subject: Defining Fire Detection And Fire Protection [print this page] It is important and necessary to have a clear knowledge of the distinction between fire detection and fire protection. Fire detection covers systems which include smoke and heat detectors and fire alarms. Fire protection deals with the approaches incorporated in building structures which can stop or prevent fire which results in the preservation of valuable life and property. In advanced countries, fire protection systems are the norm and practice.
The installation of fire detection systems have proven effective in the swift discovery of fire at its early stage, with smoke detectors and fire alarms identifying sudden differences in temperature and the presence of smoke, and triggering alarms that warn people of the presence of fire so that immediate evacuation can be made by the occupants. Individual smoke alarms that are installed in many households are deemed valuable in the protection and preservation of lives and property.
Fire prevention and fire mitigation are the primary objectives of fire protection. There are basically three areas of fire protection, and these are passive fire protection, active fire protection, and education.
Introducing building structures and physical features is encompassed in passive fire protection. The installation of firewalls and fire resistant doors and floors which effectively restrain or restrict the spread of fire is included in passive fire protection. With the fire being contained in a specific area of a building, the occupants get the chance to get out of the building, and at the same time reduce the chances of the building sustaining great damage.
There are also fire protective coatings which can be painted over the steel or structural members of the building to insulate these from the ravages of fire. A lot of these fire protection techniques can sustain or hold off fires for up to two hours, enough time for firefighters to perform their jobs during emergencies. These are called passive fire protection systems because no action or motion is required for its use or implementation.
Fire detection, whether automatic or manual, and fire suppression fall under the area of active fire protection. In fire suppression, the use of sprinklers and other fire extinguishment chemicals come to mind. In active fire protection, the fire suppression systems are activated or induced by smoke alarms and other fire detection devices. Sprinklers may be activated, areas may be isolated, and fire doors may be sealed in the process. Active fire protection devices and systems require proper and regular maintenance and testing to assure its integrity and workability.
The third area, education, focuses on giving knowledge and information to the property owners and occupants of the buildings, making them aware of the different fire regulations and commercial fire safety and fire detection measures, in order to prepare them for any eventuality. Education targets the human aspect of fire protection and prevention.
