Is there a difference between standard smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Boise?

In the Boise smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, there’s really only one victor. Smoke detectors are a vital consideration in shielding your place from fire, but they have some notable limitations. Conversely, monitored fire alarms provide more means to identify a potentially dangerous situation and can reach out to a monitoring team when disaster strikes. Pairing your fire alarms to a security system also brings out various extra perks that your ordinary smoke detectors would only dream about.

Regular smoke alarms will only do one thing

Fire safety is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors perform a critical part in shielding your family. However, smoke detectors have some drawbacks. For example, they can only react to smoke, not high temps. When there is a blaze starting in your house, you would not be alerted until the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Even though there are some other significant indications of fire -- including a marked increase in warmth -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you won’t have a sounding of your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they detect ample smoke. If a fire creeps along slowly at first, you may not be warned until it's too late. Some smoke detectors use dual-sensor technology, which means they will be able to perceive smoke from both a blazing inferno and something less intense. If they start beeping, it’s required of the resident to call emergency services after exiting the premises.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than ordinary smoke detectors

Although they look about the same as regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If integrated to a comprehensive home security package, they can:

• Identify fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Similar to an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored component will activate from an active or passive fire. It will emit a high-decibel beeping if it senses danger.

• Discover fire with a sudden rise in heat: Your monitored fire alarm will even activate if it notices an unusual heat surge. Typically, heat comes prior to smoke. More means to uncover a fire means additional methods to protect your loved ones.

• Notifies professional monitoring specialists: Fires may happen whether you are at your house or not. Regardless, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring agents, who can swiftly call first responders. When seconds count, it's great to have the knowledge that somebody is constantly watching over your house.

• Connects to home automation: While the main task of a fire alarm is to recognize dangerous situations and notify assistance, it will also connect to other automated equipment. For example, a triggered alarm might prompt your system to turn on the exhaust fan to impede the flames or trigger smart light bulbs so you are able to locate the safest exit out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are an important aspect of a comprehensive smart home

The best way to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint security agent today and find the most suitable smart home for your family. Diall (208) 306-4107 or submit the following form to begin.