Is there a difference between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Salem?

In the Salem smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, one component rises above the rest. Smoke detectors are an important consideration in shielding your house from a dangerous blaze, but they have several shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms offer more methods to identify a potentially dangerous situation and may notify help in the event of a disaster. Linking your fire alarms to a home security system also brings out other perks that your ordinary smoke detectors would only wish for.

Traditional smoke alarms can only do this one thing

Fire safety is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors take on a critical part in keeping your family safe. However, smoke detectors have some limitations. To illustrate, they will only identify smoke, not extreme temperatures. If there is a fire in your home, you might not be alerted before the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Although there are some other telltale signals of fire -- like a sudden increase in warmth -- if you don’t have smoke, you won’t have a triggered smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only activate when they detect ample smoke. When a fire begins slowly, you may not be warned until the flames are out of control. Many smoke detectors utilize dual sensors, meaning they will detect smoke from both a raging fire and a more gradual burn. Whenever they sound their alarm, it’s required of the resident to call first responders after exiting the residence.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than ordinary smoke detectors

Although they have a similar appearance to standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. If integrated to a complete home security installation, they are able to:

• Discern fire with different sensor types: Like an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored alarm will trigger from an active or passive fire. It will emit a high-decibel warning whenever it senses a hazardous situation.

• Detect fire from a sudden temperature increase: A monitored fire alarm may also trigger if it discerns an abnormal heat surge. Many times, heat arrives prior to smoke. Added means to uncover a fire equates to additional means to protect your loved ones.

• Notifies your dedicated monitoring specialists: Fires may occur when you are home or away. Either way, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring specialists, who are able to quickly contact the fire department. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's nice to know that somebody is constantly keeping a watch of your house.

• Connects to home automation: Although the chief task of a fire alarm is to recognize dangerous situations and request help, it may also connect to other automated equipment. For example, a tripped alarm could make your system start the exhaust fan to impede the spread of fire or trigger the lights so you can locate the safest way out of the house.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a comprehensive smart home

The easiest method to get the most from your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint security agent today and customize the ideal smart home for your needs. Place a call to (503) 994-1230 or submit the following form to take the first step toward a safer property.