Potter Fire Alarm Systems - focus on the future
Potter Global Technologies has been an incredible partner since we started working with them about 8 years ago. Every year at their business conference, they introduce new products and/or software. Their R&D and product roadmap are largely dependent on feedback from their distributor partners like us. We’ve never had a manufacturer partner that listens and responds with new ideas as consistently as Potter.
Below is a picture of Mark, our Fire Technician Manager, accepting our award for introducing more customers to Potter’s technology and better warranties. This year they introduced a touch-screen fire alarm annunciator, a full graphic fire command display, a new redesigned pull station, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions Property Managers Ask About Fire Alarm Detection and Notification
Q: What is addressable, when we’re talking about fire alarms?
A: Addressable fire alarm systems use a unique identifying number on each input device to allow the control panel to communicate its exact location in the building.
Q: How do I know whether I need horns, strobe lights, speakers, or something else?
A: The local and state fire code will dictate what is required for your occupancy type (use of the building). You may have the option of adding more than what is required by code. Horns are the basic audio notification, where speakers allow more descriptive messages and also multiple types of alerts.
Q: What is a sounder base? What is a low-frequency sounder base?
A: A sounder base is the mounting for a detector, usually on the ceiling, that has an integrated horn (sounder). A low-frequency sounder base uses a small speaker, instead of a piezo horn, to create a 520Hz tone. The low-frequency tone has been shown in studies to work better at waking people from a sleep.
Q: How quickly does a commercial fire alarm system send a signal to the fire department?
A: By code, a commercial fire alarm system only has about 3 minutes total to report the alarm and notify first responder dispatch. Our systems, based on our own testing, do this in under 30 seconds in most cases.
Q: Do people still use copper phone lines for fire alarm signal transmission?
A: There are still a number of fire alarm systems using POTS (plain old telephone system) lines for their fire alarm signal transmission. Most of our customers have updated their communications to use cellular technology. Newer versions of the fire code will not allow copper POTS lines as the primary communication path.
Q: How many smoke detectors do I need in a typical 3-bedroom apartment?
A: This answer may depend on the specific layout of the apartment. Fire code requires one smoke detector in each bedroom and also one between the bedroom area and the living area. However, in some apartments bedrooms are split on either side of the living room area which may require one additional smoke detector.
Q: Are carbon monoxide (CO) detectors required in all commercial/public buildings now?
A: This part of the fire code is still a little unclear, but newer versions are becoming clearer as far as which buildings and exact placement within the buildings. CO detection is required to some degree in every building where people sleep. Other buildings may require some CO detection, based on how they are used (occupancy type).
About the Author: Adam Jacobs specializes in helping property managers and business owners implement practical safety solutions. With experience across hundreds of installations, he focuses on finding cost-effective ways to improve safety without unnecessary complexity. Connect with American Alarms to discuss your property's specific needs.
