Every time Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service responds to an unwanted fire signal (UwFS), firefighters and fire engines are diverted away from real emergencies where lives, property and the environment may be at risk.While fire alarm systems are essential for protecting people and buildings, many unwanted fire signals are preventable. By taking a few simple steps, schools, businesses and other responsible persons can reduce unnecessary fire alarm activations while maintaining high standards of fire safety.
An unwanted fire signal is when a fire alarm system activates but there is no fire requiring an emergency response.
These activations are sometimes referred to as false alarms, but they are often caused by everyday activities, maintenance work or poor fire alarm management rather than faults with the system itself.
Common causes include:
Every unnecessary fire service attendance:
Good fire safety management helps ensure that when an alarm activates, it is because someone genuinely needs assistance.
Whenever significant work or changes take place within your building, review your Fire Risk Assessment to ensure any additional risks are identified and managed.
This may include:
Summer holidays are often used to carry out maintenance and refurbishment projects.
Construction dust and debris can easily activate smoke detectors.
If detectors need to be temporarily covered:
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Anyone working on your premises should understand:
Good communication helps prevent avoidable alarm activations.
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Don’t rely on one individual to manage your fire alarm system.
Regular servicing and maintenance helps ensure your system operates correctly.
Investigate every unwanted fire signal to identify the root cause and prevent it happening again.
If your building is connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC):
Always notify them before:
Make sure they have up-to-date contact details so alarms can be verified before emergency attendance is requested.
Our Business Engagement Team can provide help to responsible persons on effective fire safety management and reducing unwanted fire signals.