Free Article: Strobe Fire Alarm

You are here:
Directory | Fire Alarm |

When is a Strobe Fire Alarm a Necessity?
By Arthur Sneddon

When it comes to fire safety, it's natural to want all the bells and whistles – literally. But what about bright, flashing lights? The strobe fire alarm is not unfamiliar to most people. How do you decide whether you need one? And where should it be? In a fire, the most important thing is that everyone on the premises is notified as soon as possible and all are evacuated. When sound is not enough, it might be a good idea to add bright, flashing light.

When Light is Right

Many commercial fire systems employ a strobe fire alarm. Small flashing alarms can be placed along a hallway leading to the emergency exit. Those unfamiliar with the large commercial complex, hospital, warehouse, or school can follow the flashing lights (and screaming sirens) to safety even in smoky conditions. Additionally, the strobe lights can get the attention of the hearing-impaired. This makes a strobe fire alarm a necessity in hospitals and nursing homes.

Most large workplaces are required to accommodate their employees' special needs, including items like the strobe fire alarm for safety. Any type of work that can be done by the hearing impaired must include devices like the strobe fire alarm as an accommodation by law. Commercial fire alarm systems come with some sort of strobe fire alarm. Some are ceiling mounted and others are mounted on the wall. Some strobe units include a speaker that automatically plays a pre-recorded announcement giving directions or emphasizing that a fire has occurred and the premises should be evacuated.

But when would a homeowner choose a strobe fire alarm? Obviously, if a member of the family were hearing impaired, a strobe fire alarm is a given, especially in bedrooms. Some models of strobe fire alarm also include vibrator pads to add to the impact of the strobe. The parent of a teenager can see a need, too. Teens can sleep very deeply.

Of course, a night time fire will be easy for the fire trucks to find if it's flashing brightly. The usual home fire alarm system does not include a strobe capability. The units are easily found in home improvement stores, however and can be added to a system. When it comes to detecting a fire and getting the message to everyone who can be harmed by smoke inhalation or flames, anything to speed things along is a good thing.

Author Details:
Arthur Sneddon, writes for various web sites, such as The A to Z of Home Improvement, about home security, fire alarms etc.

Article Source: Free Article Directory

NOTE: This article may be reproduced ONLY if this note, the author details, source and ALL links remain in place and active.

More articles about fire alarms :

Older articles about fire alarms: See also: Home security