No matter how tough a person is, how good they are at self-defense or what they do for a living, when an emergency occurs, everyone needs help. According to a study conducted by the Centre for economics and business research, up to 5000 jobs and $1 billion gets lost to warehouse fires in a five-year period. Statistics suggest that approximately 75% of businesses that have suffered warehouse fires have very slim chances of recovering, since they either cease operation immediately or after three years. Therefore, the purpose for installing monitored fire alarm systems could not be made more clear-cut. The fire alarm system one chooses however, is influenced by several factors such as; budget constraints, their usage and the nature of the business. An option one may consider is whether to install monitored fire alarms or standard ones.
A major reason behind installing monitored fire alarm systems is the financial benefits derived from it. Typically, monitored fire alarm systems require a great initial financial outlay. Despite the hefty initial financial outlay, the benefits of a correctly planned and installed system will eventually offset such costs. Additionally, a well installed and planned system can reduce insurance costs. The probable lifespan of the fire alarm system should be worth considering when making the decision on which system to install. Monitored fire alarm systems often use more sophisticated technology than standard systems. Therefore, the monitored systems may need less updates due to advancements in warehouse fire safety and security technology. Standard fire alarm systems have the disadvantage of requiring in-site human response. Besides the obvious risk of injury or death posed by such a system, it also bears the disadvantage of unnecessary staffing costs.
Another crucial reason to install a monitored fire alarm system, is the off-site monitoring that comes with it. The benefits of a fire alarm system with off-site monitoring significantly outweigh the high ongoing costs involved. Unlike systems that use on-site monitoring, which heavily depend on the vigilance of property owners, company employees or warehouse staff, systems with off-site monitoring outsource this responsibility to third parties. This system, utilizes a network of linked fire alarms that are connected to a special control center, that operates on a 24-hour basis. Such constant monitoring is very advantageous, since fires particularly arise when the premises in question is not being used. As soon as a possible fire situation is detected by the off-site monitoring system, staff at the specialized center immediately notify both the building’s designated key holder (s) and the fire and emergency services.