Why You Need Fire Alarm Monitoring

One of the most common questions we receive at Fire Monitoring of Canada Inc. (FMC) is, “How do I know if I need fire alarm monitoring?”. This query often arises from building owners or supervisors who have been prompted by the Fire Department or their insurance company to acquire the service for their building. Alternatively, customers often reach out to inquire about fire alarm monitoring when they are evaluating the existing services within their building.  

There are two main reasons why you might want to look into fire alarm monitoring.

Compliance with Fire & Building Codes

The most prevalent reason is compliance with fire and building codes. These codes describe the types of buildings which require third-party monitoring. For instance, in Ontario, the Building Code highlights the necessity of a fire alarm monitoring system in care facilities, hospitals, schools, daycares, high-rise buildings, and structures equipped with sprinkler systems.

Buildings which fall into these categories are legally obligated to have their fire alarm systems monitored. The industry standard for fire alarm monitoring is CAN/ULC-S561. A certification from the monitoring company is crucial, serving as proof that the monitoring on the premises aligns with this established standard.

Peace of Mind

While not always a legal requirement, having fire alarm monitoring in a building is an important choice. A fire alarm system, while designed to prompt evacuation, does not automatically alert the fire department. In the absence of monitoring, the fire department remains unaware until someone places a call. Opting for a monitored fire alarm system ensures the automatic dispatch of the fire department upon activation.

In matters of fire protection, time is of the essence. Fires can escalate rapidly, spreading throughout a building within minutes. A monitored system ensures a swift dispatch, allowing the fire department to arrive on-site as quickly as possible.

Learn More

Fire Monitoring of Canada has been a leader in the fire monitoring and security monitoring industry for over 30 years.  Trust the experts and give your property the protection it deserves.  Call us at 1 866 789 FIRE (3473), email fminfo@fire-monitoring.com, or fill out the contact form below for more information.