Ravel RE-2504 Installation, Commissioning & Operating User Manual page 2

Fire Alarm System Limitations
An automatic fire alarm system–typically made up of smoke detectors,
heat detectors, manual Call Points, audible warning devices, and a fire
alarm control with remote notification capability–can provide early
warning of a developing fire. Such a system, however, does not assure
protection against property damage or loss of life resulting from a fire.
The Manufacturer recommends that smoke and/or heat detectors be
located throughout
recommendations of the current edition of the National Fire Protection
Association Standard 72 (NFPA 72), manufacturer's recommendations,
State and local codes, and the recommendations contained in the
Guide for Proper Use
of System Smoke Detectors, which is made available at no charge to
all installing dealers. A study by the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (an agency of the United States government) indicated that
smoke detectors may not go off in as many as 35% of all fires. While fire
alarm systems are designed to provide early warning against fire, they
do not guarantee warning or protection against fire. A fire alarm system
may not provide timely or adequate warning, or simply may not
function, for a variety of reasons:
Smoke detectors may not sense fire where smoke cannot
reach the detectors such as in chimneys, in or behind walls, on roofs, or
on the other side of closed doors. Smoke detectors also may not sense
a fire on another level or floor of a building. A second-floor detector, for
example, may not sense a first-floor or basement fire.
Particles of combustion or "smoke" from a developing fire
may not reach the sensing chambers of smoke detectors because:
• Barriers such as closed or partially closed doors, walls,
or chimneys may inhibit particle or smoke flow.
• Smoke particles may become "cold," stratify, and not
reach the ceiling or upper walls where detectors are
located.
• Smoke particles may be blown away from detectors by
air outlets.
• Smoke particles may be drawn into air returns before
reaching the detector.
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RE / DD / UM / 2508 V1.2- 01
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