Why Fire Alarm Monitoring is Essential for Your Business
We’ve talked about the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in previous blogs and how it is essential to understand and obey their standards when installing, testing, and maintaining fire alarm systems.
Fire Alarm Monitoring is the Law
Your business might need to include monitoring as part of its fire safety system due to NFPA 101® . NFPA 101 is the Life Safety Code®, which addresses building occupant safety. Based on your local municipality, monitoring as part of your fire safety system may be the law.
Central monitoring is a code requirement for some types of businesses, depending on the type of business and the number of occupants in the building.
With central monitoring, a central monitoring station watches for fire alarm signals coming from your fire safety system. If the central monitoring station receives an alarm signal, a professional operator initiates a response based on predetermined protocols. Protocols may include immediately notifying the fire department or contacting the building owner.
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) also notes that central monitoring facilities have codes and standards they must adhere to per NFPA 72®, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®. These codes include things such as how the monitoring facility receives power and how it transmits alarm signals to local authorities.
These regulations are in place to ensure workplace safety and to prevent property or economic loss.
Self-Monitoring Fire Alarm Systems
However, monitoring fire alarm systems are not required for all businesses.
Self-monitoring is just what it sounds like—monitoring your fire alarm system yourself. For example, if a smoke detector in your building goes off, the system notifies you by phone, text, or email. The main upside of self-monitoring is that there are no additional fees after installation.
The downside of self-monitoring fire alarm systems is that they usually require Wi-Fi and won’t work without power or internet connection, both of which are often impacted by fires.
Since most self-monitored systems today are connected to mobile apps, having your phone with a good signal is essential to make sure you get any alerts your self-monitored system may send.
Professional Fire Alarm Monitoring
On the other hand, nearly all professional fire alarm systems also offer monitoring services. While there is a fee for this service and usually requires a contract, you won’t have to worry about being available 24/7. With some systems, the alarms can even transmit specific floor plans to the fire department, so first responders know exactly where to go when they arrive on the scene.
When you think about how fast a fire can spread, the monthly monitoring fee for your fire alarm system becomes a small price to pay for your peace of mind and to keep your employees, property, and business safe.
To learn more about monitored fire alarm systems, speak with one of our security experts today.
Explore Our Other Blogs
What are the NFPA Standards for Commercial Fire Protection?
Fire protection is highly regulated and technically complex. Commercial fires cause billions in property damage each year and pose serious risks to life, property, and legal liability. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) establishes standards to ensure businesses implement proper systems to prevent these outcomes. As fire protection technology evolves, so do the NFPA’s requirements….
Why Fire Sprinkler, Extinguisher, and Backflow Inspections Matter
At FSS Technologies, we believe that safety isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Our commercial fire protection services are designed to give your business peace of mind, knowing that your properties, people, and assets are secure and compliant with fire and life safety codes. We specialize in fire sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, and backflow preventer inspections…
Can Video Doorbells Be Used in Apartments?
It is at the discretion of your building manager as to whether you can use a video doorbell for your apartment. There usually are two concerns that arise when it comes to video doorbell usage in a rented property: installation concerns and privacy concerns. Issues with Video Doorbells Installation Concerns Many video doorbell systems require…
Fire Alarm Troubleshooting Tips
Your commercial fire alarm system plays a critical role in protecting your building, occupants, and operations. When it works as intended, it provides early warning and supports a safe, coordinated response from your team and first responders during an emergency. When it doesn’t, even small issues can lead to compliance concerns, inspection findings, or unnecessary…
Hard-Wired vs Wireless Security Systems
The chicken or the egg. Not asking which came first in this case, just which one you like better. In the world of security systems, which came first between wired and wireless was answered long ago. But the question of which is better remains. Let’s start with a quick overview of how each of these…
What Kind of Certifications Make Our Team Security Experts?
At FSS Technologies, we pride ourselves on the fact that we are not your typical fire safety or security company. When people call us, they don’t want a one-size-fits-all solution — they want our experts to design a system that perfectly fits their needs. We take “First in Security, First in Satisfaction” seriously to ensure every…
Who Owns ADT Alarm Systems After Install?
You’ve paid to have an alarm system installed in your home. Do you own the equipment? Most likely, but not yet if you contracted with a big-box home security company like ADT. Payment Plans for Equipment Most people sign up on special offers in which they will pay an installation fee for the equipment, but…
How Often Should You Check Your Smoke Detectors?
Fire Alarm Testing Whether your fire alarm is protecting your home or a commercial facility, regular testing of your fire alarm system is critical to ensure it is working correctly. This test guarantees that everyone occupying the home or office understands what to do when the fire alarm sounds, gives you a chance to check…
Can Your CCTV and Access Control Systems be Integrated?
When setting up security for your business, you might consider adding CCTV and access control systems. These two security measures work great to deter crime on their own, and provide even greater security when integrated. This pairing has many advantages, but it is also a complex setup that may not be right for you. There…
Cons of DIY Home Security Systems
When considering getting a home security system, some people might assume they can set up a fully functioning system themselves. The reality is that DIY systems come with some significant drawbacks. Here are some of the things to consider before you decide to take on this project yourself. Not Professionally Installed The importance of having…