What type of alarm is typically included in a fire alarm system?

A smoke detector is a critical component of any fire alarm system. Its primary function is to detect the presence of smoke, which is often an early indicator of fire. When smoke is detected, the smoke detector activates the alarm, alerting occupants of the building to the potential danger.

Smoke detectors operate using various technologies, such as ionization or photoelectric sensors, each designed to respond effectively to different types of smoke particles. Ionization detectors are particularly responsive to flaming fires, while photoelectric detectors are more effective at detecting smoldering fires.

Incorporating smoke detectors into fire alarm systems is vital for ensuring timely responses to fire hazards, significantly improving safety and potentially saving lives. Other options, while valuable for safety in other contexts (such as carbon monoxide detectors for gas hazards), do not serve the specific function of detecting smoke from fires. Flood alarms and temperature sensors also have their uses but are not standard elements of fire alarm systems dedicated to fire detection.