Function

• A fire alarm system alerts property owners in the event of a fire. There are a number of ways in which a fire alarm system works, depending on the type of device installed. Some systems involve smoke detection or heat detection and both sound an alarm as a result of sensors. No matter what, the purpose of any alarm system is to make occupants aware of possible fires and enable them to get out of harm's way.
  
  

Smoke Detectors and Heat Sensors

• Usually, if you smell smoke, a fire is sure to follow and smoke detectors can be an important part of any fire alarm system. Smoke detectors contain two kinds of sensors: optical and ionization. These sensors or detectors work in different ways. With an optical detector, light sensors are used to monitor smoke as it moves through the optical detector. This smoke adjusts and disperses light in such a way that it activates the alarm. On the other hand, when smoke invades the area with an ionization detector, this causes air ionization to weaken, therefore sounding the alarm. Another way a fire alarm system works is through a heat sensor. Basically, if there is a sudden change in temperature, this could be a sign of fire. This change can spark the fire alarm.
  
  

Components of a Fire Alarm System

• As with any fire alarm system, there has to be a control panel. This is the central point of the system. In addition, a keypad is another major part of a fire alarm system. The pad is usually found near the front door and allows you to turn the alarm system on and off when needed. Furthermore, in some systems, when the alarm goes off, in a building for example, there is an indicator or device that alerts building occupants with flashing lights, bells, horns and more.
  
  

Types of Fire Alarm Systems

• With traditional systems, everything is wired and determined in zones. And if there's a fire, a loud alarm will activate. Like traditional systems, addressable systems are also wired and disperse loud alarms during a fire. However, addressable systems can locate the exact position of the fire. In addition, analogue addressable fire alarm systems are more advanced and offer more options compared to the traditional or addressable systems. Analogue addressable systems also are less likely to give off false alarms.