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Are there differences between standard smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Hagerstown?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Hagerstown smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's clear that a monitored fire alarm is the superior option"> for your home. Smoke detectors are an essential first step in protecting your place from emergency situations, but they have several shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms provide more methods to identify a potentially dangerous situation and are able to reach out to help when the unthinkable happens. Pairing your fire alarms to a comprehensive smart home also results in various extra perks that your common smoke detectors could only dream about.

The limitations of standard smoke alarms in [[targetlocaion]]

Defending against fire is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors perform a vital role in shielding your family. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have various limitations. For example, they can only react to smoke, not heat. If there is a fire in your home, you might not be cautioned until the smoke rises to the smoke detector. While there are further significant indications of fire -- including a sudden heat increase -- if you don’t have smoke, you won’t have a sounding of your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only beep when they encounter enough smoke. If a fire creeps along slowly at first, you may not be warned until the flames are out of control. Many smoke detectors use dual-sensor technology, which means they will detect smoke from both a blazing inferno and something less intense. If they do go off, it falls to the resident to call the fire department after they safely leave the premises.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than regular smoke detectors

Even though they have a similar appearance to regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. When integrated to a total home security package, they can:

  • Detect fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Like an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored device has the ability to activate from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will emit a high-decibel beeping when it senses danger.
  • Detect fire from a rapid heat surge: A monitored fire alarm will even go off if it notices an abnormal heat surge. Typically, heat comes prior to smoke. Added means to identify a fire means additional ways to safeguard your family.
  • Notifies trained monitoring agents: Fires may occur whether you are on site or somewhere else. Regardless, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring team, who can swiftly call first responders. When every moment matters, it's great to realize that someone is always watching over your home.
  • Connects to home automation: While the main job of a fire alarm is to identify dangerous situations and request assistance, it may also join forces with other automated components. To illustrate, a tripped alarm could prompt your system to start the exhaust fan to slow the fire or trigger lighting so you can see the safest exit out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a fully equipped smart home

The easiest approach to get the most from your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint security agent today and discover the ideal smart home for your needs. Diall (301) 923-4840 or submit the form on this page to begin.