IoT fire protection strategically places sensors throughout buildings and connects them to a central, Internet-linked hub. These sensors operate within a local network, which gathers data from each device and transmits it to the cloud for centralized access and analysis.
“Cloud storage allows for long-term data retention, which is essential for regulatory compliance and safety audits,” Dotts says. “Historical data can also be leveraged for post-event analysis and detailed reporting.”
These systems gather data that enables predictive analytics for component maintenance and fault detection. They also generate logs and reports that help ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.
According to Malhotra, sensors typically have a battery life of 10 to 15 years and require minimal maintenance. With continuous self-diagnostics, these fire protection systems alert building managers to sensors that are underperforming, enabling proactive replacement before they fail.
“We can receive alerts showing that a smoke detector or sensor is accumulating dust or debris,” Dotts says. “There may not be a false alarm yet, but it’s a sign that maintenance is needed. Taking action early helps prevent unnecessary emergency responses, like dispatching fire trucks when there’s no real threat. Predictive maintenance insights enhance system reliability.”
Facility executives need to carefully evaluate available IoT fire protection systems to ensure code compliance and sufficient sensors for occupancy.
“The size of the building, complexity of the layout, occupancy levels, fire hazards, and findings from fire risk assessments all must be considered when selecting and designing an IoT-enabled fire protection system,” Malhotra says. “Code compliance is just the starting point.”
Building codes can vary depending on location and building type, he adds. For example, high-rise buildings are required to include voice evacuation systems.
Proper installation is equally important. Sensors must be installed, tested and commissioned according to fire protection standards.
“Testing and commissioning of an IoT-enabled system must verify that all devices are communicating seamlessly on site,” Malhotra says. “Live data capture ensures they are connecting to cloud-based platforms and properly interfacing with building management systems.”
For proper operation in extreme conditions, these systems also must have redundancy built in.
“This is a life safety system,” Dotts says. “Redundancy is critical. If we lose power to our building, we need to make sure the fire alarm system will still operate. We need secondary standby power and batteries to make sure the system works in all conditions. If phone lines go down, the system needs cellular capabilities.”
He stresses that a fire protection system should connect to a dedicated network, not the network the rest of the building uses. This will require managers to work with the IT department to get the right bandwidth and network design for seamless operation.
AI is transforming connected fire protection systems, Malhotra adds, noting it’s moving fire safety from reactive to preventive. He says AI-enhanced capabilities identify potential risks earlier so managers can take action before an emergency unfolds.
“The mitigation of risk and limiting damage through superior response times can significantly reduce the cost of building downtime and evacuation,” Malhotra says. “Greater system reliability also leads to fewer false alarms, which translates into real cost efficiencies.”
Smart building data is powerful, improving response and identifying trends that save lives and protect property.
“As we gain more knowledge, we can become more proactive,” Malhotra says.
For example, data analytics might show that running machinery at full capacity in a manufacturing plant raises fire risk by 1 percent. If there’s also a tornado warning in the area, the risk could jump to 5 percent.
“With that insight, steps can be taken to reduce or eliminate risk before a fire ever starts,” he says.
Advanced systems can also catch hazards that may otherwise go unnoticed. For example, a sensor might detect elevated carbon monoxide levels and alert the facility manager to evacuate the building before occupants experience symptoms.
As fire protection systems continue to evolve, their responses are becoming increasingly targeted. Looking ahead, Dotts even predicts a future where systems can forecast the likelihood of a fire before it happens.
“They’ll analyze real-time data and say, ‘We’ve got the perfect storm for a fire to start. Let’s act now to prevent it,’” Dotts says. “That’s when we will truly move from response to prevention.”
Ronnie Wendt is a freelance writer based in Minocqua, Wisconsin.
