Communities and emergency authorities should install effective evacuation siren systems. The system plays a vital role in safety and security and serves to warn people of incoming danger, whether natural or due to human causes. An evacuation warning system can be triggered during fire and weather emergencies. The evolution of technology has dramatically affected the advancement of evacuation siren systems with modern arrangements being more efficient and can be remotely controlled. Let’s explore five vital components of an excellent evacuation warning system.

Siren

The siren produces different signals depending on the emergency and is installed high above the ground to enable extensive coverage. As much as you mount the siren on a high place, it’s crucial to acquire a high-power device to produce strong signals. Additionally, it should have a weather-resistant protective coating. A wireless siren will comprise several control elements all encompassed in a case. Besides, an antenna is attached to the control enclosure to enable signal transmission and reception.

Activation system

The activation system triggers the siren. The system may be a portable remote control device or an on-site activation panel. The mobile activation device is suitable for a wireless siren system and has an “in-range” indicator that shows that you are within the network’s range. The on-site activation panel has differently colored buttons that trigger different signals. You should house the board in a weather-proof and secure place.

Siren control panel

The siren control panel serves as the brain of the system. The controller interprets different signals from different activation systems and determines the appropriate sequence to activate a particular siren. It also incorporates an array of repeaters that strengthen signals to reach the far placed sirens and activation systems. Moreover, the controller has external buttons that allow for local activation. You should install the panel in a secured place to prevent manipulation and access by unauthorized persons.

Beacon system

A beacon system is an additional component of the evacuation siren system. It serves to enhance the system but cannot replace the siren. It’s suitable for places where ambient noise is a problem and are elemental for people with hearing impairment. Additionally, the warning devices are not weatherproofed. Consequently, you should mount them indoors or in covered outdoor places such as alleys or tunnels.

Power backup

Conventionally, an evacuation system relies on the main power for control and activation. However, emergencies may occur during power outages, and this would render the siren system useless. Hence, authorities should arm the system with a reliable power backup in the form of a series of high-power batteries. Moreover, the system should allow for automatic switching between mains and battery power backup.

An evacuation siren system warns the public of hazards such as fire, dangerous weather elements, etc. A superior evacuation siren system will consist of a control panel, activation device, and power backup. Moreover, you may opt to enhance the system with beacons to provide visual warnings to people in indoor or covered outdoor settings.