6/28/2011 DOC.NO.: 150D - 1
P/N RE 150D Rev. No. 1
3
Smoke detectors, even when working properly, have sensing
limitations. Detectors that have photo electronic sensing chambers
tend to detect smoldering fires better than flaming fires, which have
little visible smoke. Detectors that have ionizing-type sensing chambers
tend to detect fast-flaming fires better than smoldering fires. Because
fires develop in different ways and are often unpredictable in their
growth, neither type of detector is necessarily best and a given type
of detector may not provide adequate warning of a fire.
Smoke detectors cannot be expected to provide adequate warning
of fires caused by arson, children playing with matches (especially in
bedrooms), smoking in bed, and violent explosions (caused by
escaping gas, improper storage of flammable materials, etc.).
While a fire alarm system may lower insurance rates, it is not a
substitute for fire insurance!
Heat detectors do not sense particles of combustion and alarm only
when heat on their sensors increases at a predetermined rate or
reaches a predetermined level. Rate-of-rise heat detectors may be
subject to reduced sensitivity over time. For this reason, the rate-of-rise
feature of each detector should be tested at least once per year by a
qualified fire protection specialist.
Heat detectors are designed to
protect property, not life.
IMPORTANT!
Smoke detectors
must be installed in the same room as
the control panel and in rooms used by the system for the connection
of alarm transmission wiring, communications, signaling, and/or
power.
If detectors are not so located, a developing fire may
damage the alarm system, crippling its ability to report a fire.
Audible warning devices
such as hooters and bells may not alert
people if these devices are located on the other side of closed or
partly open doors or are located on another floor of a building. Any
warning device may fail to alert people with a disability or those who
have recently consumed drugs, alcohol or medication.
