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What's the difference between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Gulfport?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Gulfport smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, it's clear that a monitored fire alarm is the preferred alternative"> for your house. Smoke detectors are a vital line of defense in guarding your place from emergency situations, but they have some notable limitations. On the other hand, monitored fire alarms offer more ways to identify an emergency and are able to notify a monitoring team when the unthinkable happens. Linking your fire alarms to a security system also brings out various other advantages that your ordinary smoke detectors can only wish for.

Your regular smoke alarms in Gulfport might be inadequate

Protecting your home from fire is important, and smoke detectors play a vital role in keeping your family safe. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have some drawbacks. To illustrate, they will only identify smoke, not heat. If there is a fire in your home, you would not be cautioned unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. While there are further significant signs of fire -- including a marked heat increase -- if you don’t have smoke, you will fail to get a sounding of your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only beep if they encounter ample smoke. When a fire begins slowly, you might not be alerted until the flames are out of control. Various smoke detectors employ dual sensors, which means they will recognize smoke from both a blazing inferno and a more gradual burn. Whenever they start beeping, it falls to the occupant to call first responders after they safely leave the premises.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than standard smoke detectors

Even though they look about the same as regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. When integrated to a complete home security system, they are able to:

  • Detect fire with multi-sensor technology: Comparable to a standard smoke detector, this monitored alarm has the ability to trigger from an active or passive fire. It will sound a high-decibel beeping if it perceives danger.
  • Detect fire due to a sudden temperature increase: Your monitored fire alarm can even activate if it senses an abnormal fluctuation in temperature. Frequently, heat arrives prior to smoke. Having additional methods to identify a fire equates to extra ways to keep your family safe.
  • Alerts trained monitoring representatives: Fires can occur whether you are on site or somewhere else. No matter of the situation, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring specialists, who will rapidly contact the fire department. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's great to have the knowledge that someone is constantly looking out for your residence.
  • Pairs with home automation: While the main purpose of a fire alarm is to identify dangerous situations and call for assistance, it can also join forces with other automated devices. To illustrate, a triggered alarm could induce your system to turn on the exhaust fan to slow the flames or turn on smart light bulbs so you may locate the quickest path out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a comprehensive smart home

The best way to get the most from your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint expert today and find the most suitable smart home for your needs. Call (228) 338-1467 or submit the following form to get started.