How to better secure your home for spring

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Security for the home is a high priority all year long. But did you know that most crimes occur during the warm weather? How can you better protect your home during the springtime?

 

Keep all areas of your property lit

Well-lit property is a vital factor in dissuading potential burglars. Keep your property lit and bushes and hedges maintained so they don’t afford good hiding places for criminals to lurk unnoticed.
Remember to utilize smart bulbs applied to smart lamps compatible with our Home Automation system. You can set automation rules, schedule, and/or send commands right from your phone to change the lighting around your home.

Mow your lawn and keep outdoor areas tidy

A clean and organized house can help deter potential burglars, as it tells them the house is not vacant. This could be crucial for your outdoor security equipment too, as debris might have built on your cameras and sensors during the winter months. Cleaning them for spring can help keep your security alerts accurate.

Secure your home while your away

Warm weather also means plenty of people will be on vacation, which can induce burglars. Make sure to take the necessary security precautions before you travel.

Invest in high quality locks and deadbolts

Deadbolts should be used for all doorway entrances. Inside chains or latches help protect from potential invaders.

Hire a reputable security company

The most effective security investment you can make is to hire a reputable, knowledgeable security firm. The best security firm can help protect your home 24/7. Entrances, windows, and other vulnerable areas can be continuously monitored by security cameras. Home security and safety can be checked from anywhere, at any time, by computer, laptop, or cell phone. A wireless cellular system also helps protect from the communication disruptions common in disasters. Response time for security emergencies can be much reduced. One security firm fulfills all these requirements: Boyd & Associates.

 

Why choose Boyd & Associates

Since 1967, Boyd & Associates has been providing total security for homes, businesses, and communities of every size and type. We combine advanced systems, responsive service and rigorously trained security teams to create a strong, nimble and formidable force that deters, detects and responds – for total security. It is through our tireless pursuit of perfection and our unwavering commitment to the latest technologies that we have been able to exceed the expectations of industry leaders and homeowners throughout Los Angeles County, Ventura County, Orange County and Riverside County

We Are Here For You

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We are here for you.

 

At Boyd & Associates, the safety of your home and business is the highest priority.

 

The uncertainty of this virus will not change our goal of continuing to serve any new and existing clients and support our staff and the community.

 

We are open and available, offering over-the-phone consultations, FaceTime surveys, and other security options.

 

We are here for you and our community.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or if you need anything.

sales@boydsecurity.com l (800) 381-BOYD (2693)

What being “Essential” means for Boyd & Associates.

Please take a moment to watch this special message from Customer Relations Representative, Melissa!

Home Security System & Tracking Your Teenage Children

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Parenting teenagers comes with a host of challenges. If your teenager tends to sneak out, come home late at night, or you suspect they hang out with the wrong crowd, you’ll want to keep a closer watch on them. A lack of privacy can strain the parent-child relationship. But smart home security devices can help parents look out for their kids, because:

  • Peer pressure can lead adolescents to make the wrong decisions.
  • Your teen’s best friends may not be people you want in your home.
  • Knowing what’s happening at home can avoid wild parties and protect your family.
  • If your teen is coming home from school, you’re working late, or they’ll be out at night, you’ll have some peace of mind.

How a Home Security System Keeps Your Teenager Safe

Your home security needs depend on the behavior of your child. In general, you’ll want a security system that protects your property day or night. The following home security tech can provide protection and help prevent safety issues.

  • Door and Window Alarms: Receive an alert when someone enters or exits your home. Some alarms require entering a code on a panel to enable and disable them; there are also remotely controlled systems, so your teen cannot control the door alarm.
  • Security Cameras: Outdoor security cameras provide the surveillance needed to monitor what your teenager is doing. An adolescent may find this invasive. However, it enables you to track them and protect them from danger. Cameras are also a good preventative measure if you suspect illicit behavior.
  • Motion Sensors: With motion detection, there’s a greater degree of flexibility. Your teen won’t arrive home or leave undetected, while you can know where they are in the house at any time and leave some rooms off-limits.
  • Video Doorbell: A secure solution, a video doorbell is less invasive than a camera pointing at your child. You can even see when your kids get home or who they invite via your smartphone.
  • Automated Features: Modern alarm systems let you arm and disarm them from your phone or set a schedule. They can alert you if your child is late or forgets to lock the door. Even give your kid their own passcode so they can get in the house when you’re not home.

Additional Solutions to Keep Your Teen Safe

Other tech-age tools you can consider include:

  • GPS Vehicle Trackers: If your teen has just started driving, you can monitor their location, speed, and braking and acceleration habits.
  • Parental Control Apps and Software: Use the app to control the content your teen can access as well as their location, which can ensure they’re safe if late when coming home from school.
  • Online Browser Controls: Install software that manages what your teen can access on the internet. These controls can also protect your child from tech-age threats like phishing and malware.

More Advice on Tracking/Protecting Your Teenager

Alarms are helpful and the sound of one can be useful in an emergency or when you have a misbehaving teen. But to maintain your relationship, including your teen in security plans can streamline communications and reduce stress. Letting your child know how you monitor them can encourage them to be honest. And, collaborating with other parents helps to extend the same measures to your teen’s peers, so there are fewer conflicts of interest.

Is Monitoring Your Teen the Best Strategy?

Close monitoring can backfire psychologically. But it can help catch your teen in a lie or let you call out sneaky behavior. Let them know you’ll follow up through the home security system. When things happen, you can have conversations about how to solve the problem and encourage your child to think about what they did wrong. For behaviors like stealing and sneaking out, you can take more urgent measures, so security technology can help you act in your child’s best interests.

Boost Your Home Security, and the Safety of Teenagers, with Boyd & Associates

Boyd & Associates offers video surveillance and smart video systems, as well as alarm systems and 24/7 monitoring services, that can help keep your teenage children safe. To learn more and request a free quote, call us today at 805-321-6664.

History and Timeline of the Home Security System

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The concept of the home security system is nothing new. An intrusion door alarm was invented in the early 1700s. Much like today’s security systems, it alerted homeowners of potential intruders. It was invented by Tildesley, an English inventor who linked a set of chimes mechanically to a door lock. There were other early inventions, but home security was nowhere near as advanced as today’s smart home systems.

Early Advancements in Home Security

Milestones in home security systems enabled people to rely less on guard dogs and startled animals or mechanical equipment that wasn’t always reliable. Some important names in the evolution of security alarm systems include:

  • Augustus Russel Pope: In 1853, Pope developed a prototype electro-magnetic alarm system in Boston. The battery-operated system activated when an electrical circuit was closed as a result of a door or window opening. A flow of current would cause the system’s magnets to vibrate and cause a hammer to strike a brass bell. Additional components kept the bell ringing even if a window or door was closed after the alarm was activated.

 

  • Edwin Holmes: Although not the talented inventor Pope was, Holmes bought the rights to his invention and founded the first electrical alarm system company. He was also a master at advertising, targeting a general public that was skeptical about electricity in the 19th Holmes published the names of his prominent “burglar alarm telegraph” customers in New Yorker magazine and created a brand out of the system. He even connected his customers’ alarm systems to a central control station using the New York City telephone network.

 

  • Edward A. Calahan: Calahan further developed this concept and helped form the American District Telegraph (ADT) in 1871. It divided New York City into districts connected to a central monitoring station. This was the first alarm system that could alert homeowners of a burglary and notify police and fire services simultaneously. Calahan’s emergency call boxes became standard for emergency and messenger services. His company later expanded to Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Chicago.

Video Surveillance and Fire Safety Emerges

While video surveillance technology existed in the 1940s, it didn’t become mainstream until the 1970s. The images were grainy at first, but users could see images of visitors on a television monitor. An early advancement was made in 1966, when nurse Marie Van Brittan Brown invented the first home video security system. It was the first time a remote control could be used to open a door.

During this same era, fire alarm technology evolved. Canadian researchers conducted a study in 1962 to examine the life-saving potential of heat and smoke detectors. They found that fatalities from residential fires could be reduced by 8% using heat detectors and 41% with smoke detectors.1 Between 1975 and 1998, smoke alarms attributed to a 50% drop in fire deaths in the U.S.

In the 1980s, security became a large part of home automation technology, as automated garage doors, infrared controls, and fiber optics became mainstream. These systems became more affordable in the 1990s. Today, automated home security systems are commonplace and controlled via familiar devices, including smartphones.

Security, Monitoring, and Automation with Boyd & Associates

Boyd & Associates offers complete burglar alarm, fire and life safety, and alarm monitoring systems. In addition to home automation services, commercial intrusion detection, access control, and video surveillance systems are also available. To learn more about the latest in automated home security systems and services, contact us at 805-321-6664 today!

Source:
  1. McGuire J, Ruscoe B (1962) Value of a Fire Detector in the Home, Fire Study No. 9. Division of Building Research, National Research Council of Canada, p 12

5 Tips for Planning Your Security Budget

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Businesses face all kinds of security risks. Still, security planning can strain an already strapped budget, leading many companies to cut costs starting with their security infrastructure. Planning your security budget appropriately can avoid this; regardless of the percentage of your budget that goes towards security, it is how you allocate your resources that matter most.

 

  1. Perform a Risk Assessment

Evaluate the risks to your business, its data, and facilities. Whether you’re looking at technology assets or the physical security of your office, it’s important to realize just what types of security threats you need to protect your business from. Also, look at the resources you have available. Is your office or facility in a vulnerable location? Are your entrances properly guarded? What types of incidents have occurred in the past, and is your company located in an area prone to specific threats?

 

  1. Choose the Right Security System for Your Business

Once you identify how your business needs to be protected, you can determine the type of security system required and allocate the budget for it. But you need to consider factors such as who has access to your building, whether there are more effective ways to monitor your staff, and if indoor or outdoor security (or both) are needed. Whether your business has one location or is distributed across multiple sites can determine the best security solution as well. You can also enlist a reputable security systems provider to perform an on-site assessment and make suitable recommendations.

 

  1. Encourage a Culture that Embraces Security

Getting everyone involved can improve security from within. This means providing awareness training to employees and rewarding those who comply with your company’s security program, such as reporting incidents in a timely manner. A study by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) found investing in a security culture helps improve company reputation and trust among customers. Increased revenue was another effect observed, so you can see how planning your security budget can go a long way for your business.

 

  1. Hire and Train Security Professionals

Finding, hiring, and training the right people can help you get more out of your security budget. It also helps to train people in your organization. Recruiting your existing employees saves time; plus, they’re already knowledgeable about your business and likely its security needs. You might find someone who didn’t consider a security career before, but who has the right skills.

 

  1. Invest in Business Security Services

If your building’s security needs improvement, an outside security provider may be the best place to look. They can provide an on-site assessment and make recommendations for securing your facility. Building security assets such as video surveillance, alarms, patrols, and even remote monitoring can be provided at a cost that fits your budget.

Video surveillance is the leading trend in security because it now includes high-definition video, audio, and playback that can be accessed remotely. However, there are many types of security cameras and working with a provider can help select one that meets your business’s needs.

Trust Boyd & Associates for Your Security Needs

We are leading experts in video surveillance, intrusion detection, and access control systems. Patrol services are available and provided by experienced security officers. Trusted for business and home security and automation, Boyd & Associates can work with you to choose the right security assets and plan your security budget. Our specialty is total security, enabled by industry-leading expertise and the latest technologies. To learn more, call 888-919-3326.

Business Fire Safety Tips

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Fire safety in the workplace should not be taken lightly. To ensure your office and employees are protected, focus on prevention, response protocols, and training. Even a small fire can cause enough damage to shut down your business for good. These tips can help you prevent such an occurrence, starting with prevention.

Preventing an Office Fire

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, cooking equipment causes more than a quarter of all office property fires. Other leading causes include electrical distribution and lighting equipment, heating equipment, smoking materials, and electronic, office, or entertainment equipment. The following preventative measures can improve fire safety in your office:

  • Install fire extinguishers in kitchenettes, cafeterias, and other at-risk locations and train all workers in using them.

 

  • Avoid overloading your electrical outlets and make sure the number of prongs between the plug and outlets match.

 

  • Make sure all electrical equipment has been rated by Underwriters Laboratories or another nationally recognized laboratory.

 

  • Avoid cluttering your workspace, which can add fire to fuel and block access to emergency exits and electrical control panels.

 

  • Maintain machinery to prevent it from overheating and generating friction sparks, which can ignite fires.

 

  • Store flammable chemicals only in well-ventilated areas and use extreme precautions in potentially explosive environments (and pay attention to labels and Material Safety Data Sheets).

 

  • If space heaters are permitted, use only devices with thermostat controls and store them away from flammable materials.

Establish Workplace Protocols

Your company should have a fire plan in place. It should outline the steps employees should take in case of a fire, including calling 911, appointing a fire prevention officer familiar with all escape routes and meeting points, and conducting regular fire drills. A fire evacuation plan should be posted in multiple locations (and include elevators). Evacuation protocols for disabled employees should be available.

In addition, your business should:

  • Install a sprinkler system: The National Fire Protection Association has said when properly installed and maintained, sprinklers can be 95% effective. Sprinklers are the best way to stop a fire from spreading.

 

  • Replace old wiring: Frayed wires, broken connectors, or cables with damaged insulation should be replaced right away. Also, avoid cluttering wires and plugs around a single outlet and don’t install more than one extension cord per outlet.

 

  • Leave room for appliances: For devices like computers, coffee machines, and others that heat up, leave enough room for them, and let them cool down. Make sure they’re kept away from paper, cloth, and other combustibles and unplug them at the end of the day.

First aid kits should be available where hazards are most likely to occur. Also, all employees should be made aware of where each first aid kit is.

Employee training should involve all workers knowing how many doors, machines, or desks are between their work area and the closest exit. The locations of alternative exits and fire alarms (and how to use them) should be known as well.

Smoke and Fire Alarms

Smoke detectors are required by law, which also identifies how they should be installed, placed, and monitored. The most effective alarms also detect carbon monoxide. For even more protection, use a 24/7 monitoring service that dispatches emergency personnel when necessary. Boyd & Associates can provide complete security that includes hardwired or wireless fire protection systems and 24/7 alarm monitoring. Our UL Listed Monitoring Station can send help whenever an alarm is triggered.

For more information, contact our sales team at 888-343-2852, or reach out to our business support department online.

Top 6 Security Trends to Watch in 2020

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Cybersecurity issues now threaten personal and corporate data. And, there is no sign of hacking attacks slowing down. With more devices being connected and more information available through digital channels and devices, digital security is of utmost importance. New trends to fight security risks are emerging and here are the top ones to watch in 2020.

1. Expansion of Video Security

Traditionally one of the most useful security assets, video provides real-time coverage of incidents and emerging threats. There are really no limits here. For example, food processing plants and other manufacturing facilities will continue to use video for training, regulatory compliance, and to prevent food recalls and other issues. Video coverage of harsh environments, such as oil and gas facilities, helps reduce the need for personnel in hazardous areas.

With video data, information can be used for everything from real-time situational awareness to providing forensic coverage. Nonetheless, the increasing use of video in smart homes has given rise to privacy concerns. Security companies must have internal controls over who can access feeds. Organizations must adhere to privacy laws such as those that have been introduced by the EU, which govern the use of applications that involve the collection of video and other data on people and assets.

2. Cloud-Based Security

Developing cybersecurity protocols is critical, especially for servers, digital video recorders, IP cameras, smart sensors, and other network-connected devices connected to the cloud. This applies to organizations reliant on CRM systems such as Salesforce and home users who leverage Dropbox and other storage services.

The cloud-security platform industry is already predicted to top $460 million, as it can scale to various requirements, provide greater intelligence and protection, and reduce costs.

3. Artificial Intelligence

Taking video and data analytics to the next level, software manufacturers are beginning to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to improve analytical capabilities. Facial recognition is one example of a technology being used to more efficiently detect potential threats. Given the vast amounts of data and growth in devices such as intelligent sensors, using AI to analyze video and other data makes sense.

4. Passwordless Authentication

Consumers have been familiar with password protection since the first Internet services became available. But new authentication methods have emerged. These include hardware tokens, biometric authentication such as fingerprint readers, and knowledge-based authentication such as security questions based on personal details.

5. Mobile Access to Security Devices

Physical security has become more dependent on mobility and this trend is expected to continue. It includes access to security devices from browsers and smartphones. There are now many mobile apps for managing video cameras and receiving automatic alerts. Permitted users can even grant or restrict access to facilities and individual access points.

6. Convergence of Physical and Digital Security

This has been discussed for decades. But tracking users throughout a building had been difficult without the technologies that exist today. The Internet of Things, modern data analytics, and cloud technologies are bringing physical and digital security closer together. Edge computing is also helping make this convergence a reality.

Let Boyd & Associates Bolster Your Security

Our business specializes in improving home and business security using the latest technologies on the market. From burglar alarm systems to alarm monitoring services, to intrusion detection, access control, and video surveillance for commercial clients, we help manage all your security needs. Boyd & Associates serves clients throughout Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange, and Riverside Counties. Request service online or call us at 888-248-6617 for assistance choosing security systems and services today.

Does a Doorbell Camera Make Your Home Safer?

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Got a new DIY Nest or ring doorbell camera for Christmas? Doorbell cameras are available to every homeowner. You can view live video from your front door without being home. Catch a live video feed via your smartphone app as soon as someone rings the doorbell. But does a standard doorbell camera actually make your home safer?

 

To answer that question, let’s look at what a smart video doorbell does. The features vary depending on the model. But the basic concept is sort of like a high-tech peephole. Instead of getting up off the couch when the doorbell rings, you can just check your phone to see who is at the door. It could be a visitor you’re expecting or your latest Amazon order.

 

There are various types of video doorbells on the market. Some switch on when a visitor presses the button, sending a photo or live video to a special screen or tablet. Higher-end models include a smartphone app that delivers video to wherever you are in the world. You might even be able to communicate with visitors via audio.

 

Doorbell cameras are convenient for anyone who works late or spends a lot of time traveling. You can see when a plumber, electrician, or other service professional arrives, or if the dog walker or babysitter is on time. If you’re home and can’t get to the door quickly, a two-way doorbell camera can let your car service or food delivery know you’re there instead of leaving.

 

How Much Security Does a Doorbell Camera Provide?

 

It also depends on the model. Some cameras are linked to electronic door locks to create security-enabled smart home systems. You can let in a service provider if you’re not home or tell delivery personnel to leave the package at your front door. Other models have built-in motion sensors and send you an image or video of who is there.

 

A Wi-Fi connection has many benefits, but there are cons as well. If the video doorbell isn’t in range of your home router, the signal may be weak and unreliable. Also, metal, fiberboard, plaster, and other materials used for exterior walls can weaken or block Wi-Fi signals. If the signal is weak, you’re not going to get much out of your video doorbell.

 

Doorbell cameras can catch criminals in the act, whether they’re swiping your delivery or trying to break into your home. High definition video cameras can pin down an event to the day and time an event occurred, while their sensitivity can be adjusted so they’re not triggered by wind-blown tree branches. Some cameras even have night vision, so you remain protected well after the sun goes down.

 

Are Doorbell Cameras Enough?

 

Unfortunately, the benefits of a doorbell camera are limited to your access to images or video feeds. A professional security company can help maximize your protection by having central station operators assess your home’s security situation when an alarm is triggered. They can see all live video and recorded clips transmitted by the camera.

 

At Boyd & Associates, we can provide outdoor cameras for exterior entryways, driveways, pool decks, and patios. We even install cameras in locations that provide the best angles and that don’t impose on the aesthetics of your home exterior. Interior camera systems can be installed as well. In addition, we can connect camera systems to smart locks as well as Google Home, Nest, Alexa, and other smart home apps.

 

To learn more or schedule installation, contact Boyd & Associates at 888-907-1659 today.

A Guide to Different Types of Home Security Systems

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There are various types of security systems on the market. From smoke and fire alarms to sophisticated systems to deter burglars, these solutions use a variety of methods and technologies. According to 2015 statistics from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), a property crime occurred every 3.9 seconds and a home break-in/burglary occurred once every 20 seconds.1

A study on the decision-making processes and behavior of burglars was conducted by the Alarm Industry Research and Education Foundation. Factoring in information from 422 incarcerated male and female burglars, it found 83% of the subjects studied would look for an alarm before going forward, and 60% said they’d seek a different target if one was present. This was especially true for those who spent time planning their approach.2

These statistics can be very useful when safeguarding your property. The type of alarm system and detectors installed depends on the most imminent hazard. Here is a guide to the latest technology for protecting your home and family this holiday season:

Monitored Home Security Systems

A monitored security system is tracked by a team or remote professionals 24/7 at a state-of-the-art monitoring center. It is operated by a central control panel. Numerous components transmit important data to a centralized station, including sensors for doors and windows. Motion sensors are used to monitor the exterior and interior of homes for potential intrusions, while wired/wireless security cameras, audible sirens/alarms, and security signage are also used.

Unmonitored Home Security Systems

Unmonitored systems consist of a control panel, sensors, and sirens/alarms as well as motion detectors and motion-activated cameras. Visual indicators such as lights may be included as well. Although triggered the same way as monitored systems, these are not tracked by a dedicated service. However, you can monitor your home from a smartphone or computer, so you can receive alerts from, arm/disarm, and configure the system via your mobile device rather than on-site keypads.

Wired Home Security Systems

If you’re more traditional and prefer a security system connected with wires to a home electrical circuit, landlines can be used. These security systems are directly connected to your phone while sending alerts using radio frequency signals. A back-up battery keeps the system running in case the power is disrupted. A wired system can be just as effective in an emergency, but the prevalence of digital technologies is making this configuration less popular.

Wireless Home Security Systems

Easier to install, update, and control, a wireless home security system uses the same cellular signals as your mobile phone. You’ll receive instant alerts when sensors are triggered. Benefits include simple installation you don’t need a professional for, and factory pre-programming that means the equipment is ready to use as soon as it arrives. The only downside is system reliability depends on the cellular signal quality in your area.

Other Types of Alarm Systems

Burglars aren’t the only home security threats. Smoke, fire, and inclement weather can put you in harm’s way. Fortunately, there are different options to consider that can monitor your property and alert you as soon as there’s a problem. These include:

  • Smoke Detectors: According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, about 1,100 residential fire deaths could be prevented annually if every home had a smoke alarm.3 Smoke contains carbon monoxide, harmful chemicals, and particulates that can be deadly even if a fire isn’t anywhere near you. Today’s smoke alarms placed near bedrooms can alert everyone to an emergency so you can get out and contact the authorities right away.
  • Fire Alarms: Advanced fire detection systems from Boyd & Associates feature a cellular connection and backup battery, so they provide constant protection even if the power goes out. They are automatically activated when a fire is detected. This means whether you are home or not, awake or sleeping, the alarm notifies you of a problem so you can take the appropriate action.
  • Glass-break Detectors: These can detect glass shattering or cracking using a type of microphone. The high-decibel alarm can alert you of a break-in or glass damage due to weather conditions. The microphone is designed to pick up the unique sound of glass breaking, whether from your front door or any window in your house.
  • Critical Alarm System: Trips when there is any type of indoor flooding, due to natural events or an issue with your plumbing. Immediate notification of a problem can help you avoid serious consequences such as extensive water damage or mold, while avoiding the potentially high cost of professional repairs, which can easily run into the thousands of dollars.

Boyd Can Help You Figure Out Which Type of Security System to Get

Boyd & Associates installs, manages, and monitors home security systems, including burglar, fire, and other alarms. Our services include professional guidance in determining the best security systems for your property. Homes, businesses, and communities have been relying on us since 1967. We provide the same advanced systems and service for all our residential and business clients, and our highly trained security teams can not only properly install alarm systems, but monitor them constantly to relay an emergency to the authorities. To learn more about the types of security systems we can install or request service, support, or a free consultation, contact us today.

Sources:
  1. https://ucr.fbi.gov/crime-in-the-u.s/2015/crime-in-the-u.s.-2015/resource-pages/crime-clock?kbid=62750
  2. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130516160916.htm
  3. https://www.nist.gov/el/smoke-alarm-research

How Fire Detection Systems and Alarms Work

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Combination smoke detectors and fire alarm systems are lifesaving in buildings of all types. Fire is an extremely dangerous event and can easily get out of control. In addition to heat, smoke, and flames, fires can create a dangerous environment in which exposure to carbon monoxide, combustion particles, and other toxic substances can put lives in danger.

The Facts

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) published the report, “U.S. Structure Fires in Office Properties”, in 2013, which revealed an estimated 3,340 office property fires occurred per year, on average, between 2007 and 2011. On average, there were four civilian deaths and 44 fire-related injuries per year. Fires were most common when facilities were occupied, with peak times being between noon and 2:00 p.m., while more than one in four office fires were caused by cooking equipment. Electrical distribution, lighting, and heating equipment were other factors.

The report also found that fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers, were effective in 88% of fires where they were installed. In such properties, deaths per 1,000 fires were 62% lower than in offices and stores with no fire suppression equipment with automatic functions.1

Alarm systems are extremely important for fire safety. Here is a look at how the automatic functions of modern fire alarm systems work, and how integrating wireless technology and combining them with access control systems can help people safely evacuate in the event of an emergency.

How an Automatic Fire Alarm System Works

Today’s wireless systems use radio frequency signals. Whether it has a sensor with thermistors to sense heat, opto-chemical or biomimetic cells to trace carbon monoxide gas, or uses photoelectricity or ionization to sense smoke or combustion particles, a detector sends incoming signals to a fire alarm control panel (FACP). The FACP itself can be connected to a building’s electrical system. It can also be powered by batteries or a backup power control when the electrical current is interrupted.

Once a signal is received from a sensor, the main control panel:

  • Activates audio alerts such as sounders (may include horns, gongs, or automated loudspeaker messages)
  • Turns on visual indicators like lights and flashers
  • Activates building sprinklers in affected areas

Different methods can be used to notify occupants on separate floors or connected structures, and even help them find the best escape route. This is useful when specific departments in an organization need to take appropriate actions specific to their role and location.

Some fire detection systems are designed to also:

  • Work with sensitive equipment in computer and clean rooms by discharging clean agents
  • Activate dry pipe sprinklers to protect people/property before the main suppression system kicks in
  • Provide notification of severe weather, bomb threats, hazardous chemical releases, and other events

Advanced fire alarm systems and smart devices can provide people with notifications on safe evacuation routes. Some notification appliances can relay alerts to a local fire department, other authorities, and the alarm company so help is dispatched right away.

Wireless Technology Integration

Wireless technology has made fire alarms more reliable in a world where telecommunications companies have shifted from traditional telephone lines to wireless and IP-based alternatives. Improvements in transmission speed and access to data make it more practical to connect fire alarm systems to wireless networks. Smart systems are more reliable as well, which helps prevent false alarms, as they’re based on the latest NFPA 72-2013 communication standards and can work on 4G cellular networks.

In a wireless mesh network, many devices can be installed without requiring a direct connection. Numerous communication paths can be created to improve reliability. Even if one or more devices are damaged, different communication paths can be found and the network will still function. Point-to-point or point-to-multipoint technology may also be used, but failure of a single device can disrupt the entire network.

A computerized fire protection system linked to a mesh network with bi-directional communication is the most reliable. Aside from a flexible design that remains functional in a variety of situations, it avoids the challenges of running wires in difficult locations, such as historic buildings, parking garages, and warehouses.

Wireless smart systems simplify central station reporting, so the status of the system can be monitored constantly. They also allow for mobile app control. This enables panels and alarms to be remotely managed, alerts of danger to be received from any location, and individual detectors to be monitored. As with an app for surveillance and access control systems, a mobile phone application for your fire detection system can let you:

  • Activate/deactivate the system
  • Check the status of zones
  • Add/manage/assign users
  • View email alerts
  • Access fire safety reports

How Fire Alarms Work with Access Control

Fire alarm systems can now be fully integrated with access control infrastructure. With this integration, a signal can automatically unlock doors that are connected electronically. The trigger of electric locks enables people to safely exit when detectors sense a fire or smoke condition. Otherwise, it would be difficult for occupants to egress a building where there is immediate danger.

Fail-safe locks are required per NFPA 101. It requires doors to automatically unlock if there is a loss of power to the access control system. This functionality is not present in a fail-secure electric lock. The NFPA guidelines also require electric locks to be interconnected with an automatic fire alarm and sprinkler system. During an emergency, such a system can promptly disconnect power from a lock mechanism so people can respond to warnings and protect themselves.

The standard also requires motion detectors that automatically release electric locks. In addition, it calls for egress systems that disengage power to electric locks via mechanical disruption. This type of setup usually involves a double-pole, double-throw momentary push-button switch (can be installed as an easily recognizable pull switch).

Contact Boyd & Associates

Boyd & Associates is a full-service commercial security and monitoring company offering the latest in integrated fire alarm systems. Focused on protecting homes and businesses in Southern California, we’ve also developed advanced security, access control, smart lock, and smartphone app solutions. We employ trained security teams to provide a swift response to emergencies.

Our fire, smoke, and carbon monoxide detection systems include hardwired and wireless devices. These use light, sound, and text alerts to notify users of a problem, and use a backup battery and cellular connection in case of a power failure. Our monitoring station is UL Listed and operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

To request service or more information, call Boyd & Associates at 888-343-2852 or contact us online today.

Source:
  1. https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/Building-and-Life-Safety/US-Structure-in-Office-Properties