Tag Archives: Fire Alarm

What Is a Fire Control Panel Zone Plan, And Why Must It Be Accurate?

Fire in the office building

When a fire alarm is triggered, seconds matter. Firefighters and building occupants need to know exactly where the alarm has been activated and which area may be affected. That’s where a fire alarm zone plan comes in, a simple but critical tool that supports fast, effective emergency response. Yet in far too many UK buildings, […]

Wireless vs. Hardwired Fire Alarms: Pros and Cons

Male Technician Checking Smoke Detector In Datacenter

When it comes to fire protection, your alarm system is one of the most critical lines of defence. Choosing between a wireless and hardwired fire alarm system can have big implications for cost, reliability, ease of installation, and long-term maintenance. So how do you know which one is right for your property? In this guide, […]

Step-by-Step: How Fire Alarm Servicing Works

Male hand punching red fire alarm switch on concrete wall in public building. Industrial fire warning system equipment for emergency.

Fire alarms can develop faults over time, from battery degradation to dust buildup or wiring issues. Without regular checks, a fault might go unnoticed until it’s too late. That’s why UK fire safety regulations, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, require that fire alarm systems be inspected and tested at least every six […]

Why Your Fire Alarm System May No Longer Be Compliant

Smoke detector and interlinked fire alarm in action background

If your building’s fire alarm system was installed to meet regulations at the time, it’s easy to assume it will always remain compliant. But fire safety isn’t static. As buildings evolve and people come and go, your fire detection and warning system must evolve too. A fire alarm system that was compliant five, or even […]

Fire Alarm Grades Explained: What’s Right for Your Building?

Fire alarm on the wall of shopping mall warning and security system

Understanding BS 5839-6 and Choosing the Right System for Your Property Choosing the correct fire alarm system isn’t just about ticking a box—it’s about protecting lives and ensuring your building meets its legal obligations under UK fire safety legislation. But if you’ve ever looked at the British Standard for fire detection systems, you may have […]

What’s the Difference Between a Fire Alarm Test and a Fire Alarm Service?

Fire alarm switch on the wall in factory

If you manage a business, rental property, or public building in the UK, keeping your fire alarm system in good working order isn’t optional—it’s a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. However, many people confuse fire alarm testing with fire alarm servicing. While both are essential to ensuring your fire alarm […]

How Fire Alarm Zones Work: Why Zoning Matters in Large Premises

Smoke alarm in a modern building

In large commercial or multi-storey buildings, a fire alarm system is more than just a warning device—it’s a vital tool for identifying where a fire has started, ensuring a safe evacuation, and helping emergency services respond quickly. One of the key features of a well-designed fire alarm system in larger or more complex buildings is […]

Why Fire Alarms Fail: Common Issues and How to Prevent Them

Smoke detector and fire alarm in action background

Fire alarms are the first line of defence in detecting fires early and alerting people to evacuate. Whether installed in commercial premises, industrial sites, or residential buildings, fire alarm systems are critical for saving lives and protecting property. However, when fire alarms fail, the consequences can be catastrophic. In the UK, compliance with fire safety […]

The Importance of Regular Fire Alarm Testing

stairwell

Fire alarms are a critical first line of defence in safeguarding lives and property from fires. These systems are designed to detect smoke or fire early, providing occupants enough time to evacuate and authorities timely information to respond. However, the effectiveness of a fire alarm system hinges on its operational reliability, which can only be […]