The need for fire alarms and smoke detectors in Bristol and Bath

According to the Fire Service website there are over 600,000 fires to which they are called in the UK every year. 50,000 of these are in the home and the remainder are fires at workplaces, public buildings and outdoor incidents. These fires cause over 800 deaths per year and over 17,000 injuries. Many of these deaths, injuries and the damage caused to buildings could be prevented with the installation of smoke detectors and a fire alarm system.

The Avon Fire and Rescue Service answers fire alarms across the Avon, Somerset and South Glos regions on a daily basis from home owners, farmers, business owners and public sector managers whose properties are on fire. They recommend the fitting of smoke detectors and fire alarms in all residential and commercial premises to help minimise the effects of smoke and fire should your property be subject to accidental or malicious damage. They also include a number of very useful fire safety leaflets on their website for home and commercial use.

Types of smoke alarm for Bristol and Bath homes

Self contained or individual smoke alarms are largely used in smaller residential properties. They detect smoke and then sound a warning alarm. They are normally battery powered but can be mains powered and come in three types:

Ionisation detector alarms: These are the cheapest. They are very sensitive to small particles of smoke produced by flaming fires, such as chip pans, and will detect this type of fire before the smoke gets too thick. They are marginally less sensitive to slow burning and smouldering fires which give off larger quantities of smoke before flaming occurs.
Optical detector alarms: These are more expensive but more effective at detecting larger particles of smoke produced by slow-burning fires, such as smouldering foam-filled upholstery and overheated PVC wiring. They are marginally less sensitive to free burning flaming fires.
Combined detector alarms: These detectors are effective at detecting slow-burning as well as flaming fires - which are both common types of fire.

Other questions to consider when fitting smoke alarms at home:

Which smoke alarm is best for me?
Slow burning and flaming fires are both common so fitting one ionisation and one optical alarm is a good idea. Ideally, mains powered alarms are best as these ensure continuous supply but individual smoke alarms provide basic protection too.
How many smoke alarms should I fit in my house?
The more smoke alarms you fit, the higher the protection. They should be fitted in every room in the house except the kitchen, bathroom and garage where smoke or steam could accidentally trigger them. Ultimately the number of alarms fitted will depend on the size and type of house you live in.
Where should I site my fire alarms?
As near to the centre of the ceiling as possible but at least 30 cm or 12 inches from a light fitting. Make sure your alarm is fitted where it can be heard, especially when you are sleeping. If you have a TV or other electrical appliance in your bedroom, fit one here. At least one alarm should be fitted per floor.
How do I look after my smoke alarm?
Test it once a week, clean it once every six months, change the battery once a year, replace it every 10 years
Where do I get them from?
Any hardware store or supermarket or from a reputable firm such as Standfast Security Systems

Fire alarms for larger premises in Bristol and Bath
Smoke and fire alarms in Bristol at larger sites where a degree of integration with other security systems is needed should be installed by a professional. Fire risk assessments are usually carried out prior to installation of fire alarms and a carefully designed system should be put in place. Fire alarm systems consist of the alarm detector and sounder, a control panel and usually some emergency lighting. These can be integrated with CCTV and other systems where appropriate. Please contact us for further details.

Why use Standfast Security for your fire alarm needs in Bristol and Bath?

Standfast provide professional and cost effective individual solutions, giving you peace of mind at a price that is right
The company has been established for over 20 years in the Bristol area. It has expertise covering residential fire alarms, commercial and retail fire alarm systems and fire alarm systems for housing associations and public sector buildings such as schools, hospitals and universities
Fire and smoke alarms installed by us are all compliant with the latest guidelines and regulations
Insurance cover is easier to attain when your fire alarm or smoke alarm system is installed by a properly qualified company
Fire alarm systems can be integrated with emergency lighting and door access systems to ensure all doors are unlocked in the event of a fire alarm activation
All smoke and fire alarms can be linked to a 24 hour alarm receiving centre so that the Avon Fire and Rescue Services and key holders can be immediately informed in the event of a fire
All systems can be adapted for users with disabilities.
Benefit from one of three levels of maintenance contract – we won’t leave you in the lurch in the event of an emergency or break down of your fire alarm system in Bristol
Our customers trust us and frequently recommend us to others – you can trust us too

If you live in the Avon, Somerset or South Glos areas, don’t delay, contact our Bristol office now on (0117) 942 3366 to discuss your smoke and fire alarm requirements.