The Role of IoT in Fire Protection Systems

These days, smart technology is so omnipresent that we often don’t think of it as anything more than “technology.” It’s everywhere—in our home security systems, cars, thermostats, refrigerators, watches, televisions, and more. So why not include the Internet of Things (IoT) in fire protection?

IoT makes fire protection easier, more comprehensive, and more effective than ever. It integrates fire safety into building management, automates responses, and streamlines response protocols, potentially saving lives.

What Is IoT and What Does It Have To Do With Fire Protection?

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of physical objects that have internet connectivity and can communicate with one another in the cloud. You might have heard this concept referred to as “smart devices,” “smart homes,” or simply, “connected devices.” 
But what does this have to do with fire protection?

It’s simple—smart fire protection systems (also known as connected fire protection technology) are an active system that uses sensors to monitor environmental conditions automatically, and alert people in real-time. This can potentially improve response times and enhance the overall safety of the building.

How IoT in Fire Protection Systems Works

IoT technology enhances the overall capability of fire protection systems, making them more responsive, integrated, and proactive. 

Let’s break down three ways IoT enhances fire protection systems.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts

Internet connectivity enables IoT fire protection systems to monitor building conditions continuously in real-time. With advanced sensors, fire detection with IoT can pinpoint changes in temperature, smoke levels, air quality, and even carbon monoxide—and analyze it for potential hazards.

If it detects an issue—like a potential fire—it can respond instantly by alerting stakeholders, building owners, maintenance, residents, and even EMS. As a result, people can evacuate to safety, and qualified personnel can intervene efficiently, significantly reducing response times and preventing fires from spreading and causing significant damage.

Predictive Maintenance and Analytics 

IoT in fire protection systems doesn’t just mean quicker responses in the event of a fire. These systems can also perform predictive maintenance to fire protection equipment, proactively detecting issues before consequences arise—potentially before you even perform your regular system inspections.

For example, let’s say a particular smoke detector shows signs of decreased sensitivity. A smart fire protection system could alert maintenance personnel to inspect and replace it before it fails. As a result, you can rest assured that your system is always functioning optimally instead of worrying about equipment failing at the worst moment. 

Integration with Building Management Systems 

If you use building management systems, IoT-enabled fire protection systems can integrate seamlessly, allowing for automated responses to fire events, further improving the speed of response and the overall safety of your building environment.

For example, if a fire is detected in an office building, fire detection with IoT could: 

• Activate fire suppression systems like sprinklers in the affected areas
• Shut down HVAC systems to prevent smoke from spreading
• Enable emergency lighting and alarms
• Unlock emergency exits
• Send elevator cars to the ground floor and disable them

This rapid, coordinated response could save crucial minutes in an emergency—and potentially even save lives.

Practical Benefits of Using IoT in Fire Protection Systems

Using IoT in fire protection can bring significant benefits.

Here are three of the most important:

• Improved Safety: Many IoT systems can detect fire hazards more quickly and accurately than traditional systems. That means that responses can be coordinated faster. This can be the difference between a small, contained fire and a catastrophic event.
• Reduced Operational Costs: Launching IoT in fire protection systems may require an initial investment, but it can result in significant savings over time. For example, predictive maintenance supports a healthier overall system and prevents costly equipment failures. And the improved accuracy can limit false alarms, saving unnecessary emergency response costs. 
• Enhanced Data Analytics: Because it can continuously monitor and analyze the building environment for fire hazards, IoT in fire suppression systems generates a lot of data. In addition to detecting hazards in the moment, this data can be analyzed for risk assessment and long-term safety planning. For example, you might use data to identify certain areas of the building that are more prone to fire, allowing for targeted improvements.

In short, using IoT in fire protection allows you to be proactive about safety, while also reducing costs. It’s a win-win.

Choosing IoT-Enabled Fire Protection Solutions to Protect Your Facility

Smart fire protection requires a smart partner who consistently stays ahead of the latest advancements in fire protection technology. Impact Fire is committed to exactly that—by integrating IoT into fire protection, we can ensure that our clients have access to the latest innovations in safety and efficiency. 

Whether you’re managing a small office building or a large industrial complex, we can help you design a solution tailored to your specific needs. In other words, you’re not just investing in fire protection. You’re investing in a smart solution that will continue to improve over time. 

Ready to incorporate IoT in your fire protection system? Contact Impact Fire today to learn more about how we can help you create a safer, smarter environment for your building occupants.