False alarms

A false alarm (Unwanted Fire Signal) is any fire alarm signal other than a genuine fire or signal test.

We receive around 8,000 false alarms each year across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.  

False alarms waste valuable time and resources that could be spent responding to other calls, saving lives, and supporting the community. 

The National Fire Chief’s Council have produced a video to explain exactly what a false alarm is, why we need to reduce them, and how you can do this within your business premises.

How to prevent false alarms

• Make sure the fire alarm design is suitable for the premises and use. 
• Ensure the alarm system is properly maintained and tested regularly. 
• Investigate false alarms and work with alarm engineers to put in place measures that prevent unnecessary recurrence. 
• Consider common causes of false alarms such as:

Cooking fumes

Activations of fire detection systems due to cooking fumes are usually caused by either poor management of the cooking process including its location , or inappropriate detection within the environment.

Reduce the risk by reviewing your policies and procedures around the use of cooking equipment, and together with your fire alarm engineer, consider the need to alter the type and location of your detector heads.

Steam from shower rooms or industrial processes

Automatic smoke detectors will respond to any airborne particles that may be interpreted as smoke.  This is usually caused by a lack of awareness by people of the effect of steam from showers on nearby smoke detectors. If this happens you should investigate the cause and carry out any necessary additional staff training. Putting up a suitable notice in the area affected can help to warn staff/residents of the sensitivity of the fire alarm system and susceptibility to false actuation from steam. 

Dust build-up

You should consider the type and sensitivity of the detectors in those areas that may be prone to unwanted activations due to dust.  Any review must be conducted under your fire risk assessment.

Accidental damage to a ‘Break Glass’ point

If this happens you should carry out a full survey to identify all fire alarm call points that may be vulnerable to accidental breakage, and consider relocating them to a less vulnerable location or install a suitable protective cover. Details of such devices can be found on the internet, or via your fire alarm maintenance company.

Contractors working on site

Ensure contractors are fully briefed on your fire safety arrangements, location of fire detection systems, and the emergency plan applicable to their working location. Ensure proper procedures are in place to control the nature of any work and to ensure that you and your contractors clearly identify the areas in which the work can take place. Consider temporarily covering detectors in the area or isolating the zone from the fire alarm system during the work period and control measures introduced.

• Smoking materials
• Aerosol sprays,
• Incense/candles

Take actions to prevent these common causes of false alarms. If you need guidance, we are here to help. Contact the Protection team