How Can the Internet of Things Improve Fire Alarm Systems?

Simply put, the IoT is a network of devices that are connected to the internet. This could include multiple aspects in a modern home, such as smart lighting, locks, fridges and even coffee makers.

Over the coming years, the IoT will begin to integrate various elements of fire alarm systems. In this post, we’ll look at the potential benefits that could bring for property owners and fire safety more broadly.

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a system of devices that are connected to one another via the internet. They are capable of collecting, sending and receiving data, allowing them to provide a more tailored, consistent and seamless experience to users.

That applies to anything from smartphones and voice assistants to switches and sensors. The end result is users being able to switch on the lights, adjust the heating or even monitor the food in their fridge from their smartphone or voice assistant.

Clearly, the IoT has already made its impact on our daily routines. But now, we’re seeing it emerging for industrial uses too. For example, a company in the US has made a device that monitors concrete’s condition, making maintenance far more efficient.

In the coming years, it’s likely we’ll see a similar approach with fire safety. By using smart devices, you’ll be able to have a fire protection system that’s constantly connected and integrated with the rest of your home.

As well as asking Google or Alexa to check on its status for peace of mind, this connectivity will optimise the efficiency of management and maintenance. Fire safety companies will be able to take a predictive approach to maintenance, reducing the number of emergency repairs.

It will also provide instant, remote access to any issues with your system. In turn, that could eliminate the majority of false alarms, offer a much faster response and ensure technicians have the right parts and equipment when they do come to make repairs.

With advancements coming thick and fast, these changes could be in our homes faster than you think. In fact, the Fire Protection Research Foundation has already established a task group to evaluate emerging IoT technologies.

In particular, they’ll be looking at Power over Ethernet (PoE), which carries electrical power through a building’s ethernet cables. This allows both electric power and data connection to be transferred to a device through the same cable. The task group will be creating guidelines on how this can be achieved in compliance with existing rules.

At Selectron, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of residential and commercial security, whether it’s fire safety, surveillance or access control. If you’re looking to safeguard your property from fire, we install a wide range of fire and smoke alarms to the highest industry standards.

From audible and visual alarms to wireless devices with innovative control panels, our team can advise the best solution for your needs. Contact us today to speak to a fire alarm expert.