Unwanted Alarm Signals F ir e alarms
Nearly 50% of all calls received by the Brigade are avoidable.
The majority of these are caused by unwanted alarm signals from
Automatic Fire Alarm Systems
.
An operational crew may have recently attended your premises and given you one of our advice sheets on reducing unwanted alarms.
It is important that we work together to reduce unwanted fire alarm signals.
The operation of fire alarm systems not as a result of a fire is classified as an 'unwanted fire signal'.
We will always respond to your premises where a call is made to us however, employers should be aware that unwanted fire signals not only disrupt their business but also divert Fire Brigade resources from areas where genuine emergencies may occur.
If your alarm has operated, resulting in you calling the Fire Brigade and there wasn't a fire, there are some simple steps you can take to avoid it happening again:
Maintainence
It is important that your alarm system is properly maintained.
If you haven't done so already you should contact your fire alarm installer or maintenance provider to identify any remedial action that can be taken to reduce the frequency of this type of fire signal.
Siting of equipment
If your alarm operated because of smoke from a toaster or similar equipment then your fire alarm is fulfilling its function. In this case it is important to ensure that equipment is correctly sited and the sensor is in the correct position and is the right type.
Defective Systems
Where a system becomes defective and does not provide an adequate level of protection for the risk.(For instance in a sleeping risk. ) Action must be taken to have the system repaired by a competent person. Whilst the system is defective, it is important to introduce additional safety measures, such as an increased staffing level to keep a waking watch. You should have considered this in your pre-planning and included it in your risk assessment.
More Information
HELP US TO HELP YOU
BY DOING AWAY WITH UNWANTED ALARMS
For further advice
Contact the brigade's
Community Fire Safety Section:
West Sussex Fire Brigade
Northgate
Chichester
West Sussex
PO 19 1BD
Tel: or
Email
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West Sussex Fire Brigade Disclaimer
Information Provider
Paul Archer
Last Updated Wednesday May 15, 2002 4:17 PM
