The Critical Nature of a Smoke CO Alarm for Your Business

Discover the Latest Technology for the Ultimate Protection

Properly installed and maintained, a smoke CO alarm is one of the best early warning methods for a potentially deadly fire or poisonous gas leak. So vital are they in saving lives that the Omaha, NE, Fire Department installs free combination smoke/carbon monoxide detectors for homeowners requesting one. In new constructions, every sleeping area must have one outside the room.

Businesses should take this precaution to protect staff, customers, and property. So, considering the benefits, why are some companies falling behind on this critical safety net? For many, the thought of a fire is light-years away. 

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Fires Erupting in Businesses

In February 2024, a three-alarm fire sent 60 firefighters to a laundry facility in Omaha. In March 2023, a massive industrial fire ended with over $813,000 in damage. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the five most common causes of commercial fires are cooking and heating equipment, electrical and lighting equipment, smoking materials such as cigarettes, and people intentionally setting fires.

In offices, cooking is the number one cause, followed by electrical problems. Like most things unexpected, their rarity causes us to disregard them. With a smoke CO alarm offering one of the best methods for early detection, it’s critical that every business integrates these devices. 

The last decade has seen some extremely deadly fires, with whole towns destroyed. Early detection may not only save your business and its occupants, but many others as well. 

Combined Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

At Atronic, we partner with leading manufacturers to ensure state-of-the-art devices for your property and industry. A few of those companies include Potter and Honeywell. Their combined smoke and CO alarms eliminate the need for separate devices. These alarms use four different types of sensors, ensuring the quickest detection. 

These sensing technologies are able to detect smoke, light, flame, heat, and CO. 

• Photoelectric: These sensors use a light beam to detect the presence of smoke immediately, often before a fire begins. Because smoke inhalation is the leading cause of death from fires, not the fires themselves, it’s important to possess the quickest detection times.
• Infrared: IR emits a light beam that provides early detection of smoke.
• Heat: Heat sensors recognize climbing temperatures before smoke or fire appears.
• CO: Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, deadly gas that is impossible to detect with human senses. Because it has the potential to accumulate in almost any building, legislation across the country requires CO detection in commercial buildings.

Once fire, smoke, heat, or carbon monoxide are detected, an alarm sounds. When monitored, the alarm triggers a notification to the fire department. These detectors also integrate with sprinklers and fire suppressors for immediate action.

Advanced Smoke Detection

Another detector gaining traction is the aspirating smoke detector. These advanced and highly sensitive detectors draw air in and analyze it for the presence of minute smoke particles. Auto-aligning optical beam smoke detectors are well-suited for large commercial spaces with high ceilings. 

Taking Action

At Atronic, we’ve been protecting businesses for over 40 years. To learn more about the numerous options for a smoke CO alarm or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact Atronic today.