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How to look after your fire alarm
A fire alarm only protects people if it works on the day it's needed. A few minutes a week makes a real difference.
What you can check
- Tell your monitoring centre (ARC) first and warn occupants. Each week, at roughly the same time, test from a different call point in rotation with the test key. Check the sounders work, then reset and record the test in the log book. Tell the ARC when you have finished.
- Name your responsible person for the fire alarm.
- Check the panel every day or so. It should show only the green power light, or a 'normal' message.
- Write every alarm, false alarm and fault in the log book, with the date and what happened. After any fire signal, find out and record the cause.
- Keep the log book on site, and make sure it is filled in at every visit.
- Keep detectors clear. Don't paint them, cover them or stack things close to them.
- If you have a standby generator, test it monthly as its instructions say.
- Tell us about building changes, such as new walls, a change of use or a new kitchen, as detectors may need moving.
What we test on a service
- Test detectors, call points and sounders, so every device is tested over the year
- Check the panel, batteries and power supply
- Check links to other systems, such as door releases, smoke vents and monitoring
- Review your log book and false alarm records
- Leave you a certificate
Why it matters
BS 5839-1:2025 recommends a weekly user test and periodic inspection and test (servicing) by a competent person at least every six months. Your fire risk assessment may ask for more. Records in the log book show your fire risk assessor and insurer that the system is looked after.
Printable help sheets
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Book a serviceCall 01635 938998Common questions
How often should we test our fire alarm?
BS 5839-1:2025 recommends a weekly test, at roughly the same time, using a different call point in rotation, recorded in the log book. Tell your monitoring centre (ARC) first if you have one.
How often should a fire alarm be serviced?
Periodic inspection and test (servicing) by a competent person at least every six months, under BS 5839-1:2025. Your fire risk assessment may set a shorter interval.
What should go in the fire alarm log book?
Weekly tests, alarms, false alarms, faults, disablements and service visits, with dates.
We can't find the test key. What should we do?
Call Fortline on 01635 938998 and we'll arrange a replacement.