Window and door openings on the outside of a building should be protected by fire shutters, which are metal roller shutters. In the event of a fire, they can be quickly rolled up and placed over individual windows and doors to help contain the blaze inside the building and limit its spread to neighbouring structures.

How Do They Work?

The fire shutters are mounted on top of the windows or doors they protect in a protruding metal case. They function by rolling down over the opening and snapping into place. When closed, they form a solid barrier that can't be broken through by fire. In contrast to other forms of fire protection like firewalls, fire shutters don't open until a fire is actually present. Therefore, the setup of fire shutters has no effect on regular operations.

In the event of a fire, fire shutters can be activated in one of two ways. They can be equipped with their own heat detection system or hardwired into the building's existing fire alarm mechanism. Shutters can use either method, but it is not uncommon for them to use both.

Some of the shutters roll down by their own weight when the alarm goes off, while others are powered by a motorised closing mechanism. The latter option allows people to have a window of opportunity to escape before the shutters completely close.

Can They Work Without Power?

Fortunately, fire shutters have backup mechanisms that allow them to keep operating in the event of a power outage. Power outages are always a possibility, so fire shutters should be equipped with a backup battery that will allow them to open at least once. A hand crank system coupled to the motor drive is a further viable alternative. In the event of a blackout, the shutters can be opened and closed by turning a hand crank.

When Are They Installed?

All openings, including walls, windows, and doors, can be protected by installing fire shutters. Fire shutters should only be installed at the time a building was constructed. In any case, they are available for retrofitting into preexisting buildings and structures. So even if your home is old, you should consider installing them.

Why Should You Put Up Fire Shutters?

Fire shutters serve a crucial purpose in a fire by separating different areas of the building. Most importantly, this means that the fire won't be able to easily spread from one part of the building to another, which in turn makes it possible for the following:

●      Putting out a fire temporarily buys precious time for firefighters to arrive and put out the blaze.

●      Because the fire can't easily spread to other parts of the building, those still inside have precious extra minutes to evacuate.

●      Less property loss because flames cannot leap over the protective shutters.

Fire shutters would swiftly open in the event of a fire and can keep a building safe for up to four hours. A typical fire would go out in half that time. Therefore, homes and businesses should not undervalue the advantages they provide.

Will Aesthetics Be Compromised?

You will be able to install the fire shutters in such a way that they are invisible until the time of deployment. These shutters will be rolled up but immediately rolled down when a fire breaks out.

Enhancing the visual appeal of the area should also be a priority. This way, you can protect your home from fires without worrying that the shutters will detract from its aesthetic appeal. There are a wide variety of sleek and original layouts to choose from.

Reach out to A1S Group for any questions you may have regarding fire curtains and fire shutters.