Things to Keep in Mind when Adding a Fire Alarm Monitoring System

If your small or large business is looking to employ a commercial fire alarm monitoring system and company to install and maintain the fire alarm system in your building, it is important to do your research first. There are certain things to keep in mind before making a final decision on the company and the type of system you prefer to keep your business and your employees safe. Here are some things to consider:

Evaluate the Types of Fire Alarm Systems Available

First, you’ll want to research what types of fire alarm systems are available to be installed in your company building. Call around to various companies to obtain specific quotes, as well as the installation procedures and some good references. Does the company you are considering have a great track record with other clients? Do they provide complete installation and monitoring, as well as prompt customer service and reliable emergency response? Make sure you evaluate all aspects of the fire alarm system and the company that provides the service.

Decide on the Right Fire Alarm Monitoring System

Once you have decided on a few companies that have a great track record, appropriate services and the best price for your company, you’ll want to decide what type of fire alarm monitoring your company will need. Does the company you’ve selected offer a monthly maintenance service that will check for any malfunctions in the system? Do those monthly maintenance services include automatic updates to any electric systems and/or software programs? Make sure you know the ins and outs of the system you have chosen, as well as the services provided by the company.

Know the Emergency Protocol of Your Fire Alarm Company

It’s also important to research the type of action your fire alarm monitoring company will take in the event of an emergency. Knowing the emergency protocol of your fire alarm company will prepare you in advance for such an event. The fire alarm company you choose should be able to alert police and the fire department in the case of an emergency. If you are certain the company will contact authorities, then you and your employees can focus on exiting the building and attending to those who might need help in an emergency.

Choose the Fire Alarm Monitoring System and Company Best Suited for You

After researching availability and considering all options, it is most important to choose a fire alarm system and a monitoring company that is best suited for your company and employees. Letting your employees focus entirely on their work without thinking about emergency protocol will give them (and you) extra peace of mind. Let a fire alarm monitoring company take control of your fire safety today.

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 today.  You can even visit our office near you.

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems to Safeguard Your Business

It takes just 30 seconds for a small flame to turn into a full blown fire. Within minutes of the start of a fire, a business will fill with thick black smoke, making it impossible for employees to breathe. From malfunctioning machines to faulty wiring, the risk of fire is present in every room in your business. In addition to threatening the lives of your employees, fire can also results in the complete destruction of company records, inventory, and property. Equipping your business with full scale fire alarm systems allows for early fire and smoke detection, assisting in rapid evacuation.  Some risks simply are not worth taking.  Don’t risk loosing your business or threatening the safety of your employees and customers.  Commercial fire alarm systems help you manage your business risks.

Manual and automated fire alarm system systems

It’s critical to have a combination of manual and automated fire alarm systems in the modern workplace. Manual fire alarm system components includes horns and strobes, pull stations, and ADA approved manual fire alarm systems. In the event that an employee sees fire or smoke in the building before a detector is signaled, he or she can activate the system manually.

A fire alarm systems provider will help you select the automated devices that are best suited for your particular business. For example, in a fume ridden or dusty setting, a heat detector may be a better option than a smoke detector. Choosing the proper type of automated detector and alarm will also lower the chances of giving false signals, which are expensive and take time away from fire departments who could be tackling real fires.

Fire alarm monitoring

You never know when fire or smoke damage will occur in a business. A fire alarm system that supports around the clock monitoring ensures every element of your fire alarm system is under close supervision at any hour of the day or night. Fire alarm systems providers may monitor varying factors related to fire and smoke including heat, high/low water, temperature, and pressure.

Compliance

As a business owner, you don’t want to be responsible for keeping up with the current fire codes. A professional fire alarm systems provider remains up to date with fire codes and other key regulations to keep clients protected. Choose fire alarm systems that are configured to meet the necessary codes and requirements.

Inspection

All fire alarm systems must be maintained and periodically inspected by a licensed inspection team. In many instances, fire alarm systems providers license their technicians in fire alarm installation and repair as well as inspection. Typically a local fire department inspector must also be present during the inspection. Following testing and inspection, the provider will issue the appropriate National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) forms for your records and the local fire department. Keep these forms on file.

Business fire alarm systems features vary from one company to the next. As you weight varying alarm systems, make sure to inquire about the full range of components so there are no surprises. A reputable fire alarm systems provider will work closely with you and your business staff to ensure that the system you choose meets your needs, preferences, and budget.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest 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.

Technology Has Revolutionized Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

Fire alarm technology has advanced greatly in the past couple of decades. In the past, fire sensors could send an audible alarm, but it still required a human to call for emergency services. Those days are long gone. Modern fire alert technology can make your business much safer and it could even help save lives.

Advances in safety, sensitivity and reliability

Multi-criteria fire detectors are more sensitive to detecting fire and heat. Instead of relying on one sensor type to detect a fire, these detectors use multiple criteria. It can be a combination of smoke, heat, carbon monoxide, ion, or other indicators. This helps the detector know the difference between a fire and harmless smoke caused by processes like welding.

Addressable heads make it possible to determine exactly where a fire is within a building or complex. In the past, fire panels could only indicate the zone in which the fire was detected. Addressable heads can guide firefighters to the heart of the fire. This is especially important in large buildings, like schools, assisted living facilities, and major warehouse complexes.

Indicator appliances can tell firefighters if a space is occupied. This can bring rescuers to the places where people may be trapped, saving lives in the process.

Electromagnetic door holders make it possible to isolate pockets of fire. Magnets on the door connect with the electrical system, holding the door open. When a fire is detected, the electromagnets are disconnected from the electricity, which causes the doors to swing shut. This helps isolate the fire and slow its spread.

Alarm panels have become far more user friendly. The sheer complexity of alarm system panels used to stump even the most technically inclined. Those days are gone. Easy to use menu systems navigated with touch panels and touch pads makes it easier to manage the system.

Voice alarms are more effective than bells or chimes. Research has shown people respond better to voice commands than to random sounds. Technology has made it possible to add voice alarms to existing alarm systems.

These are just a few of the advancements in technologies which have revolutionized commercial fire alarm systems. If your fire alarm system was installed 10 or more years ago, you should consider making a few upgrades. It could save your business or, more importantly, save lives.

More information on 1st Alarm Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

1st Alarm is one of the biggest 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.

How Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Can Save You Money

When looking to install fire alarms and fire monitoring systems in your office building, small retail establishment or your home – commercial fire alarm systems can save you money in the long run. Your basic smoke detectors and alarms may work great, but having a commercially installed fire alarm system takes fire safety to the next level. Having a fire alarm system professionally installed guarantees you’re prepared – not to mention protects your building, belongings and most importantly the people in them from a potential fire. You’ll be able to prevent a lot of damage should a fire happen and it will be easy to get ServiceMaster Restoration by Zaba in to repair any fire damage rather than having to look for a new building for your business after your current one burns down.

Save money with commercial fire alarm systems

You may think the cost of a commercial fire alarm system would be astronomical, but the opposite is quite true. For a home or a small office building, fire alarm systems can be installed at a reasonable price. With the addition of a 24/7 monitoring service, your fire protection system will be well worth the investment if it prevents or minimizes even one potential fire. The cost of recovery far exceeds the fire alarm system investment thus cost savings can be very significant.

A quick response with professionally installed fire alarm systems

Having your fire alarm system professionally installed can save you big time in the future. The initial cost is just a drop in the bucket if you think of what you will save in potential losses thanks to a quick response time. With a professional system that alerts you instantly in the case of smoke or fire and a continuous monitoring service that connects to the fire department, you are more likely to receive an immediate response from firefighters and save thousands of dollars in damage and the priceless lives of your family, friends, employees and pets.

Save money on insurance with commercial fire alarm systems

The monthly cost of a monitoring service for your commercial fire alarm system can be offset by the amount you may save on your business insurance. Insurance companies often offer discounts for systems that guarantee their investment in your office or warehouse. If a fire alarm system will save damage to the building during night hours, when you’re on vacation, or in the case of arson – you and the insurance company are better off. The average savings can be up to 20% for a fire alarm monitoring system. Contact your insurance provider to find out if installing a fire alarm system will lower your premiums and save you money.

Fire safety first with fire alarm systems

Commercial fire alarm systems will not only save you money by preventing destructive fire damage, loss of belongings and detrimental injuries – but they will also ensure your home or office is prepared in the event of an emergency. Practicing good fire safety and acknowledging the importance of fire safety education will give you, your family and your employees the tools needed to avoid unnecessary loss and injury in the event of a fire. Prepare today for could happen tomorrow – with a commercial fire alarm system for your work or home.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest 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 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.