Smoke Alarm Overview
We provide a wide range of smoke alarms, ensuring comprehensive protection whatever the application. If you are unsure what type of smoke alarm you require, the following table may assist you.
Smoke Alarms
Types of Smoke Alarm
Smoke alarms are available with many types of sensor, each one detecting smoke or fire using a different method, for an in depth look into how each sensor works, their advantages and disadvantages and where each type of alarm should be situated we have created smoke alarm sensor guide.
Ionisation Smoke Alarms
Ionisation Smoke Alarms detect ionisation of air and smoke particles. Designed for fast flaming fires. Ionisation smoke alarms contain a small amount of radio-activity for their operation. Ionisation alarms are very well suited for landings.
Optical Smoke alarms
General smoke alarm particularly suitable for slow smouldering fires, e.g. soft furnishing. Unlike ionisation smoke alarms they do not contain any radio-activity. Please note that optical alarms are not suitable for draughty areas like balconies etc.
Heat Alarms
To avoid false alarms. Good for smokey and dusty areas such as kitchens. They only cover relatively small areas, so are not suited for hallways and landings.
Smoke Alarms for the Deaf
Provides 3 warnings (audio, visual and vibrating) for the hard of hearing.
Radio Inter-linked Smoke and Heat Alarms
Link multiple alarms through radio waves - if one alarm detects fire, all alarms sound.
To help you determine the correct smoke alarm system, we have compiled a compressed version of BS5839-pt6:2004 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings. This Code of practice describes smoke/heat alarm system requirements for residential properties.
Fire authorities recommend that both Optical and Ionisation smoke alarms are fitted for the fastest possible response to different types of fire.
Your family should have a Fire Emergency Plan that you rehearse regularly. You can get more details about this from your local Fire Brigade. You may also wish to view our Fire Precautions page.