Fire Alarms

Fire can break out anywhere indoors and is just as much a security threat as is the risk of intrusion. Old and frayed wiring, faulty electrical appliances, and kitchen and workshop accidents can all precipitate fires that can easily and quickly get out of control. You need to protect both the occupants of your home as well as the property itself, and so the installation of a fire alarm is a sensible safeguard.

Regular maintenance of your electrical system, and all the appliances and equipment that use it is an obvious step towards minimising the risk of fire. However, it is advisable to take further precautions to protect yourself, in the event that a fire does actually take hold.

Smoke detectors are available, both battery and mains powered, and many houses have them fitted, although it has to be said that often they are not routinely checked by their owners, especially the battery operated type. The units detect the smoke and trigger an audible warning, so, as long as someone is within earshot of the siren, the occupants can be evacuated and the fire can be dealt with.

Some home security monitoring services include fire detection in their services, so the activation of a smoke alarm or a fire alarm, will trigger an additional response from their monitoring centre. Smoke detectors are inexpensive, especially the battery operated variety, and can reasonably be fitted throughout a property. Follow the manufactures instructions for the siting of smoke detectors. For instance they shouldn't be fixed near extractor fans, windows or doors, and they are best located in central positions.

Heat detectors can also be fitted in areas that are unlikely to be covered by smoke alarms, such as the kitchen, the roof void, attic rooms, garage or outbuildings.