Unnecessary fire alarms and recommendations how you can help prevent them…

Unnecessary or false fire alarms are a significant issue that affects many first responders.  A substantial percentage of automated fire alarm calls turn out to be unnecessary or false alarms. These types of alarms not only disrupt routine operations of property owners and businesses but also place an unnecessary burden on the fire service.

Illustrated herewith are some common causes of unnecessary false alarms and practical measures that can be taken to prevent them as well as ensuring the safety and efficiency of alarm systems.

One of the impacts of unwanted false alarms is not only diversion of valuable resources away from other potential emergencies but it also generates disruption and costs to the fire service as an operational entity.

Potential Causes of False Alarms:

1. Accidental Activation: Accidental activation of fire alarms is one of the primary causes of false alarms. Examples include burning food in kitchens, steam from showers setting off smoke detectors, or the accidental breakage of alarm components.

2. Equipment Malfunction: Faulty or poorly maintained fire alarm equipment can trigger false alarms. Dust, debris, or insects within the system, as well as outdated or improperly installed devices, can lead to false alarms and unnecessary evacuations.

3. System Design and Installation: Inadequate system design with a lack of planning or knowledge of the buildings day-to-day use can lead to an increase in false alarms. Items such as placing detectors too close to sources of steam or dust, unsuitable device type for the risk in the building, poorly designed detection coverage or call points placed in areas where there is a high risk of false activations or misuse to name but a few.

4. Property Management: Building uses change on a day-by-day, week-by-week basis. When making these changes, the fire alarm system can often be overlooked. For example, it would be an easy task to relocate the toaster from one room to another, however, what impact would this have on the fire alarm detection?

So, what can be done to prevent False Alarms?

Education and Training: Educating building occupants, residents and users about fire safety protocols, including the proper use of fire alarm systems, can significantly reduce false alarms. Regular review of instructional material should cover how to handle emergencies, proper reporting procedures, and awareness of alarm triggers within the structure. Ensure everyone knows what action to take in the event of an alarm activation.

Be aware and take care: Accidental activation of a fire alarm is one of the most common causes of false alarms. When using devices such as toasters, dryers, kettles, or even hair dryers never leave them unattended. All of these items which are commonly used could have an impact on a fire alarm system, so be aware of your surroundings at all times. Other items such as aerosols, water, vapor, and steam can also impact a fire alarm system. Ensure occupants keep bathroom doors closed, ensure any extractor fans are in working order, and do not leave any running water unattended.

Regular Maintenance: Proper maintenance and inspection of fire alarm systems are crucial to reduce the quantity of false alarms. So, you need to ensure your fire alarm system is tested routinely and serviced in accordance to specifications.

Resolve known faults as quickly as possible: Fire alarm systems develop faults. It's the nature of any electrical system. When you are aware of a fault, repair it quickly.

Choose the right installation and maintenance provider: Fire alarm systems are electrical items that require good care and maintenance. From initial design to installation and maintenance, ensuring you have the correct provider in place who understands your property, understands the requirements of use for the structure and works with you to ensure that your fire alarm system is designed and maintained correctly.

False fire alarms pose a significant concern for businesses and residential property owners and the fire service as well. By understanding the causes and taking time to implement preventive measures, you could minimize false alarms, safeguard property, protect business operations, and enable the fire service to respond efficiently to genuine issues. Some of the steps mentioned above are crucial in reducing false alarms and promoting a safer environment for everyone.