Inspection Requirements For Your Commercial Fire Alarm System

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets forth requirements for testing, inspection, and maintenance of a commercial fire alarm system. These are listed under the National Fire Alarm Code also known as NPFA-72. In Texas, businesses are required to adhere to these standards in order to receive and maintain their certificate of occupancy.

Required Annual Tests for a Commercial Fire Alarm System

For a commercial fire alarm system connected to a supervising station, businesses are required to test the fire alarm’s functions, fuses, interfaces, lamps/LEDs, power supplies, and transponders on an annual basis. This includes testing batteries, fiber-optic power cables, control units, and annunciators. Initiating devices must also be tested annually. These include duct detectors, fire suppression systems, fire/gas detectors, heat detectors, radiant energy detectors, and smoke detectors. The code requires testing on all digital alarm transmitters, digital radio alarm transmitters, and McCulloh transmitters.

Required Semi-Annual Inspections for a Commercial Fire Alarm System

Semi-annual inspections are required for radiant energy fire detectors and batteries.

Required Quarterly Tests for a Commercial Fire Alarm System

For a commercial fire alarm system that is not connected to a supervising station, businesses are required to test the functions, fuses, interfaces, LEDs/lamps, power supplies including batteries and cables, and transponders on a quarterly basis. Businesses are also required to test the supervisory signal devices and off premises transmission equipment.

Required Monthly Inspections for a Commercial Fire Alarm System

Business owners must inspect batteries including lead acid batteries and dry cell batteries. It is also crucial that supervising station fire alarms are tested monthly including the digital alarm communication receiver, digital alarm radio receiver, McCulloh system, two-way RF multiplex, radio alarm supervising station receiver, private microwave, and radio alarm repeater station receiver.

The Importance of Testing

Testing does more than just allowing a business to stay in business. It ensures that your commercial fire alarm system will function properly when called upon to provide the necessary protection. The NFPA standards establish regulations regarding each testing and inspection requirement so that a commercial fire alarm system will perform properly if a fire breaks out. Failing to adhere to these standards can have serious consequences including revocation of certificate of occupancy, cancellation of insurance policies, denial of claims, and exposure to both civil and criminal liability if a fire breaks out and causes property damage, personal injuries, or wrongful deaths. While most standards remain relatively static and unchanged, advances in technology and system operation means that it is important to hire service technicians that are up-to-date with the current NFPA code and any changes to standards and requirements.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, and San Angelo. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well.  We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs.  To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.

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How Much Does a Commercial Fire Alarm System Cost?

A commercial fire alarm system is something you may have wanted for your business but you have put off, thinking you can’t fit it into your budget. The question is – can you afford NOT to make room for it? If your business hasn’t experienced a fire, consider yourself lucky. Many others have, and many of them were able to save their assets due to an early warning from a commercial fire alarm system.

The cost for a commercial fire alarm system

Just like any other investment, you need to understand what the cost will be before you lock yourself into a purchase. The best way for you to find out how much a commercial fire alarm system will cost your business is to have the professionals at 1st Alarm come in to give you an estimate. They will be able to provide you with a good comparison in options and prices.

Usually, the cost will depend on the size of your building. It also will take into consideration any local building codes related to a commercial fire alarm system. The cost will also vary depending on the type of commercial fire alarm system and the features that you choose.

Here are a few tips to make the process a little easier:

Don’t be shy. Ask questions. Make sure that you understand exactly how the commercial fire alarm system works, how much it costs, and how it will help protect your business.

Be informed. Do research before you have anyone come to give you an estimate. Have an idea of what features you want and need. For instance – Do you want your fire system monitored?

Picking a pro – and average fees

There are many fire alarm system companies looking for your business – so make sure you only talk to the companies that have good reputations. 1st Alarm is the best in the region so they are the best place to start.  They can give you references for their other clients to help build your trust and confidence.

The cost of the equipment and installation fee are included by some companies – while some fire alarm companies prefer to lease the equipment to their clients. If this is the case, you will be charged a leasing fee. If you opt for a fire alarm system that is monitored – you will be charged a monthly or annual fee.

The cost for equipment is usually around $300-$500 on an annual basis. Monitoring – $50-$250 per month. Again, the actual cost for equipment depends on the size and type of building you have, and the features you choose.

It’s a big decision

Investing in a commercial fire alarm system is an important investment. You want to get the best bang for your buck. Fire alarm systems for commercial businesses vary in price – so don’t be in a hurry to make your decision.

Compare your estimates carefully and choose the one that seems right for your business. Once you’ve made your decision and your installation is complete – you’ll feel confident in knowing that you’re doing what you can to keep your employees safe and preserve your company’s valuable resources.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, San Angelo and Oklahoma City. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well.  We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs.  To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.

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Commercial Fire Alarm Systems That Meet Your Business Needs

Commercial fire alarm systems are vital for the protection of businesses large and small. Modern fire detection and fire alarm systems provide 24-hour, unblinking protection over physical property, inventory, personnel, and customers. This protection depends on the reliable installation of each component to provide the maximum amount of coverage possible

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Options You Can Choose From

There are plenty of commercial fire alarm systems to choose from and the 1st Alarm team of certified professionals will help you determine which systems and features are best suited to your specific needs and the facility you wish to protect. We will help you consider everything from the threats inherent to your business and industry as well as the best commercial fire alarm system for the design and construction of the structure. This results in the selection of a system that will provide optimal coverage and the highest degree of protection. This is crucial because no two business’, and no two structures are the same. Every system must be carefully tailored so that it matches the potential threats and the potential for damage each threat can create.

Installation Support from Start to Finish for Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

The 1st Alarm team will work with you to design a commercial fire alarm system that meets your needs and matches your budget. Throughout the process, we work closely with our clients to keep them abreast of the status of the installation and any issues that arise along the way. Our services include completion of the necessary applications for building permits, documentation of system installation, and other paperwork related to the installation. Once the system is installed, we will program the system and conduct final testing to ensure functionality. We will also train key personnel in the usage, monitoring, and maintenance of the commercial fire alarm system.

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Installation You Can Depend Upon

The certified team of 1st alarm installation professionals adheres to installation standards established within the National Fire Alarm Code by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), standards established by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET), as well as local building codes and regulations. When the installation is complete, you can rest assured that your commercial fire alarm systems are fully compliant with all the necessary requirements. This creates a high degree of functional reliability that protects your business in the event of fire. It also ensures that your business meets the requirements set forth by your insurance provider.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, San Angelo and Oklahoma City. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well.  We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs.  To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.

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Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Installation And Repair

Commercial fire alarm systems protect your business, your inventory, and your personnel. Whether you operate a restaurant, retail outlet, or office, a commercial fire alarm system is the single most important piece of equipment you need to protect your business from the unexpected. At 1st Alarm, we use our years of industry experience to provide the installation, inspection, and testing services our clients depend on to keep their operations safe from the devastation fires can cause.

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Installation

Our team of dedicated professionals has the training and skill to install Commercial Fire Alarm Systems in commercial kitchens, grocery stores, offices, retail outlets, storage facilities, and many other locations. Prior to installation, our team works closely with clients to determine the most appropriate systems for their needs. Once the right system is decided upon, our team goes to work identifying the proper placement of the sensors and alarm control panels. The result is the optimum positioning of critical components so that if a fire breaks out, it won’t burn for very long and will purchase the precious time needed to evacuate personnel and customers, and for emergency responders to arrive.

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Inspection

Commercial fire alarm systems are no different than other pieces of equipment. They require regular inspections to determine whether there are component issues that could affect the system’s response to a fire. Our team of certified professionals conducts throughout inspections to identify minor problems before they become major issues. We rigidly adhere to the standards set forth by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) so that our clients can rest assured that their commercial fire alarm systems are in proper working condition. In turn, this ensures that the system meets the requirements of building codes, insurance providers, and any contracts the business may possess. Our inspection team will communicate any known or potential issues to you so that you know the precise condition of your system and have the information you need to make the decisions your business requires.

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Testing

As with our inspections, we adhere to the standards set forth by the NFPA in regard to testing procedures and protocols. Our team possesses the proper training and certifications required to test and service a wide variety of commercial fire alarm systems. We test every component to ensure maximum performance.

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Repairs

Should an inspection or test determine that a component has failed or is at risk of malfunction, our personnel can conduct the necessary repairs and replace any defective components. We will also provide documentation identifying the reasons for the repair, the steps that were taken to correct the deficiency, and the results of tests following installation of the new components that verify the system will operate the way it is intended if a fire breaks out.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, San Angelo and Oklahoma City. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well.  We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs.  To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.

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Inspecting, Testing, and Maintaining Your Commercial Fire Alarm System

Commercial fire alarms must be inspected, tested and maintained regularly otherwise they will not provide protection when a fire begins to smolder. A thorough inspection requires visually inspecting the system for signs of damage as well as testing electronics and other components to ensure they are functioning the way they are intended. Failing to inspect and maintain the system in accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines can lead to legal liability and negate insurance coverage in the event of a fire. With regular repairs and maintenance, a commercial fire alarm system can be expected to provide protection for up to 20 years. However, this lifespan can vary considerably depending on system design, environment, and the quality of the components used in the system.

Every commercial fire alarm system inspection should begin with a visual inspection for signs of damage

Visual inspections should take place at least once every month. Any components that are damaged by wear and tear or vandalism should be refurbished or replaced immediately. This protects the integrity of the system and helps ensure that the system won’t fail in an emergency.

It is critical to have commercial fire alarm systems tested by trained professionals

In addition to a physical inspection of components, it is critical to have the electronics tested by a trained professional. These tests should be conducted at least once per year. For older systems, it is advisable to conduct these tests twice per year. A trained professional will test and calibrate the flame and smoke detectors in accordance with the recommendations made by the manufacturer.  Part of the testing will require the inspector to simulate inputs, interfaces, and test the annunciators to ensure they have the proper sensitivity and relay the appropriate warning signals. The inspection of the electronic components will also entail coordinating the test with the local fire department and alarm monitoring company to ensure the signals are accurately relayed and received. Finally, the systems electronic components and battery will be tested for loose wires and signs of corrosion. Because the electronics package is the heart of modern alarm systems, it is absolutely essential that the inspector pay close attention to the details inherent to checking the electrical components.

Trying to save money could be more costly in the long run

It is not uncommon for companies to attempt to perform these inspections in house in order to save time and money. While this can save money, it can cost lives. While maintenance teams can spot visual signs of damage, they most likely do not have the training required to repair and replace components within the system. When untrained personnel conduct these repairs, they can negate warranties offered by the manufacturer and expose the property owner to legal liability if a fire breaks out. Hiring trained service technicians or relying on factory service agreements to perform maintenance is an investment that is worth every penny. In fact, many agreements offer on-call provisions which facilitate a rapid response to problems such as leaks, electrical shorting, and system failures that place lives and property at risk.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, and San Angelo. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well.  We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs.  To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.

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Why It Is Important To Hire A Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

Commercial fire alarms alert you when there is a fire somewhere in your building. Knowing this as soon as possible is helpful so that you can begin evacuation procedures and assign someone to contact the fire department. This is going to be a very stressful time as you make sure all employees reach safety, you are concerned about lost products, and you wait for help to arrive. There is a much safer, efficient, and faster method of monitoring your building in the case of a fire. Hiring a commercial fire alarm monitoring company will better protect you against injuries, loss of life, and possibly save a major portion of your business.

Reduce the Risk of Losing Your Business By Hiring A Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

A commercial fire alarm monitoring company significantly reduces the risk of you losing your entire business. The threat of fire is always on the back of business owners’ minds, but when you have the services of a commercial fire alarm monitoring company, you no longer have to worry. This service is there for you, 24/7 so you can take care of your business needs and leave the worrying and monitoring to the commercial fire alarm monitoring company. They have the knowledge, experience, and technology to detect and immediately report threats to the fire department, so help reaches your property sooner.

Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Provides Protection Strategies

Many commercial fire alarm monitoring companies will help develop a strategy for your employees to exit the property safely should a fire break out. There is never a way to determine exactly where or when a fire may occur. Getting yourself and your employees out of the building as quickly as possible is the first concern. With a commercial fire alarm monitoring system, you get an early alert to the danger and will know exactly where on your property the fire has broken out. This rapid and precise warning allows for the safest exit and prevents anyone from heading towards the fire.

Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Contacts Help Faster

A commercial fire alarm monitoring company knows as soon as there any signs of fire danger. At the first sign of heat, smoke, or flames, their systems will recognize it and send for help immediately. The fire alarm system monitoring response center is manned around the clock, every day of the year. They will contact the fire department at the first sign of danger and direct them to the exact area in your building under threat. Knowing exactly where the fire is located allows the fire service to minimize the spread of the fire which can save a larger portion of your property.

Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Makes Sure Your Equipment is Maintained

Commercial fire alarm monitoring companies ensure your system works at its best. They will inspect, repair, and maintain your system, so you know you have the best protection possible watching over your property. Having this fire alarm system monitoring in place may help you with insurance premiums as reputable companies adhere to industry and insurance standards to make sure your property stays up to code.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, and San Angelo. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well.  We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs.  To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.

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Why Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Matters To Your Business

Many businesses wonder whether it is worth the investment to hire a commercial fire alarm monitoring service. It is one more expense that many businesses feel they can do without. The reality is quite the opposite because commercial fire alarm monitoring is an investment. It is an affordable expense that every business can afford to make that delivers reliable protection for both people and property.

How Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Works

Commercial fire alarm monitoring is really very simple. Should the sensors on a fire alarm detect smoke, particulates, or changes in temperature, it triggers a signal to the monitoring station. At this point, the dispatcher determines whether it is a real event or a false alarm. In the event a fire is present, the dispatcher raises the alarm by notifying the fire department. At this point, the dispatcher will pass along critical details regarding the fire including the point of ignition, any fuels or chemicals that are known to be present within the facility, the path of the fire, and the rate of spread throughout the structure.

A commercial fire alarm monitoring service can also offer protection against other threats that face your business. Sensors installed on doors and windows, and motion sensors placed throughout the business can detect unwanted intrusions and protect against burglaries. Panic alarms can be installed to protect employees from robberies. Professional commercial fire alarm monitoring protects your business from a wide variety of threats that go beyond smoke and flames.

Maintenance Makes Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring More Effective

You get more than just monitoring when you hire a professional commercial fire alarm monitoring service. The company will also help maintain the systems that protect your facility. This includes regular maintenance that ensures the system is working at its optimum performance levels. Regular maintenance can help discover and repair everything from loose connections to bugs in the software. These are the most common causes of system failures.

Monitoring services that help maintain the critical components within the system ensure that everything will work the way it is supposed to when an emergency presents itself. Moreover, the maintenance services a commercial fire alarm monitoring company provides prolong the operational lifespan of the equipment and reduce the number of false alarms. This saves the business both time and money as the years roll by.

The Benefits of Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring

There are three primary benefits of commercial fire alarm monitoring. The first is that it provides fast and reliable detection of fires. The precious moments a monitoring service saves will save lives. Next, professional monitoring gives firefighters the critical details they need to deliver the proper response. Finally, the expedited and enhanced response delivered by the fire department reduces damage and decreases the costs of rebuilding in the wake of a fire.

Additionally, commercial fire alarm monitoring makes it easier to update and upgrade your system as technology advances. This ensures that your system is in compliance with changes to regulatory requirements. It can also help you save on your monthly insurance premiums and deductibles because a business that is protected with the latest protective systems presents considerably less risk to the insurance company.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Inspection Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, and San Angelo. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well.  We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs.  To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.

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Understanding The Many Types Of Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

There are many types of commercial fire alarm systems that you can use to protect your business. Finding the right one for your needs requires sorting through these options and selecting the system that offers the features, functionality, and protection you desire.

Conventional Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

Also known as “four-wire” commercial fire alarm systems, these stalwarts of security are common fixtures within small shops and restaurants. These systems are usually less expensive than other systems and operate by segmenting the property into hardwired zones. These zones are monitored and controlled via a centralized control panel. Conventional commercial fire alarm systems allow you to deploy multiple detection systems within each zone, and when a detector within the zone is activated, it sends a signal to the control panel indicating which zone the fire is in. In turn, this helps direct emergency responders when they arrive.

Two-Wire Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

Two-wire commercial fire alarm systems are also commonly installed in small shops and businesses. Two-wire commercial fire alarm systems are based on the same structure as a conventional system. However, the detectors on the system are wired using the same cable that connects the sirens and power to the central panel and detectors. The advantage to this type of system is that it is often less expensive and faster to install because there are fewer wires. Another key advantage of many two-wire commercial fire alarm systems is that they often feature additional functions including the setting of fault conditions and individual detector recognition. These features can reduce false alarms and make it even easier for emergency responders and investigators to pinpoint the fire’s point of origin.

Analog Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

Also called analog-addressable commercial fire alarm systems and intelligent systems, these provide information on each and every detector in the system. This makes them ideally suited for larger operations and facilities such as grocery stores, warehouses, shopping centers, etc. These systems are typically more complex, and therefore more expensive than other options. However, the increased intelligence and functionality of the analog commercial fire alarm systems is essential for protecting large areas. Indeed, the moments they save during a response can make all the difference between losing a small part of the structure or losing the structure entirely. It is also important to have detection and alarm systems checked by a qualified electrician to make sure they are working properly.

Wireless Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

While currently more expensive than other commercial fire alarm systems, wireless commercial fire alarm systems are dropping rapidly in price as they become more common. Wireless systems provide a flexible security envelope that can be adjusted and altered as the business grows and evolves. Moreover, because these commercial fire alarm systems don’t rely on hardwiring, they are less expensive to install which often cancels out their more expensive purchase price. Wireless commercial fire alarm systems are also easily connected to monitoring stations which can enhance protection even during those hours of the day when the business is vacant.

Aspirating Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

Aspirating commercial fire alarm systems are highly sensitive and are equipped with a variety of sensors that sniff out particulates in the air. This makes them ideal for catching fires while they are still smoldering. They rely on fans that circulate air through the detectors which analyze the air for particulate matter associated with combustion. While these systems are among the most expensive fire detection systems on the market, they are also some of the most effective and can often catch fires before they ignite and cause serious damage to the property or injury to people and personnel.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, and San Angelo. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well. We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs. To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.