May 2003 Issue
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The most recent development in fire detector detection deals with children and the findings of several studies which suggest they can sleep through the sound of an activated smoke alarm. According to various reports, children under the age of 13 sleep so soundly during the first two hours of slumber that the sound of an average 80 decibel alarm will not alert them during the first stages of fire. It seems clear that some children-especially young children-may at times sleep so deeply that it may not be possible for the alarm alone to arouse them to the point where they can reliably evacuate a house on their own, comments Underwriters Laboratories spokesperson John Dregenberg. What's worse is that very often children have televisions, computers and other electronics in their rooms. Having these appliances in the bedroom increases the risk of fire. Sleep experts suggest the poor response could be due in part to the way kids sleep. Children spend more time in the deep, dreamless phase of sleep, so even a blaring smoke alarm won't always wake them, comments Dr. Shelly Weiss, a pediatric sleep expert at Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children. Underwriters Laboratory has assigned a working group to further investigate the issue and assess whether changes need to be made to the alarms themselves. However, researchers are not sure what type of change would ensure better responses from kids, but might consider altering the tone, volume or style of alarm sound.
The newest members of the NAPCO Firewolf family are the FW2-H and FW4-H smoke detectors with built-in thermal heat sensor. These smoke detectors come in both two- and four-wire models. (FW2-H is the two-wire model and the FW4-H is the four-wire model). These advanced photoelectric smoke detectors accurately detect a wide range of fire types than most other smoke detectors.
The built-in thermal heat detector can detect fires up to 135°F (57°C). The FW2-H & FW4-H have an attractive low profile baseless unit, which makes them suitable for nearly any dĂ©cor. The smoke detector's patented chamber and photodiode are designed to detect even the smallest particles, found in clean-burning fire types like alcohol fires. For easy-to-see operation, both smoke detectors have dual LEDs for 360°F visibility. Other features include a vandal-resistant security locking feature, a built-in magnetic go/no-go detector test feature and a removable smoke labyrinth for easy cleaning or replacement.
The Meridian smoke detector series from DSC, with its patented design, is built to be extremely sensitive to smoke over a long period of time. Meridian incorporates an advanced 90° photoelectric detection pattern-a uniquely designed smoke chamber with a high immunity to false alarms. Meridian can detect smoldering or rapid growth fires under a broad range of applications and changing environmental conditions.
It is available with a built-in sensor designed to detect the presence of heat caused by a fire that starts and develops very rapidly.
With a quick glance at the LED indicator located at the top of a Meridian unit, you can see the smoke detector's status. Every 40 seconds, Meridian does an automatic self-test. Meridian smoke detectors come in a variety of models to suit many needs. DSC offers a comprehensive line of fire alarm system devices.
A Wide Scope
The threat of death or injury from fire is a terror everyone lives with, regardless of current events. In addition to homeowners protecting their families, major segments of private industry, as well as the public sector, are involved in having fire detection, suppression and reporting systems installed in their premises. They are also very interested in life safety systems intended to provide people safe egress from structures on fire (or other emergency conditions).
For some, installing fire alarms is a lucrative sideline. For many dealers, it is a full-time pursuit. Whatever your level of involvement, everyone agrees on a few things:
- Fire alarm systems are a life and death issue and must be undertaken with the highest level of responsibility form every individual involved.
- The fire alarm market is growing, and in itself presents even more opportunities.
- To do turnkey fire system installs requires commitment. A thorough understanding of practices, and codes, and remaining current on new technologies and developments.
Security Dealer Technical Editor, Tim O'Leary, is a 30-year veteran in the security industry and a 10-year contributor to the magazine. O'Leary's background encompasses having been a security consultant and an independent security company owner/operator, in addition to his research and evaluation of new technologies and products introduced to the physical and electronic security fields. He is a member of the VBFAA (Virginia Burglar & Fire Alarm Association); certified for Electronic Security Technician and Sales by the VADCJS (Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services); and has served as a judge for the SIA New Product Showcase.