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    Category: Fire Safety

    4 Access Control Tips for Home

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    Having a home automation system installed in your house isn’t just smart, it’s safe as well.
    We’ll cover one of the big sellers in the home automation world: smart locks.

    A smart lock is paired with your smart home systems so that control can be done from your smartphone, computer or your system’s touchpad.

    Here are 4 tips on how to get the most out of your smart locks!

    1. Forgetful?

    You rush out of the house late, spilling coffee on your way out, trying to get to your car to hit the road before bad traffic, half way to work, you realize you don’t remember if you locked the front door or not. Fear not, pull out your trusty smart phone and check the status of your door locks, if it’s unlocked a quick touch of a button will lock your door for you!

    2. Easy Access

    Your neighbor forgot to turn off the iron and calls you to ask you to go turn it off for them, where is the first place you’ll look for a key? Under the front door mat. With smart locks we can get rid of that hiding place and hiding keys completely!
    With a smart lock installed on your door you can control who goes in or out all with your smart phone. Pretty smart.

    3. The roof, the roof, the roof is on fire

    Your house is on fire, the doors and locks are way too hot too touch, so you can’t get outside to the safety away from your house being on fire. When your home automation system has both smoke detectors and smart locks on it, the smoke detector can send a notification to your monitoring station and unlock the doors that have smart locks on them, making escape easy, and the response time immensely shorter.

    4. Medical Emergencies.

    If you have aging parents who live alone, this one will strike a note with you. Imagine they just had a stroke, with strokes every second counts to be able to have a full recovery. Your parents press the panic button which signals for emergency services to come and it also unlocks the front door so that the EMT’s or firefighters don’t have issues getting in to distribute help.

    Smart locks, mean a safe house.
    A safe house, means a smart owner.

    Interested in learning more about smart locks, home automation or home security? Titan Alarm is here to answer all of your questions.
    Feel free to call us at 602-680-4567 or TEXT US at 623-523-4849

    Learn More About Home Access Control

    Why Smoke Alarms Are Needed

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    A fire at a commercial location can cause devastating damage to businesses, in some cases to the point of the business having to go out of business. Unfortunately there’s no way to completely prevent a fire from happening. There are a few steps though that a business can take to help prevent serious damage. One of the biggest ways this is done is with smoke alarms.

    When it comes to getting Smoke Alarms and Fire Systems there are two different types of fires that can be detected by these systems.

    Fire Alarm

    Smoldering Fire

    This kind of fire normally happens after something has been ignited, the most common cause of this fire is caused by a cigarette. A smoldering fire functions the same was as coals, it creates a large amount of smoke and if it is left unattended it can turn into a flaming fire. These are detected by smoke detectors due to the amount of smoke that is caused by a smoldering fire.

    Flaming Fire

    This kind of fire normally happens after something has been ignited and a flame is present. The most common things to cause a flaming fire to ignite includes paper, cooking equipment, flammable liquids and wood. When this happens the fire is detected by flames and it won’t trigger a smoke detector because of the lack of a thick smoke.

    Fire Alarm Flaming

    Everyone wants to protect against both of these kinds of fires, the easiest way to do that is to install the different kinds of smoke alarms and fire detectors throughout your facility. You should use photoelectric smoke alarms in an area where a larger fire could happen and an Ionization smoke alarm in an area where a smaller fire could happen. Smoke Alarms and Fire Detectors can alert the occupants of a building if there is a fire and can also alert the authorities that there is a fire.

    Smoke Alarms and Fire Detectors used together with sprinkler systems are the best way to keep building safe a go through minimal fire damage.

    Learn More About Fire Alarm Systems

    5 Reasons To Have Your Fire System Inspected

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    Regular Fire Inspection

    If you have a fire alarm or fire sprinkler system in your building, it is important to have it tested and inspected frequently. Here are five of the most important reasons why regular fire system inspections/test service is critical to the livelihood of your business:

    1. To meet local building code and fire inspector requirements

    Your system is required to be tested on a regular, ongoing basis in order to satisfy national fire code (NFPA 72) and the requirements of your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). These tests should be administered by a licensed, certified technician.

    2. To satisfy insurance carrier requirements

    Did you know that your insurance company may not cover damages that are caused by a system that has not been tested/inspected according to NFPA 72 requirements? The only thing worse than having a fire in your building would be having the insurance deny your claim due to a lack of code compliance!

    3. To assure that system is functioning properly

    Most alarm panels require regular testing and inspections to ensure that they are working properly. This involves both a visual inspections of all of the system components, as well as a functional test of the system to ensure that each element works properly

    4. To assure that the system does not create false alarms that waste time/resources of your local fire department.

    The firefighting heroes that work in your city have a big job, ensuring that both fire and medical emergencies are responding to quickly, effectively, and efficiently. When a fire truck rolls to your facility for a false alarm due to a poorly functioning system, the valuable resources of your fire department are being wasted and the focus of those firefighters is diverted from people and property that truly need assistance.

    5. To limit liability for potential injuries of tenants, employees, of visitors of your business

    A fire alarm and fire sprinkler system is designed with strict codes in order to provide enhanced safety and protection over your property and the personnel inside. A regular inspection and test of the system ensures that the system still operates according to those code standards, providing peace of mind that the system will work as designed in the event of a fire.

    To learn more about regular Fire System Inspections or to schedule Titan Alarm to inspect your system give us a call or text us!

    Learn More About Fire Sprinkler Systems

    Prevent Workplace Fires

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    One of the worst possible things to happen when your at work is a co-worker starting a fire. Although a lot of these fires are unavoidable, some of them can be prevented with these tips!

    ● Check your wires! Before you go and plug in a computer or other electric device into an outlet always examine the wiring. If the wire is split, frayed or damaged it could cause an electrical fire.

    ● Smoke Free Zone! Designate smoking areas outside of the building for the employees that smoke. Also make sure there are the right trash bins for employees to dispose of their cigarettes.

    ● Get Cooking! Set up a kitchen area with designated cooking utensils. If an employee has a hot plate at their desk it could cause a fire.

    ● Keep is clean! Store any materials that are potentially flammable in a safe area. Make sure all warning labels are read and be sure to keep all those materials in a clean, safe area.

    ● Less is More! Avoid overloading outlets and power strips in the office. If they overheat it could lead to a fire.

    Learn More About Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

    Fire System Inspection

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    Inspections for your Fire Systems happen so that the level of safety in your building can be evaluated and their ability to extinguish a fire in case of an emergency. A fire inspection also happens to make sure all safety standards and fire codes are being met and upheld. Without having a fire system inspection, buildings could become unsafe for the public to enter, work in or reside in.

    What’s Inspected during a Fire Systems Inspection?

    Our technicians will look at a multitude of things during a fire systems inspection, including the following:

    1. Design of the building
    2. Construction of the building
    3. Fire Sprinkler Systems
    4. Fire Alarm Systems
    5. Fire Emergency Procedures
    6. Fire Emergency Evacuation Plans
    7. Fire Extinguishers

    Fire-Inspection

    What are the requirements in a Fire Systems Inspection?

    There are requirements that buildings have to meet, both inside and outside, in order to successfully pass a fire systems inspection.

    Some of the requirements for the outside of the building can include:

    1. The building’s gas meter MUST be covered and protected
    2. The building’s address needs to be the right size to be seen from the street
    3. Trash and debris shouldn’t be on the grounds of the building

    Some of the requirements for the inside of the building can include:

    1. Pathways for an exit must be illuminated
    2. Extinguishers must be labeled, stickered and tagged
    3. Building aisles should be debris, trash and obstruction free
    4. Building Capacity signs need to be displayed at the main entrance of your facility
    5. Extinguishers must be the proper code for your facility varying on the potential hazards
    6. Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms need to be tested and working

    Fire Inspection & Testing

    How to Prepare for a Fire Systems Inspection?

    Keeping up with maintenance is the best way to be prepared for a fire systems inspection.

    At Titan Alarm, we offer wide variety of fire extinguishers and fire alarm systems to keep commercial and residential buildings safe.

    Learn More About Testing & Inspection

    Smoke Detectors and Fire Systems for Home

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    Working smoke alarms and fire systems at home can provide life-saving tactics from potential fires. That’s a fact that has been pushed out into the public very well for years now, and it’s one we all know to be true. Unfortunately the public isn’t as educated as to WHERE fire alarms and smoke detectors should be placed throughout the house.
    According to recent surveys, less than half of the general public know that there should be a fire alarm or smoke alarm installed in each room of the house.

    In order to better educate everyone, here’s a few pointers about installing and keeping up with your smoke alarms and fire systems.

    • One Per Room – One of the biggest issues is that many houses aren’t as equipped as they should be, make sure you have a fire alarm or smoke detector in each room.
    • Right Outside – Another great place for a smoke detector or fire alarm is right outside rooms, in the hallways and one on each level of the house.
    • Change The Batteries – Your smoke detector batteries should be replaced at least twice a year. Remember, you don’t want your batteries to go bad when you need it most.

    About half of the fire deaths that happen in the U.S. every year, happen between 10pm and 7am. During the hours where most people are sleeping. If you have a working smoke alarm or fire system that number can reduce the risk of dying in a house fire in half.

    These facts all work with the importance of having working smoke alarms or fire systems in all bedrooms.

    For more information on Fire Systems in Phoenix or Smoke Detectors contact one of our Titan Alarm specialists today!

    Learn More About Fire Alarm Systems

    Fire Alarm Testing and Inspection

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    Keeping your fire alarm system, sprinkler system and fire protection system in your business and commercial buildings isn’t just a good idea, it’s actually a state and federal law. Titan Alarm is here to make it simple for you to make sure that your fire alarm system, and sprinkler systems are working. With our inspection, testing, repair maintenance services and installation we have every part of your business’ fire needs covered.

    Our fire alarm testing and inspection includes the following:
    Fire Alarm Protection System Testing
    Testing of Fire Alarm Control Panels
    Testing of Horn/Strobes AV Devices
    Testing of Fire Alarm Protection System Components
    24/7 Scheduled Preventative Maintenance
    24/7 Emergency Fire Alarm and Smoke Detector Services
    24/7 Central Fire Alarm Protection System Monitoring
    Fire Alarm System Training

    When you choose Titan Alarm for your fire alarm system needs, we’ll make sure you have everything you need to be up to code.

    Learn More About Testing & Inspection

    Fire Alarm Systems for Business

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    When you start a new business you’re slammed with a massive list of things you have to take into consideration and make decisions on. So many of your decisions will be made for personal consideration and on a professional level as well. One of the most important items on that list is Fire Safety and a Fire System, even if you are located in a small office or retail store, there is always the possibility of a accidental fire. When you’re deciding on a location for your business, here’s a few things you need to take into consideration as far as fire safety and fire systems are concerned.

    Fire Extinguishers

    Every building and commercial business should have at least one portable fire extinguisher strategically located for every 75 feet of the business or location. The extinguishers you will need will be different depending on the classification you have of the occupancy of the business.

    Occupancy Rating

    Different standards, state codes, federal codes and services will be expected of your company and business based on the occupancy rating it receives. For example, a space that is being used as an office has a different occupancy standard than a space being used as a diner or cafe. This rating will determine the fire safety systems that is required for fire prevention.

    For more information on Fire Systems for new businesses or existing businesses contact Titan Alarm today!

    Learn More About Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 2, 2018.

    That Annoying Beeping…

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    One of those unexpected and perplexing moments that you can have as a homeowner with an alarm system is when it beeps without provocation. Picture this for example, you wake up and slip out of bed in the early AM hours to savor those few moments of peace you have before the hustle and bustle of your day. Doing this possibly while sipping your favorite AM beverage or in my case a bowl of chocolate puffed cereal and an energy drink.

    While all of your senses are taking in the perfection of this moment, it occurs. Beep, beep, beep “What in the heck, is that… is my alarm going off?! I need to get over there and shut it off before it wakes the kids.” You hustle over to figure out the source of the commotion see the alarm keypad upon a light that is usually not on and begin to wonder what to do.

    If you are unfortunate enough to be staring at a yellow service light at this point and some other red LEDs that you will have to unroll a manual written on papyrus and begin using the abacus to decipher the binary to figure out what is wrong. Or if you have a beep and at least a button that is marked status and are savvy enough to understand fault 02 batt .

    Then you will definitely want to give the office a call either to interview for our tech support team if what I said makes sense otherwise to maybe upgrade to the next level of security. Using a panel where such beeps are accompanied by the receipt of a text message as well as possibly even the error on screen when you login to your account online via a computer.

    So what do you do about the beeping? First step every time when trouble shooting the alarm system is to go to the panel press status. Almost all panels will in some way shape or form tell you what sensor or component has the issue. Using  the “status button” or icon will help you diagnose most issues. Here are a few common ones we hear in the tech support department that have simple solutions.

    If nothing comes up on the screen but you still hear the beeping. Then it isn’t the alarm system, but don’t worry you’re not crazy. Your home fire code smoke detectors are designed to beep when they have a low battery and are quite often mistaken as a beep from the alarm panel or problem with the alarm pane. Simply replacing that battery in your smoke that the beeping is coming from and pressing the “test/reset” button will fix this.

    Although if you do get something on the screen such as an “FC” or “modem communication error” then both of these mean that there is an issue with your home phone line or panel’s cellular communicator. If your panel is using the home phone line to communicate, you may want to start with checking to see if any of the other phone jacks in your home have dial tone.

    Just like the jacks in your house, the panel gets the dial tone from the wall. Keep that in mind if you upgrade to a digital or nontraditional phone service. If you are not sure, contacting your local phone company to see if they can shed some light on your type of service is a good starting step. If it still cannot be fixed or if your panel is cellular, then you will want to call Titan Alarm at your earliest convenience and schedule a time for a technician to service this.

    Another issue we hear sometimes in tech support is “tamper”, now with this again, you will want to start with using the alarm panel’s status feature. It will tell you which sensor, area, or keypad is experiencing this condition. Now, a tamper is a more technical way of saying that something isn’t closed all the way. To fix this, all you have to do is open the device and then reclose it, making it completely secure. If it has a screw to lock then sometimes just putting the screw back in can fix this.

    Most of the time you won’t have a problem with your system, but if you do will remember to use status to diagnosis and most importantly, remember you can call or write us. We are here to serve you. Our toll-free number is 800.973.9001, or you can email us at support@titanalarm.net

    Learn More About Home Security

    Fire Systems and Fire Prevention Tips

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    With the dry Arizona summer approaching it’s time to address house fires and how to prevent them. The National Fire Protection Association reported that 42% of all house fires are caused by cooking utensils and that 17% of them are caused by issues related to heating and cooling. With 487,500 structure fires, causing 2,855 civilian deaths, 14,075 civilian injuries, and $9.5 billion in property damage in 2013 alone, it’s time we should do a safety check. These are the Ways to Enhance Your Fire-Preparedness.

    Fire Safety Checklist

    One of the easiest ways to keep yourself in check is to use a Fire Safety Checklist, don’t worry though, we’ve made one for you that you can print off and use. Let’s see how your house and you compare to our checklist and let’s keep you safe and ready for a fire. Fire Safety Checklist

    Fire 1

    Smoke Alarms

    New homes are now all required by law and codes that they’re built with a connected alarm system, but that doesn’t mean it’s a smart alarm. With a Smart Alarm from Titan Alarm, the smoke detector is linked to your Titan Alarm home security system and thermostat and can actually turn off the air flow in your house if it sense a fire. With that in place it can stop the spread of smoke and fire and can actually help keep the fire contained.

    Fire 2

    Grill Smart

    As the weather is heating up it’s becoming BBQ season, and who doesn’t love a good burger or dog straight off the grill. Before you fire up your grill be sure to inspect a few things. Make sure you inspect the hose, regulator and valves for any sort of signs of rusting, cracks, kinking or damage. You don’t want to put yourself at risk while you’re just trying to relax and cook on a nice summer day.

    Fire 3

    Fire Pit Safety

    As the nights get nicer out the longer you’ll want to stay out, which means it’s time to start having bonfires! One of the biggest tips for fire pits we have is to make sure it’s at least ten feet away from any sort of structure. If your fire pit is a wood burning pit, make sure you use a fire screen. A fire screen can prevent any risks posed by flying embers and sparks.

    Fire 4

    Control Your Cables

    Although the majority of fires in houses start in the kitchen, 6% of all fires are actually due to a result of electrical problems. Always use a surge protector when using multiple items at once. Make sure that your cables are always well kept and clean, keep them away from water sources and keep them fresh, any sort of wearing away at the protective housing should be fixed immediately, either with electrical tape or by replacing the cable altogether.

    Unknown

    Fire Extinguisher

    You always know where the fire extinguisher is for some reason, but no one ever thinks to purchase one because they’re always kind of just… there. Make sure you purchase one for your home, if you ever need to use it in the event of a fire, make sure you remember the acronym PASS: Pull the pin to release the handle; Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire; Squeeze the trigger; and Sweep the discharge stream at the base of the fire.

    Mike Proudfit with Titan Alarm shares tips on fire safety. Did you know fire extinguishers should be replaced every few years and inspected annually or according to code based on your fire department?…

    Learn More About Fire Extinguishers

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