A smart fire alarm system might include advanced sensors, internet connectivity and intelligent algorithms to provide real-time data and alerts to users’ smartphones. These systems are often more accurate and responsive than traditional ones. 

More details, please

A smart fire alarm system:

• Employs multiple types of sensors in one detector to increase resistance to false alarms. 
• Connects to the internet to send notifications and receive data from detectors through a mobile app or web interface. (This connection also presents cybersecurity issues; see “Can’t Hack It,” ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR, March 2025.)
• Monitors the environment, sending alerts when a potential fire is detected. 
• Uses addressable device technology to pinpoint the exact location of an alarm. 
• Uses intelligent algorithms to distinguish between actual fire events and common triggers such as cooking smoke to minimize false alarms. 
• Enables users to manage the system, check status and even activate fire suppression systems from a smartphone, which also poses cybersecurity concerns.
• Analyzes sensor data over time to identify potential fire risks and predict issues.

In a March 2024 article in Consulting-­Specifying Engineer, authors Jarron Gass and Cristina Aragon-Vandenbent note that smart detection systems are using cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, to distinguish between real threats and false alarms. This helps to provide more reliable and responsive solutions.

Addressable systems do require more attention to detail than the earlier technology. A smart fire alarm system needs you to interface early with the owner to determine location identification (address) to ensure the device programming is done correctly the first time. These systems require a trained manufacturer and an experienced programmer to ensure the installation will work correctly and provide the right data to the supervising station, the owner’s control center and their smartphones. Programming it right the first time will also ensure the acceptance test in front of the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) will pass on the first try.

New tech on the rise

A.I. is now used with many smart fire alarm systems. It helps with identifying patterns sent by the detection devices and can then distinguish between normal conditions for a given environment and a fire signature. Identifying an actual fire signature from a nonfire event reduces the chance of a false alarm actuating the system, thus increasing the system’s operational reliability. A.I. also enables the system control to adapt to changes in the environment and improve over time. 

Users will often encounter the requirement to interconnect the smart fire alarm system to the building automation control system. The fire alarm system then becomes part of the networked infrastructure in the building. However, while NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, is the applicable code for the fire alarm system, it contains no requirements for the building automation system. It’s important to ensure the correct operation of the fire alarm system is not affected by the interconnection to the building automation system. 

While the benefits of new technology can be significant, there will always be a challenge working with the AHJ and helping them understand the smart system you want to install. It is imperative to bring the AHJ up to speed on technology to avoid issues and delays during the acceptance test. Ongoing collaboration is essential to navigate whatever challenges develop. 

New construction projects are integrating smart fire alarm system applications from the initial due diligence and planning phase. Ensure you are part of the process to be certain the owner is getting what they need for a complete and reliable system. 

The building environment is rapidly changing. The adaptability and intelligibility of these new technologies allows enhancement of the fire and life safety systems and infrastructure in buildings of all sizes and types. Smart detection systems offer intelligent devices that communicate with other building management systems, enabling the fire alarm system to enhance the smart building concept. 

As more advanced sensors emerge that include A.I. and machine learning, they will provide greater accuracy in detecting fire scenarios, improving overall safety in the built environment. 

The more that fire alarm system technology continues to evolve, the more important it is for technicians and fire alarm subcontractors to stay abreast of how the technology affects installations. 

The code will always lag behind new technology, so it’s important to remember that the goal of using the latest tech is to enhance the overall safety of building occupants by providing clear, timely, real alarms during emergency situations.

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