Indian River Analyzes Automatic Fire Alarm Incident Alerts & Responses - 

The Indian River Volunteer Fire Company hereby publishes this information to illustrate statistical data over the past few months of actual automatic fire alarm incidents within our immediate fire district.

This data illustrates an unacceptable trend of ever-increasing automatic fire alarms for reasons that are 100% preventable. 

During the time period of December 1^st, 2024 thru June 30, 2025, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company was alerted for 345 alarms of which 82 or 24% of these alarms were automatic fire alarm incidents.

Indian River VFC Automatic Fire Alarm Incident Alerts - Dec., 2024 thru June, 2025
Month	AFA	Percentage  AFA  Alerts	Total Alarms for the month
Dec. 2024	11	26%	43
Jan., 2025	15	35%	43
Feb. 2025	4	9%	47
Mar. 2025	4	8%	48
Apr., 2025	9	21%	42
May 2025	20	36%	56
Jun., 2025	19	29%	66
Total	82	24%	345

It is estimated that the financial expenses associated with these incident responses for Indian River would be approximately $155,121.86 for the time period of Dec., 2024 thru June, 2025 based upon average financial data recently published by the FACETS Financial Review and Analysis recently conducted on behalf of all fire companies in Sussex County - https://sussexcountyde.gov/sites/default/files/PDFs/Sussex_FireService_FinancialHealth_6.9.25.pdf

An increase in automatic fire alarms can stem from several issues, including false alarms due to environmental factors like humidity, dust, or even steam. It could also indicate a real fire or a malfunctioning system requiring professional inspection or corrective action.

Potential Causes of Increased False Alarms:

• Environmental Factors:

High humidity, dust, and steam can trigger smoke alarms. Even aerosols, fumes from cooking, hair spary, or insects can cause false alarms. 

• System Issues:

Incorrectly placed detector heads, faulty equipment, or a lack of proper maintenance can lead to false alarms. 

• Vandalism or Malicious Acts:

Intentional activation of break-glass call points can also increase alarm frequency. 

• Building Design and Occupancy:

The design and maintenance of the building, as well as how it's used, can impact alarm reliability,

• Age and Sensitivity:

Older smoke alarms can become overly sensitive due to dust accumulation or may need replacement. 

What to Do:

• Identify the Source: Determine if the alarms are truly false or if a real fire is present. 

• Clean Alarms: Regularly clean smoke alarms and ensure the sensor chamber is free of dust and debris. 

• Address Environmental Factors: Manage humidity, ventilation, and potential sources of steam or aerosols. 

• Inspect and Maintain the System: Schedule professional inspections and maintenance to ensure the system is functioning correctly. 

• Ensure Proper Placement: Make sure detectors are installed in appropriate locations and not near potential sources of false alarms. 

• Consider Upgrading: If alarms are old or overly sensitive, consider upgrading to newer, more reliable models. 

• Follow Safety Procedures: In case of an actual alarm, evacuate the building immediately and follow established fire safety procedures. Call 9-1-1.

Additional information may be review via the following webpage - https://www.irvfc.com/gallery/detail/45370 .