Keeping your business safe and protected at all times is essential to future-proofing your success. Fires can start in a multitude of ways, so it is important to counteract them by installing as many fire prevention methods as possible. This could include fire doors, emergency lighting, fire extinguishers, and Wireless Fire Alarm Systems, which are built specifically for commercial premises like yours.
But what are the pros and cons of Wireless Fire Alarm Systems? How important are they to businesses? And how exactly are they installed? Wireless Fire Alarm Systems can be integral to the safety of your premises. Read on to find out more:
How important are Wireless Fire Alarm Systems?
Wireless Fire Alarm Systems really can be the difference between life and death. Having one installed at your business premise dramatically improves your safety as it can alert you to the presence of a fire as soon as it starts. This will enable you to prevent the fire from spreading, evacuate in good time and limit the amount of fire and smoke damage done to the property.
We highly recommend getting a professional fire risk assessment so you understand where a Wireless Fire Alarm System could be strategically installed within your business’s premises. Opting for a wireless system rather than a wired one also has many advantages, such as considerable reductions in both installation time, and disruption of day to day business operations.
Fires are unpredictable and should not be underestimated. Doing the bare minimum when it comes to fire safety can also be dangerous, but by installing a Wireless Fire Alarm System, you are actively protecting yourself. It is better to prevent than react in this scenario.
What are the pros of Wireless Fire Alarm Systems for businesses?
When compared to Wired Fire Alarm Systems, there is a misconception that Wireless Fire Alarm Systems are less reliable than the former. However, this can not be further from the truth. Wireless Fire Alarm Systems are tried and tested, and they fully conform to British and European standards, meaning they are, in fact, incredibly reliable.
There are two main recent advances in wireless technology which can give you the confidence to have a wireless system installed at your premises , namely the introduction of Lithium batteries (giving a far greater lifespan before required replacement), and 868Mhz frequency band now being dedicated to the fire and security industry, alleviating any issues with signals from other wireless devices.
Wireless Fire Alarm Systems are also quicker and easier to install when compared to Wired Fire Alarm Systems. The latter may require sections of the building to be shut down in order for the cables to be installed properly, while the former adopts a much faster installation process instead. Less disruption to your business is best for business. Wireless Systems achieve this.
What are the cons of Wireless Fire Alarm Systems for businesses?
On average, a Wireless Fire Alarm System may cost more than a Wired Fire Alarm System, but due to the reduction in installation costs, it can often offset the additional expense overall. Sadly, for some businesses, the upfront expense may be a step beyond their current budget and, therefore, not suitable. However, we do offer lease plans which are not only cashflow friendly, but also tax efficient to many businesses, particularly over shorter terms up to 3 years.
The fact that they run on batteries may be a downside as well. The batteries are self-checked constantly to ensure that the system is running at full capacity, but do need to be changed periodically, usually every 3 years. For ease, some business owners prefer to have the Wired System instead.
Lastly, Wireless Fire Alarm Systems can have range restrictions. So, if your premises is extremely large, then it will have to be assessed to see what solutions work the best for your business. It is worth noting that the vast majority of buildings can be supported by Wireless Fire Alarm Systems, however a wireless survey is a must, which we always carry out at survey stage prior to submission of quotation.
How are Wireless Fire Alarm Systems installed?
At Jackson Fire & Security, we have fitted countless Wired and Wireless Fire Alarm Systems over the years. For example, our team installed a Wireless Fire Alarm System at a North Wales holiday cottage in Betws-Y-Coed last year in July. After being called in, our engineers arrived on-site to install a wireless solution which has huge benefits for properties thanks to its ability to detect fires very early on. Our engineers were able to survey the property and find suitable locations to install the new Wireless Fire Alarm Control panel and detectors. As it is a Wireless Fire Alarm System, the installation was quick and simple as it required no cables or wiring (other than the 230v mains supply). The owner of the cottage, Paula White, praised our team for their great efforts on the day. The whole process is very simple and streamlined.
Who can be called on to help prevent fires at businesses?
At Jackson Fire, we have everything your business could possibly need to keep it safe from fire. Whether it be fire doors, emergency lighting, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, fire risk assessments, or fire alarm monitoring, then please get in touch to find out more about our fire safety services!