What is an Active Fire Protection System?

An active fire protection system is essential. No one can predict when a fire will break out. Often, incidents start from trivial things like a small short circuit, negligence in the kitchen, or sparks from machinery. However, the impact can be huge if not addressed immediately. 

This is where active fire protection systems come in: providing instant protection from the first second a hazard is detected.

These systems not only detect potential fires, but also respond immediately to mitigate the danger. This article will further discuss the definition, importance, and main components of an active fire protection system.

Introduction to Active Fire Protection System

An active fire protection system is a series of systems and devices that directly handle fires when detected. Not only detecting, this system is also able to provide warnings and start the extinguishing process both automatically and manually. 

Unlike passive protection systems that are structural in nature, active systems require action from both devices and people. For example, a light fire extinguisher (APAR) must be manually operated to extinguish a small fire before it develops.

The advantage of this system lies in its ability to provide immediate action to a fire in progress. In many cases, the system is a lifesaver before the fire brigade arrives, preventing a domino effect that could make the situation worse.

The Importance of Active Fire Protection System

The implementation of an active fire protection system in a building is not an option, but a necessity. The main reason is the ability of these systems to provide a quick response to fire, which is crucial in emergency situations. 

When smoke detectors pick up the first sign of a fire, an alarm will sound and a warning can be given to occupants immediately.

It also speeds up the evacuation process and reduces the risk of injury or loss of life. 

The presence of automatic sprinklers that instantly spray water when they detect high temperatures, as well as easy-to-use fire extinguishers, helps control fires before they spread. Thus, potential property damage can be minimized.

Keep in mind, maximum protection occurs when active protection systems are combined with passive protection systems. Both work together to provide comprehensive protection against the risk of fire.

Components in an Active Fire Protection System

Each component in an active protection system has a complementary function. The following are some of the main devices that are often used in this system:

Smoke Detector

Smoke detectors detect smoke as an early indicator of a fire. There are various types, such as optical smoke detectors, heat detectors, and gas detectors. When it detects smoke particles, it will automatically activate the fire alarm, providing early warning to building occupants.

Fire Alarm

Fire alarms work by informing occupants through loud sound or light signals when a fire is detected. These systems can work automatically, integrated with detectors, or manually, activated by the user via an alarm button. The goal is to ensure everyone is immediately aware of the danger and evacuate quickly.

Sprinkler

A sprinkler is an automatic extinguishing system that is usually installed on the ceiling of a room. When the heat from the fire reaches a certain temperature, the sprinkler head will break and spray water onto the burning area. This system is very effective in extinguishing or controlling fires at an early stage, especially in high-rise buildings and public areas.

APAR (Light Fire Extinguisher)

APAR is a portable fire extinguisher that is used manually. It usually comes in different types of extinguishing media such as foam, CO2, water, or chemical powders. APAR is very useful for dealing with small fires before they spread, and is easy to use by anyone who has received basic firefighting training.

With all its components, an active fire protection system is an important part of a building’s safety strategy. 

These systems not only detect and warn, but also actively extinguish fires, reduce risk, and save lives and property. Hence, ensuring these protection systems are professionally designed and installed is essential.

As an experienced fire protection contractor, PT Adiwarna Anugerah Abadi is ready to help design and install active fire protection systems to the highest safety standards. With comprehensive services and certified experts, Adiwarna ensures optimal safety for every protected building.