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Alarm Lady Bulletin #23 Smoke Detector Clarification There have been several stories on smoke detectors such as the one you can read through this link: http://www.wthr.com/Global/story.asp?S=6840125 As a result of these stories, many customers have contacted us to inquire as to what kind of smoke detectors they have in their home or building. My response to our customers and to the recipients of The Alarm Lady bulletin is:
A photoelectric smoke detector works on a light scattering principle. A pulsed infrared light-emitting diode (LED) serves as the light source and a high-speed photo-diode as the sensing element. If smoke density is present which obscures the light by a pre-determined percentage, an alarm will sound. An ionization smoke detector detects ions which in this application are in particles of heat from smoke. However, some of the problems with an ionization smoke detector are that they react slowly because the smoke is cooled (no ions), or the smoke is too dense; and of course, what kind of smoke that is present depends on what kind of accelerant or substance that is smoldering. (This is kind of like “playing with fire”, isn’t it?) In addition, ionization smoke detectors false alarm often because there are ions in other things, like steam from a shower. Obviously, if a detector of any kind false alarms with some frequency, one tends to ignore the alarm. There are some areas of a home or building where smoke detectors cannot be placed because smoke detectors only function in ceiling temperatures between 32 degrees and 100 degrees. Such areas (like an attic) should have heat detectors (rated for 190 degrees) installed. And, a fire alarm system should be powered by both AC and battery while the wiring should be supervised for trouble or failure of a device. Of course, a fire detection system should be monitored 24/7 by the LOCAL central station of General Alarm, Inc. so authorities can be dispatched for help. In summary, General Alarm, Inc. follows the guidelines for an early warning fire detection system which are published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The guidelines are typically more stringent then the State building codes. Again, we’re in the life safety business and minimum standards typically are………minimum. In the event you have more questions or wish to have one of the terrific staff members of General Alarm, Inc. contact you, please let me know. I’m one of those business owners who enjoy talking with my customers. With your security in mind, I am sincerely, Lisa Prosser The Alarm Lady lisap@genalarm.com 317-925-8915 x 107 Feel free to forward this Bulletin to someone you care about. Previous Alarm Lady Bulletins can be found on the General Alarm, Inc. website at www.genalarm.com. |
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