A fire alarm is critical to any home or business safety plan. Not only do fire alarms give you an early warning in the event of a fire, but they can also help to prevent fires from spreading by alerting you to the problem as soon as possible. However, fire alarms are only effective if they are properly maintained and regularly inspected. Here are six reasons why having your fire alarm system inspected regularly is important.

1. To Ensure it’s in Good Working Condition

Over time, fire alarms can become damaged, or loose connections can cause them to stop working altogether. Fire alarm inspections will ensure that your system is in good working condition and can be relied upon in the event of a fire.

2. To Test the Batteries

Most fire alarms use batteries as their power source, and it’s important to ensure that the batteries are in good working condition. If the batteries are old or damaged, they may not work properly in the event of a fire. By having your system inspected, you can be sure that the batteries are replaced as needed and that they will work properly in the event of an emergency.

3. To Test the Sensors

Fire alarms use sensors to detect the presence of smoke or heat. Unfortunately, dust and other debris can build up on the sensors, causing them to become less sensitive. This can lead to false alarms or worse; the sensors may not detect a fire at all. By having your system inspected, you can ensure that the sensors are cleaned and working properly.

4. To Test the Alarm

In addition to testing the sensors, it’s also important to test the alarm itself. The alarm is what actually alerts you to a fire, and it’s important to make sure that it is loud enough to be heard. If the alarm is not loud enough, you may not be able to hear it in the event of a fire.

5. To Test the Connections

Another important reason to inspect your fire alarm system is to test the connections. The wires that connect the various components of your system can become loose over time, and this can cause the system to malfunction. Luckily fire alarm inspections allow you to test the connections and ensure they are secure.

6. To Ensure That Your System Meets Local Fire Codes

Every jurisdiction has its own fire codes, and it’s important to ensure that your system meets them. This not only protects you from liability in the event of a fire but also ensures that your system will work when needed.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, about 100,000 fires occur in non-residential buildings every year. That means it’s a good idea to have your commercial system inspected more frequently. If you’re looking for someone to perform your next fire inspection, give us a call today.