Making Company Security Decisions

3 Reasons To Choose Wired Fire Alarms

Almost every electronic device has become wireless in the last few decades. Wires are annoying to work with and they keep devices tethered to outlets, battery packs, or in-wall internet connections. Wireless technology can seem like a de facto improvement across the board, but some electronic devices should still be wired, including some security devices. If you plan to install a fire alarm system, here are three reasons to choose a wired system over a wireless system.

No Loss In Utility Or Convenience

Many wireless devices are made wireless for two reasons: convenience and utility. A mobile phone can be used anywhere, so it is more convenient to use and has the added utility of making calls on the go. Unlike many wireless devices, fire alarms gain nothing from being wireless. These alarms are designed to stay where they are installed so they can detect smoke quickly and alert everyone within a defined distance, so being able to move them isn't useful. They aren't designed to be operated or adjusted on a regular basis, so they don't need to be easily accessible. Wired fire alarms can connect to other alarms in the system reliably, so wireless connections don't add any useful functions to the devices.

Enhanced Safety

Fire alarms are typically installed as building safety and security features. No matter where a fire starts in a building, an interconnected system of fire alarms can alert everyone to danger so they can evacuate before the fire spreads. Since these evacuations can lead to security risks, fire alarms have to be resistant to hacking and tampering. Wireless fire alarms have a weak point because hackers can potentially access them through the internet. Wired fire alarms, on the other hand, can only be tampered with if someone removes them from the wall or ceiling or accesses their wires by cutting through drywall. Any of these activities are difficult to hide and require access to the inside of the building, so wired fire alarms are safer than wireless ones.

Fireproof Alarms

Wired fire alarm systems are designed to be resistant to fire at every point in the system. Fire-resistant wires connect each alarm to a central fire-resistant hub in a secure but accessible location. While wireless systems have similar fireproofing measures, they have a significant weak point: their internet connection. If, for any reason, their internet connection becomes disrupted, they can no longer communicate with each other to alert the entire building about a fire in one room. Wired systems can communicate regardless of power outages, fire damage to routers, or internet outages, so they stay useful in all circumstances.

To learn more, reach out to companies offering wired fire alarm installation services in your area.


Share