Are there differences between standard smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in West Bloomfield?

In the West Bloomfield smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, there’s really only one champion. Smoke detectors are a vital consideration in guarding your residence from fire, but they have several shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms have more ways to detect a fire and can contact help when disaster strikes. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also brings out various extra benefits that your ordinary smoke detectors can only hope for.

Traditional smoke alarms will only do this one thing

Fire safety is important, and smoke detectors play a critical role in keeping your family safe. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have their shortcomings. For instance, they are only able to identify smoke, not extreme temperatures. When there is a blaze starting in your house, you may not be warned before the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Although there are further telltale signs of fire -- like a marked heat increase -- if there's no smoke, you won’t have a triggered smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only sound the alarm if they encounter enough smoke. When a fire creeps along slowly at first, you may not be warned until the flames are out of control. Some smoke detectors employ dual sensors, meaning they will recognize smoke from both roaring flames and something less intense. If they do go off, it falls to the resident to contact first responders after they safely leave the premises.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than standard smoke detectors

While they have a similar appearance to regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. If linked to a comprehensive home security package, they can:

• Detect fire with multi-sensor technology: Comparable to a traditional smoke detector, this monitored device will engage from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will emit an easily audible warning when it senses a hazardous situation.

• Identify fire from a abrupt temperature increase: A monitored fire alarm will also trigger if it notices an uncommon increase in heat. Many times, heat comes before smoke. More means to identify a fire means additional methods to keep your family safe.

• Warns professional monitoring representatives: Fires will happen when you are at your house or not. Either way, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring specialists, who are able to swiftly call the fire department. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's comforting to realize that a trained professional is consistently looking out for your house.

• Pairs with home automation: Even though the chief job of a fire alarm is to recognize dangerous situations and notify help, it can also integrate with other automated equipment. For instance, a tripped alarm could induce your system to start the exhaust fan to impede the spread of fire or turn on lighting so you are able to locate the best exit out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a comprehensive smart home

The simplest approach to get the most from your fire alarms is to pair them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint expert today and find the ideal smart home for your needs. Call (248) 963-1801 or send in the form on this page to get started.