Advantages of Addressable Fire Alarm Systems

The main goal of any fire alarm system to provide early warning to occupants so that they can evacuate safely without injury, and to provide a timely dispatch to emergency responders.  An addressable fire alarm system provides additional features such as accurately pinpointing the exact location of the origin of fire or smoke, quickly leading responders to the exact room on the correct floor of a building.   Addressable fire alarm systems are more efficient than conventional zone type fire detection systems, especially in high-rise buildings, campuses or mass complexes.

Components of an Addressable Fire Alarm System

Components of an addressable fire alarm system consist of detection sensors which alert occupants and responding personnel to the presence of fire, smoke or gas and also include notification of security breaches.   Notifications are received at a central control panel, with the identification and location of the detection sensor that was activated clearly identified.  This accurate location of each device that was activated allows personnel and responders to locate the source of the problem to generate the proper response.

This advanced notice can be the difference between life and death when seconds count, as responding personnel can immediately evacuate occupants from the dangerous areas.  Addressable alarm systems are wired with a loop design which consists of the various types of devices, each having it’s own “address”.  Addressable systems may include fire, smoke or gas detectors, alarms, visual alerts such as strobe lights, audible alerts such as evacuation speakers, suppression equipment such as sprinklers and auxiliary power supply.  Each device and piece of auxiliary equipment is connected to the control panels and central monitoring location.

With proper design and installation, and addressable fire alarm system provides the following benefits:

• Quick identification of the exact cause and location of the emergency
• Continual monitoring of the operational condition of sensors and devices
• Detection of contaminants which could affect performance
• Identification of breaks in the system wiring
• Reduction in false alarms

HRSS is a leading fire and safety systems service company, offering comprehensive services including fire system design, equipment, maintenance, repair and monitoring 24/7/365.  We are experienced with fire systems in a wide variety of commercial properties including high-rise, low-rise, campuses and complexes.  Contact us to learn more about the advantages of an addressable fire alarm system.  

Honeywell Fire Alarm Systems Distributors

Honeywell fire alarm systems are known worldwide for quality and reliability, leading the industry with superior fire alarm systems for any structure.  Notifier® by Honeywell offers various models of fire alarm panels for a variety of buildings and structures, with fire safety systems suitable for any size of building.  Notifier by Honeywell fire alarm systems are saving lives on every continent, in every sized building from simple to complex, low-rise or high-rise and mass complexes, Notifier delivers.   

Honeywell fire alarm systems are all UL approved, with smart smoke and fire sensors utilizing wireless technology for seamless connectivity.  

Honeywell Fire Alarm System Panels

Notifier fire alarm systems include Conventional fire alarm panels that monitor either single or several zones, or for complex building structures the Onyx fire alarm panel offers addressable systems which can pinpoint the source of smoke or fire to a particular room on a certain floor.

In some circumstances outlined by the NFPA, audible evacuation procedures are required to assist occupants with exit instructions over a paging system.  These audible evacuations can help to reduce panic in crowded venues by directing crowds towards safe exit paths.   

Notifier Fire Alarm Parts and Service

For certified Notifier fire alarm parts and service performed by certified, trained technicians, you need a fire and safety systems company knowledgeable with all aspects of Notifier by Honeywell fire detection systems.  Using a reputable distributor, you will rest assured that your Notifier parts are authentic, and of the highest quality.

If you have a Notifier system and cannot locate your fire alarm system manual, call upon the fire and safety system experts at High Rise Security Systems.

HRSS is a leading distributor for Notifier fire systems, with experience and in-depth knowledge of fire alarm panels for all models and styles.  We are expert fire and safety system consultants, providing comprehensive system design ensuring compliance to all NFPA guidelines, and assisting with permit approvals.    

High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire and safety systems expert, providing Chicago and surrounding areas with superior fire alarm systems.  We provide complete system design, service, testing, monitoring and Notifier fire systems.    Contact us today to speak with one of our fire system experts.

Reliable Fire Alarm Monitoring is Vital for Life Safety

Once your fire and life safety system is designed and installed, you need reliable fire alarm monitoring to reap the benefits of your system.  Even the most expensive and sophisticated systems are useless if not monitored from a trustworthy source.  Fire alarm monitoring must be 24/7, with no interruptions, and with reliable backup systems in place.  

Quick Dispatch is Critical

With clearly defined parameters in your system, your monitoring service will provide you with total peace of mind to know that in the case of emergency, first responders will be dispatched as quickly as possible.  Direct connections to first responders is critical to experience the benefits that a reliable fire and safety system provides. In case of fire, safely evacuating people and saving lives can come down to mere seconds.  

Addressable Fire Alarm System

With an addressable fire alarm safety system, first responders would have important information on the exact location of a fire.  This would be especially important in a high-rise building with multiple floors, or a large complex such as a college campus.  Addressable fire alarm systems can pinpoint the location of a fire to the exact floor or even the room experiencing the fire, thus speeding up evacuation efforts and assisting first responders.

Internal Safety Plans

Internal safety plans are also important and can save lives.  Companies should have consistent attendance policies to know exactly which employees are in the building and where they are located in case of emergency.  Employees need to know the evacuation plan and a safe meeting place. Audio evacuation systems can assist with directing people to the proper location.  

Reliable fire alarm monitoring in conjunction with a consistent fire and safety plan are the perfect combination to a life-saving fire and safety system.

High Rise Security Systems is a licensed and skilled fire and safety alarm system designing, testing and monitoring company.  For trustworthy and reliable fire alarm monitoring 24/7/365, contact HRSS today and learn more about our superior safety system services.

Ongoing Fire Alarm Service

Building owners are responsible for creating an environment that protects all occupants from the threats of fire, smoke, and harmful emissions. Local authorities require that buildings be equipped with regularly tested and maintained fire safety devices.

Maintaining fire alarm systems is not a job for the building’s regular maintenance staff. Only fully trained and certified experts of a reputable fire safety company are qualified to inspect, test, and repair these very delicate instruments.

Ongoing Maintenance Program

Over time, parts wear out, dirt and grime will accumulate, and integrated systems can be interrupted. In these cases, a malfunction is likely to occur when the system is most needed. A system failure can have dire repercussions when precious time might be lost.

As with any other equipment, preventative maintenance is far more economical than waiting for a breakdown that would require emergency repair. Fire detection systems are no different.

For example, many smoke detection devices are delicate instruments that work with a precisely directed beam of light so when smoke enters the chamber, the light beam is refracted which will then trigger an alarm. If dirt accumulates in the chamber, the sensor may not react appropriately. Other sensor and notification devices will malfunction as well without proper ongoing maintenance and testing.

Cleaning sensors, replacing worn parts, testing, and reprogramming systems are all part of a proactive preventative fire alarm service. Only experienced and licensed technicians have the training and the right tools to bring the entire system into proper working order.

Annual Inspection

Local fire authorities and OSHA require at least annual testing of fire detection systems. A certified fire safety company will perform a detailed inspection and provide the building owner with the necessary certification to verify the systems are in perfect working condition.

In high-rise buildings, the requirement to maintain the building’s fire detection systems is essential.

High Rise Security Systems (HRSS) Maintenance Programs

In the Chicago area, HRSS has been providing expert fire alarm services to high-rise buildings for over a decade. As a designer and installer of state-of-the-art fire safety systems by companies like Notifier by Honeywell, HRSS cooperates closely with building owners throughout the region to keep their systems well-maintained.

HRSS will work out an economical, ongoing maintenance and inspection program to provide peace of mind for building owners and managers. Reducing risk by maintaining a clean and operational system is a critical responsibility.

Choosing the Best Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

Cutting corners on fire alarm systems in a high-rise or other heavily occupied building is not an option. Building owners and managers are responsible for ensuring the complete safety of the occupants and should employ the highest level of safeguards possible.

In the case of any threat of fire, the quickest possible response is critical. When smoke, fire, or other threat to safety are detected within the building, occupants are alerted to evacuate. Simultaneously, an emergency signal is sent to the monitoring service that a problem is developing. The service alerts the fire department and other appropriate emergency agencies immediately.

Minutes can make a difference between safety and disaster. Constant, uninterrupted surveillance and timely notification are the reasons building managers should work only with highly professional and proven companies to monitor internal fire detection and warning systems.

Why a Fire Alarm Monitoring Service?

Some building managers and owners have believed that if they have an alarm that makes enough noise, then having an outside service to monitor is a waste. However, situations can occur in which qualified, off-site monitoring professionals can make a difference between no resulting casualties and minimal damage versus possible disaster and extensive damage.

Sometimes when a fire suddenly breaks out, the very first action is to identify the location of the fire and ensure that everyone safely evacuates the building before notifying the fire department. Clearly, evacuation and occupant safety are the primary steps. Waiting minutes before alerting the authorities may be disastrous.

Alternatively, a sudden fire late at night in a residential or dormitory building can render occupants unconscious, unable to call for help. A monitoring service will ensure help arrives quickly.

What To Look For in a Fire Alarm Monitoring Service

An effective fire alarm monitoring service must be a company that:

• is experienced
• has a reputation for reliability
• is fully licensed and certified
• installs, and maintains entire detection and notification systems
• understands your system completely
• is responsible for maintaining all fire equipment in the building

High Rise Security Systems in Chicago

A company that maintains and services your fire, smoke, and gas detection systems is the one most qualified to monitor emergencies. High Rise Security Systems has been designing, installing, and maintaining fire detection systems for over 30 years. Fully trained and experienced professionals will monitor your fire safety systems to keep your building safe.

Commercial Fire Alarm System Approval and Acceptance

Whether planning a new building or retrofitting an old one, a comprehensive design starts with a full review of the layout of your structure to determine which type of commercial fire alarm system and suppression devices should be incorporated. Proper placement and types of detection devices, alarms, and other warning equipment are essential to the safety of building occupants. Each element should be geared toward immediate detection and notification to implement the timely evacuation of occupants and quick response from the local fire department.

Local Code Requirements

Local authorities and municipalities impose somewhat different requirements for approval of a commercial fire alarm system. Moreover, the steps for approval may vary from place to place.

All designs should comply with local fire codes and NFPA-72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code). One requirement is to have the design work. Installation, and testing completed by someone who can prove experience and certification for these systems. Proof of the designer’s experience will be submitted to the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) at the outset.

Shop Drawings

Before approval, shop drawings should show the detail of the plan. No work can begin without approved permits.

The shop drawings should clearly represent each device and connection within the proposed system. The drawings will show elements such as the owner and location of the building, installation contractor, and dates of issue. Detail will include floor plans, riser diagrams, plus control panel, circuitry, and point-to-point wiring diagrams marked according to the NFPA 170 protocol.

The location of windows and doors and placement of each fire detection and notification device, monitor and control interfaces must be shown. Types of equipment attached to each electrical circuit must be defined, and backup power sources must be depicted.

Installation

The installing personnel should be licensed by a state or local authority or a nationally recognized organization. Alternatively, they should have been certified in a formal training program at the manufacturer's location.

Final Approval

When the installation is complete, the contractor or building owner will usually issue a written statement that the installation followed the proposed plan and met all manufacturer specifications.

Working with a fully licensed and qualified fire safety company for the design, installation, and maintenance of your commercial fire alarm system is the best route. Experienced companies like High Rise Security Systems in Chicago can help with each step of the way.

Who to Call for Fire Alarm Inspections

Regular fire alarm inspections must be conducted annually to meet the requirements of agencies, including state and local building authorities and the National Fire Prevention Agency (NFPA). The NFPA Fire Alarm Code (NFPA-72), requires building owners to commission certified fire alarm companies to test all devices regularly to maintain the safety of all occupants.

Regular Fire Alarm System Maintenance and Testing

While various components of the systems should require more frequent testing, especially older units, local fire commissions require certification that each element of the fire alarm system has been tested for proper operation. The testing should be a natural part of an ongoing preventative maintenance program performed by your fire alarm monitoring service.

Regular maintenance of the system must be performed by an experienced, certified fire safety company that is recognized by your local authorities.

As systems age, environmental conditions can have a detrimental effect on the sensors and critical parts of a fire detection system. Regular maintenance and testing can identify loss of calibration and replace parts rendered defective because of accumulated dirt and grime.

Testing requires the technician to simulate conditions that activate the system. Once the systems are determined to be working properly, adjustments and recalibrations will ensure the system will react to emergency situations correctly. Also, the technician will make sure the system is communicating properly with local fire departments.

Why is Certified Testing Important?

The principal reason for testing and certifying the operation of the fire detection systems is that proper service saves lives.

Secondly, annual testing is a requirement of local authorities and the NFPA.

Third, insurance companies will reject claims without clear certification, thereby leaving you with substantial liability.

HRSS, a Chicagoland Certified Alarm Monitoring Service

Technicians from High Rise Security Systems in the Chicagoland region are trained and certified to inspect and maintain fire alarm systems throughout the area. HRSS services and verifies fire alarm networks in hospitals, universities, apartment buildings, and high-rise office buildings throughout the area. HRSS can provide a regular preventative maintenance program to provide peace of mind for you and all your occupants.

What is an integrated Alarm System?

What is an Integrated Alarm System?

Designing a fire and security detection and alarm system into a new building in a piecemeal fashion is a waste of time, money and energy. With wireless connectivity, every device for fire and physical safety can be integrated into a seamless system to be monitored from a central control point.

When fire, smoke or unauthorized entries occur in a building or complex, integrated alarm systems will be activated and control personnel notified of the location of the emergency. A Closed Circuit TV (CCTV) system can focus on the specific area of the threat to assist in directing evacuation if needed.

Collaborating with a NICET-certified fire safety and monitoring company like High Rise Security Systems in Chicago will help you to design the right integrated system for your high-rise or campus buildings.

Notifier Integrated Alarm Systems

Notifier by Honeywell Integrated Systems wirelessly connects all fire and smoke detection, alarm, access control and evacuation systems into one system connected to a single point-of-control work station. At the very moment a threat occurs, the location and severity of the problem can be instantly detected, assessed and acted upon.

In case of a fire or smoke emergency, the integrated system identifies the exact location to initiate evacuation while instantly signaling for emergency personnel response.

If an unauthorized or troublesome intruder should be present, personnel can locate the individual, while the integrated alarm systems call for emergency help and lock down specific areas if necessary.

Systems like CCTV and motion detectors help to visually identify the location of an emergency or stranded individual.

Evacuation Systems

In emergencies, an integrated system recognizes the location of the problem and provides audio and visual instructions to all occupants to vacate the building. Special directional and live or recorded voice instructions will direct the way.