Preparing your low-voltage systems for winter

Here are some tips to prepare for winter months regarding fire alarms, intrusion alarms, security cameras, and other low-voltage systems.

- Make sure camera lenses stay clear on any outside cameras.  Icicles, frost, and snow can block your views and can also prevent varifocal lenses and PTZ type cameras from moving.

- Motion detectors can sometimes be activated by heavy snowfall.  Be aware of their position and use a masking screen if needed to limit the sensing area.

- Fire alarm pull stations in apartment breezeways are prone to false alarm when it gets this cold.  Ice on top, condensation from behind, and freeze/refreeze can cause false alarms on these devices (especially addressable type).

- Many people think that batteries get weaker in the cold weather, but most battery types do fine in the cold.  Batteries get most of their abuse from excess heat in the Summer.  Watch batteries closely if they are older or in a warm room.  If they bulge or leak, replace them immediately, as they can explode.

Here is a link to lots more winter tips:

https://www.iccsafe.org/about-icc/safety/consumer-safety/winter-safety-resources/