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Resetting a Fire Alarm Call Point: A Step-by-Step Guide

Fire & Security, Information

Fire alarms are a critical component of any building’s safety infrastructure.

When a fire alarm is activated, it can save lives by alerting occupants to the presence of a fire, enabling them to evacuate quickly and safely. Fire alarm call points play a crucial role in initiating the fire alarm when someone spots a fire, however once the fire alarm has been activated and the emergency has been dealt with, the fire alarm call point needs to be resent.

It is vitally important to reset the fire alarm call points to ensure that, in the event of a future fire that the call point is active and working correctly. At HF Fire & Security, we want to share the steps behind resetting the Fire Alarm call point to ensure your business and the occupants of the building are always safe.

Step 1: Ensure Safety

Before attempting to reset a fire alarm call point, it’s essential to prioritise safety. If there is a genuine fire emergency, evacuation should always be the top priority. Never attempt to reset a call point if there is any doubt about the presence of a fire or other hazards. Instead, evacuate the building and call the fire department immediately. Remember that since the 1st July 2023, the Scottish Fire Department will only attend a fire alarm call unless they are ‘confirmed’.

Step 2: Identify the Activated Call Point

Once safety is ensured and the area is clear of any immediate danger, locate the specific fire alarm call point that has been activated. Call points are typically installed near exits, corridors, or other prominent locations throughout a building. They are easily recognisable by their red colour and the word “FIRE” or a similar text graphic.

Step 3: Open the Call Point

To reset a fire alarm call point, you will need to open the protective cover. This cover is designed to prevent accidental activation and to protect the call point from tampering. Depending on the type of call point, the cover may be hinged or held in place with screws or other fasteners. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for opening the cover.

Step 4: Reset the Call Point

Once the cover is open, you will typically find a glass or plastic element that needs to be broken or pushed to reset the call point. This is dependent on the brand of fire alarm call point installed at your business. This element is often labelled as “RESET.” To reset the call point:

1. Use a suitable tool, push the reset element as indicated. Be careful not to damage the surrounding components.

2. Some call points may have a key or lever mechanism for resetting. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific call point type.

Step 5: Close and Secure the Call Point

After successfully resetting the call point, close the protective cover securely. Ensure it is fastened properly to prevent accidental activation in the future. If screws were removed, make sure they are tightened securely.

Step 6: Test the System

It’s crucial to test the fire alarm system to ensure that it is functioning correctly after resetting the call point. Inform your building’s maintenance or fire safety contractor of the reset and request a system test. This may involve sounding the alarm briefly to verify that the alarms, strobes, and notification devices are operational.

Step 7: Document and Report

After resetting the fire alarm call point, document the incident in your building’s fire safety log or system. When we install a buildings fire alarm system, we provide our customers with a fire safety log book.  This is mandatory for all Fire & Security installers. Report the activation and reset to the appropriate authorities and follow any additional procedures and building codes.

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HF Fire & Security

Resetting a fire alarm call point is a task that should only be undertaken by trained personnel in a safe and controlled environment. Properly following these steps is essential to maintain the integrity and reliability of your fire alarm system. Remember that fire safety is a shared responsibility, and understanding how to reset a fire alarm call point is just one aspect of ensuring the safety of building occupants. Always prioritise safety and seek professional guidance when in doubt. At HF, our Fire & Security team offers complete business and personal fire and security solutions. Our Fire and Security Services are NSI Gold and NSI Fire Gold accredited and we can design, install and offer maintenance contracts for Fire Systems, Access Control Systems, CCTV and Intruder Alarms nationwide.

If you would like to know more about resetting fire alarm call points or to discuss the fire and security maintenance contract for your business, please contact us today. With senior-level hands-on management from initial planning to final handover coupled with the opportunity to tap into a wide range of varied services and associated consultants, we can offer our customers unsurpassed levels of genuinely in-house capabilities.

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