Fire safety is one of those things we all know is important – but it’s easy to overlook until there’s an emergency. That’s where a monitored fire alarm can make a real difference. So, what is a monitored fire alarm and how does it work to help protect what matters most?
Whether you’re worried about leaving pets at home, keeping your family safe while you sleep, or making sure your business is covered after hours, our experts at Habitec Security will walk you through how monitored fire alarms work, why they’re a smart investment, and what to consider when choosing a system.
What is a Monitored Fire Alarm?
A monitored fire alarm system connects fire detection devices in your home or business to a professional monitoring center that operates 24/7. Unlike standard fire alarms that only sound an alarm locally, monitored systems automatically alert the monitoring center when fire is detected. These professionals then verify the emergency and contact both the fire department and the property owner.
Benefits of Monitored Fire Alarms
Monitored fire alarm systems offer several key advantages that significantly enhance your safety and property protection compared to standard alarms.
- 24/7 monitoring – Your property is continuously monitored by professionals who respond to alarms at any hour, day or night.
- Emergency dispatch – When you choose to work with a provider like Habitec Security, our team verifies the alarm and dispatches emergency services if needed.
- Immediate and automatic alerts – Alerts are sent instantly to the monitoring center when smoke or fire is detected, eliminating delays in response.
- Alert building occupants – Systems notify everyone in the building to evacuate quickly, saving precious minutes during an emergency.
- Professional technicians – If you decide to purchase your alarm system directly from a monitoring service provider, qualified specialists will install, maintain, service, and inspect your system to ensure reliable operation.
- Insurance benefits – Insurance companies often recognize the value of monitored fire alarm systems in mitigating risk. As a result, properties equipped with these systems may qualify for reduced insurance premiums.
- Integration with other security systems – Some monitored fire alarm systems can also be integrated with your existing security infrastructure. This integration creates a cohesive safety network that enhances the overall protection of your property.
- Peace of mind – Knowing your home or business is protected around the clock provides reassurance that help will arrive when needed.
What Are the Differences Between a Monitored and a Non-Monitored System?
Monitored fire alarm systems offer a decisive advantage over regular alarms, providing a critical layer of security that regular systems simply can’t match. The difference lies in their connection to a monitoring service that ensures immediate action is taken the moment a fire is detected, regardless of whether the property is occupied or not.
This connection allows for faster emergency response times, significantly increasing safety and potentially saving lives and property.
In contrast, regular fire alarms only emit a local sound to alert those nearby, relying on someone being present and able to call for emergency services. This leaves a massive vulnerability if a fire occurs when no one is around to hear the alarm or if the occupants are unable to respond.
How Does a Monitored Fire Alarm Work?
A monitored alarm system works by detecting smoke and heat and sending a signal to a monitoring center so that the fire department can be notified promptly. Alerts can be transmitted through different channels, including network and cellular communications.
The components of fire alarm monitoring systems include:
- Control panel – The central brain of the system, in charge of alerting the monitoring center.
- Detectors – Devices that sense smoke and heat.
- Alarm notification components – Sirens, horns, or strobe lights and even voice evacuation to alert people in the building to evacuate immediately.
- Monitoring center – An off-site facility staffed by professionals who receive alerts and coordinate with emergency services.
Is a Monitored Fire Alarm System Necessary?
Around-the-clock monitoring is the heart of what makes monitored fire alarm systems so effective. Continuous surveillance means that whether you’re asleep, away from your property, or simply occupied with daily activities, your property is being watched over.
For businesses, a monitored system is often crucial for protecting assets and valuable equipment outside of business hours. For homes with elderly residents, children, or pets, the automatic response from a monitoring center could be life-saving when seconds count during a fire emergency.
Learn more by reading our article on: Guide to Creating Your Home Fire Escape Plan.
Legal Requirements and Compliance
Different rules and nuances apply to the various building types. Legal requirements also vary depending on your location and building occupancy. We recommend taking a look at your local legal requirements to avoid any issues down the line.
Habitec thoroughly tests and inspects all components of your fire system in accordance with NFPA standards. Additionally, to maintain your fire alarm system and to ensure the safety of your employees and business, we recommend our fire system inspection services. This addon includes services such as cleaning fire alarm initiating devices or measuring the sensitivity of smoke detectors to ensure code compliance and minimize false alarms.
How Much Does Fire Alarm Monitoring Cost?
The cost can vary depending on several factors. Some factors to consider include:
- The size of the building
- The type and amount of sensors required
- Integration with your security infrastructure or other security devices
- Monitoring plan
- The cost to install and maintain the alarm system and its components
- Meeting local fire regulations
- Location is also important since the providers in your area may differ
Most reputable security companies like Habitec Security offer customized quotes after assessing your specific needs and property requirements. This approach ensures you receive appropriate coverage without paying for unnecessary features.
How to Choose the Right Fire Alarm Monitoring Service Provider?
Now that you know the answer to the question “What is a monitored fire alarm?”, perhaps you are now thinking about hiring a solution provider to protect your property. Here are some questions to ask yourself when considering a service provider:
- How many years of experience do they have?
- Are they local?
- Have they won any relevant awards?
- Do they have any testimonials/reviews?
- Do they have their own central station?
- Do they offer any other security solutions?
Habitec Security is a provider of award-winning monitored security solutions with over 50 years of experience in the security industry. Habitec is a Fire-Lite Distributor, NFPA member, and has NICET-certified fire technicians with credentials and skills to deliver a code-compliant commercial fire alarm system. Our professional staff is always ready to meet your security needs with an outstanding local reputation.
Professional Monitoring vs DIY
A self-monitored system relies on you to call for help, and it will not alert emergency services on your behalf if you are unable to. Additionally, if you are in an area with no internet or wifi, you may not receive any notification of the current situation.
It is always better to hire a professional service provider such as Habitec Security for the best hands-free protection. Professional monitoring ensures continuous coverage regardless of your location or ability to respond, providing true peace of mind and comprehensive protection.
Contact Us Today to Secure Your Home or Business!
Continue to keep your home and business safe! Our security experts can perform a security evaluation and provide custom-designed, integrated security solutions backed by award-winning, 24-hour local monitoring. Contact us today!
Connect with Habitec Security on social media.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about monitored fire alarm systems.
How Do I Know If My Fire Alarm Is Monitored?
Fire alarm monitoring is a service you need to obtain. Standard fire alarms purchased at retail stores are typically not monitored unless specifically connected to a monitoring service.
When Will The Monitored Fire Alarm System Protect My Building?
When a fire alarm system is monitored 24/7, any alarm triggered will immediately alert the monitoring center.
Does a Monitored Alarm Reduce Home Insurance?
Insurance companies often recognize the value of monitored fire alarm systems in mitigating risk. Many insurers offer discounts on premiums for homes with professionally monitored fire alarm systems, as these systems significantly reduce the potential for catastrophic damage by enabling faster emergency response.