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What's the difference between traditional smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in South Bend?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the South Bend smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, one component rises above the other. Smoke detectors are an important first step in protecting your residence from a dangerous blaze, but they have several shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms offer more ways to identify a potentially dangerous situation and are able to reach out to help when disaster strikes. Linking your fire alarms to a home security system also brings out various extra benefits that your regular smoke detectors can only wish for.

The limitations of ordinary smoke alarms in [[targetlocaion]]

Fire safety is important, and smoke detectors take on a vital part in keeping your family safe. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have some shortcomings. For instance, they can only detect smoke, not extreme temperatures. When there is a fire in your residence, you would not be cautioned before the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Although there are further telltale signs of fire -- including a marked rise in heat -- if there's no smoke, you won’t have a sounding of your smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only activate if they find enough smoke. If a fire creeps along slowly at first, you might not be alerted until the situation is out of hand. Many smoke detectors use dual-sensor technology, meaning they will recognize smoke from both a raging fire and a more gradual burn. Whenever they sound their alarm, it’s required of the resident to call first responders after exiting the premises.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than ordinary smoke detectors

Even though they look about the same as standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. When linked to a total home security installation, they are able to:

  • Identify fire with different sensor types: Similar to an ordinary smoke detector, this monitored device has the ability to activate from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will emit a high-volume beeping whenever it senses a potential disaster.
  • Discover fire with a rapid temperature increase: A monitored fire alarm may even go off if it discerns an unusual increase in heat. Typically, heat is noticed before smoke. Having additional means to detect a fire equates to extra methods to protect your loved ones.
  • Notifies your dedicated monitoring specialists: Fires will take place when you are on site or somewhere else. No matter of the situation, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring agents, who can quickly contact emergency services. When seconds count, it's nice to have the knowledge that a trained professional is always watching over your home.
  • Connects to home automation: While the chief job of a fire alarm is to detect an emergency and request monitoring agents, it may also connect to other automated equipment. To illustrate, a triggered alarm could prompt your system to start the exhaust fan to hinder the fire or initiate lighting so you are able to locate the best exit out of the house.

Your monitored fire alarms are a key element of a complete smart home

The simplest method to optimize your fire alarms is to pair them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint security agent today and customize the perfect smart home for your family. Diall (574) 601-4641 or submit the form on this page to begin.