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Is there a difference between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Tallahassee?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Tallahassee smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, one device rises over the other. Smoke detectors are a vital first step in shielding your residence from fire, but they have a few concerning shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms provide more ways to identify an emergency and can reach out to a monitoring team in the event of a disaster. Linking your fire alarms to a security system also delivers other advantages that your ordinary smoke detectors could only dream about.

The limitations of ordinary smoke alarms in [[targetlocaion]]

Defending against fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors play an essential role in safeguarding your family. Even so, smoke detectors have their drawbacks. For example, they can only react to smoke, not heat. In the event there is a fire in your house, you may not be alerted unless the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Even though there are some other telltale indications of fire -- such as a sudden rise in heat -- if there's no smoke, you won’t have a triggered smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only beep if they encounter an adequate amount of smoke. In the event a fire starts small, you may not be cautioned until the flames are out of control. Some smoke detectors employ dual sensors, which means they will detect smoke from both a raging fire and something less intense. If they start beeping, it falls to the resident to contact emergency services after safely leaving the property.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than standard smoke detectors

While they have a similar appearance to regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. When linked to a total home security system, they can:

  • Identify fire with multi-sensor technology: Comparable to an ordinary smoke detector, this monitored component has the ability to engage from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will resonate a high-volume alarm when it recognizes a potential disaster.
  • Identify fire with a rapid heat surge: Your monitored fire alarm may also trigger if it senses an abnormal fluctuation in temperature. Frequently, heat arrives prior to smoke. Having additional methods to identify a fire leads to more methods to keep your family safe.
  • Alerts professional monitoring representatives: Fires may occur when you are home or away. Either way, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring agents, who are able to swiftly place a call to first responders. When every moment matters, it's nice to know that somebody is constantly watching over your house.
  • Connects to home automation: While the main purpose of a fire alarm is to identify an emergency and notify assistance, it can also integrate with other automated components. To illustrate, a activated alarm can induce your system to engage the exhaust fan to impede the spread of fire or turn on the lights so you can see the safest path out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are a key element of a complete smart home

The best approach to get the most from your fire alarms is to pair them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint security agent today and customize the ideal smart home for your family. Call (850) 790-4997 or submit the form on this page to take the first step toward a safer property.