Fire Alarm Call Points: Your Ultimate Fire Safety Devices

Introduction

Fire safety is not just a legal or regulatory obligation; it’s a life-saving priority. In modern buildings, where every second matters in ensuring fire safety, a quick response can be a deciding factor between a minor incident and a catastrophic loss. Among several crucial fire safety components, fire alarm call points serve as the first line of defense, initiating emergency alerts. This blog illustrates how these unassuming devices are the unsung heroes of fire safety systems.

What Exactly is a Fire Alarm Call Point? Definition & Core Purpose

A fire alarm call point (also known as a manual call point (MCP) or break-glass unit) is a site safety device that allows people to activate a building’s fire alarm system manually. These manually operated devices are the human interface to a building’s fire detection system, triggering an immediate response to the main fire control panel. In simple terms—a call point gives humans the power to sound the alarm before sensors detect the fire. The core purpose of a fire alarm call point is to provide occupants with a quick and reliable means of initiating an alarm. It also functions to ensure early evacuation and immediate alert to fire safety personnel during a fire or an emergency.

How Do Fire Alarm Call Points Work?

Call points typically rely on human observation and intervention. When a fire is spotted, an individual can operate the call point by pressing/breaking the glass or plastic cover. It then instantly sounds alarms, sirens, and strobe lights throughout the building, often notifying emergency services. This immediate human input can dramatically reduce response times, potentially saving lives and minimising property damage. Modern versions use resettable elements rather than breakable glass, making maintenance easier and safer.

The Critical Role Manual Call Points Play in Early Detection

Automated fire detection systems, like heat or smoke detectors, are highly effective. However, MCPs excel in scenarios where a fire might be visually detected before smoke or heat reaches a sensor. For example, a small, visible flame or a rapidly developing fire might be noticed by an occupant before it generates enough smoke to trigger a detector. In such instances, a fire alarm call point empowers that individual to take immediate action, bypassing any potential delays from automatic systems. This instant, human-initiated warning is what makes call points indispensable for early detection and rapid evacuation.

How Many Types of Fire Alarm Call Points are There? A Brief Overview

MCPs come in several varieties based on their activation methods, installation type, communication methods, environments, and application requirements. Common types include break-glass and push-button models, each differing in activation mechanism. They can be surface-mounted or flush-mounted depending on installation needs, and operate as conventional or addressable systems. Additionally, options like indoor, weatherproof, explosion-proof, and waterproof variants cater to different environmental and safety conditions.

Wired vs. Wireless Call Points: What You Need to Know

When comparing wired vs. wireless fire alarm call points, the key distinction lies in connectivity and installation. Wired call points are physically connected to the fire alarm control panel through cables. They ensure reliable signal transmission and minimal interference. Wired call points are ideal for permanent or large-scale facilities. Wireless call points, on the other hand, are advanced versions that use radio frequency (RF) communication. They offer faster installation, flexibility in placement, and minimal structural disruption. Wireless call points are perfect for retrofit projects or buildings where wiring is impractical.

Break Glass vs. Resettable Manual Call Points: Which One is Better?

Similar to wired and wireless models, the choice between break glass and resettable call points largely depends on the environment and maintenance requirements. Break glass call points use a frangible glass element that must be replaced after each activation. They are ideal for permanent installations where false alarms are rare. In contrast, resettable call points feature a reusable plastic element or spring-loaded mechanism that can be quickly reset using a key. They reduce downtime and long-term costs, making them preferred in places with frequent testing or high-traffic areas like schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings.

Ultimately, the choice of each type depends on whether the break glass units offer simplicity and reliability. Opt for resettable call points when you need practicality, cost efficiency, and sustainability across modern fire safety systems.

Strategic Placement of Manual Call Points: Where Should They Be?

Proper placement of MCPs plays a crucial role in maximising the effectiveness of your fire alarm system. The placement rules ensure that no one has to travel far to raise an alarm when danger strikes. According to British Standard BS 5839-1, fire alarm call points should be:

• Located at all final exits and on all storey exits.
• No more than 45 meters apart in most buildings.
• Mounted at a height of 1.4 meters from the floor for easy accessibility.
• Clearly visible and unobstructed by furniture or decorations.
• Installed near staircases, corridors, and fire escape routes.

Final Takeaways & Recommendations

A fire alarm call point isn’t just a red box on the wall—it’s a small yet life-saving device that has massive impacts in protecting lives. Their simplicity, reliability, and regulatory importance make them indispensable in any well-designed fire protection system. Choose certified models, locate them where people naturally exit, wire and address them correctly, and test them on a disciplined schedule. It’s important to source call points from reputable suppliers that guarantee quality, durability, and compliance.