How smoke detectors and fire extractors work

It is very common to see in home insurance the clause of fire protection. Without a doubt, fire is one of the main fears at home, as an incident related to it can destroy an entire house. Moreover, it can pose a significant risk to our safety. Fortunately, today we have the help of smoke detectors and extractors to eliminate it outside.

Experts state that the most dangerous element of a fire is smoke. And that 80% of fatal victims die from asphyxiation. Because a fire can be small and manageable in flames, but it quickly generates a large amount of smoke.

In the case of smoke detectors, different alarm zones must be established to identify not only the fire but also where it originates. In a building, detection systems should be installed on each floor. The fire regulations explain how a detection network should be planned.

How smoke detectors work

It is considered that fire detectors are the most effective systems to locate a fire when it is starting. In this way, it is possible to fight to control the fire and facilitate evacuation. It is the fastest way to combat a fire.

In workplaces, detection mechanisms are even more essential, as both computers and other machinery in constant operation can generate sparks. If a small fire occurs, it can be extinguished easily if reported quickly.

Likewise, schools or hospitals are public places where fire detectors are essential. Also in restaurants and closed entertainment venues. In our homes, they are not as common in Spain, although they are prevalent in other countries. And highly recommended.

Smoke detectors are, obviously, automatic. Their operation is simple and they are active at all times:

• They activate when there is the presence of smoke or flames. They can also trigger due to an unexpected increase in temperature.
• When activated, the detector sends a signal. Whether to a fire department or a smoke extraction system. It is configurable.
• In case of propagation, smoke detectors activate in line with the advance of the fire or smoke.

Their function is solely to alert to the presence of smoke or fire. Evacuation or water spraying systems are not included, although they can be connected. Smoke detectors are not expensive devices, but rather affordable.

Smoke extractors in case of fire

In general, we refer to smoke extractors for fires as fans that automatically move air from an affected area to the outside. This allows for the evacuation of smoke from a room and prevents poisoning.

Typically, a smoke evacuation system consists of three main elements. First, a ventilation system that removes the generated smoke. Next is a smoke barrier device to prevent propagation between different rooms. There can also be a third element that provides fresh air from the outside to compensate.

Just as smoke detectors are devices suitable for installation in practically any place that may suffer a fire, fire extractors are usually focused on the industry and the professional market.

In specific factories, we can also see another type of manual smoke extractors, although they are for removing smoke produced in different jobs. For fires, the best allies are smoke detectors and fire evacuation systems.