Why do we need a fire alarm system?
The answer to this question depends on the premises in question and the legal requirements. Your local fire marshal may require a fire alarm system based upon the occupancy of the building. Generally, the legal requirement for a fire alarm system relates to the protection of life. In general fire alarm systems are installed to:
1. To provide for the safety of occupants in buildings, and to make provision for their evacuation or refuge during a fire or other emergency.
2. To provide the fire department with early notification of a fire in a building and to direct them to the area of risk.
3. To reduce loss of property; the property may have considerable intrinsic value and the insurers either require a fire detection system or may incentives its use.
4. To reduce building damage; the building may be unoccupied for periods where equipment is still powered and the owner wishes to ensure that if anything goes wrong the fire department is called to the scene in a timely manner. Sometimes fire detection and alarm systems are used to compensate for structural fire protection shortcomings or to give special cover for items of high value.
5. To reduce the amount of business lost.
6. Minimize risk to the public who attend unfamiliar properties. It is often a mandatory requirement by the Building Codes.