If the fire alarm goes off while you are standing on the 15th floor, it can cause a lot of stress and tension. Your heart starts to race, and your palms may become sweaty as you check the stairs. It is not possible to know which floor may be evacuated first. The time from when the fire alarms in the Bath start to when you decide what to do may affect your chances of survival. For this reason, it is better not to install the alarm in the same way for a flat with few floors and a fifteen-storey tower.
Why is it Necessary to Install Different Fire Alarm Systems for a High-Rise and a Low-Rise Building
Height Changes the Evacuation Plan
From a two-storied building, everyone can be evacuated within a few minutes. However, it is not easy to evacuate a 20-floor high-rise building via the stairs when hundreds of people are inside. Blocked exits and a crush-inducing stairwell may cause panic among people. For this reason, it is better to use the stay-put strategy during the evacuation process. For this reason, a fire alarm system should be installed in a way that readily supports the decision.
Detection Technology Should Not be the Same
For low-rise buildings, simple interlinked smoke alarms may be effective. It is considered to be a safe option for a small space. However, a high-rise building may require something different. It is better to go with an addressable system that allows locating the exact locations affected by the fire. It may allow the fire service to respond effectively during an emergency. During the evacuation process, every minute counts. Installing the right system may ensure that fire service professionals can reach the exact floor where people need help.
Compartmentation Ensures Response from Alarms in Stages
Most tall buildings come with fire-resistant compartments that may contain the blaze within a limited space. In these buildings, zoned areas are alarmed first. Later, the alarm system may alert people from other areas.
In a low-rise building, the fire alarm can be heard throughout the home whenever a fire occurs.
Low-Rise Should Not Get Low Priority
Simpler systems are never less important. Smaller properties with a bedroom, hallway, and kitchen also require a fully operational alarm. It is best to test the appliances at regular intervals. It may also be necessary to replace the system as per the schedule. The same is also true for high-rise buildings. It may have a complex system. However, it also requires timely maintenance and replacement service to avoid issues in the long run.
Install the Right System from the Start
Professional installation service matters for fire alarm systems. Experts can easily choose the right system for you. Whether it is zoned-addressed panels in high-rise buildings or interlinked alarms for a family, the wrong specification can change everything. It may create a gap in the protection. Experts also assess the layout and height before they recommend a system for a property.
Radcliffe Fire & Security can handle everything for you regarding fire alarms in Bath. We assess the location and test the device before installing it in your premises. Contact us today to learn more.