Fire Alarm Signals

Building fire alarm systems use a signaling device to alert occupants of the need to evacuate for fire or other reasons. While there are many types of signals (horns, sirens, bells, chimes, voice, etc.) that could be used for this purpose, the standard used at Stony Brook is the traditional fire alarm bell. However, the sound of the bell may vary from building to building, as the mechanical bells are replaced with newer electronic devices.

Another signaling device used in the HSC and UH buildings at Stony Brook is the 'chime' sound. The chime alerts building occupants of an emergency condition in another part of the building. Occupants should stay alert for additional signals or direction from fire, police or emergency personnel, but do not need to evacuate when only chimes are ringing.

A Note About False Alarms

Be aware that tampering with fire alarm equipment or activating a false alarm is a violation of the Student Conduct Code. It is also a crime under NYS Penal Law and can result in your arrest and/or expulsion from school. The University treats this very seriously.

The fire safety equipment is there for your safety. Please respect it because it may save your life.

If you would like to familiarize yourself with the sound of the signaling devices, please click the links below to play a sound recording. Note: These sound files are in the WAV file format.

Bells

Evacuate! Bells warn you that a fire condition was detected on your floor or area.

• Mechanical Bell
• Electronic Bell Speaker

Chimes

Stay Alert! Chimes alert you that a fire alarm was activated on some other floor or area.

• Mechanical Chime
• Electronic Chime Speaker

In addition to the bells and chimes, strobe lights have been installed in some buildings or areas. Strobe lights will activate on the floor where a fire condition exists.

The following describes how the different components work together as a system.

Mechanical Fire Alarm System Activation:

• Bells (clapper type) ring on the fire floor.
• Chimes (mechanical type) sound in all areas.
• No strobes on existing fire alarm.

Electronic Fire Alarm System Activation:

• Bells (electronic type) ring on fire floor for 60 seconds followed by 30 seconds of chimes (electronic type) followed by bells.
• Chimes (electronic type) sound in all areas for 30 seconds only.
• Strobes flash on fire floor only.

Related Documents

• Emergency Evacuation Guide
• HSC Emergency Evacuation Guide

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