Redmond fire reminds businesses of telecommunications and Scan Alert change

The City of Redmond Fire Department (RFD) is reminding all local businesses of the upcoming "notice of cessation of telecommunications service" deadline from CenturyLink.

November 8, 2013 2:19 pm

The City of Redmond Fire Department (RFD) is reminding all local businesses of the upcoming “notice of cessation of telecommunications service” deadline from CenturyLink.

The deadline will take effect on Dec. 1.

CenturyLink has provided notice of cessation of a telecommunications service known as Scan Alert and will discontinue service on Dec. 1. Scan Alert service utilizes a signal transmitter unit that is typically a red metal box located near the main fire alarm panel. Business and building owners who have not yet taken the steps required to modify their fire alarm systems to the newer signal transmission equipment are at risk to having their fire alarm monitoring system shut off by CenturyLink.

RFD recommends existing scan service users take immediate action to replace the equipment that uses the scan technology and switch to newer transmitters. Service users are encouraged to contact their alarm service contractor for more information about their options. RFD has increased its staffing levels to accommodate local building owners’ permits and inspections needs for this change.

Redmond currently has about 350 building fire alarm systems that remain to be upgraded. It is unlikely all systems will be able to convert to new transmitters by the deadline due to the lack of available alarm support organizations to conduct the upgrade and as a result building owners will need to provide a fire watch until new transmitters are installed. The transmitter issue should not impact the ability of the fire alarm system to provide occupant notification of an alarm; however, the system will not be capable of automatically calling the fire department.

RFD will follow up with building owners who have not upgraded their alarm systems after the shutoff date.  This will ensure proper safety measures are in place and businesses are providing a 24-hour fire watch per RFD’s Redmond Fire Standard 14, Fire Watch.

For questions or to contact RFD concerning this issue please call Deputy Fire Marshal Jacob Black at (425) 556-2223 or email JOBlack@Redmond.gov.