Fire Alarm

MTG’s fire alarm systems are equipped to serve as comprehensive emergency communications systems, capable of broadcasting emergency messages via facility-wide speakers. These systems offer pre-recorded or live messaging options for a variety of scenarios, including:

• Fire Evacuation
• Weather Emergencies
• Active Shooter Situations

Area of Refuge Systems provide a lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations, allowing them to communicate with first responders from safe, designated locations. Commonly located near stairwells or elevator landings, these systems ensure that everyone can request assistance as needed. Key features include:

Two-Way Communication: Reliable, 24-hour voice communication between call stations and central monitoring locations or remote monitoring stations.
Remote Monitoring Options: Our systems can connect to central monitoring stations via phone line or cellular communication, ensuring consistent access to emergency help.

Voice-enabled fire alarm systems are essential for specific facilities to ensure clear guidance and rapid evacuation. MTG provides voice-capable systems for:

• Educational Facilities: Elementry, middle, and high schools, colleges, and universities unable to meet I-4 occupancy requirements
• High-Rise Buildings: Structures over 75 feet in height
• Assembly Spaces: Facilities with occupancy loads over 1,000

There are two primary types of fire alarm systems for commercial buildings: conventional and addressable. Conventional systems divide the building into zones, and when a fire alarm is triggered, it indicates which zone the fire is in, though not the exact location. Addressable systems, on the other hand, allow each detector or device to have a unique address, pinpointing the exact location of the alarm. For larger or more complex facilities, addressable systems provide more precise information and easier troubleshooting. MTG can help you determine which system best fits your building’s size, complexity, and safety needs.

An addressable fire alarm system assigns each device (like smoke detectors or pull stations) a unique address, allowing for pinpoint accuracy when identifying which device was activated. These systems provide real-time data, allowing facility managers to see exactly where the alarm is triggered, even down to the specific room. MTG installs addressable systems for facilities that require precise monitoring and rapid response, ensuring faster evacuation and better coordination with emergency services.

The Minnesota State Fire Code requires a licensed fire alarm contractor to inspect fire alarm systems at least annually. Testing and inspection requirements and frequencies in other states or jurisdictions will vary.

Yes, fire alarm systems can and should be integrated with other building systems like HVAC, access control, and security systems. For example, when the fire alarm is triggered, the HVAC system can be automatically shut down to prevent the spread of smoke, and access control systems can unlock exit doors for safe evacuation. At MTG, we specialize in designing integrated solutions that ensure all building systems work together during an emergency, enhancing overall safety and coordination.

Voice evacuation systems provide clear, pre-recorded or live voice instructions to building occupants during an emergency, guiding them to safety. These systems are particularly useful in large, multistory, or complex buildings where traditional alarms (like sirens or horns) may not provide enough information. MTG integrates voice evacuation systems into fire alarms to ensure that occupants receive clear and actionable instructions, reducing panic and aiding in safe, orderly evacuations.

A monitored fire alarm system connects your fire alarms to a central monitoring station, which can automatically alert emergency services when an alarm is triggered. This ensures rapid response even if no one is onsite to call the fire department. Monitored systems provide an extra layer of protection, reducing response time and potentially limiting fire damage. MTG offers 24/7 monitoring services for fire alarm systems, ensuring immediate notification to authorities in the event of an emergency.

If a fire alarm system malfunctions, immediate action is required. You should contact a licensed technician to inspect and repair the system as soon as possible. Depending on the issue, you may need to implement temporary fire watch measures to maintain safety until repairs are complete. MTG provides rapid response repair services and can diagnose and resolve issues quickly to minimize downtime and maintain compliance with safety regulations.

Yes, many fire alarm systems can be upgraded without a full replacement. For example, older conventional systems can often be retrofitted with newer, more advanced components like addressable control panels or enhanced notification devices. MTG can assess your current system and recommend upgrades that improve functionality and compliance without the cost and disruption of a complete overhaul.

To future-proof your fire alarm system, consider installing scalable and adaptable components that can integrate with emerging technologies. Addressable fire alarm systems are a good example, as they allow for easy expansion or modification. Additionally, consider systems that can integrate with IoT (Internet of Things) devices for real-time monitoring and remote management. MTG designs systems with long-term flexibility in mind, ensuring that your fire alarm system can adapt to future needs or regulatory changes without requiring a complete replacement.