Fire Alarm Systems Buyer's Guide

Addressable fire alarm system components

Unlike other security systems such as monitored alarms or video surveillance, you won't get to pick and choose the components you want when buying an addressable fire alarm system. Instead, your local authorities will determine exactly what devices you need based on local and national codes.

Regardless of the number of devices used, your addressable fire alarm system will need two separate, dedicated phone lines so it's always connected to the central monitoring station. Typically, the primary connection is a standard phone line, while a cellular or voice over IP (VoIP) line serves as the backup.

Addressable fire alarm system devices
The central component of an addressable fire alarm system is the fire alarm control panel (FACP). The FACP acts as the brains of the system, storing information about your business so the fire department can retrieve it when there's a fire.

The FACP also communicates with all the devices that help locate the fire. These devices include detectors that see heat and smoke, sirens and strobe lights that alert people to evacuate, and flow valves that control the sprinkler system.

In addition to automatic fire alarm devices, you'll need to install manual pull stations at every exit so people can activate the alarm at the first sign of smoke or fire, and fire extinguishers that feature clear instructions on the label.

If required by code, your addressable fire alarm system may also need annunciation systems that notify authorities which device was set off and where it's located. Large venues like shopping malls or sports arenas may need emergency voice alarm communication systems (EVAC) that provide audible evacuation instructions over professional-grade speakers.

Sprinkler systems
The most important addition to an addressable fire alarm system is a sprinkler system. Fire officials consider sprinklers the most reliable method for quickly suppressing fires until authorities arrive.

Addressable fire alarm system installers can quickly and easily connect fire alarm systems to your existing sprinklers. Many municipalities require all commercial buildings to have a sprinkler system, and most buildings constructed after 1985 have them. If you need to install a complete new sprinkler system, prepare for added headaches and expenses — it can take several months and cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in addition to the alarm.

Fire suppression systems
While sprinkler systems use water to extinguish flames, you can't risk floods in areas such as server rooms or paper archive storage areas. In these cases, fire suppression systems are the most effective fire protection. Fire suppression systems use inert gases or chemical agents to control smoke and put out fires.