What is an Addressable Fire Alarm?

An addressable fire alarm is a fire alarm control panel that is highly programmable and provides a number of features. These devices are most commonly seen in use in commercial and industrial settings, as well as locations like multi-unit buildings. For homes and small businesses, an addressable fire alarm could be installed, but it would be somewhat excessive for the application. Like other fire alarm systems, the device needs to be installed by a skilled technician and inspected by a qualified government inspector before it can be put into service.

In an addressable fire alarm system, input devices that provide information about conditions in a structure are located all over a building. These include smoke and heat detectors, as well as things like manual pull fire alarms. Each input has a unique identification or “address.” When an input device indicates that there is a problem in the building, the addressable fire alarm control panel can issue an alert, calling the fire department, as well as using output devices like audible and flashing warnings. The device pinpoints the location of the fire and sends information to the fire department, as well as displaying data on an output screen or panel.

Knowing where a fire is located before entering a building can be tremendously helpful for firefighters. Addressable fire alarms also provide information about the conditions in the area where the fire is located. The device can tell people if the fire is in a closet, a kitchen, an elevator shaft, or another location, and it can provide information from neighboring input devices to map out the safest route to the fire.

An addressable fire alarm can also control safety systems. These devices are capable of recalling elevators, locking down or opening doors, and taking other steps to prevent the spread of fire and to keep occupants of the building safe. The device also activates sprinkler and other fire suppression systems. The programmable nature of the system allows it to make decisions like only calling the fire department if two or more input devices signal, ensuring that the fire department is not called out for a false alarm.

In addition to monitoring conditions in a building and taking action in a fire, an addressable fire alarm system also triggers maintenance alerts, informing people when input devices need to be checked and serviced. While people also need to do regular maintenance, this device can alarm when input devices are clogged with dust, not responding to test signals, or otherwise compromised.