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Most Common Causes of House Fires

A house fire can be a life-altering event that some may never fully recover from. The best way to protect your home and family from a fire is to educate yourself about the risks and how to prevent them. We all know the essential forms of prevention and protection, like smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, sprinklers,…

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Items Burglars Want Most

Burglars move quickly. Because they tend to spend as little as ten minutes inside a home or business, several big-ticket items tend to fall prey to thieves. While some items on our list come to mind instantly, some may be more subtle. Outside of installing a security system, taking extra steps to secure your items…

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Reasons to Choose a Local Security Company

Whether you’re considering investing in a home or commercial security system or switching providers, you may be weighing local and national companies. Which companies can you trust? Is there a difference in service between your options? Does a larger company necessarily mean better service? There are pros and cons to both sizes of company, but…

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What to Do After a Break In

No one ever wants to be victimized by a burglar, but the fact is that many will encounter a theft or break-in at some point in their lifetime. A recent study by Bankrate shows that there are over 1 million burglaries in the United States each year, with a new burglary happening approximately every 26…

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How Landscaping Affects Your Security

Updated on August 10, 2023 Visibility When it comes to the landscaping around your home or business, there are several considerations to keep in mind that could affect your visibility and overall security. While some suggestions to increase visibility and reduce obstructions may seem obvious, others are more subtle and could have a considerable impact….

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Do You Know How Your Alarm System Communicates?

*Updated June 2023. What is alarm monitoring? One of the most sought-after features for residential and commercial security systems is 24/7 alarm monitoring. Monitored security systems are connected to a central monitoring facility with staff who review tripped alarms, verify emergencies, and contact relevant emergency services. Monitors generally reach at least two phone numbers connected…

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What to Know About Smart Locks

*Updated June 2023. Smart locks have been on the market for several years and continually gain features as technology advances. Learn how useful they can be and how to find the best option for your home or business. What’s a smart lock? Smart locks are door locks controlled digitally. These locks can be monitored and…

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What is Video Alarm Verification?

Updated June 2023. Video alarm verification is a tried-and-true technology that is an underused component in residential and commercial security systems. Video alarm verification adds an extra element to your overall security by partnering your security system with an alarm monitoring center. When an alarm is triggered, video alarm verification allows monitoring center employees to…

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Motion Detector Installation Basics

Updated June 2023 Motion detection devices are a crucial component of any security system, commercial or residential. They allow owners to cover a relatively large amount of space with a small number of devices. Motion detectors also are known to detect activity that window sensors might miss. When it comes time to install motion detection…

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How to Maintain a Commercial Security System

Updated May 2023 With the latest advances in security technology, it’s becoming easier for small businesses to find a security system that works for their needs. Whether your business just installed your commercial security system or has been utilizing security measures for some time, proper maintenance will increase the life of your system and provide…

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How to Prepare for a Fire Inspection

Updated May 2023 Most people learn how to react to fire alarms from a young age. The sharp, jarring noise of the sirens instantly notifies everyone within earshot of a possible emergency and the need to evacuate. These fire safety alarm systems are mandated worldwide and need regular inspections and maintenance to promote safety. As…

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Should My Business Have a Panic Button?

What Exactly is a Panic Button? As the name implies, a panic button is a button or switch that an individual activates when there is an emergency that needs immediate attention. Panic buttons are often hidden from plain sight so they can be activated subtly or in secret by the correct individuals. How Does a…

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Frequently Asked Questions

The primary codes are:

  • NFPA 72 – National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code (system design, installation, performance, and testing).
  • NFPA 70 (NEC) – Electrical aspects of system installation.
  • NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code (occupancy-specific requirements).
  • Local codes and amendments also apply and may override national standards.

Requirements depend on occupancy type, size, and use. Examples:

  • Group A (Assembly) >300 people: Fire alarm system required.
  • Group R-1 (Hotels): Required if 3+ units.
  • Group B (Business): Depends on occupant load and egress routes.
  • Refer to IBC (International Building Code) and NFPA 101.

  • Conventional – Devices are grouped by zones.
  • Addressable – Each device has a unique address for pinpointed alarms.
  • Hybrid – Combines both features.
  • Wireless – Useful in historic or hard-to-wire buildings.

  • Control Panel (FACP)
  • Initiating Devices (smoke, heat, pull stations)
  • Notification Appliances (horns, strobes, speakers)
  • Power Supplies (primary & backup)
  • Monitoring devices (communicators for remote dispatch)

  • Primary power from commercial electricity.
  • Secondary (backup) power from batteries or generators (per NFPA 72, minimum 24 hours standby + 5 minutes alarm).
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