A fire indicator panel (FIP) is an early detection and warning system design to communicate warning and evacuation directions to occupants at the detection of a fire.

FIP are activated in different ways; they may consist of smoke detectors, heat detectors, flame detectors and manual break glass points. Upon the activation of an alarm, the system will activate and tones and sirens will commence, directing the occupants of a building to evacuate. Some fire alarm panels may be connected to a monitoring device which will contact the fire brigade.

There are two different types of fire alarm panels that are used:

1. Conventional
2. Addressable

Conventional

A conventional fire alarm panel organises it detectors (actuating devices) into zones which are monitored by the fire alarm panel. When a detector registers an alarm, that zone will be considered to be in alarm, giving you an indication of what area of the building the fire is located. These fire alarm panels are advantageous to properties such as small unit blocks, restaurants and properties that require fire alarm detection, however have limited areas as zones.

Addressable

An addressable fire alarm panel is a far more complex system than your traditional conventional fire alarm panel. An addressable system has a LCD display so that emergency services are able to identify the detector in alarm and know its exact location. Each detector or actuating device has its own unique address that is able to state the following:

• Loop
• Detector number
• Type of detector
• Location of detector

These types of fire alarm panels are invaluable for properties such as schools, hospital, large residential buildings and large commercial buildings.