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The Future of Fire Alarm Management

Alex Flitton
Jun 6, 2018 4:14:36 PM

Fire detection technologies have been slow to evolve compared to rapidly advancing smart devices. Understandably, global companies focus their efforts on developing high-return products, especially ones that connect consumers with popular trends. While fire alarms aren’t exactly at the forefront of social advancement, innovative companies are developing new methods of approaching fire and gas-related threats.

Upcoming Technologies

Fortunately for fire device dealers, there are a handful of emerging technologies that will reframe how consumers think about detecting and extinguishing fires.

Sensor-Assisted Fire Fighting

The way firefighters put out fires in a burning building changes once there are smart sensors installed inside. Connected to the internet, these sensors allow firefighters to get a live feed into the progress of the fire, thereby helping them strategize the best way to handle the situation. Using building schematics and rendered computer models from the sensor technology, firefighters are much more prepared to act effectively and safely.

Learn how IoT is shaping the fire industry.

High-Pressure Water Mist:

A significant apprehension that consumers have towards commercial fire systems is having a thousand gallons of water spewed all over their electronics. Although water is one of the most effective agents in fighting fires, it can cause a lot of damage to the buildings, often rendering it unusable after it has done its job. High-pressure mist effectively blocks radiant heat and oxygen from reaching the fire, effectively isolating problem areas while protecting others. 

Drones:

Teams in the USA and even Australia are deploying drones that help firefighters identify hotspots by sending them real-time data, including images and video. Other drone models are used to provide aerial vision, among other things, to those directing the firefighting process. Providing unique insight to those who would typically require expensive helicopters to do the same work. Better yet, more advanced, and expensive, drones are being developed to fly up to 900 feet to spray water that would be typically unreachable by truck-mounted ladders.

Fireballs:

Although their name suggests the opposite of what they do, fireballs actually take the place of a traditional fire extinguisher, covering more space and doing it much faster. If you don’t believe it, you should check out the video in the link. Created by a company called Elide, the fireball can even fight fires when a user cannot be present to use it. As their website states, “When a fire occurs and no one is present, Fire Extinguishing Ball will self-activate when it comes into contact with fire and give a loud noise as a fire alarm. Because of this feature, it can be placed in a fire prone area such as near an electrical circuit breaker or in a kitchen.”

Wireless Devices:

Perhaps most applicable to dealers looking to grow their RMR, wireless devices provide mobile capabilities to homeowners looking to install themselves, or even to take with them when relocating. According to firesystemsltd.co.uk, “Some of the systems on the market are using mesh network for the first time in wireless fire detection technology. The detectors are connected to each other and are using different frequencies on different bandwidths.” For those who look for something truly reliable in any situation, many devices can be connected in wired and non-wired formats. This dual connectivity provides unprecedented coverage and ultimate reliability. Yet, for buildings that are difficult to wire, or consumers who want something simple, wire-free systems will take the market by storm.

Sound-Triggered Devices:

An effective way to monitor non-monitored fire-alarms is by using a sound-triggered device like those made by Nest or Leeo. These devices plug into the wall for endless energy connection and wait for the fire alarm to go off. Once the sound is emitted, the device triggers a notification to a monitoring center so they can get in contact with the subscriber to resolve the situation. Although they started with fire, there is no limit to the types of sounds that can be programmed for future uses. There are even talks of making them capable of recognizing the sound of breaking glass and others. 

Looking To The Future:

As new technologies emerge, dealers should be sure to leverage both timeless and emerging technologies to target more customers. Devices are becoming more and more capable, and regardless their application, they are all evolving to connect to the internet and cooperate with other devices. Consumers look for smart home technology along with commercial products that work in a cohesive environment. Along with investigating which products to sell, we encourage dealers to take a serious look at reliable partners to provide wholesale alarm monitoring services for devices so that consumers never go without protection.

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