As we shared in last Friday’s blog post, a key component of any fire alarm or security system is its ability to transmit data and alert the appropriate parties of a trouble condition through an alarm system communicator. There are different types of alarm system communicators, and often more than one is required to ensure that the appropriate parties will be notified in the case of a triggered alarm or alarm error. In many municipalities, area businesses’ fire alarms are also monitored by the local fire department.
Based on NFPA, state, and local requirements, many business’ fire alarms are required to be directly connected to the fire department, as a primary means of monitoring and in an effort to expedite response times. Unfortunately, due to budget and other constraints, some municipalities will be discontinuing the maintenance and monitoring of fire alarm master box loops over the coming year, leaving businesses to acquire an additional means of monitoring as part of the discontinuation process.
Two notable cities in our service area that will be affected over the coming year include Bangor, Maine and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. If your business or commercial property’s fire alarm is currently being monitored by the area fire department, and service will be discontinued, it is critical to proactively employ another source of monitoring in order to remain compliant with NFPA, state and local codes. Having an unmonitored fire alarm system is not only illegal, but a hazard to the safety of both people and property.
If you are concerned that your business may be affected by the discontinuation of alarm monitoring services, we can assist in exploring the options for transitioning your current municipal fire alarm master loop box and maintaining full monitoring of your fire alarm system. As an authorized fire alarm and security system design and equipment provider, we install and service the latest technology in both fire alarm and security monitoring solutions that include; conventional/traditional copper telephone lines, wireless/cellular and internet/IP communications. It is our goal to deploy the most cost-effective monitoring solutions that meet your specific needs.
Feel free to call us at 1-800-370-3473 or email Craig Elkanich and we would be happy to discuss your concerns in detail or schedule a site survey to identify the best solution for your facility.
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