Smoke Detectors
Approved single-station or multiple-station smoke detectors, continuously powered by the house electrical service, should be installed in every living unit within the condominium building in accordance with NFPA 101-2015, Sections 30.3.4.5 (New) and 31.3.4.5 (Existing). When activated, the detector should initiate an alarm that is audible in the sleeping rooms of that unit. This individual unit detector should be in addition to any sprinkler system or other detection system that may be installed in the building. As an alternative, wireless smoke detection systems may be used. To be acceptable in lieu of a single station smoke detector powered by the building electrical system, wireless smoke detection systems must be UL listed, but not all UL listed systems are acceptable. Many wireless systems are listed as household fire alarms, which do not necessarily provide supervision of the batteries. Some of the listed household systems may have supervision to meet the requirements of NFPA 101, but this must be determined on a case by case basis. All of the UL listed commercial systems have battery supervision, plus standby battery power for the alarm panel. In the UL Fire Protection Equipment Directory, these two product categories are:
- Control Units and Accessories, Household Type (UTOU), which may or may not meet the NFPA 101 requirements for single station detectors.
- Control Units System, (UOJZ), (for commercial applications) which always meet the NFPA 101 requirements for single station detectors.
In summary, to meet the intent of NFPA 101 as an acceptable alternative to single station smoke detectors powered by the building electrical system, a wireless smoke detection system must:
- Be UL listed and
- Provide supervision of the battery powering each detector
Open Fires
In order to reduce the risk of fire, gas and charcoal grills or similar devices used for cooking, heating or any other purpose, should not be used on any balcony, under any overhanging portion, or within 10 feet of any structure.
