What's the difference between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Chicago?

In the Chicago smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's evident that a monitored fire alarm is the better option"> for your family. Smoke detectors are a vital line of defense in shielding your place from fire, but they have several shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms have more ways to discover a fire and are able to notify help when disaster strikes. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also delivers many additional benefits that your common smoke detectors could only wish for.

The limitations of ordinary smoke alarms in [[targetlocaion]]

Fire safety is important, and smoke detectors play an essential part in keeping your family safe. However, smoke detectors have some shortcomings. For example, they are only able to react to smoke, not extreme temperatures. When there is an emergency in your house, you might not be alerted until the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Even though there are further telltale signs of fire -- like a sudden rise in heat -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you will fail to get a triggered smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they encounter enough smoke. When a fire creeps along slowly at first, you may not be warned until the situation is out of hand. Various smoke detectors employ more than one sensor, meaning they will recognize smoke from both a raging fire and a more gradual burn. Then when they do go off, it's up to the occupant to call first responders after they safely leave the residence.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than standard smoke detectors

Although they look like standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. If connected to a complete home security package, they are able to:

• Detect fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Comparable to a standard smoke detector, the monitored alarm can engage from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will resonate an easily audible alarm when it senses a potential disaster.

• Discover fire due to a rapid heat surge: Your monitored fire alarm will even activate if it senses an unusual fluctuation in temperature. Frequently, heat arrives in advance of smoke. Having additional means to detect a fire leads to more ways to safeguard your family.

• Alerts trained monitoring specialists: Fires may occur whether you are at your house or not. Regardless, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring agents, who can rapidly place a call to emergency services. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's great to know that someone is constantly watching over your home.

• Connects to home automation: Although the chief job of a fire alarm is to identify dangerous situations and request help, it may also integrate with other automated devices. For example, a tripped alarm could induce your system to turn on the exhaust fan to hinder the flames or turn on the lights so you can see the safest way out of the house.

Your monitored fire alarms are a key element of a complete smart home

The best approach to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint expert today and find the perfect smart home for your family. Place a call to (312) 626-4802 or submit the form below to begin.